Svinafellsjokull is an outlet glacier of Vatnajokull, the largest ice cap in Europe. It is one of the country’s best places to go for glacier tours due to its incredible formations and excellent views. If you're planning on visiting Iceland and want to experience the majesty of Svinafellsjokull firsthand, here's how you can reach it, what you'll find there, and what you can see in the local area.
One of the best ways to visit Svinafellsjokull Glacier is on a self-drive tour, as you'll be able to travel at your own pace. Additionally, there are numerous tours to choose from during your Icelandic adventure that include the iconic glacier in their itineraries.
Key Highlights
- Svinafellsjokull is located in East Iceland and can be reached in several different ways.
- The glacier has a variety of distinct features, a unique nickname, and more that set it apart from Iceland's other glaciers.
- Hofn is a great town to visit or stay in if you're planning a Svinafellsjokull adventure.
- In addition to Svinafellsjokull, Iceland is home to many other breathtaking glaciers that visitors can explore on tours.
Getting to Svinafellsjokull
Svinafellsjokull is part of the Skaftafell Nature Reserve, a place of popularity amongst hikers, photographers, and those with a passion for raw natural beauty. This reserve was even a National Park in its own right before the creation of the enormous Vatnajokull National Park, which absorbed it.
The reserve is easy to reach throughout the year if traveling from the capital of Iceland, Reykjavik, as it is located just off the Ring Road, which encircles the country. Travelling on this route east for four hours, you will come to a left turn onto Route 998, which will take you to the car park and visitors’ centre.
Most tours of Svinafellsjokull start here, although some go from Reykjavik and the village of Vik. Reaching the glacier requires a short hike.
If traveling by yourself, the villages of Vik and Kirkjubaejarklaustur are good for stopping off for fuel, rest, and refreshment. There are also many significant attractions en route to admire, such as the waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss and the black sand beach of Reynisfjara.
Features of Svinafellsjokull
Svinafellsjokull competes with Solheimajokull for the country’s most popular glacier for hiking. While Solheimajokull is closer to Reykjavik and has better walls for ice-climbing, Svinafellsjokull has distinct appeals of its own.
The first is on its surface. While Solheimajokull has walls, Svinafellsjokull is made up of many sharp ridges. While they're not possible to climb on, they are much more beautiful to behold.
Secondly, it boasts even more beautiful views from its heights. From Solheimajokull, you can take in magnificent panoramas over the wastelands of Solheimasandur and the black sand beaches of the south coast. With Svinafellsjokull, you can look out over Vatnajokull National Park, the forested beauty of Skaftafell, and the ocean.
Both glaciers, however, are matched when it comes to surrounding attractions, meaning a visit to them can incorporate many other sites. Svinafellsjokull is near Jokulsarlon, a magnificent glacier lagoon filled with giant icebergs, while Solheimajokull is close to the aforementioned waterfalls.
Both also have beautiful colouration, with deep blue ice, gleaming white snow, and veins of black ash, memories of eruptions centuries past.
When glacier hiking in summer, the coloration is less vivid, but the journey is easier and the views are usually clearer. If hiking in winter, the intensity of the blue ice is mesmerising, and there is a greater chance of finding an ice cave on the glacier that is safe to enter. Of course, only enter designated ice caves alongside an experienced guide.
Svinafellsjokull in Game of Thrones
Svinafellsjokull’s beauty has not just been appreciated by Icelanders and visitors. It, like many other destinations in the country, was noticed by the producers of Game of Thrones.
Many of the scenes filmed ‘North of the Wall’ in Season 7, during the dramatic battle of the penultimate episode, were shot on Svinafellsjokull. The greater Vatnajokull was used throughout the series as the base for the Wall itself, which was built with CGI.
You can visit many Game of Thrones filming locations across Iceland, including Svinafellsjokull and other dramatic sites used for scenes beyond the Wall. For fans, a number of dedicated Game of Thrones tours in Iceland take you to these iconic landscapes featured throughout the series.
Svinafellsjohull's Nickname, Pig Hill Glacier
Affectionately referred to as "Pig Hill Glacier," Svinafellsjokull earns its nickname from the Icelandic translation of its name—“svin” meaning pig and “fell” meaning hill. However, this name didn't come from the glacier itself, but rather, a local farm.
Understanding Outlet Glaciers Through Svinafellsjokull
As mentioned previously, Svinafellsjokull is an outlet glacier. They are dynamic rivers of ice that flow outward from larger ice caps or ice sheets. They channel glacial ice through valleys and fjords, sculpting the landscape as they move. Unlike ice caps that spread uniformly, outlet glaciers are constrained by the terrain, which makes them incredibly dynamic and distinct.
Svinafellsjokull is a great representation of how these glaciers transport ice from the heart of Vatnajokull through narrow mountain corridors. This makes the Svinafellsjokull viewpoint ideal for observing the raw power of glacial movement. Additionally, this natural phenomenon also provides clues into climate patterns and environmental change.
