When’s the best time to visit?

Year-round, each season brings a different kind of magic (and potential frostbite). Summer offers accessible roads, shimmering blue ice, and boat tours. Winter brings eerie stillness, fewer tourists, and the chance to pair it with ice cave tours — assuming you survive the Ring Road. Dress like you're going on an expedition to Mars. Layered Mars.

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Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Top Things to See and Do

Q: Is Jökulsárlón worth the drive?

Only if you're into cathedral-sized chunks of millennia-old ice bobbing in ghostly silence, surreal views that look photoshopped, and the occasional seal doing its best impression of an existentialist poet. So, yeah. It's worth it.

Q: Can I walk on the glacier?

Yes — but only if you're with a certified glacier guide. Iceland frowns on spontaneous icecap exploration (too many tourists falling into crevasses and making the news). Book a tour that includes crampons, helmets, and the promise you won’t become part of the ice forever.

Q: Can I see the Northern Lights here?

Absolutely — if you're lucky and weather/sun activity/a pagan deity aligns. Jökulsárlón is far from city lights, which makes it a prime spot for aurora hunting. Pack patience. And snacks.

Jökulsárlón isn’t just Iceland’s most famous glacier lagoon — it’s a full-blown ice sculpture catwalk. Located at the edge of Vatnajökull National Park in southeast Iceland, this surreal lagoon is where 1,000-year-old chunks of glacier break off and float dreamily toward the sea. It’s peaceful, dramatic, and just a little eerie — like nature’s version of slow cinema. Bring a camera, a windproof jacket, and your sense of awe. You’ll need all three.

Tours That Visit Jökulsárlón

Nearby Activities

Nearby Attractions

FAQ

Glacier Kayaking and Boat Tours (meet on location)

Jökulsárlón may look like a place you simply admire from the shore—and fair enough, the floating icebergs and mirror-still water are mesmerizing enough to make you forget how coats work—but there’s far more to do than just stare slack-jawed at the scenery. You can hop on a boat tour to glide among the luminous blue chunks of ice, or better yet, join a kayaking tour for a quieter, more surreal experience, paddling at eye level with centuries-old ice as seals pop up like curious spectators. It’s a rare chance to feel utterly insignificant in the best possible way, surrounded by drifting, groaning giants of frozen time.

Experience the thrill of kayaking on the pristine waters of Vatnajökull National Park, where breathtaking glacier views and eco-friendly adventure await. Glide across Jökulsárlón Lagoon in our ultra-stable, beginner-friendly SIT-ON-TOP kayaks designed for both safety and fun. Secure your spot now and unlock a unique journey that blends sustainable travel with unforgettable natural beauty.

Ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime glacier kayaking adventure? Book your tour now and create memories that will last forever!

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Kayak Tour

4.9

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Experience an exciting activity in Iceland this summer with a boat tour around the renowned Jökulsárlón, also known as the Glacier Lagoon.

Jökulsárlón, formed by the melting ice from Iceland's largest glacier, Vatnajökull, is a picturesque lake. The Glacier Lagoon is regularly dotted with large icebergs that break off from the majestic glacier.

This beautiful location is particularly suitable for adventurous travelers with rental cars.

Jökulsárlón Boat Tour

Breiðamerkurjökull - Ice Caves and Glacier Hikes

The nearby Breiðamerkurjökull offers incredible up-close experiences year-round: in summer, you can join guided glacier hikes, while in winter, the glacier reveals its famous ice caves—brilliant crystal blue caverns formed by meltwater and pressure.

Tours include a ride in a Super Jeep from the Jökulsárlón parking lot to reach the glacier's edge, adding a touch of adventure to the journey. Whether you're crunching across ancient ice or stepping into a frozen cathedral, Breiðamerkurjökull delivers a raw and unforgettable encounter with Iceland’s glacial heart.

Set out on a 3-hour guided glacier hike on Breiðamerkurjökull, an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull. The glacier is known for its ice caves. As the ice caves are closed over the summer, this tour will take you on a hunt for moulins and ice canyons on the glacier.

