Skaftafell is a standout spot for National Park Tours, thanks to its dramatic landscapes—glaciers, volcanic rock, lush forests, and black sand beaches. Here, adventure lovers get a real taste of Iceland’s contrasts, with options ranging from intense glacier hikes to breathtaking aerial views. For those who want a closer look at Vatnajökull’s icy majesty, the Skaftafell National Park: Falljokull Glacier Advanced Hike stands out, offering in-depth exploration with expert guides. The scenic flights, like the Scenic Airplane flight around Skaftafell National Park, give you a bird’s eye perspective of Iceland’s diverse terrains. Plus, the Skaftafell Nature Reserve: Highlights Scenic Airplane Tour offers a quick but spectacular aerial overview. For the more adventurous, the Vantajökull National Park: 5-Hour Skaftafell Glacier Hike takes you deeper into Iceland’s glaciers.
Below, we’ll explore each of these top tours in detail, helping you decide which fits your interests and travel style best.
1. Skaftafell National Park: Falljokull Glacier Advanced Hike
At number 1, the Skaftafell National Park: Falljokull Glacier Advanced Hike offers one of the most immersive experiences in Iceland’s icy landscape. This 5-hour guided trek takes you across Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest ice cap, with a certified glacier guide leading the way. The tour includes all necessary safety equipment and is designed for those with some hiking experience, looking to push a bit further into the heart of the glacier.
What makes this hike stand out is its focus on exploring actual ice formations, not just walking on the surface. You’ll see stunning ice caves, crevasses, and glacial sculptures, with ample time for photos. The guides share their knowledge about glacier formation and discuss the impacts of global warming—a reminder of how delicate this environment is. Reviewers consistently praise the guide’s expertise and patience; one called their guide “Filp, the best,” for sharing interesting stories and making everyone feel safe. The tour’s value is high, especially considering the longer duration and the chance to really connect with the ice.
This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a serious glacier experience and don’t mind a workout. The only downside is the walk from the shuttle to the glacier, which can be physically demanding. Overall, if you love outdoor adventure and icy landscapes, this is a top pick.
Bottom line: An intense, memorable glacier trek that offers genuine ice exploration and expert guidance—ideal for those seeking a full day of adventure.
2. Scenic Airplane flight around Skaftafell National Park
Number 2 on our list is the Scenic Airplane flight around Skaftafell National Park. For just around 15 minutes, this flight provides a spectacular overview of Iceland’s contrasting landscapes, from black sand beaches to sprawling glaciers. Departing from a private airport near Vatnajökull, the flight is tailored to current weather conditions, so no two trips are exactly alike.
The route takes you over the Skeiáársandur black sand beach, with its twisting glacial rivers, and then northward over Oræfajökull and other glaciers. It’s a quick flight, but the views are extraordinary, offering a perspective you simply can’t get from land. This experience is perfect if you’re short on time but want a visual introduction to Iceland’s volcanic and glacial landscapes. The small, private airport setup means fewer crowds and more personalized service, which adds to the appeal.
Reviewers highlight the flight’s “stunning scenery,” and many mention that this is a highlight of their trip. It’s also a flexible activity that can be combined easily with other tours or sightseeing plans. The cost is reasonable considering the uniqueness of the experience, especially if you’re a fan of aerial views.
Bottom line: An exhilarating, short flight that offers panoramic views of Iceland’s diverse terrain—ideal for those who want a quick but memorable visual experience.
3. Skaftafell Nature Reserve: Highlights Scenic Airplane Tour
The Skaftafell Nature Reserve: Highlights Scenic Airplane Tour is a slightly shorter aerial trip, about 15 minutes, but packed with unforgettable views. Flying over black sands, glaciers, and forests, this tour emphasizes the diverse landscapes surrounding Skaftafell. You’ll also get a glimpse of Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnjúkur, which is a must-see for mountain enthusiasts.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a quick overview of Iceland’s natural highlights with minimal fuss. The route is carefully chosen to showcase the most photogenic spots—ideal for photography buffs or anyone wanting a broad sense of the region’s geography. It’s suitable for those with limited time but still craving a high-impact visual experience.
While it doesn’t include the depth of the glacier hikes, it compensates by offering stunning vistas from the air, making it a good complement or alternative to land-based tours. It’s especially recommended if you’re interested in seeing several landscapes rapidly or want a less physically demanding activity.
Bottom line: A quick, scenic flight that packs in Iceland’s varied terrains, perfect for travelers with limited time who still want a memorable aerial view.
4. Vantajökull National Park: 5-Hour Skaftafell Glacier Hike
For those willing to venture further into Iceland’s icy wilderness, the Vantajökull National Park: 5-Hour Skaftafell Glacier Hike offers a comprehensive, deeper look into Vatnajökull’s glaciers. This tour is designed for hikers seeking a more demanding adventure, with a focus on exploring additional glacier areas beyond the usual routes.
The hike lasts about five hours, giving you ample time to experience beautiful glaciers and learn about their formation and ongoing retreat. Guides tailor the route to current conditions, so expect to see ice caves, crevasses, and fascinating ice formations. While the tour does not explicitly have reviews listed here, the focus on “more demanding hikers” suggests it’s suited for those with good fitness and a desire for a physically engaging experience.
This option stands out for its more extensive exploration, ideal for travelers who want to push themselves and see more of Vatnajökull’s wintery grandeur. The tour’s value lies in its depth—spending five hours in the ice is a significant investment, but one that yields unforgettable memories.
Bottom line: A longer, more challenging glacier hike perfect for active travelers eager to really get into the ice and see Iceland’s glaciers up close.
How to Choose Your Skaftafell Adventure
Picking between these tours depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend in Iceland’s incredible landscapes. If you’re after a full-day, immersive glacier experience, the advanced Falljokull Glacier Hike will give you the most in-depth adventure. For a quick visual fix, the aerial scenic flights and highlights tour offer stunning vistas in a short time. Meanwhile, the Vantajökull Glacier Hike is best suited for those who want a physical challenge and a chance to explore deeper into Vatnajökull’s icy realms.
Consider your travel schedule: land-based tours can fill a morning or afternoon, while the scenic flights are quick but impactful. Book early, especially for popular glacier hikes, as Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, and spots fill fast.
Final Thoughts
Skaftafell offers a range of unforgettable ways to experience its stunning landscapes. For a true adventure into the ice, the glacier hike is unbeatable, while aerial views provide a fantastic overhead perspective that’s perfect for quick visits or photo enthusiasts. If your trip is tight on time but you want a taste of Iceland’s contrasts, the scenic flights are hard to beat.
No matter which tour you choose, early planning and booking will ensure you get your preferred time. Iceland’s weather can shift quickly, so a flexible schedule helps you make the most of each experience. Whatever your style, Skaftafell’s breathtaking scenery promises a memorable trip—so pick your adventure and enjoy every icy, volcanic, and scenic moment.