Skaftafellsheiði Loop
Skaftafellsheiði
A full-day loop over the Skaftafell heath, with a short side trip to Svartifoss, with sweeping views over glaciers, outwash plains and Iceland's highest peaks.
- Distance
- 16 km
- Loop
- Time
- 5–6.5 hours
- Ascent
- 750 m
- Max 730 m
- Difficulty
- Challenging
The Skaftafellsheiði loop is one of the finest day hikes in Iceland, climbing over the heath above Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park. The measured route is a 16 km loop that takes 5–6.5 hours, with about 750 m of total ascent and a high point of roughly 730 m. It is challenging mainly for its length and steady climbing, but the paths are clear and well maintained.
Early on, a short side trip leads to Svartifoss, the waterfall framed by black basalt columns, then the loop climbs to viewpoints over the Skaftafellsjökull and Morsárjökull glaciers, the vast Skeiðarársandur outwash plain and the peaks of Öræfajökull, including Hvannadalshnúkur, Iceland's highest summit. On a clear day the panorama is outstanding, and the loop shows how varied Skaftafell's landscape is. Start early in summer to enjoy the upper heath before the afternoon crowds and cloud build up.
Highlights
- Svartifoss and its black basalt columns
- Views over the Skaftafellsjökull and Morsárjökull glaciers
- The vast Skeiðarársandur outwash plain
- Öræfajökull and Hvannadalshnúkur on clear days
The route
Visitor centre to Svartifoss
From the visitor centre, follow the busy path uphill past the smaller waterfalls, then take the short side trip of about 250 m to Svartifoss. The waterfall drops over a cliff of hanging basalt columns and is the most visited sight in Skaftafell. From here, the crowds thin as the trail continues up onto the heath.
Across the heath to the high point
The trail climbs steadily over moorland and rocky slopes to the upper heath, with viewpoints over the Morsárdalur valley and its glacier. The high point of the loop, around 730 m, gives a huge panorama. Higher summits such as Kristínartindar are optional detours beyond this route and add significant effort.
Glacier views and descent
The return leg follows the edge of the heath above Skaftafellsjökull, with dramatic views down onto the glacier's broken surface and the outwash plain. The trail then descends past viewpoints such as Sjónarnípa back toward the visitor centre. The descent is long; take care on steep or loose sections.
Getting to the trailhead
Skaftafell is on Route 1 in Vatnajökull National Park, about four to five hours' drive east of Reykjavík. The loop starts at the Skaftafell visitor centre, which has a large car park, toilets and information. Parking fees apply in the national park. In summer, buses along Route 1 stop at Skaftafell; check current schedules.
Where to stay
The Skaftafell campsite beside the visitor centre is a popular base. There are hotels and guesthouses in the Öræfi district, including around Freysnes and Hof, and further options toward Höfn and Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Book ahead in summer.
Best time to hike
June to September is the season, when the trails are usually snow-free and daylight is long. July and August bring the most stable weather but also the most visitors. The trail is often impassable during spring snowmelt and may stay closed into late June. In shoulder seasons, upper sections may hold snow and weather changes quickly. Winter conditions make the upper heath difficult.
Safety
The loop is long and exposed in places, with steep drops above the glaciers. Stay back from edges and on marked paths. Weather near the glaciers changes fast; carry waterproofs, warm layers, food and water. Do not walk onto the glacier without a guide and equipment. In an emergency call 112, and check SafeTravel.is for conditions before starting.
Plan & book
Book your Skaftafellsheiði Loop hike
CampingSouth Iceland Campsites
Campsites from Þakgil to Vík and Skógar.
Tjalda.is directory
Guided tourSouth Coast Tours
Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Vík and the glacier lagoon. Multi-day versions reach Skaftafell.
Licensed Icelandic operators1–3 days
Glacier hikeSólheimajökull Glacier Hike
The most accessible glacier hike in Iceland, 2.5 hours from Reykjavík near Vík.
Certified glacier guides3 hours (or day trip)
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Skaftafellsheiði Loop FAQ
How long is the Skaftafellsheiði loop?+
The measured loop is 16 km with about 750 m of ascent, taking around 5–6.5 hours.
Is the Skaftafellsheiði hike hard?+
It is rated challenging because of its length and steady climbing, but paths are clear and well maintained.
Does the loop pass Svartifoss?+
Not directly, but Svartifoss is a short side trip of about 250 m early on, before the route climbs onto the heath.
Can you hike Skaftafellsheiði in winter?+
The lower trails, including Svartifoss, are often walkable, but the upper heath can be snowy and icy. The main season is June to September.
Hike it with a private guide
Guided trips with a licensed Icelandic guide, including transport and huts.
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