Skeiðarárjökull

Skeiðarárjökull is a glacier in Skaftárhreppur municipality in southeastern Iceland, flowing down from the Vatnajökull ice cap and stretching roughly 30 kilometers. The ice surface shows cracks and crevasses, while a glacial lagoon with floating icebergs forms at the glacier's edge as it melts.

The glacier formed as part of the Vatnajökull ice cap and developed over thousands of years through snow accumulation. In 1996, an underground volcanic eruption at Grímsvötn triggered a massive flood that destroyed bridges and roads and altered the landscape.

The name Skeiðarárjökull describes a glacier that fills the valley with meltwater and has shaped the landscape for centuries. Visitors notice the strong connection between ice and volcanism when they see the black sand plains the glacier carries during eruptions.

Guided tours bring visitors safely to the glacier, with kayaking in the lagoon and walks to ice caves being popular activities. Warm clothing and sturdy footwear are necessary, as wind and cold on the ice are stronger than in populated areas.

Remains of the old Skeiðarárbrú bridge still stand twisted along the riverbanks of Skeiðará, reminding visitors of the destruction caused by the 1996 flood. The bridge was once the longest in Iceland and now shows how natural forces can overwhelm human structures.

Location: Skaftárhreppur

GPS coordinates: 64.06194,-17.24667

Latest update: December 4, 2025 13:35