#Vatnajokull National Park

[wonders-of-natur]

Blue ice cave in Vatnajokull national park, Iceland

[captainmartinisblog]

Elves, Trolls and the Best Laid Plans…..

Friday 14th June 2024 – Akureyri, Iceland.

The last couple of days, they haven’t opened the pool early enough for me to go swimming before breakfast. No reason is given; it’s entirely arbitrary.

So today, I took the law into my own hands, I untied the rope myself and had a lovely swim!

Today, we arrived in Akureyri, the second largest city in Iceland and capital of the Western Fjords, with a population of nearly 25,000. It’s also the second most popular tourist destination in Iceland and we were followed by Costa Favolosa all the way from Seydisfjordur yesterday.

We docked for the first time this trip, which was refreshing, as all that tendering was beginning to get a bit tiresome!

Anyway, Andrew & I had chosen an 8-hour excursion today called the ‘Diamond Circle’.

We’re not fond of all-day tours these days, as they can a bit exhausting, not to say expensive! But having been to Akureyri before, we chose this one in order to visit the Dettifoss Falls – the second largest in Europe – plus, this trip also mentioned Husavik, which as any fan of Eurovision may know, was the setting of the 2014 movie ‘Eurovision: The Story of Fire Saga’.

However, the bus had barely left the pier when we were told by the guide that we couldn’t visit Detifoss Falls because the area was closed due to heavy snow falls last week, making the trek to it dangerous. Well that put a dampener on things straightaway!

Our first planned stop was at the Lava Fields of Dimmuborgir, where some of the lava formations reach 65 feet high.

Icelandic myth says that this was formed when some Trolls had a wild party and lost track of the time (trolls clearly didn’t have watches in those days) and when the sun came up, they were turned into rocks. In truth, this area was a vast lake or marsh-land when volcanic lava erupted from fissures and solidified – but the story of the trolls is more fun!

We knew we were expecting lunch later but for some reason, we made another stop at this view-point for a ‘picnic snack’ overlooking MyVatn and what remains of the vast lake mentioned above, now pocked with sulphur springs. It was an impressive view but as to the ‘picnic’, we were all a bit puzzled….

Our excursion was also supposed to visit the ‘Whispering Cliffs’ of Hljodklettar in the Vatnajokull National Park but, guess what, that was closed too! Instead, we were taken on a trek through a forest to a pond popular with breeding ducks (except that there weren’t any ducks either!)

Icelandic Joke – Question: What do you do if you get lost in an Icelandic forest? Answer: Stand up! (Icelandic trees don’t grow very high because of the severe climate and lack of daylight 4 months of the year)

The area is known as Myndun Asbyrgis, a horseshoe-shaped canyon with cliffs up to 330 feet. Nick-named ‘Sleipnir’s Footprint’, it is said that it was created when one of the eight hooves of Odin’s horse, Sleipnir, accidentally touched the earth. Yes, well, today’s geologists prefer to believe that it was caused by catastrophic glacial flooding; a bit boring but probably closer to the truth!

Today we were indeed blessed with glorious sunshine all day, temperatures rising to the dizzy heights of 20 degrees – I even took off my woolly!

After a two-course lunch at a restaurant in the middle of nowhere, our next stop was supposed to be in Husavik and Andrew & I were both looking forward to at least finding the ‘JaJa Ding Dong Bar’, named in honour of the 2014 movie set here, ‘Eurovision: The Story of Fire Saga’.

But the bus drove straight through the town and our guide never even mentioned the film! All this was, presumably, so that our tour could stop at Godafoss Falls on the way back to the ship.

At around 30-40 ft, these falls are less impressive than Detifoss but it was here that at the time Christianity was being introduced around 1000AD, the local leader figure Porgeir threw his statues of the Norse Gods into the falls – hence the ‘Waterfall of the Gods’. All well and good but we had been here last time and these falls (quite near Akureyri) were on almost every other excursion apart from the one we chose!

