Are you planning a trip to Iceland? Enjoy it to visit the Vatnajökull glacier, the largest ice cap in the country!
Vatnajökull : there is no doubt, you are in Iceland! Behind this well-Nordic name, which means “glacier des lacs”, lies the largest glacier in the country, which is also one of the largest and largest glaciers in Europe. Located in the national park of the same name, in the south-east of the country, the Vatnajökull glacier (8300 km2) still covers 8% of the area of Iceland, almost that of Corsica, and peaks at 2109.6 meters.
Visiting the Vatnajökull glacier in Iceland, the adventurer paradise, is a must-see during an ice-cream stay. Are you going to discover this mythical glacier? Find answers to your questions in this small guide, with passion!
History of the Vatnajökull glacier
Photo credit: Flickr – Eric Montfort
A glacier is a mass of ice that is formed by the accumulation of snow piled up over time. At the time of the colonization of Iceland by the Vikings, in the ninth century, the extent of ice that composes the Vatnajökull glacier was much less important than today.
Between the 13th century and the 19th century, Iceland entered the period of the Small Glacial Age, during which the Vatnajökull glacier grew. But global warming and the multiple volcanic eruptions, which emerged in the second half of the twentieth century, have since reversed the trend, causing this ice giant to lose part of its surface. Because under the Vatnajökull glacier, there are active volcanoes, including Öræfajökull , which is none other than the largest volcano in the country, or Grímsvötn and Bárðarbunga .
In 1996, the large eruption of Grímsvötn provoked the devastating flood of the Skeidará River, following the powerful evacuation of a large amount of water until then held under the ice. This phenomenon is called jökulhlaup , either “glacier race” in Icelandic.
Since 2008, the Vatnajökull glacier has been officially part of the same name's natural park, which includes the former Skaftafell National Parks (Skaftafell National Parks). excursions and hikes possible) and Jökulsárgljúfur . With an area of 15,000 km2, the park covers 15% of Icelandic territory and is considered the largest in Europe.
What to see and do at the Vatnajökull glacier in Iceland?
Photo credit: Flickr – David Phan
Visiting the Vatnajökull glacier in Iceland is an adventure. In addition to admiring the breathtaking panoramas that will be available to you on Route 1, you will be able to approach this ice giant as close as possible. Whether you're great sportspeople or simply amateurs of large spaces, expect to experience a unique experience in an extraordinary setting!
Many excursions, such as hiking or equestrian, mountain biking, mountaineering or kayaking, are offered to the Vatnajökull glacier, its glacial languages (Skeiðarárjökull, Svínafellsjökull, Skaftafellsjökull...) and its surroundings.
Ice hike
Regardless of your level, hiking is the best way to access the glacial languages and the most amazing landscapes of the Vatnajökull glacier in Iceland. Always accompanied by a guide, which usually provides the necessary equipment, the most motivated of you can even complete with ice climbing, and thus enjoy a spectacular view of Hvannadalshnukur the highest summit in the country.
These excursions are offered all year round, according to the weather hazards, and open to all budgets.
Book your excursion and hike at the Vatnajökull glacier
Ice caves
In winter, from November to March, discover the ice caves of an intense blue in the heart of the Vatnajökull glacier! This natural phenomenon is the result of the melting of the glaciers in summer and the water that passes through the ice. These caves evolve over days and weather conditions, making it a unique experience.
To do absolutely with a guide!
Book your visit to the Vatnajökull Glacier Caves
Around the Vatnajökull glacier
Photo credit: Unsplash – Martin Robles
In the park, which bears the same name as the Vatnajökull glacier, and its surroundings there are other flagship destinations in the country:
- Skaftafell
It is one of the entrance gates of the park and a starting point for many hikes on the Vatnajökull glacier. If you pass, don't miss the Svartifoss waterfall!
Book your hike at Skaftafell National Park
- Skeidararsandur
This is a desert plain formed by the melting waters of the glacier, between the Vatnajökull glacier and the Atlantic coast.
- Jökulsárlón
Jökulsárlón means “glacier tree” is the largest ice lake in Iceland, located south of the Vatnajökull glacier. It is possible to take a boat or kayak ride between April and October, especially from Reykjavik.
Book your trip to Jökulsárlón from Reykjavik
Spend a weekend around the Vatnajökull Glacier with Explora Project
Photo credit: Shutterstock – A Photon Bounce Creation
Would you like to discover the Vatnajökull glacier through the eyes of an expert? We advise you to visit "Explora Project" , the agency that offers you unforgettable escapades. With their stay « Icelandic volcanoes and glaciers » , you will dive into the heart of Iceland. Accompanied by a local guide, it is a program for small onions that awaits you: discover the beautiful Icelandic landscapes, nights in bivouac and self-overcoming. Unbelievable!
How to go to the Vatnajökull Glacier?
- By car
To visit the Vatnajökull glacier in Iceland, you'll have to rent a car during your stay to reach one of the park’s access points, or book a trip from Reykjavik, or one of the destinations near the park (Vik, Höfn, Jökulsárlón...).
The ice cap is easily accessible by car by the route 1 , the main road that goes around the country. Skaftafell, located 325 kilometers from the capital and 140 kilometers from Vik, is one of the most popular entrances. There are other access to the north and west of the glacier, but these are not recommended, unless you travel in 4×4 and know the region.
- By bus
Otherwise, Iceland has a good bus network that connects the main cities and some tourist destinations of the country (Vik, Jökulsárlón...). However, you would be not flexible, because depending on bus schedules and stops, choosing this option.
Prices of the Vatnajökull glacier
Photo credit: Unsplash – Acacia Thornton
Book your excursion and hike at the Vatnajökull glacier
HORARI
It is possible to visit the Vatnajökull glacier in Iceland all year unless the weather conditions do not permit.
However, all excursions are not feasible every month of the year. The visit of the ice caves is not possible that in winter , while the boats on the Jökulsárlón lagoon do not sail in summer For example.
Do not hesitate to stay for several days in the area to take the time to explore the Vatnajökull National Park and its surroundings, and let yourself be tempted by one of the many excursions generally organized on a half day.
RATES
Access to the Vatnajökull glacier is free , on the other hand, the rates of different excursions vary between 50€ and 150€ per person , on average, according to the chosen activity (hiking, visiting a cave, boat...) and the number of people that make up the group. Note that this price range does not include a possible transfer from Reykjavik.
BON A LEARN
Before you go to the Vatnajökull glacier in Iceland, here are some additional information:
- A good physical condition and minimum age may be required for certain sports or at-risk activities.
- The weather can change very quickly in Iceland and have an impact on the state of the roads, as on the accessibility of certain tourist places. Be sure to always get in touch before taking the road, especially in winter!
- To maximize your chances of observing a boreal aurora on the Vatnajökull glacier, it is advisable to go to Iceland between September and March.
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