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S6

Svartifoss - Sjónarnípa

The main advantages of this route are the magnificent view to Kristínartindar, Hrútfjallstindar and Öræfajökull, and as it gets closer, Skaftafellsjökull opens up to hikers. Stopping at the pillar rock-adorned Svartafoss puts the dot on the i. In the spring and early summer, there is a rich birdlife on the way, which is worth enjoying while taking into account nesting and rearing activities.

Distance
7,1 km
Estimated time
2,5-3 hours
Difficulty
Challenging
Elevation
310 m
Type
Circular route
Starting point
In front of Skaftafellsstofa

The trail starts next to Skaftafell Visitor Centre and is well indicated. The first 250 meters go through the campground but the trail then turns right and uphill.
Follow the trail towards Svartifoss and ignore the first signpost that indicates that Sjónarnípa is to the right. Continue until you arrive at the viewpoint above Svartifoss. Then turn onto the trail that leads to Sjónarnípa (indicated on a signpost). Return to the the visitor centre via Austurbrekkur.

Hiking

S2

Svartifoss - Sjónarsker - Sel

5,8 km circle
2 hour
Easy

Svartifoss with its beautiful columnar rocks is one of the highlights of Skaftafell, but the path through the forest offers a unique experience at any time of the year. On the way you can admire Hundafoss and Magnúsarfoss, from Sjónskeri the views are wide to all directions in good visibility and the old sod house in Sel.

S5

Sjónarnípa

6,5 km
2-2,5 hours
Challenging

The main advantages of this route are the magnificent view to Kristínartindar, Hrútfjallstindar and Öræfajökull, and as it gets closer, Skaftafellsjökull opens up to hikers. In the spring and early summer you can also expect a rich bird life.

S3

Skaftafellsheiði

16,6 km hringleið
5-6 klst
Krefjandi

Walking around Skaftafellheiðina offers a challenging but interesting walk through a varied landscape; Lush birch forest and mountainsides with the Morsárjökull and Skaftafellsjökull glaciers on either side of the heath and the flat Skeiðarársandur in the south.

Brochures & maps