Things to Do at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon | Kayaking, Ice Caves & Tours Nearby
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Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Things to do and see

There’s a reason Jökulsárlón is on every traveler’s bucket list. This surreal glacial lagoon—dotted with luminous blue icebergs and home to playful seals—sits at the edge of Vatnajökull National Park, perfectly framed between ancient glaciers and the wild Atlantic Ocean. Just steps away lies Diamond Beach, where ice chunks glitter like crystals across volcanic black sand.

But Jökulsárlón is more than just a photo stop. It’s a gateway to some of the most unforgettable experiences Iceland offers—from zodiac boat rides between towering icebergs, to exploring secretive ice caves, to witnessing the raw power of the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier.

Whether you’re road-tripping along the Ring Road or planning a deeper dive into the country’s icy heart, Jökulsárlón is where epic moments begin.

About Jökulsárlón
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About Jökulsárlón: Iceland's Otherworldly Attraction

Located just off Route 1 in Southeast Iceland, Jökulsárlón is one of the country’s deepest lakes and most rapidly changing landscapes. Fed by the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, icebergs break off daily and float lazily toward the sea, creating an ever-changing panorama of ice and light.

Formed around 1935, this lagoon has grown steadily as the glacier retreats—a stunning testament to the dynamic nature of Iceland’s environment. In just decades, it has transformed from glacial fringe to world-famous natural wonder.

Today, visitors can explore the lagoon by boat, photograph the surreal light play at Diamond Beach, or pair their visit with nearby adventures like glacier hikes or ice cave expeditions in Vatnajökull National Park.

Top Attractions Around Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Iceland’s Iceberg Capital

Board an amphibian or zodiac boat and glide past blue-hued icebergs—some as large as houses. Spot seals lounging or swimming nearby. This is Iceland’s version of a polar dream.

Diamond Beach: Black Sand + Ice Sculptures

Across the road from the lagoon, this beach is sprinkled with glittering ice chunks that have washed ashore. A favorite for photographers and one of Iceland’s most unique contrasts of fire and ice.

Vatnajökull Glacier Hikes (from nearby Skaftafell)

Not far from Jökulsárlón, you can hike the glacier tongues of Vatnajökull with expert guides. These treks range from easy to challenging and bring you face-to-face with the ancient ice that fuels the lagoon.

Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Often overlooked, this smaller and quieter cousin of Jökulsárlón offers equally spectacular iceberg scenes and is perfect for avoiding crowds while staying immersed in glacial beauty.

Guided Tours in and around Jökulsárlón

Jökulsárlón isn’t just a scenic stop; it’s a launchpad to some of the South Coast’s most unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re dreaming of glacier hikes, ice cave explorations, or zodiac boat rides weaving through towering blue icebergs, we’ve got your perfect tour covered.

Led by certified local guides who know every crevasse, crack, and current of this wild region, these tours deliver more than sightseeing — they offer immersion, safety, and storytelling. Choose your experience below and step into one of nature’s most spectacular arenas.

Glacier Hikes & Ice Cave Tours

Explore the stunning ice formations of Breiðamerkurjökull with guided glacier hikes and ice cave tours departing from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. These tours offer a safe and unforgettable way to experience the raw beauty of Iceland’s glaciers, whether you’re walking on ancient blue ice, venturing into seasonal ice caves, or learning about glacial geology from expert guides. All necessary equipment is provided, and no prior experience is needed—just sturdy shoes, warm layers, and a sense of adventure. Tours are available year-round, with ice cave visits typically running from mid-October through April depending on conditions.

Vatnajökull Glacier Hike from Jökulsárlón
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4.9
location Jökulsárlón
duration 3 Hours
transportation Super jeep from Meeting Point
From
$120
/traveler
Crystal Blue Ice Cave
IconIconIconIconIcon
5.0
location Jökulsárlón
transportation Super jeep from Meeting Point
difficulty Easy
duration 3 Hours
From
$156
/traveler

