Vatnajökull glacier landscape in Iceland
Þjóðgarðar

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Vatnajokull National Park

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Established7. June 2008
Area9,000 km²
Managing authorityNáttúruverndarstofnun
IUCNII
International designationUNESCO

Vatnajökull National Park is Iceland’s largest national park and one of the largest in Europe. It encompasses the Vatnajökull glacier, active volcanoes, glacial rivers, canyons, and vast highland landscapes.

The place can form part of a wider trip through the Icelandic Highlands, combining naturally with other landscape, heritage and travel experiences depending on interests and season.

It is best to consider the place as part of the wider itinerary and confirm current information on access, services and conditions before travelling.

Protection purpose

The purpose of Vatnajökull National Park is to protect Vatnajökull glacier and the landscapes influenced by it as a single integrated area. Particular emphasis is placed on the interaction of fire and ice, geological formations, glaciers, volcanoes, glacial rivers, wilderness, ecosystems and cultural heritage.

Description

Vatnajökull National Park was formally established on 7 June 2008. It includes the Vatnajökull ice cap and extensive surrounding areas. Its landscapes are shaped by the exceptional interaction between volcanic activity and glaciers and include volcanoes, glaciers, glacial rivers, canyons, waterfalls, wilderness and diverse ecosystems. Vatnajökull National Park was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2019.

Regulations

Visitors must respect conservation rules, signage and temporary closures. Restrictions may vary between different areas of the park because of sensitive nature, safety or conservation requirements. Activities such as off-road driving, research, filming and drone use may be subject to specific conditions or permits.

Official website

Ratings and reviews

Vatnajökulsþjóðgarður sýnir krafta náttúrunnar á stórum skala og er eitt fjölbreyttasta verndarsvæði landsins.