Starting with a Super Jeep ride through the rugged terrain leading up to the edge of Vatnajökull, this outlet glacier offers a unique gateway to Iceland’s frozen wilderness. Designed for explorers of all skill levels, this tour combines captivating glacial landscapes with expert guidance and eco-friendly practices. Traverse shimmering blue ice, explore hidden crevasses, and witness the raw power of Iceland’s glaciers.

With morning and afternoon departures, this compact yet immersive experience offers an unforgettable opportunity to connect with Iceland's natural beauty while prioritizing safety and sustainability. Book your tour now and create memories that will last forever!

Vatnajökull Glacier Hike from Jökulsárlón

4.9

Jökulsárlón

3 Hours

Super jeep from Meeting Point

From

$120

/traveler

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure exploring Iceland’s breathtaking natural wonders! On this tour, you’ll ride in a powerful 4x4 Super Jeep across rugged terrain, venture deep into a glacier, and step inside a stunning Blue Ice Cave — also known as the Crystal Ice Cave. Marvel at the shimmering shades of blue ice, unique formations, and ever-changing tunnels and crevasses that make each visit a one-of-a-kind experience.

Your journey begins at the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon parking lot, where you’ll meet your expert guides and hop aboard a specially designed Super Jeep built to tackle Iceland’s challenging landscape. As you make your way up the glacier, prepare for a thrilling, bumpy ride while learning fascinating facts about the region from your friendly and knowledgeable guide.

Once you arrive at the glacier, you’ll step into a magical world of glittering blue ice. The caves are natural formations that shift and change each year, so the exact cave visited will depend on the day’s weather and safety conditions. Inside, you’ll be surrounded by otherworldly ice walls, stunning formations, and possibly even intricate tunnels or crevasses to explore.

To fully enjoy the experience, be sure to dress warmly in layers and bring a waterproof jacket, as this adventure takes place in the heart of winter. This tour offers an authentic Icelandic glacier experience that combines excitement, natural beauty, and unforgettable memories. Book today and step into the magical world beneath Iceland’s glaciers!

Crystal Blue Ice Cave

5.0

Jökulsárlón

Super jeep from Meeting Point

Top Activities Near Jökulsárlón

Aside from glacier activities on Breiðamerkurjökull, there are plenty of other things to do around Jökulsárlón. For those who wish to the glacier kayaking to another level, the much more recluse Heinabergslón Glacier lagoon offers the perfect off-the-beaten-path experience.

For those wanting to pack as much action as possible into one day, Jökulsárlón can easily be combined with a glacier hike in the Skaftafell region. Combining a glacier hike with glacier kayaking offer great value and unforgettable experiences.

Experience the ultimate adventure as you glide across the waters of Heinaberg Glacier Lagoon, surrounded by awe-inspiring icebergs, towering glaciers, and dramatic mountain panoramas. This is your chance to explore one of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders in an eco-friendly wa.

We use tandem SIT kayaks for optimum safety, handling, and stability. If you’re traveling solo or if your group size is odd, single kayaks are available. When you book, simply select the number of passengers, and our experienced guide will assign the ideal kayak configuration on the day of the tour.

Ready to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime glacier kayaking adventure? Book your tour now and create memories that will last forever!

Heinaberg Glacier Adventure Kayak Tour

4.9

Heinaberg Glacier Lagoon

3.5 Hours

From Meeting Point to Location

Two thrilling glacier adventures, one unforgettable day. This 6-hour combo tour takes you deep into the wild, icy heart of Iceland’s southeastern coast. Paddle through the serene, iceberg-filled waters of Heinaberg Glacier Lagoon, far from the crowds, and then explore the ever-changing landscapes of Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier, an outlet of Europe’s largest ice cap, Vatnajökull. Led by certified guides and packed with breathtaking scenery, this full-day combo tour lets you experience Iceland’s glaciers from both water and ice.

❄️ Two tours, one booking. One epic day.

Book now and experience two of Iceland’s most breathtaking activities in one epic journey!

