Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Basic Information

An icy wonder in the southern fragment of the Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland, there is the majestic Jökulsárlón, translating directly to “Glacial River Lagoon”. The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is located at the head of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and has gradually stemmed into a lake as the glacier began receding from the brink of the Atlantic Ocean.

Dancing about the glistening lagoon, the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is home to stunning icebergs with diamond shades of blues, whites, turquoises, and black streaks. The icebergs are centuries-old chunks of ice that have broken off the Oraefajokull glacier and are floating to sea. The enormous lagoon has provided a beautiful backdrop in numerous movies and shows, gaining immense popularity as a filming location and attracting tourists from around the world.

Guided Tours to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

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How to Reach Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Situated right on the ring road, the glacier lagoon is between Höfn and Skaftafell, on the west coast. It stands at a distance of 380 km from the Capital, Reykjavik. Following Highway 1 in the southern direction from Reykjavik, when you see a surreal procession of icicle formations, that is when you have reached the magical location.

Guided tours are the perfect option for those who don’t want to drive at a stretch to reach just the location. With adventures and other beautiful sceneries along with the lagoon capturing your eye along the way, day and multi-day tours can be a part of your site-seeing plan in Iceland.

If you are interested in the public transfers, there is a bus facility available that takes a route from Mjódd, Reykjavík to Jökulsárlón in 6 hours. Hop on anywhere in between to get to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon! 

Glacier Lagoons Iceland, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon South Iceland Tour Packages

What the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Has to Offer

An outlet of the Vatnajökull glacier, towering 910 meters above the lagoon, the breaking icebergs of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier float around the 250 meters deep lagoon to create a tranquil yet, breathtaking view. Comprised of a saltwater and freshwater mix, the lagoon produces a mystical blue-green hue, complementing the brilliant blue shades of icebergs drifting upon it. You can go for a hike around the perimeter all year-round and you will most likely spot seals atop the icebergs along with various fish swimming in the chilly lagoon.  The rich birdlife of Iceland is also prominent around the Glacier lagoon, enhancing its peaceful view for photography.

There are various boat tours offered at the lagoon. The Amphibian Boat Tour takes you on a voyage among the gliding icebergs, letting you become a part of the Jökulsárlón scenery. Letting you devour the unmatched beauty of the stunning iceberg formations from as close as safely possible, the Zodiac Tour will ensure you cover the largest areas of the lagoon. 

During the summer time you can go glacier kayaking, and kayak between the ice bergs. You can kayak all the way up to the icebergs and explore them up close and personal. 

Along with lagoon tours, there is also a 2.5-hour tour to let you explore the Vatnajökull glacier, allowing you to experience the luxury of the largest European glacier.

man standing and watching the sunset at Diamond Beach in south Iceland

The Exotic Diamond Beach

The dramatic Black Beach at Jökulsárlón is one of the most unique beaches in the world. Hosting a bed of black sand across its expansive length, the beautiful beach has glistening icebergs washed up on its shore from the lagoon. Gaining its name from these ice formations dazzling like diamonds against a black sandy base, The Diamond Beach offers a sight never to be forgotten. With large crystal-like glaciers sparkling in the sun, it is a treasured experience to sit, or even lie on them for a calming retreat with mother earth.

Activities in the area

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Nearby Accommodation

Jökulsárlón Glacier lagoon and the surrounding area offers an extensive perimeter with so much to see. Visitors decide it’s a better option to stay over to be able to enjoy every part of it too.  There are hotels and guest houses with a comfortable stay and warm welcome in the nearby Höfn, Skaftafell, or Kirkjubæjarklaustur areas. With facilities and relaxing atmospheres, they offer an embracing stay for those who wish for a relaxing vacation.

boat sailing on Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon in south east Iceland

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon on a map

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Guided Tours to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

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