Glacier Kayaking in Iceland
Kayaking on a glacier lagoon in Iceland is as close as you can get to feeling like an arctic explorer—minus the frostbite and questionable survival odds. Imagine gliding across a mirror-like lagoon, around icebergs that have broken off from ancient glaciers. It’s peaceful, it’s surreal, and it’s a front-row seat to one of nature’s most dramatic landscapes.
ℹ️ From 1st of October until 15th of October we only operate kayaking tours on Heinberg Glacier Lagoon.
Why Choose Glacier Kayaking?
Iceland is one of the few places on Earth where you can paddle among floating icebergs, navigating through ever-changing glacial lagoons, and get up close to ancient, blue-tinted ice formations—all while surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Here’s what sets it apart:
- Unparalleled Scenery – Paddle through a glacial wonderland, where ice formations shimmer in shades of blue and white, and seals occasionally pop up to say hello.
- Close-Up Encounters – Unlike a boat tour, kayaking gets you right up close to the ice, offering an intimate and personal experience.
- Silent and Serene – The only sounds you’ll hear are the dip of your paddle and the occasional creak of shifting ice. It’s the ultimate escape from the noise of everyday life.
- Eco-Friendly Adventure – No motors, no crowds, just you and the pristine Arctic environment.
Top Glacier Kayaking Tours
This tour offers a unique kayaking adventure on the pristine waters of the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in Vatnajökull National Park. Highlights include gliding safely past floating icebergs with panoramic views of surrounding majestic glaciers and rugged mountains. The adventure uses highly stable, beginner-friendly SIT-ON-TOP kayaks and emphasizes eco-conscious travel within this breathtaking natural environment.
This unique kayaking tour provides an intimate, eco-friendly adventure on the serene waters of the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, located in Southeast Iceland. This tour requires you to meet the guide directly at the Jökulsárlón parking lot base camp (GPS Coordinates: 64.048096, -16.178778).
The tour utilizes ultra-stable SIT-ON-TOP kayaks, ensuring the activity is safe and enjoyable for both seasoned paddlers and first-time kayakers. You will glide across the mirror-like waters, receiving unparalleled views of the massive Vatnajökull glacier outlets and the icebergs that have calved into the lagoon. This offers a different perspective than boat tours, immersing you directly into the landscape.
This tour offers an ultimate kayaking adventure on the pristine waters of the Heinaberg Glacier Lagoon within Vatnajökull National Park. Highlights include gliding silently past awe-inspiring icebergs and exploring a serene, mirror-like lagoon surrounded by towering glacier walls and dramatic mountain panoramas. This experience provides an intimate, eco-friendly way to explore one of Iceland’s most remote and majestic natural wonders.
Join this unique kayaking excursion for an intimate exploration of the Heinaberg Glacier Lagoon, located in the southeast of Iceland within the vast Vatnajökull National Park.
The tour utilizes highly stable and beginner-friendly kayaks, making the experience accessible for both seasoned paddlers and those new to kayaking. Your focus is immersion in the breathtaking environment: as you paddle, you will maneuver through and around icebergs that have calved from the glacier. This perspective, directly on the water, offers an unparalleled view of the sheer scale of the surrounding glacier fronts and mountain ranges.
This activity emphasizes sustainable travel and offers a tranquil experience away from motorized boats. Participants must adhere to basic safety requirements and be prepared for light physical activity. All necessary kayaking equipment, including life vests and dry gear, is provided by the guides at the meeting point. This is an excellent choice for travelers prioritizing a peaceful, close-up encounter with Iceland's massive glacial formations.
Where Can You Go Glacier Kayaking in Iceland?
The most popular spots for glacier kayaking are Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Heinaberg Glacier Lagoon, both located on the southeastern coast of Iceland. Jökulsárlón is the famous one, with massive floating icebergs, while Heinabergslón is a lesser-known gem where you’ll likely have more of the lagoon to yourself.
ℹ️ From 1st of October until 15th of October we only operate kayaking tours on Heinberg Glacier Lagoon.