It is said in Iceland that the Elves (or the ‘Hidden People’) often interfere with the lives of humans and that people should be mindful. It’s all twaddle of course, intended to make children behave (and adults for that matter) and follow the rules of the community in what was then a cruel world to survive in. But over 50% of the population still believe in the ‘Hidden People’ (or say they do, jus in case) and maybe, just maybe, the Elves had something to do with the events of today, because I took the rope off the pool to go swimming, instead of ‘obeying the rules’………

[e--u--r--o--p--a]

Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland

[bardtee]

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Exploring the Enchanting Beauty of Iceland’s Glacial Lagoons Iceland, a land of icy wonders, holds within its heart some of the world’s most captivating natural treasures. One such wonder is its glacial lagoons. With their serene turquoise waters, glittering icebergs, and dramatic landscapes, these lagoons offer a magical experience that will leave you breathless. As you approach the edge of the first glacial lagoon, Jokulsarlon, located at the southern edge of Vatnajokull National Park, you’ll be greeted by a mesmerizing sight. The lagoon stretches out before you as far as the eye can see, sparkling like a jewel under the ever-changing Nordic sun. Massive icebergs, shining like intricate sculptures, float majestically on the serene water, adding a touch of ethereal beauty to the scene. These icebergs have broken off from the nearby Breidamerkurjokull Glacier, creating a - wddy2bujeu

[scarlett-quinn]

Vatnajokull ice cave, Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland

Get ready for a chilly adventure at Vatnajokull National Park's ice cave - a Pinterest-worthy winter wonderland.

[lucas-marcomini]

Dettifoss, Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland Plus Aurora // Mads Peter Iversen Calling all adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts. Discover the majestic wonder of Dettifoss in Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland. As if that wasn't enough, witness the incredible spectacle of the Aurora casting its ethereal glow.

[xoxofan-girl]

Vatnajokull ice cave, Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland

Enter the magical world of ice at Vatnajokull National Park's enchanting ice cave.

[adolfi]

Dettifoss, Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland Plus Aurora // Mads Peter Iversen

Calling all adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts. Discover the majestic wonder of Dettifoss in Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland. As if that wasn't enough, witness the incredible spectacle of the Aurora casting its ethereal glow.

[twisuckz]

Dettifoss, Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland Plus Aurora // Mads Peter Iversen

Calling all adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts. Discover the majestic wonder of Dettifoss in Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland. As if that wasn't enough, witness the incredible spectacle of the Aurora casting its ethereal glow.

[veranolibrededrogas]

Vatnajokull ice cave, Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland Enter the magical world of ice at Vatnajokull National Park's enchanting ice cave.

[gepetordi1]

"The Northern Lights and stars from the Milky Way light up the sky above a moonlit lenticular cloud and Vatnajokull Glacier near Skaftafell National Park, Iceland during a solo backpacking trip in March 2012," writes photographer Caillum Smith.

[travelluxegroup]

