Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Whether you hike around the shore, cruise around the lagoon on a RIB boat, or set sail on an amphibian boat tour, the Jokulsarlon lagoon is spectacular from all angles. Full-day tours from Reykjavik typically combine a visit to the lagoon with a glacier hike or ice cave tour in the Skaftafell National Park, or a visit to natural wonders such as the Seljalandsfoss or Skogafoss waterfalls.

• While the lagoon is accessible year-round, boat tours are weather dependent and only in operation from April to November.

• The icy landscapes can be chilly even if the sun is shining, so bring warm clothes, a hat, and gloves even on a summer trip.

• There's a small café by the lagoon, where you can purchase hot drinks and snacks, or use the restroom.

• While it’s possible for wheelchair users to view the lagoon, many of the activities on and around the glacier are not suitable for those with limited mobility.

The Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is located on the southeastern border of the Vatnajökull National Park on Iceland’s south coast, about 230 miles (370 kilometers) east of Reykjavik. From Reykjavik, it’s roughly a 4.5-hour drive along the Ring Road.

It’s possible to visit the lagoon all year round, but the summer months are the most popular—expect crowds. Winter visitors benefit from smaller crowds and better deals on tours and accommodation, but boat tours don’t run between December and March. During that time, it’s best to visit with a guide, as road conditions can be difficult. Budding photographers should time their visit for sunrise or sunset for the most impressive views.

Iceland’s glacial landscapes harbor a surprising variety of wildlife and the Jokulsarlon lagoon is a haven for seabirds, especially Arctic terns and skuas. Look out for seals swimming between the floating icebergs, or, if you’re driving from Reykjavik, stop to admire the puffin colonies at Dyrholaey lighthouse or Reynisfjara beach along the way.

Yes, visiting the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is worth it. It’s among the largest glacial lagoons in Europe and is one of Iceland’s most distinctive natural highlights. Jökulsárlón features blue waters and bobbing icebergs, and is surrounded by dramatic scenery comprising mountains, glaciers, and ice caves.

Yes, you can go to the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, it’s one of Iceland’s most popular natural attractions. Once you arrive, you can hike around the lagoon’s perimeter or even admire it from the water on a boat tour. Just note that it’s roughly 5 hours from Reykjavik by car each way.

Not including the considerable transit time, you should set aside a minimum of 2-4 hours to explore Jökulsárlón Glacier Lake. This gives you enough time for a hike and boat tour, as well as a stop at neighboring attractions such as Diamond Beach and the ice caves of Skaftafell National Park.

If you’re planning to visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lake on a day trip from Reykjavik, you’ll need the whole day. The landmark is 5 hours by car each way, so you’ll be spending at least 10 hours on the road. Most tours are 14 hours long.

That depends. The glacial lagoon is free to visit, but given that transit from Reykjavik is around 5 hours each way, you’ll spend the most money getting there. You can take the 51 bus, which costs US$80 each way. Tours typically cost at least US$180 per person.

Given the cinematic scenery, it’s no surprise that Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a star of the silver screen. The Icelandic landmark has appeared in several Hollywood blockbusters over the years, including Batman Begins (part of Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy) and the James Bond film Die Another Day.