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.
Skaftá
South coast, Iceland
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Climate
The South Coast of Iceland is known for its unpredictable and ever-changing weather. The region is characterized by a subarctic oceanic climate, which means that the temperatures are relatively mild, but the weather can be quite stormy and windy.
Data source Temperature averages
Lighting
The longest day in Iceland is multiple days from May through July when the sun doesn't set. The daylight hours in Iceland on the shortest days of the year are 4-5 hours per day (December to January).
Data source 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.
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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