Capturing the beauty of the Northern Lights

Introduction: The Beauty of the Northern Lights Witnessing the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, is a bucket-list experience for many. These enchanting natural light shows caused by solar particles entering the Earth's atmosphere have captivated mankind throughout history. This phenomenon can be admired in the polar regions, where trips can be easily booked through sites like www.expedia.com or www.bookings.com. While the visual memory lasts a lifetime, capturing these magical moments on camera brings great joy to photographers and viewers alike. In this blog post, we will learn the art of capturing the Northern Lights through expert tips and guidance. From camera settings to choosing the perfect location, our in-depth guide will help you create stunning photographs of the Northern Lights while enjoying the luxury travel amenities available through www.amazon.com. Preparation: Gear and Equipment Needed for Northern Lights Photography If you want to capture stunning images of the Aurora Borealis, it's essential to be well-prepared with the right gear and equipment. Here's a list of must-haves for Northern Lights photography: 1. Camera In order to capture the beauty of the northern lights, you need a camera with manual settings, such as a DSLR or mirrorless camera. This allows you to control the shutter speed, aperture, and ISO, which are critical in low-light conditions. Check out options on Amazon. 2. Wide-angle Lens A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the vastness and beauty of the night sky. Look for a lens with a focal length between 10-24mm and a fast aperture (f/2.8 or lower). 3. Tripod A sturdy tripod is a must for northern lights photography, as you'll use long exposure times. Invest in a good quality, lightweight tripod for stability and ease of transport. Once you've gathered your gear, consider booking a guided northern lights photography tour through websites like bookings.com or expedia.com to learn tips and tricks from expert photographers while exploring stunning luxury destinations. Location: Finding the Best Spots to Capture the Northern Lights When it comes to chasing the Northern Lights, location is key. To maximize your chances of witnessing this natural phenomenon, we've compiled a list of expert recommendations for the perfect picturesque spots. Norway's Lofoten Islands With awe-inspiring fjords and towering mountains, Norway's Lofoten Islands provide a breathtaking backdrop for the dancing lights. Rent a cozy cabin and let the magical skies unfold above you. Iceland's Vatnajokull National Park Explore Iceland's striking landscapes at Vatnajokull National Park, and position yourself in Jokulsarlon, a glacial lagoon filled with icebergs where the aurora can reflect off the water's surface, creating mesmerizing effects. Sweden's Abisko National Park Sweden's Abisko National Park is famous for its crystal-clear skies, giving you an unobstructed view of the aurora. Book a stay at the nearby Icehotel and indulge in a luxury Arctic experience. A good camera and the right location are all you need to begin capturing the Northern Lights. Allow yourself to be immersed in the beauty of these stunning spots, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Timing: When to Photograph the Northern Lights While the Northern Lights can be seen from late September to early April, their appearance can be unpredictable. To increase your chances of capturing the perfect shot, consider these factors: Season According to expert photographers, the best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months, particularly between December and February. This is when the nights are longest, giving you more opportunities to catch a glimpse of the auroras. Weather Clear, dark skies are essential for Aurora photography. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and choose a location with minimal light pollution. Websites like Expedia can help you find the perfect spot for your Northern Lights adventure. Equipment Having a high-quality camera and tripod is critical. If you're looking to invest in photography gear, check out options on Amazon. Additionally, find the perfect accommodation to match your photography needs by browsing properties on Booking.com. Technique: Tips and Tricks for Capturing the Perfect Shot Mastering the art of photographing the Northern Lights requires attention to detail, creativity, and an adventurous spirit. The following tips and tricks will help you capture stunning images of this natural phenomenon. 1. Invest in the Right Equipment Having the right camera gear is essential for capturing high-quality images of the Northern Lights. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual controls is recommended. Additionally, a wide-angle lens, tripod, and wireless remote will help you achieve sharp, well-framed shots. 2. Plan Your Trip Strategically Timing is crucial when capturing the Northern Lights. Book your trip during the darkest months of the year (September to April) and choose a destination known for clear skies and minimal light pollution. Check the aurora forecast regularly during your stay to increase your chances of witnessing this magical display. 3. Embrace Manual Settings Setting your camera to manual mode will allow you to adjust the aperture, ISO, and shutter speed for optimal results. Experiment with different settings to find the perfect balance between light sensitivity, exposure time, and image sharpness. 4. Utilize Foreground Elements Including interesting elements in the foreground of your images will add depth and context to your shots. Position your camera to capture landscapes, natural features, or local architecture beneath the dancing lights. 5. Practice Patience and Perseverance Capturing the perfect shot of the Northern Lights can be challenging, but with patience and persistence, you can create stunning images that showcase the beauty of this celestial spectacle. Embrace the adventure and embark on a luxury travel experience you'll never forget. Luxury Travel: Experience the Northern Lights in Style Why not elevate your Northern Lights adventure by indulging in some luxury experiences? Stay in a lavish hotel with panoramic views or enjoy a private guided tour catered to your photography skills. Exquisite Accommodation Choose from a selection of exclusive hotels and lodges located in prime Northern Lights viewing spots. Revel in opulent interiors, fine dining and amenities such as private hot tubs, glass-roofed igloos, and sumptuous beds. Private Guided Tours Enhance your photography skills with the help of a professional guide during a personalized Northern Lights tour. Tailored to your skill level and incorporating the latest tips and tricks, capture the ethereal beauty of the Aurora Borealis like never before. Essential Gear Don't forget to invest in top-quality photography equipment. Purchase high-end cameras, tripods and other accessories on Amazon to elevate your Northern Lights photos to the next level. Curated Luxury Packages Check out Expedia for a variety of luxury Northern Lights packages designed for avid photographers. Select from a range of unforgettable experiences to make your Aurora Borealis adventure one to remember. Conclusion: Capturing the Magic of the Northern Lights Armed with the expert advice and techniques presented in this blog, avid photographers and Northern Lights enthusiasts are now ready to embark on their thrilling adventure. Whether it is capturing the lights while sailing through the Arctic Circle or staying in the comfort of a luxury accommodation, witnessing the Northern Lights is nothing less than magical. As the final checklist, investing in a quality camera and associated gear is essential for breathtaking results. Don't forget to pick a picturesque destination and immerse yourself in the experience of photographing the celestial masterpiece. With patience, perseverance, and practiced skill, you'll be well on your way to capturing the enchanting essence of the Northern Lights. Read the full article

