Jökulsárlón (Glacier Lagoon)
About Jökulsárlón
Jökulsárlón is Iceland’s most famous glacier lagoon and one of the country’s most breathtaking natural wonders. It is located on the southeast coast about 380 km from Reykjavík. The lagoon is filled with floating icebergs that break off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, which is an outlet of the massive Vatnajökull glacier, the largest in Europe.
The lagoon’s surreal beauty has made it one of Iceland’s most photographed places and a popular filming location for major movies such as Batman Begins, James Bond: Die Another Day, and Interstellar. Across the road lies Diamond Beach, where icebergs wash ashore and glisten like crystals on the black sand.
Visiting Jökulsárlón feels like entering another world, shaped by ice, light, and time.
The Landscape and Formation
The lagoon began forming in the 1930s as the glacier started retreating. Today it covers around 18 square kilometers and continues to grow as the ice melts. Icebergs break off from the glacier and drift slowly through the lagoon before reaching the Atlantic Ocean through a short river channel.
The mix of clear blue and white ice against the black volcanic sand creates one of the most striking contrasts in Iceland. Seals can often be seen swimming between the icebergs or resting on them, especially during winter.
What to Expect at Skógafoss
Visitors are greeted by enormous icebergs floating peacefully in the calm blue water. There are several viewing areas, some at the edge of the lagoon and others on small hills with panoramic views of the ice and surrounding glaciers.
You can take a boat tour to get closer to the icebergs or walk along the shore to enjoy the view. Diamond Beach across the road is a must-see, where broken ice pieces rest on the sand and shine under the sunlight. The best times for photography are sunrise and sunset.
Jökulsárlón is open all year and easily accessible from the Ring Road. It is a highlight of most South Coast tours or self-drive trips around Iceland.
Photography Tips
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best light and reflections.
Bring a tripod for long exposures and smooth water effects.
Use a wide lens for landscapes and a zoom for seals and iceberg details.
Visit Diamond Beach at both sunrise and sunset to capture different lighting.
Drones are allowed but must follow Icelandic drone regulations.
Tours Nearby Jökulsárlón
- 10 Hours
- Easy
- Reykjavík
Explore waterfalls, Black
Sand Beach, Glaciers and more
16.990 ISK
Most popular
- 10 Hours
- Easy
- South Coast
Experience beautiful natural attractions on this Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Private tour
240.000 ISK
private
Popular
- 3 Hours
- Easy/Moderate
- Sólheimajökull
One of the most popular tours is glacier hiking photoshoot.
19.000 ISK
Most popular
- 7-11 Hours
- Easy
- South Coast
Join us on an adventure down Iceland’s South Coast.
220.000 ISK
private
Seasonal Visiting Guide
Summer (June to August)
Long daylight hours make it easy to explore and photograph the lagoon. Boat tours operate daily, and the ice takes on deep blue colors. Early mornings or late evenings are best to avoid crowds.
Autumn (September to October)
Fewer tourists visit during this time, and the low light gives a calm and moody atmosphere. The changing colors of the landscape make this a beautiful time for photography.
Winter (November to February)
The lagoon sometimes freezes at the edges and the scenery becomes even more dramatic. This is the best season for ice cave tours and Northern Lights photography. Seals are more active, and the area is peaceful.
Spring (March to May)
As temperatures rise, the glacier melts faster and iceberg movement increases. The weather is clearer, and boat tours resume. It is also less crowded than summer.
Nearby Attractions
Why Visit Jökulsárlón
Jökulsárlón is one of Iceland’s most extraordinary places, where glaciers meet the ocean and nature’s power is on full display.
Whether you are admiring the floating icebergs, photographing Diamond Beach, or joining an ice cave tour, this is an experience that stays with you forever.
No trip along Iceland’s South Coast is complete without visiting Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
Getting There & Practical Information
Location: Southeast Iceland, just off the Ring Road, around 5 hours from Reykjavík and 1 hour east of Skaftafell.
Parking: Free parking areas on both sides of the road near the lagoon and Diamond Beach.
Facilities: Café, restrooms, boat tour office, and visitor information center.
Accessibility: Easy access with short, flat paths suitable for most visitors.
Best Time to Visit: Open all year, though boat tours and ice caves are seasonal.
Tours & Experiences at Jökuksárlón
Jökulsárlón offers many ways to experience the glacier and its surroundings:
Amphibian Boat Tour – A calm cruise among the floating icebergs with a guide.
Zodiac Boat Tour – A smaller, faster boat that takes you close to the glacier front.
Ice Cave Tours – Explore the blue ice caves inside Vatnajökull Glacier during winter.
South Coast Day Tours – Combine Jökulsárlón with Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Reynisfjara Beach.
Northern Lights Tours – Visit the lagoon at night to capture the aurora reflecting on the ice.
Nearby Attractions
Diamond Beach: Just across the road from the lagoon, famous for icebergs on black sand.
Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon: A smaller, quieter lagoon nearby that also offers boat tours.
Vatnajökull National Park: Iceland’s largest national park, home to glaciers, volcanoes, and hiking trails.
Skaftafell Nature Reserve: Offers glacier hiking, scenic trails, and waterfalls.
Höfn: A charming fishing town known for lobster dishes and ocean views.
Safety Tips
Keep a safe distance from the lagoon edge, as icebergs can flip suddenly.
Never climb onto ice or walk on the lagoon surface.
Follow safety signs and respect closed-off areas.
Wear warm clothing and waterproof gear.
In winter, check weather and road conditions before traveling.
Is Jökulsárlón free to visit?
Yes, visiting isfree. You only pay for optional tours.
Can I visit all year?
Yes, the lagoon is open year-round. Some tours depend on the season.
What is the difference between Jökulsárlón and Fjallsárlón?
Fjallsárlón is smaller and quieter, located nearby, and offers a similar experience with fewer people.
Are there restrooms or cafés at the lagoon?
Yes, you’ll find toilets and a café at the main parking area.