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
This popular tourist destination is a unique site, known for its floating icebergs. Kayaking on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is the best way to escape the crowds and experience Iceland’s most stunning icebergs up close. The water is calm, the kayaks are stable, and no experience is needed—just a sense of adventure and a good camera. Unlike boat tours, kayaking lets you move quietly through the lagoon, making it a more immersive and peaceful experience.
Heinaberg Glacier Lagoon
Kayaking on Heinaberg Glacier Lagoon offers a quieter, more secluded alternative to the famous Jökulsárlón, with the added bonus of paddling right up to the glacier itself. Unlike larger lagoons, Heinaberg is free from boat traffic, making it a peaceful, crowd-free experience where you can navigate between icebergs at your own pace.
The landscape feels untouched, with stunning blue ice formations, towering mountains, and the occasional seal keeping you company. The stable kayaks make it accessible for beginners, and since you’re paddling in a smaller lagoon, you get an up-close view of the glacier and its ever-changing ice formations—something you won’t find elsewhere.
All Kayaking Tours
Kayaking in Iceland offers a unique way to experience the country’s glaciers up close, with two main options: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Heinaberg Lagoon. Jökulsárlón is the most famous, with massive floating icebergs and frequent seal sightings, making it ideal if you want to paddle through an ever-changing icy landscape. Heinaberg Lagoon, on the other hand, offers a quieter, more remote experience where you can get even closer to the glacier itself, without the crowds or boat traffic. Both locations use stable kayaks, require no prior experience, and can be combined with other activities like glacier hikes, allowing you to explore the ice both from the water and on foot for a full-day adventure.
Top Kayaking Tours in Iceland
This tour offers a unique kayaking adventure on the pristine waters of the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in Vatnajökull National Park. Highlights include gliding safely past floating icebergs with panoramic views of surrounding majestic glaciers and rugged mountains. The adventure uses highly stable, beginner-friendly SIT-ON-TOP kayaks and emphasizes eco-conscious travel within this breathtaking natural environment.
This unique kayaking tour provides an intimate, eco-friendly adventure on the serene waters of the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, located in Southeast Iceland. This tour requires you to meet the guide directly at the Jökulsárlón parking lot base camp (GPS Coordinates: 64.048096, -16.178778).
The tour utilizes ultra-stable SIT-ON-TOP kayaks, ensuring the activity is safe and enjoyable for both seasoned paddlers and first-time kayakers. You will glide across the mirror-like waters, receiving unparalleled views of the massive Vatnajökull glacier outlets and the icebergs that have calved into the lagoon. This offers a different perspective than boat tours, immersing you directly into the landscape.
This tour offers an ultimate kayaking adventure on the pristine waters of the Heinaberg Glacier Lagoon within Vatnajökull National Park. Highlights include gliding silently past awe-inspiring icebergs and exploring a serene, mirror-like lagoon surrounded by towering glacier walls and dramatic mountain panoramas. This experience provides an intimate, eco-friendly way to explore one of Iceland’s most remote and majestic natural wonders.
Join this unique kayaking excursion for an intimate exploration of the Heinaberg Glacier Lagoon, located in the southeast of Iceland within the vast Vatnajökull National Park.
The tour utilizes highly stable and beginner-friendly kayaks, making the experience accessible for both seasoned paddlers and those new to kayaking. Your focus is immersion in the breathtaking environment: as you paddle, you will maneuver through and around icebergs that have calved from the glacier. This perspective, directly on the water, offers an unparalleled view of the sheer scale of the surrounding glacier fronts and mountain ranges.
This activity emphasizes sustainable travel and offers a tranquil experience away from motorized boats. Participants must adhere to basic safety requirements and be prepared for light physical activity. All necessary kayaking equipment, including life vests and dry gear, is provided by the guides at the meeting point. This is an excellent choice for travelers prioritizing a peaceful, close-up encounter with Iceland's massive glacial formations.