[unusualplaces]

How to Find the Best Ice Tour Package in Vatnajökull Glacier

Are you looking for an unforgettable adventure this summer? If so, then the best way to enjoy a thrilling trip is by embarking on an ice cave tour Vatnajökull Glacier. This incredible glacier is one of Iceland’s most astounding and captivating sights; its glistening, magnificent surface can only be seen up close when you travel atop its icy body. Vatnajokull National Park, IcelandPhoto by…

[postofficepro]

Crystal Cave, Vatnajokull Glacier, Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland.

[chartrandl]

GREENLAND/ICELAND: Story of Earth, Story of Us (Expedition #62)

GUIDES: Leon Chartrand, PhD (Lead)

ACTIVITIES: NOTE: In order to preserve the uniqueness of this experience and show respect for Greenlandic and Icelandic peoples and, of course, to minimize overuse impacts upon a sensitive arctic landscape, specific locations of hikes and activities will only be given to the finalized roster and will not be listed here. Students will be expected to avoid tagging specific locations of activities.

Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland for our first night and fly from Reykjavik to Ilulissat, Greenland (2 nights). Briefly explore Reykjavik and Ilulissat.

The Eqi Glacier: We depart on an Icebreaker ship from Ilulissat, sailing up the Davis Straight and through Disko Bay, around massive icebergs, on the way to Eqi Glacier (the most active glacier in the world!) Here, we will stay in yurts at Eqi Basecamp for three nights, listening to the frequent thundering of massive ice calving from the glacier into the bay. While at Eqi, we will hike onto the glacial moraine and learn about the history of this glacier’s advance and retreat within the context of why this is a significant event in climate change science and in the future impacts of Greenland upon the world.

The Greenland Iceshelf, the Polar Icecap. Here, 300 miles north of the Arctic Circle with 24 hours of Summer Sun, we take the hike up 2000 feet to walk upon the Greenland Iceshelf, the place famous now for concerns regarding climate change. We will walk in the footsteps of famous Danish and French explorers to this area.

Return to Ilulissat, Greenland. Our return from Eqi via Disko Bay and the Davis Strait affords us three nights stay in the Village of Ilulissat at a time when the National Greenlandic Inuit Games are being held. Here, we will visit the Greenlandic Arctic Museum and the Famous Knud Rasmussen Museum of the Arctic. We will also undoubtedly meet Greenlandic Inuit peoples with expectations to learn their perspectives on climate as well as meet the famous Greenlandic dogs, famous for their rugged endurance during -50F conditions. We will also kayak in the Greenlandic Sea.