Heinaberg Glacier Lagoon Kayaking & Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier Hike

4.8

Heinabergslón & Breiðamerkurjökull

Embark on a full-day combo tour that takes you deep into the wild beauty of Southeast Iceland with two unforgettable glacier experiences. You can either start your day paddling through the surreal iceberg-dotted waters of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon on a guided kayaking adventure. Then, lace up your hiking boots and set out for an exhilarating glacier hike in the heart of Skaftafell Nature Reserve, where you'll explore the frozen landscape of an outlet glacier from Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest ice cap.

This adventure is split into two separate tours, each led by certified glacier and kayaking guides, with all safety gear and instructions provided. Travel between the two locations is self-drive, giving you time to enjoy the scenery along Iceland’s stunning South Coast.

You’ll select which adventure to begin with.

If you start with kayaking, meet our guides at Troll.is Glacier Lagoon in Jökulsárlón 20 minutes before departure at 10:00 am and make sure to reach Troll.is - Skatafell 20 minutes before departure time set at 2:00 pm

If you start with the glacier hike, head to Troll.is Skaftafell 20 minutes before departure time set at 09:00 AM and make sure to reach Troll.is Glacier Lagoon 20 minutes before depature time set at 1:30 PM (Exact locations are easily found by searching “Troll.is Glacier Lagoon” or “Troll.is Skaftafell” on Google Maps.)

Experience two epic adventures in one day. Book now and experience two of Iceland’s most breathtaking activities in one epic journey!

Jökulsárlón Glacier Kayaking and Skaftafell Glacier Hike Combo Tour

4.8

Skaftafell & Jökulsárlón

Explore the unique ice formations of Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier, on a guided walk. This tour offers a direct experience with a constantly changing landscape. You will see deep crevasses, vertical shafts known as moulins, and potentially an ice cave. Your guide will also point out rare features like glacier mice, a type of moss found on the ice. This hike provides an opportunity to witness the immense scale of the glacier and its uniquely carved landscapes up close.

Join a guided glacier hike on Falljökull, an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull National Park. The tour begins at our comfortable meeting point in Hof, located very close to the glacier. Our indoor facility is cozy and offers free parking, which allows you to avoid the parking fees charged at the Skaftafell Visitor Centre. Please arrive 20 minutes before departure to meet your highly qualified English glacier guide. All essential safety gear is provided, including a helmet, crampons, harness, and ice axe.

After a short ride on the "Tröll Bus," you will walk a short distance to the edge of the glacier. Your guide will demonstrate how to use the equipment and how to safely walk on the ice. During the walk, you'll observe how the receding ice has shaped the surrounding landscape, noting visible marks on the bedrock and a lagoon formed by meltwater.

The tour guarantees 1 hour and 30 minutes on the ice, with an additional 10-minute shuttle ride each way. The remaining time is allocated for a safety briefing and a 20-minute walk on a gravel path to the glacier tongue. Your guide will provide information about the glacier's geology and its impact on the Icelandic environment. This tour is designed to be an educational experience, offering a factual look at a natural phenomenon.

This hike is suitable for most individuals with a reasonable fitness level. Participants should wear warm, layered clothing and sturdy footwear.After returning to the meeting point, enjoy a complimentary hot drink (coffee/hot chocolate) and a candy bar.

Skaftafell 3 hours Easy Level Glacier Hike

Sights Within & Around Jökulsárlón

If you thought Jökulsárlón was just a pretty puddle filled with ice cubes the size of small houses… well, you’re technically right — but also gloriously wrong. This isn’t just a lagoon. It’s the glacial equivalent of a fantasy epic: icebergs drifting like ghost ships, seals living their best life, and otherworldly landscapes that make you question whether you accidentally wandered into a big-budget Viking fever dream.

And while the lagoon steals the show, don’t sleep on the neighborhood — a stone’s throw away you’ll find black diamond beaches, surreal ice caves, and enough photo ops to melt your phone. So grab your wool socks and existential curiosity — here’s what’s waiting in and around the iceberg playground.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

This is the big boss of the southeast — a hauntingly beautiful meltwater lagoon where chunks of glacier break off and float serenely toward the sea like slow-motion shipwrecks. Seals patrol the icy waters, icebergs groan like ancient gods, and the whole thing looks like nature's version of a dystopian dreamscape. It’s dramatic. It’s cold. It’s perfect.

