Wild Iceland: 4-Day Nupstaðarskógar to Skaftafell Trek and Glacier Crossing
A 50 km, four-day expedition from Nupstaðarskógar to Skaftafell that combines multi-day trekking, backcountry camping, and a guided glacier crossing on Vatnajökull’s margins. Small groups and certified guides make this a demanding but secure way to experience Iceland’s raw interior.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate and snack frequently
Carry at least 2–3 liters of water and high-calorie snacks; cold slows digestion and you’ll burn more calories than you expect.
Layer for sudden shifts
Bring a breathable base, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof shell—conditions can flip from calm sun to sleet within an hour.
Respect glacier briefings
Follow guide instructions for crampons, roped travel, and crevasse zones; glacier safety equipment is provided but attention is non-negotiable.
Protect fragile ground
Stick to established camps and paths to avoid damaging slow-growing moss and lichens common in the highland soils.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Skaftafellsjökull moraine viewpoints—quiet panoramic vantage points below the glacier tongue
- •Less-trafficked basalt ledges above Svartifoss that reveal columnar structure without the crowds
Wildlife
- •Arctic fox
- •Ptarmigan
Conservation Note
The highland soils and mosses recover very slowly—stick to camps and trails, pack out waste, and follow guide instructions to minimize impact; note glaciers here are retreating, so routes evolve over time.
Skaftafell was historically a farming estate that later became part of Vatnajökull National Park; the landscape records centuries of volcanic and glacial interaction.
Photographer's Notes
- • Skaftafellsjökull moraine ridge
- • Above-camp ridge on Day Two for panoramic glacier approach
- • Svartifoss basalt columns from the lower path
What to Bring
Sturdy waterproof hiking bootsEssential
Protects ankles and handles wet, rocky ground and glacial moraine.
Crampons & harness (if you have them) or warm mountaineering bootsEssential
Useful for glacier sections—guides supply glacier gear, but personal fit improves comfort.
Insulating mid-layer (fleece/down)Essential
Retains warmth during cold mornings and calms-down shelter stops.
Durable daypack (30–40L) with rain coverEssential
Holds lunch, water, layers, and personal items for daily legs.
Common Questions
Do I need previous glacier experience?
No—guides provide technical gear and instruction, but you should be comfortable with exposure, wearing crampons, and following roped travel procedures.
What meals are included?
Dinner and breakfast are provided; you must bring your own packed lunch for each day of hiking.
What is the group size?
Groups are small—typically up to 10 participants—to keep agility and safety high on exposed terrain.
Can the trip be canceled for weather?
Yes—operators may cancel for severe weather or unsafe conditions; all sales are final but tours will be canceled if conditions make travel dangerous.
Where do we meet?
Meet at the Pict Expeditions sign beside the barn at the listed start point; parking is available next to the barn and pickup options are arranged in advance.
Is this suitable for those with back or heart conditions?
No—this trip is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnancy, or serious cardiovascular problems due to sustained exertion and remote conditions.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 days (up to 8 hours hiking per day)
Location
Kirkjubæjarklaustur, Southern Region
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
Good to very good aerobic fitness with experience in multi-day backpacking or strenuous day hikes; ability to carry a daypack and walk on uneven ground.
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