We return to Reykjavik, Iceland for five days to stay in various lodges as we visit Vatnajokull, Snaefellsjokull and Jokulsarglijufur National Parks, all three of which are famous for their geology phenomena and incredible vistas. And all through this experience, we will focus on the perception of these magnificent places and peoples of Iceland and Greenland within the context of climate change due to causes in faraway places and how Icelanders and Greenlanders are adapting to such changes

FACULTY: Leon Chartrand, PhD; Karim Tiro. PhD

COURSES: 6 Total CORE Credits

HIST 200 (TIRO), 3 Credits, CORE HIST 200 Perspectives, Humanities Elective, Free Elective

THEO 332 (Chartrand), 3 Credits, CORE THEO 200 Perspectives, ERS, Env Sci/Studies, Peace Studies, Humanities Elective, Free Elective

PROGRAM FEE: $4,900 includes roundtrip international airfare, all lodging, Eqi basecamp stay, iceshelf guides from World of Greenland, Greenland Travel, ground transportation, roundtrip icebreaker ferry from Ilulisatt to Eqi, Glacier-calving experience, visits to Iceland National Parks, Greenlandic Museum and Inuit visits, meals, snacks, beverages.

TUITION: $535/Credit Hour, 6 Total Credits (separate from Program Fee)

DEPOSIT: $400 Nonrefundable deposit secures student’s spot. Deposit deducted from Program Fee.

LIMIT: Maximum 12 Students

VALUE: Attempting this program on one’s own would cost ~$14,500/person. For THIS expedition, a student’s total cost is $4,900 (Program Fee) + $3,210 (6 Credits Tuition) = $8,110 total. For questions on payment plans, contact Xavier University’s Office of the Bursar. For questions on grants and scholarships, contact Xavier University’s Office of Financial Aid.

[expert4travel]

Iceland- the cold Paradise

Glacial masses are one of the primary attractions of Iceland the travel industry. Iceland has all that we can call genuine miracles of nature. Whether it's scenes, lunar-like territories, volcanoes or something as lovely and characteristic as glacial masses, Iceland never disappoints and draw in a huge number of travelers consistently. Around 11% of the land area of Iceland is covered by icy masses. With 269 named icy masses, Iceland has practically different kinds: ice covers, outlet ice sheets, mountain glacial masses, high, piedmont and cirque glacial masses, ice streams, and the rundown goes on.

By a wide margin the biggest of Iceland's and Europe's ice covers is Vatnajokull, with an area that ranges 8,300 sq. km, equivalent in size to every one of the icy masses on the European central area set up - or multiple times the size of Luxembourg or Rhode Island. Iceland has a 300-year history of perceptions by Icelanders on the nation's ice sheets.

With Iceland Online, you can investigate these glacial masses and different good countries on a one-day visit. We can likewise organize ice sheet visits for several days to satisfy your bigger craving. Ice sheets, yet we likewise have visit bundles that take you around mountain reaches and pleasant volcanoes.

Public parks in Iceland are safeguarded regions, one of a kind because of their particular nature and scene highlights, native verdure, and significant social and verifiable legacy. Everybody is allowed to investigate the public parks of Iceland.

A considerable lot of the most pivotal occasions in Icelandic history occurred at Thingvellir, where the Alþingi (Althingi), Icelandic parliament, was established in 930 and kept on collecting each mid year until 1798. It was at Thingvellir that the Icelandic country consented to take on Christianity in the year 1000, and the advanced republic was established in 1944. As per regulation from 1928, Thingvellir Public Park was laid out in 1930, the primary public park in Iceland. In 2004 Þingvellir Public Park was engraved on the UNESCO World Legacy Rundown.

Vatnajökull Public Park envelops all of Vatnajökull ice sheet (8,300 km2), as well as the immense encompassing regions, like Jökulsárgljúfur (Jokulsargljufur) in the north and Skaftafell Nature Hold in the south, both recently delegated public parks themselves. Toward the east, it stretches to the areas of Kringilsárrani (Kringilsarrani) and Kverkfjöll (Kverkfjoll) mountain range, while toward the west it includes Lakagígar, the Laki cavities, and Grímsvötn (Grimsvotn) spring of gushing lava region. Vatnajökull Public Park covers approximately 13,200 km2, around 13% of Iceland, and it's quite possibly of Europe's biggest.