Skaftafell: Sjónarnípa Viewpoint
Sjónarnípa
A 6.5 km loop in Skaftafell to the Sjónarnípa viewpoint, high above the Skaftafellsjökull glacier tongue.
- Distance
- 6.5 km
- Loop
- Time
- 2–2.5 hours
- Ascent
- 300 m
- Max 350 m
- Difficulty
- Challenging
The Sjónarnípa hike in Skaftafell leads to one of the best glacier viewpoints in Iceland, a rocky point looking straight down on the Skaftafellsjökull glacier tongue. The loop covers 6.5 km in 2–2.5 hours, with 300 m of ascent and a high point of 350 m. It is rated challenging, steep in places, and much quieter than the main path to Svartifoss.
The trail climbs from the visitor centre toward Svartifoss, branches off onto the Skaftafell heath to the viewpoint, and returns down the slopes along the glacier edge. From there, the ice of Skaftafellsjökull curves down from Vatnajökull, with crevasses and moraines clearly visible. Svartifoss is a short detour from the outward path. Bring a windproof layer, as the viewpoint is exposed.
Highlights
- Bird's-eye view of the Skaftafellsjökull glacier tongue
- Birch woodland and heath on the Skaftafell slopes
- Views to Öræfajökull and the Vatnajökull ice cap
- Easy to combine with Svartifoss waterfall
The route
Visitor centre toward Svartifoss
From the Skaftafell visitor centre, the trail climbs toward Svartifoss through birch woodland on a steady, sometimes steep path. As you gain height, views open up over the outwash plain to the south. At the signpost, turn right for Sjónarnípa and onto the heath.
Across the heath to Sjónarnípa
The trail then crosses the heath to the Sjónarnípa viewpoint at 350 m. Here you look down on Skaftafellsjökull, with its crevasses and moraine ridges. Stay well back from the edge, which is steep and unfenced. On clear days the view reaches the outwash plain and the coast.
Return along the glacier edge
The loop returns down the Austurbrekkur slopes along the edge of Skaftafellsjökull to the visitor centre. The descent is steep in parts and slippery when wet. If you want to see Svartifoss, add it on the way up, and allow extra time for the detour.
Getting to the trailhead
Skaftafell is on Route 1, about 4.5 hours' drive from Reykjavík and about 2 hours west of Höfn. The trail starts at the Skaftafell visitor centre, which has a large car park with parking fees. Long-distance buses have stopped at Skaftafell in summer; check current schedules.
Where to stay
Skaftafell has a large campsite beside the visitor centre. Hotels and guesthouses are spread along Route 1 nearby but are limited and book out quickly in summer. Book well ahead for July and August.
Best time to hike
May to October is the best time, when the upper paths are usually free of snow. June to August brings the longest days. Outside this period, snow and ice can make the upper section and steep edges dangerous.
Safety
The viewpoint is on a steep, unfenced edge above the glacier: stay well back, especially in wind or with children. Do not try to descend to the ice. Paths can be slippery when wet, and snow can linger early and late in the season. Check vedur.is and SafeTravel.is, and call 112 in an emergency.
Plan & book
Book your Skaftafell hike
CampingSkaftafell Campsite
The campsite right at the Svartifoss and Kristínartindar trailheads.
Vatnajökull National Park
Booking coming soonGlacier hikeGlacier Hike in Skaftafell
Crampons, ice axe and helmet on a Vatnajökull outlet glacier. A certified guide is required on glaciers.
Certified glacier guides3–5 hours
Booking coming soonGuided tourSouth Coast Tours
Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Vík and the glacier lagoon. Multi-day versions reach Skaftafell.
Licensed Icelandic operators1–3 days
Booking coming soonOnline booking is coming soon. Until then, use this list to see what to plan for this hike.
Skaftafell FAQ
How long is the Sjónarnípa hike?+
The loop is 6.5 km and takes 2–2.5 hours, with 300 m of ascent to a high point of 350 m.
Is the Sjónarnípa hike difficult?+
It is rated challenging. Some sections are steep, and the viewpoint is on an unfenced edge, but the path is clear and well used.
Can I combine Sjónarnípa with Svartifoss?+
Yes. The outward path heads toward Svartifoss, so you can add the waterfall as a short detour for a longer half-day hike.
Hike it with a private guide
Guided trips with a licensed Icelandic guide, including transport and huts.
Private guide requests are coming soon
We are lining up licensed local guides. Check back soon to request a tailored quote for your trip.
