Solo Female Travel in Skaftafell

Located in the magnificent Southeast Iceland within the Vatnajökull National Park, Skaftafell is renowned for its unique and breathtaking natural beauty. It is characterized by a captivating collection of features that are a testament to the prerogatives of glaciation and seismic activity. Skaftafell offers true greenery amidst stark Icelandic landscapes, housing majestic waterfalls, deep valleys, grand glaciers, and unspoiled ice caves. Known predominantly for its stunning glacier tours and treks, it's also home to the famed Svartifoss waterfall, notable for its unusual basalt columns surrounding it. The hiking trails reward visitors with a panoramic view of what many call the toughest of all Icelandic landscapes, making Skaftafell a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Skaftafell is currently ranked #21 best place in Iceland for solo female travellers. Check the full ranking.

Travel rating

3.4 /5

Based on our research

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Is Skaftafell good for solo travel?

Safety:Very safe

Skaftafell is recognized to be very safe for solo female travelers. The overall crime rate in Iceland is very low, with specific crimes such as sexual assault or harassment even lower. Skaftafell is in a rural area and visited predominantly by tourists for its natural beauty and hiking opportunities, adding additional safety. Locals are known to be friendly and helpful, and fellow travelers are often welcoming and sociable. Still, as with any location, it is recommended to take standard safety precautions.

Transport:Moderate

Skaftafell, being part of the Vatnajokull National Park, constructs a relatively manageable navigation for solo female travelers. It is not a large city, but rather a natural haven; thus, the main movements are between park attractions, trails and campsites. While it’s not jam-packed with transport options, one could move around by driving, hiking, or biking. The roads can get challenging, particularly in bad weather. Limited signage throughout the hiking trails might also make navigation somewhat tricky. But generally, a little preparation and easy to moderate level of physical fitness could make movements easier. Remember to always keep safety in perspective in this beautiful but remote Icelandic location.

Things to do:Interesting

Skaftafell is a natural paradise offering numerous activities. From hiking the surreal landscapes around its famous waterfall, Svartifoss, to ice climbing or exploring glaciers in Vatnajökull National Park, there is plenty to keep travelers engaged. Yet, it might lack a bit of cultural activities and indoor options when weather conditions are harsh.

Food:Average

The food in Skaftafell offers a decent variety, focusing mainly on traditional Icelandic dishes. The quantity of food spots is not extensive due to the geographic location, but you will still manage to experience authentic and fresh food, often locally sourced, such as seafood and lamb. However, if you are looking for a wide range of international cuisines, options might be limited.

Budget:Expensive

Traveling to Skaftafell can be quite expensive. The cost of living in Iceland is high, which influences the cost of tourism as well. Accommodation, food, transportation, and activities like the Skaftafell Ice Cave tour or hiking in the national park themselves, while phenomenally beautiful and worthwhile, don't come cheap. However, efficient planning and out-of-peak-season visit might help to lower the expenses slightly.