This full-day combo package offers two essential glacier experiences in Southeast Iceland for maximum adventure. Highlights include a guided kayaking adventure among the icebergs of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and an exhilarating glacier hike on a Vatnajökull outlet glacier in Skaftafell Nature Reserve. This tour efficiently pairs two distinct, guided activities—on water and on ice—in one day. All necessary safety gear and instructions for both the kayaking and glacier trekking are provided by certified guides.
This unique, self-drive combo tour is designed for active travelers wanting to experience the immense natural beauty of Southeast Iceland in a single day. The adventure is split into two separate guided tours: a morning and an afternoon activity.
You have the flexibility to choose your starting point: either the Glacier Hike in Skaftafell Nature Reserve or the Kayaking session at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Certified guides lead both segments, ensuring safety and providing all technical equipment, including kayaks, dry gear, crampons, and ice axes. The hiking portion explores the frozen terrain of an outlet glacier of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest ice cap. The kayaking session allows you to glide silently past breathtaking ice formations in the lagoon.
Practical Logistics:
- Transportation: Travel between Jökulsárlón and Skaftafell is self-drive, requiring participants to use their own vehicle to move between the two base camps.
- Meeting Points: You must meet the guides at the designated Troll.is base camps in Jökulsárlón and Skaftafell.
- Timing: Strict adherence to the schedule is required; you must arrive 20 minutes before each scheduled departure time (morning and afternoon) to gear up.
This tour is ideal for maximizing adventure time while efficiently exploring the glacier region with professional guidance.
This full-day combo tour offers two distinct, fully guided adventures in Vatnajökull National Park for maximum immersion. Highlights include an exhilarating kayaking tour among the floating icebergs of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, followed by an adventurous glacier hike on Breiðamerkurjökull (an outlet of Vatnajökull). You will witness dramatic glacier cliffs, explore deep ice formations, and experience two of Iceland’s most iconic activities—on water and on ice—in a single, efficient day. All safety gear is provided, and the entire experience departs from the same convenient location.
Join this active, full-day combo tour designed for travelers who want to maximize their experience of Iceland's icy wilderness. This adventure efficiently pairs a kayaking excursion with a glacier hike, all departing directly from the Troll.is Glacier Lagoon base camp in Jökulsárlón.
The tour operates with two schedule options, allowing you to choose whether to begin with the Kayak (09:30 AM) or the Glacier Hike (10:00 AM). Both segments are led by separate certified guides (glacier and kayaking specialists).
The kayaking segment offers a serene experience, paddling across the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon for close-up views of the floating icebergs and towering glacier cliffs. For the glacier hike, you will be fitted with all necessary equipment (crampons, ice axe, helmet) and led onto the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. The hike explores the challenging frozen terrain, allowing you to safely view natural features like blue ice formations and crevasses.
Practical Logistics:
- Meeting Point: Both activities start and end at the same location (Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon), eliminating the need for self-driving between segments.
- Requirements: Participants must be in good physical condition for a full day of active exploration on both water and ice.
- Timing: Guests must arrive at least 20 minutes before their scheduled departure time for gearing up and check-in.
This seamless combo tour is the optimal way to experience two unique aspects of Vatnajökull National Park in one unforgettable day.
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.
Book now and experience two of Iceland’s most breathtaking activities in one epic journey!
Spend a full day immersed in the raw beauty of Southeast Iceland with this unique combo tour that combines kayaking on Heinaberg Lagoon with a guided glacier hike on Breiðamerkurjökull. Both tours depart from the same convenient meeting point at Tröll.is – Glacier Lagoon, Jökulsárlón, making your transition between adventures seamless and easy.
We begin by kayaking on the secluded Heinaberg Lagoon, a hidden gem surrounded by dramatic mountains and remote glacier tongues. This lesser-known glacial lagoon offers an incredibly peaceful paddling experience as you weave between icebergs, soak in panoramic views, and explore ice formations up close — all under the guidance of experienced kayaking instructors.
