The third day started early, with another dawn and a two-hour drive to Skaftafell. There we had a longer and more demanding hike on the glacier than the previous day. From the first moment, the glacier left us speechless: the ice, the colours and the natural formations seemed unreal.
Our guide was key to the experience, explaining how glaciers are formed and how they are being affected by climate change. He also taught us a curious trick: “push-ups” to drink water directly from the glacier. Not only was it fun, but drinking such pure water was something unique.
After finishing the hike, we headed to Svartifoss waterfall, famous for its basalt columns. The walk to get there was longer than we thought, and we had to hurry because we were a little short on time. Still, it was worth it. The waterfall, framed by those very particular rock formations, is a spectacle that seems designed on purpose.
In the afternoon, our next stop was the Ice Lagoon (Jökulsárlón), an impressive glacial lagoon. There we boarded a Zodiac boat that took us close to the enormous blocks of ice that break off from the glacier. The feeling of being so close to these floating masses is difficult to describe, but it was one of the most memorable moments of the trip.
Before continuing our journey by car, we decided to visit Diamond Beach, since it is located very close to the Ice Lagoon. This beach is famous for being able to see the icebergs that have broken off from the glacier leaving the lake and entering the sea. Some of the smaller icebergs are stranded on the beach and allow for some really curious photos.
After a day full of frozen landscapes, we headed to the fishing village of Höfn. By the way, when driving on Icelandic roads you have to be careful with the local fauna, particularly the sheep, as they sometimes decide to cross the road (and yes, they always go in groups of three…)
Hôfn is known for its fish, especially lobster. We went to dinner at Hafnarbuðin, a place that had been recommended to us, where we tried the famous lobster sandwich, and the truth is that it did not disappoint. Delicious, simple and perfect to end the day.
With our stomachs full and our heads full of images of glaciers and waterfalls, we went to rest, ready for what awaited us the next day.
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