What stories do the icebergs of Europe’s largest glacier, on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, tell? In the heart of this living work of art, crystal-clear waters host colossal ice sculptures, where nature’s boundaries blur, inviting you to witness the timeless allure of the frozen kingdom. Welcome to Jökulsárlón, where every iceberg tells a story.
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What is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is the largest and most famous glacier lagoon in Iceland. It is located in the southeastern part of the country, near the Vatnajökull National Park.
The lagoon is known for its floating icebergs, which break off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and drift in the lagoon, before ending up in Diamond Beach or in the ocean. These icebergs can be quite large, and some of them may take several years to drift from the glacier to the lagoon’s outlet, where they float out to sea. Just think that the ice composing these icebergs is roughly 1,000 years old!
The size of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is quite impressive. In fact, the lagoon covers an area of roughly 18 square kilometers (around 7 square miles). If you were to walk around the entire lagoon, you’d be looking at a whopping 26km (16mi) hike! In addition, with a maximum depth of 248 meters (814 feet) this is the deepest lake in the entire Iceland!
The lagoon is also a popular spot for boat tours, allowing visitors to get up close to the icebergs and explore this unique natural wonder. Boat tours at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon are a memorable way to experience the beauty and tranquility of this unique natural attraction while learning about the glacial environment and its significance in the context of climate change.
Looking for an alternative Glacier Lagoon to visit? Check out Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon!
How to get to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Getting to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is very easy. The famous ring road passes right next to the lagoon, so the road is entirely paved all the way there. Here is how you get there from Iceland’s capital city and from the nearby town of Höfn.
From Reykjavik: The distance from Reykjavik to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is approximately 380 kilometers (236 miles) when driving along Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1). The driving time can vary depending on road conditions and stops along the way, but it typically takes about 4.5 to 5.5 hours to drive from Reykjavik to Jökulsárlón.
From Höfn: The distance from Höfn to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is much shorter, as Höfn is located to the east of the lagoon. It is approximately 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Höfn to Jökulsárlón when driving along Route 1. The driving time from Höfn to Jökulsárlón is roughly 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on road conditions and speed.
Parking at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Reaching Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a relatively straightforward journey; however, when it comes to parking, there’s a small surprise in store. Official parking at the lagoon (1) comes at a cost, with a daily fee of 1.000 ISK (€7 EUR). Diamond Beach’s main parking (2) – which is just across the road – is also a paid parking, with a daily fee of 1000 ISK (€7 EUR) per car.
Luckily, here’s some good news: There are two alternative parking areas (3)(4) along the ring road located at distances of 600 meters and 1.3 kilometers from the bridge, and the best part is that they are free of charge. These are the perfect parking areas for those who want to hike around the lagoon without spending unnecessary money in parking fees.
Check out the map below for the exact locations:
List of Parkings:
- Jökulsárlón Main Parking (PAID)
- Diamond Beach Main Parking (PAID)
- Jökulsárlón Free Parking (FREE)
- Alternative Parking to Jökulsárlón (FREE)
What to do at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
When you visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, make sure to take a walk around the lagoon and look at it from different angles. The lagoon’s appearance changes all the time, so there isn’t one best side to see that’s the same throughout the year.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon offers several walking trails that run along both the eastern and western banks of the river. However, if you prefer a more bustling atmosphere and easy access to amenities, the west side is your best bet. This is where you’ll find the main parking area, a café where you can grab refreshments, and the starting point for boat tours.
The western side tends to be the focal point for most visitors due to its convenience and the array of services available. On the east side, you may experience a quieter and more secluded ambiance, which can be ideal for those seeking a more tranquil experience at the lagoon.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon boat ride
Boat tours at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon offer visitors a unique and immersive way to experience this stunning natural wonder up close. There are two primary types of boat tours at Jökulsárlón, each offering a different perspective on the lagoon’s icebergs: Amphibian Boat Tours or Zodiac Boat Tours.