After a short break and time to switch gear, we lace up our hiking boots for the second part of your adventure: a glacier hike on Breiðamerkurjökull. This majestic outlet glacier stretches from the mighty Vatnajökull and invites you to explore a world of deep crevasses, blue ice formations, and stunning frozen landscapes. With crampons, helmets, and harnesses provided, you’ll walk safely across the glacier alongside expert guides who share insights into the glacier’s formation, features, and future.
This is a combo of two separate guided tours, both approximately 3.5 hours long. The transition between activities is coordinated and smooth — and since both start from the same meeting location, there’s no need for additional travel between sites.
All necessary glacier and kayaking equipment is provided, including drysuits for kayaking, safety gear, crampons, helmets, and ice axes. Participants must be at least 14 years old and comfortable with moderate physical activity.
Ready for the ultimate dual-glacier experience? Kayak a peaceful lagoon, then hike ancient blue ice — this is Southeast Iceland at its most magical. Book this adventure today!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Unparalleled Scenery – Paddle through a glacial wonderland, where ice formations shimmer in shades of blue and white, and seals occasionally pop up to say hello.
- Close-Up Encounters – Unlike a boat tour, kayaking gets you right up close to the ice, offering an intimate and personal experience.
- Silent and Serene – The only sounds you’ll hear are the dip of your paddle and the occasional creak of shifting ice. It’s the ultimate escape from the noise of everyday life.
- Eco-Friendly Adventure – No motors, no crowds, just you and the pristine Arctic environment.
The most popular spots for glacier kayaking are Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Heinabergslón Lagoon, both located on the southeastern coast of Iceland. Jökulsárlón is the famous one, with massive floating icebergs, while Heinabergslón is a lesser-known gem where you’ll likely have more of the lagoon to yourself.
Nope! Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or have never set foot in a kayak before, guides will provide all the necessary training and gear. You’ll be suited up in drysuits to stay warm and dry, and stable kayaks make the experience accessible for all skill levels.
Glacier kayaking tours typically run from May to September when the lagoons are free of ice cover. The midnight sun of summer adds an extra layer of magic, with golden light reflecting off the ice late into the evening.
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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Multi-day trips
Join us for a 3 days excursion to see the famous Golden Circle and the South Coast. Experience the beauty of our glacier lagoon Jökulsárlón, hike on Europe's largest glacier and powerful waterfalls.
In this multiday tour package we combine some of our best tour options. You’ll get the chance to see the beautiful Western Iceland. There, you’ll explore the hidden gem of the West, the peninsula of Snæfellsnes also known as “Iceland in a nutshell”. Snaefellsnes is characterized by magnificent and picturesque sites: glacial-carved mountains, endless black beaches, moss topped lava fields, volcanic craters, coastal cliffs topped off by the volcanic glacier Snæfellsjökull and the Center of the Earth.
You’ll get the chance to see the famous geothermal erupting Geysir, the powerful waterfall Gullfoss and Thingvellir National Park in the Golden Circle.
You’ll then be taken to the famous South Coast. Along the shore, you’ll get to see the two waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, and the famous Black Sand Beach. You’ll also visit the stunning Glacier Lagoon Jökulsárlón in Vatnajökull National Park, where you’ll also get the chance to explore Europe’s largest glacier. And you have the opportunity to visit boat tour in Jokulsarlon.
Embark on the ultimate 8-day summer adventure around Iceland's iconic Ring Road and the mystical Snæfellsnes Peninsula. This comprehensive journey is your perfect opportunity to witness the country’s most beautiful and popular spots under the glow of the Midnight Sun. Discover breathtaking natural wonders, from the famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and the unforgettable Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon to the thunderous power of Dettifoss Waterfall. This tour provides a complete and stress-free way to experience the very best of Iceland’s diverse landscapes in the magical summer light.
During this unforgettable 2-day tour, we will take you to the hidden gems of the most visited place in Iceland – the South Coast. Get ready to climb on one of Europe’s largest glaciers, catch a boat to gigantic icebergs, and explore the most beautiful places in the South of Iceland. Along the shore, you’ll also get the chance to stop by some majestic waterfalls, the beautiful Black Sand Beach, and learn everything you need to know about Iceland.