Kayaking on Jökulsárlón

Paddle your way through Iceland’s glacial landscapes with kayaking tours on Jökulsárlón and Heinabergslón—two serene lagoons filled with floating icebergs and surrounded by dramatic glacier tongues. These small-group tours offer a peaceful, up-close perspective of the ice, allowing you to glide between icebergs and enjoy views that are inaccessible from shore. Led by experienced guides and suitable for beginners, all tours include drysuits and safety gear to keep you warm and comfortable. Jökulsárlón offers iconic scenery and a chance to kayak among larger icebergs, while Heinabergslón provides a more remote and intimate experience off the beaten path.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Kayak Tour
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4.9
location Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
duration 1.5 Hours
transportation Meet on location
season Summer
From
$102
/traveler
Jökulsárlón Kayak & Vatnajökull Glacier Hike Combo Tour
IconIconIconIconIcon
4.8
location Jökulsárlón & Breiðamerkurjökull
duration 3 Hours + 1.5 Hours
transportation Not Included
season Summer
From
$225
/traveler
Jökulsárlón Glacier Kayaking and Skaftafell Glacier Hike Combo Tour
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4.8
location Skaftafell & Jökulsárlón
duration 3 Hours + 1.5 Hours
transportation Not Included
season Summer
From
$225
/traveler
Heinaberg Glacier Adventure Kayak Tour
IconIconIconIconIcon
4.9
location Heinaberg Glacier Lagoon
duration 3.5 Hours
transportation From Meeting Point to Location
season Summer
From
$169
/traveler
Heinaberg Glacier Lagoon Kayaking & Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier Hike
IconIconIconIconIcon
4.8
location Heinabergslón & Breiðamerkurjökull
duration 7 hours
transportation Not Included
season Summer
From
$270
/traveler

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Boat Tours

Experience Iceland's most famous glacier lagoon from the water. Ride Zodiac or amphibian boats between towering icebergs while expert guides reveal the secrets of the lagoon’s shifting landscape. Perfect for nature lovers, families, and photographers.

Jökulsárlón Boat Tour
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4.8
location Jökulsárlón
duration 1 Hour
transportation Not Included
season Summer
From
$55
/traveler

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning a visit to Iceland’s crown jewel? Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, these quick answers will help you make the most of your Jökulsárlón adventure — from what to wear to the best time for kayak tours and ice caves.

Jökulsárlón is a large glacial lagoon at the edge of the Vatnajökull glacier in South Iceland. Icebergs break off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and float across the lagoon before drifting out to sea. It’s one of Iceland’s most stunning natural attractions — and a top filming location featured in James Bond and other Hollywood films.

The lagoon sits along Route 1 (the Ring Road), roughly 5 hours from Reykjavík and just an hour east of Skaftafell. It’s an easy self-drive stop and perfectly placed between other must-see South Coast highlights like Diamond Beach and Vatnajökull National Park.

Yes — especially in summer (June to August), tours can sell out quickly. Advance booking ensures you get the time slot and tour type you prefer, whether it’s a Zodiac boat tour, amphibian ride, or kayaking experience.

Yes, especially during winter (mid-October to March). Ice cave tours depart from Jökulsárlón or nearby meeting points and offer safe, guided entry into naturally formed glacial ice caves under Vatnajökull. These tours are weather-dependent and require advance booking.

Absolutely. Kayak tours on Jökulsárlón or nearby Fjallsárlón are led by certified guides and use stable, sit-on-top kayaks suitable for beginners. All gear, including dry suits and life jackets, is provided.

You can visit year-round:

  • Summer (May–August): Best for kayaking, boat tours, and long daylight hours.
  • Winter (October–March): Ideal for ice caves, dramatic light, and possible northern lights.
    Each season offers a different way to experience the lagoon’s ever-changing landscape.

Diamond Beach is right across the road from Jökulsárlón Lagoon. Icebergs from the lagoon wash ashore here, creating a surreal scene of glittering ice on black volcanic sand. It’s a must-see spot — and completely free to visit.

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.

Your Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Adventure Starts Here

Floating icebergs, mirror-like waters, and surreal Arctic beauty — Jökulsárlón isn’t just a place, it’s a moment frozen in time. From kayaking between icebergs to exploring hidden glacier caves, every experience is guided by locals who know this magical landscape inside out. Whether you're chasing reflections, thrills, or silence, it all starts here — easy to book, impossible to forget.

Jökulsárlón's Wild Beauty: Video Gallery

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Multi-day trips

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