Amphibian Boat Tours
These tours are typically conducted on amphibian vehicles, which can operate both on land and in the water. They allow you to get close to the icebergs and provide an excellent vantage point for photography.
Duration: 35 minutes
Pricing: 6.300 ISK (€43 EUR)
Zodiac Boat Tours
Zodiac boats are smaller, inflatable vessels that can navigate through the lagoon’s icy waters, getting you even closer to the icebergs. These tours offer a more intimate and adventurous experience.
Duration: 1h 15 minutes
Pricing: 13.900 ISK (€94 EUR)
Boat tours at Jökulsárlón are typically offered during the tourist season, which runs from late spring to early autumn. The specific dates and availability may vary from year to year, so it’s advisable to check with tour operators in advance for the most up-to-date information.
Since Jökulsárlón is in a glacial environment, even during the summer months, the temperatures can be quite cool. It’s important to dress warmly and wear appropriate layers, as you’ll be exposed to the elements during the boat tour. Tour operators often provide insulated overalls to help keep you warm and dry.
Boat tours at Jökulsárlón typically last around 35 minutes to 1:15 hour, depending on the type of tour you choose. This isn’t a long tour, but it provides enough time to explore the lagoon, observe the icebergs, and listen to the guides’ explanations.
In addition to the icebergs, Jökulsárlón is known for its abundant birdlife, and you might also spot seals swimming in the lagoon. Boat tours offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
Although not mandatory, it’s a good idea to make reservations for boat tours in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to secure your spot on the tour of your choice. There are multiple tour operators offering boat tours, but you can check the official website or contact them directly to make reservations.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in Iceland largely depends on your preferences and the experiences you’re seeking.
Summer, which spans from June to August, is a popular time to visit due to its milder weather conditions. During this period, you can expect more pleasant temperatures and a higher chance of sunshine, making it ideal for exploring the lagoon and its surroundings.
The summer months also offer the captivating phenomenon of the “midnight sun,” where daylight stretches well into the night, allowing for extended sightseeing and photography opportunities. It’s a great time to enjoy boat tours on the lagoon, offering close-up encounters with the icebergs, and to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes in their lush, green glory.
On the other hand, winter in Iceland, which spans from November to March, offers a completely different but equally mesmerizing experience at Jökulsárlón. This is the season for witnessing the captivating Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis, which dance across the dark winter skies. The lagoon doesn’t freeze but its frozen surroundings provide an enchanting backdrop for this natural light show.
Additionally, the winter months are the best time to visit the nearby Diamond Beach, where icebergs washed ashore glisten like diamonds on the black sand, creating a truly magical spectacle. Winter also boasts the advantage of bigger and more dramatic icebergs, as the colder temperatures cause them to take on unique shapes and textures.
Wildlife at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
While Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is primarily celebrated for its stunning icebergs and glacial landscapes, it is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a unique and dynamic ecosystem. Despite the challenging and ever-changing environment, several species have adapted to thrive in this cold and captivating setting.
One of the most commonly observed inhabitants is the Arctic Tern, a migratory bird that arrives during the summer months to breed and raise its chicks. In addition to Arctic Terns, visitors can spot other bird species such as skuas, gulls, and eiders, making it a prime location for avian enthusiasts.
Seals are another charismatic wildlife species that frequent the area. Both harbor seals and the less common gray seals can be spotted lounging on icebergs or swimming gracefully in the lagoon. These adorable creatures often attract the attention of visitors with their curious and photogenic behavior.
The wildlife at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, while not as abundant as in some other ecosystems, adds a layer of natural diversity to the already spectacular landscape.
Nearby attractions
Any visit to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon can be combined with:
- Diamond Beach
- Vatnajokull National Park
- Svartifoss Waterfall
- Skaftafell Glacier Hike
- Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon
- Hofn Town
- Fjadrargljufur Canyon
- Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
- Skogafoss Waterfall
- Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
- Múlagljúfur Canyon
What to pack for Iceland
If you’re about to set off for Iceland, make sure to pack the following things to ensure you have the best time!
