Skaftá is a glacial river that originates beneath Vatnajökull glacier. The river is prone to glacial outburst floods, when trapped water is suddenly released and causes a rapid and massive increase in the water flow, carrying huge amounts of water, ice, and debris downstream, thus altering the landscape and the look of the river. Down in the Landbrot area, Skaftá puts on a fantastic show of a winding and sinuous course, creating curves and bends along its path through a black sand plain eroded by the constant movement of river. The spectacle is breathtaking, especially from above, making the fantastic scenery resemble an oil painting.
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Accessibility
The area is close to the main ring road. A few farm roads lead to various places along the riverbank. Location manager or a guide could help you find a suitable place to arrive at the river. With special permission, depending on where you shoot, you could use 6-wheelers to get closer to the river.
Services nearby
There are many hotels and lodgings options within 50 kilometres from this location. The nearest hospital is in Höfn, 205 kilometres away. Kirkjubæjarklaustur is 6 km away, there you can find shops and other services.
Permits
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Basecamp and facilities
Within 5 kilometers radius, there are several farms and fields where large basecamps could be erected. At intervals along the riverbank there are gravel roads with small offshoots that could be used as small tech bases or offloading areas. Phone coverage is excellent.
Risk factors
It can be strenuous to work in the sand. The riverbanks may change with the flow of the river.
Visitors
The area is not a tourist attraction and not a place frequently visited by locals.
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