Glacial lagoon with floating icebergs creating a reflex in the calm water.

Diamond Beach

Just across the road from the lagoon (literally), you’ll find jet-black volcanic sands littered with gleaming shards of ice — hence the name. It’s like a jewelry heist gone wrong. The contrast of dark sand and glittering ice makes it one of the most photogenic (and surreal) places in Iceland. Bring your camera, but also… maybe some gloves.

Black sand beach with chunks of ice trapped on the sand.

Jökulsárlón Bridge

Spanning the mouth of the lagoon, this iconic bridge offers a top-down view of the icebergs drifting out to sea. It’s also the place where you’ll realize your phone storage is wildly unprepared for Iceland. Pro tip: pull over safely and soak it in from the sandbanks.

Group of people doing a Glacier hike.

Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon (12 km – 10 min drive)

Think of it as Jökulsárlón’s quieter, moodier cousin. Smaller crowds, same icy drama. Fjallsárlón feels more intimate, like nature whispering secrets… or plotting something, depending on the fog.

Skaftafell Nature Reserve (56 km – 45 min drive)

For those craving vertical drama. Expect glacier tongues, epic trails, and Svartifoss — a waterfall framed by hexagonal basalt columns that look like they were 3D printed by trolls with OCD.

A man standing on top of an ice chunk, behind him it is possible to see glacier formations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Because a lagoon full of ancient icebergs doesn’t come with a manual

You've made it to the edge of the world where icebergs creak like eldritch beasts and the wind whispers secrets from centuries past. But before you accidentally lick a glacier or try to ride a seal (please don't), here are some answers to your burning, frostbitten questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Brace yourself — it’s a journey. The lagoon is about 5–6 hours from Reykjavík by car, depending on how many waterfalls or rogue sheep distract you on the way. Rent a 4x4 if traveling in winter. Tours are also available if you’d prefer someone else to worry about icy roads while you sip hot chocolate and wonder what possessed you to come this far north.

Only if you're into cathedral-sized chunks of millennia-old ice bobbing in ghostly silence, surreal views that look photoshopped, and the occasional seal doing its best impression of an existentialist poet. So, yeah. It's worth it.

Yes — but only if you're with a certified glacier guide. Iceland frowns on spontaneous icecap exploration (too many tourists falling into crevasses and making the news). Book a tour that includes crampons, helmets, and the promise you won’t become part of the ice forever.

Only if you want to meet Odin early. It’s freezing, deep, and full of icebergs. Try kayaking if you’re craving closeness to cold water without the dying part.

Only emotionally. They will ignore you with the condescension of a Parisian waiter. Physically? Nah—they’re just chill.

Year-round, each season brings a different kind of magic (and potential frostbite).

Summer offers accessible roads, shimmering blue ice, and boat tours.
Winter brings eerie stillness, fewer tourists, and the chance to pair it with ice cave tours — assuming you survive the Ring Road. Dress like you're going on an expedition to Mars. Layered Mars.

Yup. They break off, float around for a bit like confused retirees, then head out to sea to melt (or beach themselves like frozen whales at Diamond Beach).

There’s a café with soup, coffee, and vibes. Don’t expect Michelin stars. Do expect overpriced snacks.

Yes. Real ones. They won’t win design awards, but they beat peeing in the wind while a curious seal watches.

Absolutely — if you're lucky and weather/sun activity/a pagan deity aligns. Jökulsárlón is far from city lights, which makes it a prime spot for aurora hunting. Pack patience. And snacks.

In peak season, yes. Otherwise, you’ll be watching other people glide between icebergs while you sulk by a snack van. Choose between amphibian boats (big, safe, a bit lumbering) and zodiac boats (faster, more thrilling, wetter).

Officially? No. Unofficially? Still no. Jökulsárlón is a protected area, and drone bans help preserve its serenity (and prevent decapitation-by-rotor incidents).

Got More Questions?

Our team of Iceland experts is just a message away. Whether you’re curious about tour details, weather prep, or which adventure suits you best, we’re here to help. Chat with us or Contact our support team and let’s plan your perfect Iceland experience.

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