Vatnajökull, Ice cap in Eastern Region, Iceland
Vatnajökull extends over 8,100 square kilometers and contains numerous valleys, mountains, and active volcanoes beneath its thick ice surface.
The ice cap developed between 2,000 and 2,500 years ago when multiple mountain glaciers merged into a single mass during colder climate periods.
The national park surrounding Vatnajökull received UNESCO World Heritage status in 2019, recognizing its geological and natural importance for Iceland.
Guided tours provide equipment, including crampons and ice axes, for safe exploration of the glacier's accessible areas throughout the year.
Multiple volcanic systems under the ice create glacier runs and ice caves, which form new patterns and structures each winter season.
Location: Eastern Region
Location: Northeastern Region
Location: Southern Region
Website: https://vatnajokulsthjodgardur.is
GPS coordinates: 64.40000,-16.80000
Latest update: May 28, 2025 18:34
Glaciers represent some of the most remarkable natural formations on Earth. These ice masses form over centuries through the compression of snow and move slowly through valleys and across mountain slopes. They shape landscapes from the Patagonian Andes to Arctic regions and store approximately 70 percent of the world's freshwater. The Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina covers 250 square kilometers and ranks among the few glaciers currently not retreating. The Jostedalsbreen in Norway forms the largest ice mass on mainland Europe at 487 square kilometers. The Vatnajökull in Iceland covers eight percent of the country's land area and conceals several active volcanoes beneath its ice cap. These glaciers serve science as climate archives and demonstrate through their changes the effects of rising temperatures. Many glaciers worldwide continuously lose mass, which has consequences for water supply and sea levels.
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78.5 km
Bárðarbunga
44 km
Vatnajökull National Park
14.7 km
Skaftafell
43.6 km
Askja
70.2 km
Svartifoss
42.3 km
Holuhraun
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Hvannadalshnúkur
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Morsárfoss
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Kverkfjöll
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Diamond Beach
49.8 km
Laki
79.7 km
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Svínafellsjökull
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Tungnafellsjökull
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73.3 km
Hálslón
74.2 km
Trölladyngja
59.2 km
Esjufjöll
16.7 km
Hoffellsjökull
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Loki-Fögrufjöll
45.7 km
Lónsöræfi
79.9 km
Thordarhyrna
37.9 km
Dyngjujökull
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Skaftafellsjökull
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Dverghamrar
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Fláajökull
55.5 kmReviews
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