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
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!
Experience the ultimate adventure on the serene, mirror-like waters of Jökulsárlón Lagoon. This eco-friendly tour offers breathtaking panoramic views of majestic glaciers and rugged mountain ranges—a true feast for the senses. Our SIT-ON-TOP kayaks provide exceptional stability, making the experience perfect for both seasoned paddlers and first-timers. Please note that participants must be 14 years or older, maintain a reasonable level of fitness, and meet the equipment size requirements (up to 120 kg with gear available up to XXL).
Why Choose This Tour?
- Unforgettable Scenery: Immerse yourself in the stunning vistas of Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
- Perfect for Beginners: Our stable, SIT-ON-TOP kayaks ensure a safe and enjoyable experience—even if it’s your first time.
- Eco-Conscious Adventure: Embrace a tour that celebrates nature and sustainable travel.
Tour Details:
- Age & Fitness: Participants must be 14 years or older. A reasonable level of fitness is required. Please note, our equipment is designed for guests up to 120 kg (largest available size is XXL).
Meeting Point:
- Location: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Our base camp is conveniently located at the parking lot at Jökulsárlón (see on Google Maps).
- GPS Coordinates: 64.048096, -16.178778
- Arrival: Please arrive at least 20 minutes early to gear up and attend a short safety briefing. Due to high visitor traffic, especially in summer, we strongly recommend arriving at the parking lot 40–50 minutes before the tour starts as it takes an average time of 10 - 20 minutes to find a parking space
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!
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
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!
Experience the ultimate adventure on the serene, mirror-like waters of Jökulsárlón Lagoon. This eco-friendly tour offers breathtaking panoramic views of majestic glaciers and rugged mountain ranges—a true feast for the senses. Our SIT-ON-TOP kayaks provide exceptional stability, making the experience perfect for both seasoned paddlers and first-timers. Please note that participants must be 14 years or older, maintain a reasonable level of fitness, and meet the equipment size requirements (up to 120 kg with gear available up to XXL).
Why Choose This Tour?
- Unforgettable Scenery: Immerse yourself in the stunning vistas of Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
- Perfect for Beginners: Our stable, SIT-ON-TOP kayaks ensure a safe and enjoyable experience—even if it’s your first time.
- Eco-Conscious Adventure: Embrace a tour that celebrates nature and sustainable travel.
Tour Details:
- Age & Fitness: Participants must be 14 years or older. A reasonable level of fitness is required. Please note, our equipment is designed for guests up to 120 kg (largest available size is XXL).
Meeting Point:
- Location: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Our base camp is conveniently located at the parking lot at Jökulsárlón (see on Google Maps).
- GPS Coordinates: 64.048096, -16.178778
- Arrival: Please arrive at least 20 minutes early to gear up and attend a short safety briefing. Due to high visitor traffic, especially in summer, we strongly recommend arriving at the parking lot 40–50 minutes before the tour starts as it takes an average time of 10 - 20 minutes to find a parking space
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!
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!
Discover the stunning contrasts of Iceland’s icy wilderness with this unforgettable full-day combo tour in Vatnajökull National Park. Your day begins with a peaceful yet exhilarating kayaking tour on Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, where you'll paddle through a magical world of floating icebergs under towering glacier cliffs. After a short break, you'll shift gears for an adventurous glacier hike on Breiðamerkurjökull, where deep crevasses, blue ice formations, and surreal terrain await.
This combo is ideal for active nature lovers looking to maximize their day by combining two of Iceland’s most iconic experiences into one seamless, guided adventure—on water and on ice. Both tours are led by certified glacier and kayaking guides and include all necessary safety equipment. Participants should be in good physical condition and ready for an immersive experience in one of the most remote and beautiful regions of the country
This combo tour includes two separate departures
09:30 AM begins with Kayak before going on a Glacier hike
10:00 AM begins with Glacier hike before going on a Kayak tour
Both depart from Troll.is Glacier Lagoon, Jökulsárlón, 781 Iceland. Please plan accordingly and arrive at least 20 minutes early to ensure a smooth check-in.
Double the thrill, double the memory—book your glacier adventure combo today!
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!
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
Got more questions? We've got answers.
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.