Vatnajökull

A Contrast of Fire and Ice

Vatnajökull isn’t just immense — it’s a living, breathing part of Iceland, where some of nature’s greatest contrasts converge.
Beneath the ice, the earth stirs. Some of Iceland’s most active volcanoes lie here, such as Grímsvötn and Bárðarbunga, regularly making their presence known and rewriting the story of the glacier’s landscape.
Eruptions, glacial floods, and deep crevasses serve as constant reminders that this is a place where history is in the making — and we are simply witnesses.

Natural gems and experiences at the glacier

Traveling through Southeast Iceland without visiting Vatnajökull is like going to Rome and skipping the Colosseum. Here are some of the must-see destinations:

1. Jökulsárlón – A breathtaking natural wonder where icebergs calve off Breiðamerkurjökull and drift toward the sea. The colors, the silence, the stillness — this is nature in its purest form.
2. Fjallsárlón – A quieter, equally awe-inspiring alternative to Jökulsárlón. Experience the glacier lagoon without the crowds.
3. Skaftafell – Home to world-class hiking trails, including the route to the striking Svartifoss waterfall, and guided glacier walks for the adventurous.
4. Öræfajökull – Dormant since the 18th century, this volcanic glacier holds Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnjúkur, reaching skyward through the clouds.

A glacier as a symbol of responsible travel

Vatnajökull demands respect — for both its raw landscape and its fragile ecosystems. These areas are sensitive, both environmentally and socially, and how we travel through them matters.

We recommend:

1. Booking tours with certified guides when stepping onto the glacier.
2. Choosing eco-friendly travel options that leave no trace.
3. Staying at Icelandic hotels and guesthouses that support the surrounding communities.

This way, everyone benefits — nature, the traveler, and the people who make your journey possible.

A journey that stays with you

Vatnajökull is a place that deserves more than a quick stop — it’s meant to be felt and experienced, a meeting point of Europe’s most powerful natural forces.
Whether hiking on the ice, sailing between icebergs, or simply taking in the view, this destination offers moments you’ll never forget.