Explore Hofn, a Town Near Svinafellsjokull
Hofn, a charming fishing town on Iceland’s southeastern coast, is the perfect base for those exploring the stunning Svinafellsjokull Glacier. Travelers can enjoy fresh lobster at seaside restaurants, stroll along the picturesque harbor, or relax after a long Svinafellsjokull hike.
- See Also: Hotels and Accommodations in Hofn
- Read More: Top 9 Things to Do in Hofn
Top Glacier Hikes in the Svinafellsjokull Area
- Top-Rated Glacier Hike in Skaftafell | Easy & Safe Adventure on Europe’s Largest Ice Cap — Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Vatnajokull and Icelandic landscapes on this unforgettable Skaftafell adventure.
- The Skaftafell Glacier Hiking Tour — On this memorable glacier hike, you'll experience captivating sights and unique Icelandic terrain.
- Beginner-Friendly Glacier Walk in Skaftafell on Vatnajokull Glacier — This beginner-friendly tour is perfect for those who wish to see magnificent glaciers up close.
- Top-Rated 5-Hour Skaftafell Glacier Hike — Journey onto the icy expanse of an outlet glacier and take in mesmerizing landscapes on this memorable tour.
- Ice Climbing & Glacier Hiking Tour on Vatnajokull with Transfer from Skaftafell — Experience scenic landscapes and breathtaking views during this glacier hiking adventure.
Tours That Include Views of Svinafellsjokull or Nearby Glaciers
While not all tours visit Svinafellsjokull directly, many offer views of this glacier or similar outlet glaciers in the surrounding area. These tours provide excellent opportunities to experience the dramatic ice landscapes of Vatnajokull National Park.
Self-Drive Tours With Glacier Views
Discover the allure of Iceland's glaciers yourself with these top self-drive tours that place you in charge of your adventure.
- 7-Day Northern Lights Self-Drive Tour of South Iceland, the Golden Circle & Snaefellsnes Peninsula — This weeklong self-drive tour will take you along some of Iceland's most scenic locations, including the Golden Circle, Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and more!
- 10-Day Self-Drive Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland with Top Attractions & Snaefellsnes — Experience Iceland's top sights and hidden gems at your own pace on this breathtaking self-drive tour.
Multi-Day Tours Featuring Glaciers
If you want to see more than just glaciers on your Icelandic adventure, check out these exciting multi-day tours.
- 2-Day Summer Tour of Iceland's South Coast to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon With Glacier Hiking — On this two-day tour, you'll explore glaciers, lava fields, and other diverse landscapes you'll never forget.
- 8-Day Guided Tour of the Complete Ring Road of Iceland With Top Activities — Journey across Iceland's most stunning regions and experience iconic glaciers, waterfalls, and beaches.
Vacation Packages Including Glacier Landscapes and Ice Cave Visits
Take the hassle out of planning your vacation with these fantastic vacation packages.
- Amazing 5-Day Northern Lights Winter Vacation Package in Iceland with Ice Caving & the Blue Lagoon — Experience a stunning ice cave, soak in the Blue Lagoon, and more on this 5-day vacation package.
- 6-Day Northern Lights Adventure Package in Iceland with Ice Caving — Explore the amazing Snaefellsnes Peninsula and other breathtaking locations during this 6-day adventure package.
FAQs
What Should You Bring With You When Visiting a Glacier?
When visiting Svinafellsjokull, or any glacier, it's essential to be well-prepared for the cold, changing weather conditions, and rugged terrain. Here's a list of items you should consider bringing with you:
- Layered clothing: Dress in moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers (like fleece or down), and a waterproof, windproof outer shell.
- Sturdy footwear: Wear waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support. If you'll be walking on ice, bring crampons or microspikes.
- Gloves and a hat: Insulated gloves and a thermal hat are crucial to protect against frostbite.
- Sunglasses: Glacial ice reflects sunlight intensely, which is why bringing sunglasses is a good idea.
- Backpack: Carry water, snacks, a map, and a first-aid kit. A thermal flask with a hot drink can be comforting.
- Navigation tools: GPS, compass, and maps are important, especially in remote areas.
How Can You Stay Safe Around Glaciers?
Glaciers can be hazardous if approached without proper caution. Here are key safety tips:
- Join a guided tour: Experienced guides are familiar with the terrain and potential hazards, significantly reducing your risk.
- Stay on marked trails: Avoid wandering close to crevasses, ice cliffs, or the glacier's edge, where hidden dangers may exist.
- Beware of falling ice and rocks: Glaciers are constantly shifting, so avoid standing directly below icefalls or steep cliffs.
- Watch the weather: Glacial areas are prone to sudden weather changes. Check forecasts and be prepared to turn back if conditions worsen.
- Inform someone of your plans: Always let someone know your route and expected return time.
With its unique topography and striking contrast of blue ice against black volcanic ash, it's no wonder that filmmakers and adventurers alike are drawn to Svinafellsjokull Glacier for both cinematic scenes and breathtaking adventures. No matter why you visit the glacier, you're certain to have an unforgettable experience.
Are you interested in seeing the majesty of Svinafellsjokull in person? Have you visited any other glaciers before? Tell us about it in the comments below!
