Kaldidalur Valley is a highland road and Iceland’s second-highest pass at 727 meters above sea level. It’s also the shortest road among the three main roads crossing the central highlands from north to south. The valley of the glaciers is truly a fitting name for Kaldidalur, as it is surrounded by the glaciers Þórisjökull, Geitlandsjökull, Eiríksjökull and Langjökull. The former glacier Ok also lay in Kaldidalur valley, though now it is merely a rugged hill in the spectacular landscape. Kaldidalur Valley offers a unique landscape and gives you a taste of the Icelandic highlands without having to cross rivers. The road is opened from June to early September, depending on snowfall.
Accessibility
The Kaldidalur road is 40 kilometers long, a rough gravel road suitable for all kinds of cars. It is closed from June to early September, depending on snowfall. Off season it is crucial that you use super jeeps or specialized vehicles.
Services nearby
Close to Reykjavík and Selfoss, so hotels, gas stations and convenience stores are in abundance. Nearest hospitals are in Reykjavík, Selfoss or Borgarnes, all within 100 km.
Permits
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Basecamp and facilities
Along the road, there is an abundance of gravel plains that can be used as lots for basecamps. There are no facilities along the route, but it lies only 32 km from Þingvellir National Park. There is no phone coverage in the area.
Risk factors
During winter months, this area has high snowfall. It is very secluded with little or no phone service. Hiking or climbing to the glaciers should only be attempted with certified glacier guides.
Visitors
The area is a low to medium tourist attraction as both locals and tourists drive this road to enjoy the scenery.
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