Overview
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is a breathtaking natural wonder where icebergs from the Breidamerkurjokull glacier float in a serene glacial lake. The lagoon offers stunning views and unique wildlife sightings, including seals playing in the icy waters.
Jokulsarlon is known for its dramatic ice sculptures and is a popular filming location for movies and TV shows. It's also a key part of Iceland's natural heritage.
Location
Address
Route 1, Skaftafell National Park
Neighborhood: Skaftafell
Coordinates
64.014700, -16.183300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
May-September
Best Time of Day
Early morning or late afternoon
Fewer crowds and better lighting for photography
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Cool, variable
- • Increasing icebergs
- • Puffin sightings
summer
Warm, mild
- • Midnight sun
- • Boat tours
autumn
Cool, crisp
- • Northern lights (late autumn)
- • Fall colors
winter
Cold, snowy
- • Winter landscapes
- • Northern lights
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Dress warmly
- Bring waterproof clothing
- Check road conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate (some walking on uneven terrain)
- • Cold weather hazards
- • Uneven paths
Medical facilities: First aid available on site
Payment Information
Accepted
Credit cards, Cash (limited)
Currency
Icelandic Krona (ISK)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Warm, waterproof clothing, Layers, waterproof shoes, Sturdy, waterproof boots, Inappropriate clothing for weather
Booking Tips
- • At least 1 week in advance (summer)
- • Official website or trusted tour operators
- • 48 hours in advance for refund
- • Available for boat tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Visit Iceland
Size: 45 MB
Features: Maps, Weather updates, Tourist information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Keflavik International Airport
Distance: 260 km
Travel Time: 3.5 hours
From City Center
Distance: 260 km from Reykjavik
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Unique natural beauty, part of Icelandic heritage
Historical Significance: Formed by glacier retreat, significant for climate change studies
Insider Tips
- Best iceberg views from the east side
- Local cafes offer great soup for warming up
Local Recommendations
- • Visit nearby Diamond Beach
- • Try local Icelandic hot chocolate
- • Ask about hidden ice caves
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Icelandic, English, German
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Lagoon viewpoints
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide angle for icebergs
Result: Stunning landscape shots
Diamond Beach
Best Time: Sunrise
Tips: Low angle for ice diamonds
Result: Unique beach photography
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Diamond Beach
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Beach
Skaftafell Visitor Center
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Visitor Center
Svajafell Farm
Distance: 5km
Walking: 60 min
Type: Historical Site
Reviews
Based on 15,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Bring warm layers"
- "Book boat tour early"
- "Visit both lagoon and beach"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
The Original Ice Cave Tour in Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
South Coast, Diamond Beach and Glacier Lagoon Day Tour
South Iceland and Glacier Lagoon: Jökulsárlón with Boat Tour
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Kayaking and Falljokull Glacier Hike
2-Day South Coast Waterfalls, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Hike from Reykjavik
3 Day Summer South Coast, Golden Circle and Jökulsarlon glacier lagoon
Private Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
Glacier Lagoon Kayaking
Jökulsárlón: Blue Ice Cave and a Long Glacier Hike
8 Day Magical Iceland with Reykjavik | Blue Lagoon | Lava Tunnel | Whale...
2-Day South Coast w/Glacier Hike & Jokulsarlon - Small Group Tour
3 Hours Guided Breidamerkurjokull Glacier Hike from Jokulsarlon
Private 2-Day Glacier Lagoon, Ice Cave and Northern Lights
3 Day Tour Jokulsarlon - Golden Circle - South Coast - Glacier Hike - Boat Tour
Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, Black Sand Beaches and Waterfalls
Iceland 2-Day Trip: Ice Cave, Glacier Lagoon with Northern Lights
Private Tour Höfn: Jokulsárlón , Diamond Beach, Secret Glacier
3-Day Northern Lights Hunt & Glacier Lagoon Tour
2-Day Southern Iceland, Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach Tour
Private Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach Tour
6 Day Classic Iceland: Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon & Snæfellsnes
South Coast Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach Private Tour
10 Day Iceland with Reykjavik Golden Circle Akureyri Blue Lagoon South Snaefells
6-Day Summer Ring Route of Iceland Small-Group Tour
Quick Info
Available Tours
79
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
15,000
Adult Entry
Free (park entry), Boat tour $50