Must-Have Items
A good rain jacket. You want to have a good rain coat with you when visiting Iceland, as the weather can change unpredictably. There’s plenty of shops in Reykjavik that sell – and even rent – rain jackets for your Iceland vacation.
We would recommend a good one like the Marmot Men’s Minimalist Component Jacket or the Columbia Women’s Pouring Adventure II Jacket. Quality jackets can be a bit pricey, but they’re a worthwhile investment, especially for a trip to Iceland.
Waterproof overpants. It somehow seemed an unnecessary item to bring before reaching iceland, but it turned out to be one of those items we used daily. Bring a pair of those, you won’t regret it. Check out Columbia Men’s Rebel Roamer Rain Pant and Columbia Women’s Storm Surge Pant.
Warm Socks: Packing merino wool socks for Iceland is crucial to keep your feet warm and dry in the diverse and often unpredictable weather conditions. For summer, check out DANISH ENDURANCE Merino Wool Hiking Liner Socks, they are great quality and quite thin. If you’re travelling in the coldest months, consider getting knee-high wool socks.
Warm clothing: Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable. Pack thermal layers, including merino wool for its excellent insulation, insulated gloves (especially for winter), and a good quality winter hat.
Sturdy Footwear: Waterproof and insulated boots or hiking shoes are essential for exploring Iceland’s varied terrain. For top-notch gear, you can’t go wrong with brands like Scarpa, Salomon, and La Sportiva. If you’re looking for something a bit more budget-friendly, Merrell and Altra have got you covered.
Please note: If you’re gearing up for glacier walks or ice caving, make sure to go for rigid boots that can fit crampons. Flexible boots offer greater comfort for hiking, but you might struggle if you need to use ice spikes.
Reusable Water Bottle: Iceland has clean, safe and free drinking water everywhere. Therefore, you don’t need a fancy filtration system like the GRAYL GeoPress 24 oz for Iceland.
Save money and cut down on waste by opting for a reusable water bottle. The ideal solution for Iceland is one that works well for both hot and cold beverages.
Toiletries: Pack travel-sized toiletries, including soap, shampoo, and sunscreen, as these can be expensive in Iceland.
Headlamp/Flashlight: In Iceland’s long winter nights or for exploring caves, for chasing auroras or for walking around your campsite, a reliable light source is crucial. We have this one and simply love it, it’s incredibly cheap, bright plus the battery lasts so long.
Portable Charger: Keep your devices charged during outdoor adventures, especially if you’re planning to camp in Iceland. We recently picked up a fast-charging power bank from INIU that works like a charm. Just be sure to grab one with enough capacity for all your devices.
Additional Items
Swimwear: Don’t forget your swimsuit for relaxing in geothermal pools and hot springs.
Backpack: A sturdy, weather-resistant backpack is useful for carrying your essentials during outdoor excursions. If you plan on doing lots of hiking, we recommend a dedicated backpack. You have countless options on the market, but one like Men’s Osprey Talon 22L or Women’s Osprey Tempest 20L would be perfect.
Camera and Binoculars: Iceland’s landscapes are stunning, so bring a camera and binoculars for wildlife and scenic views.
Local Currency: Have some Icelandic Krona (ISK) on hand for small purchases and in case you visit places that don’t accept cards. We never used cash in Iceland, so it’s not something you must bring around, but in a couple of situations it would have been handful.
Food and Drinks: Due to Iceland’s relatively high prices, especially for alcohol, and limited food options in some areas, consider carrying some essential snacks and beverages.
Hiking Gear: If you plan on hiking, consider bringing trekking poles, a compact first-aid kit, and gaiters.
Wet Wipes: Handy for quick clean-ups, especially when camping or on long road trips. These can easily be bought once you land in Iceland, or packed in your backpack before leaving. Check these flushable ones if you’re looking for some.
Swiss Army Knife or Multi-Tool: Useful for various outdoor tasks, especially when camping or preparing food. Here is a cheap one.
Travel Pillow: For added comfort during long drives, flights or while camping. The provided ones aren’t always the best. Here is a good one.