Where is Tungnaárjökull?

Tungnaárjökull is a western outlet glacier of Vatnajökull, flowing into the remote highland area west of the ice cap. It feeds meltwater into the Tungnaá river, which eventually flows south toward the lowlands.

Can you visit Tungnaárjökull?

Tungnaárjökull is in a very remote highland area accessible only by F-roads with a 4×4 vehicle. There are no commercial tours or facilities. Only experienced highland travelers should attempt a visit.

What is the Tungnaá river?

The Tungnaá is a glacial river fed by meltwater from Tungnaárjökull. It flows through the western highlands and is known for good salmon and trout fishing in its lower reaches, as well as being a source for hydroelectric power.

How big is Tungnaárjökull?

Tungnaárjökull is a medium-sized outlet glacier on Vatnajökull's western margin. Like many Icelandic glaciers, it has been retreating in recent decades due to warming temperatures.

What is the highland area like around Tungnaárjökull?

The area around Tungnaárjökull is a barren highland desert with volcanic landscapes, braided glacial rivers, and no vegetation. It is one of Iceland's most remote and least-visited regions.

Tungnaárjökull: a Western Outlet of Vatnajökull

A remote western outlet of Vatnajökull feeding the Tungnaá river through Iceland's barren highland interior.

Last reviewed March 3, 2026By the Iceland.org travel deskEditorial policy

Region

West Vatnajökull

Remote highland, seasonal access only.

Tungnaárjökull flows westward from the Vatnajökull ice cap into one of Iceland's most remote highland areas. This outlet glacier feeds the Tungnaá river, which carves through volcanic desert before reaching the lowlands. The surrounding landscape is a treeless expanse of lava, sand, and glacial moraines that few visitors ever see.

Sources and last reviewed

Last reviewed: 2026-03-03

This is a remote highland area with no services or mobile coverage. Highland F-roads are seasonal. Always carry emergency supplies and register your travel plan.

Pages are reviewed for practical usefulness, source quality, and volatile claims before publication.

Official sources to check

Best for

Remote wilderness

Few travelers pass through this part of the interior.

Access

Highland F-roads

4×4 required, seasonal June–September.

Pro tip

Combine with Sprengisandur

Part of Iceland's great highland crossing.

What to Expect

Barren highland desert landscape stretching in all directions
Braided glacial river channels cutting through volcanic sand
Near-total isolation in Iceland's interior
Glacial moraines marking the glacier's former extent
Views of the western edge of the Vatnajökull ice cap
A highland environment shaped by ice and volcanic activity

Nearby Attractions

Sprengisandur highland route (the main interior crossing)
Landmannalaugar geothermal area with colorful rhyolite mountains
Vatnajökull ice cap views from the western highlands
Veiðivötn volcanic crater lakes accessible in summer
Þjórsárver wetlands (a protected Ramsar site for pink-footed geese)
Nýidalur highland hut as a base for interior exploration

How to Get There

Via Sprengisandur route (F26) or other highland F-roads
Capable 4×4 vehicle essential; river crossings required
No fuel, food, or services anywhere nearby
Register travel plans at safetravel.is
Carry detailed maps and GPS navigation

Best Time to Visit

July–August when highland roads are passable
Long summer days allow extended exploration
Weather changes rapidly; be prepared for all conditions
Check road.is daily for F-road status
Inaccessible October through May

Planning help

Tungnaarjokull (Tungnaárjökull) Glacier FAQs

Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.

All glaciers