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Marvel at floating icebergs in shades of blue and white as they break off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and drift through the lagoon.
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Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Tours
Itinerary
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
TimelineMap
START POINT
Reykjavik
Reykjavik, on the coast of Iceland, is the country's capital and largest city. It's home to the National and Saga museums, tracing Iceland’s Viking history.
1
Stjórnarfoss waterfall
Stjórnarfoss waterfall cascade falls in two stages, both about 15 meters (49.21 ft) high. Originating from the Stjórn river off of Mount Geirlandshraun, Stjórnarfoss streams out from a valley, creating a mysterious atmosphere.
2
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Jokulsarlon was created by the Breiðarmerkurjökull glacial tongue, one of the outlet glaciers from Iceland’s largest ice cap Vatnajokull. In the 1970s, the retreating glacier left a huge pond near the coast that eventually became Iceland’s deepest lake.
3
Diamond Beach
The icebergs that broke away from the glacier tongue wander into the lagoon before being washed ashore, scattered on the black sand beach like precious gems. The ice on the black sand is a stunning contrast.
4
Vik Village
A charming seafront village, Vík í Mýrdal is small with only 300 inhabitants, but filled with amazing natural wonders as Iceland’s southernmost village. Several stores and gift shops with great options are found here for visitors to recharge and shop for souvenirs. The unique nature gives Vik vibrant colors in summer. The black sand beach at Vik is a top-rated destination for its diverse sceneries and marvelously sculpted sea stacks.
5
Seljalandsfoss waterfall
One of Iceland’s most well-known, most popular waterfalls, Seljalandsfoss waterfall is fed by the glacial meltwater from the famous/notorious glacier volcano Eyjafjallajokull. Falling from a 60-meter cliff, Seljalandsfoss hosts a special surprise.
6
END POINT
Reykjavik
See Iceland’s legendary Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and epic waterfalls in guided day tour.
- Everything you get: Professional English-speaking guide, bus transfer, free Wi-Fi, and all-day sightseeing across Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders.
- Why choose this: This full-day guided tour covers Iceland’s most breathtaking south coast highlights—Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and stunning waterfalls without the hassle of self-driving or planning multiple stops.
- Upgrades: Add a glacial boat tour (when available and weather permitting) to cruise among the icebergs for a closer look.
See Iceland’s legendary Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and epic waterfalls in guided day tour.
- Everything you get: Professional English-speaking guide, bus transfer, free Wi-Fi, and all-day sightseeing across Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders.
- Why choose this: This full-day guided tour covers Iceland’s most breathtaking south coast highlights—Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and stunning waterfalls without the hassle of self-driving or planning multiple stops.
- Upgrades: Add a glacial boat tour (when available and weather permitting) to cruise among the icebergs for a closer look.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon & South Iceland
- English-speaking guide
- Round-trip bus transfers with pick-up from Central Reykjavik
- Free Wi-Fi
Exclusions
- Pick-up & drop-off to your hotel (additional fee may apply)
- Food and drinks
What to bring
- Wear warm clothes, waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes.
What's not allowed
- Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted to guests under the age of 6 years.
Accessibility
- This experience is not wheelchair and pram/strollers accessible.
Additional Information
- The duration of the tour is 14 hours. Please be aware that the tour could run long if affected by bad weather or other delays.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION14 hours - 14 hours 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
START POINT
Reykjavik
Reykjavik, on the coast of Iceland, is the country's capital and largest city. It's home to the National and Saga museums, tracing Iceland’s Viking history.
A/C Bus
1
Stjórnarfoss waterfall
Stjórnarfoss waterfall is a two-stage drop – both about 15 meters (49.21 ft) – streaming out mysteriously from a secluded valley with moss-covered cliffs, covering a dome-shaped rock at the bottom, creating a symmetric cascade.
A/C Bus
2
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
30 minutes
Iceland’s largest glacier, as well as Europe’s most voluminous one, the Vatnajokull ice cap, has created many glacial wonders, and the most famous of all being the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. When the edge of Breidamerkurjökull, one of its mighty glacier tongues, breaks away, the glacial meltwater feeds the lake at its foot.
3
Diamond Beach
The Diamond Beach, located next to the glacier lagoon, gets the sparkling name from its unique combination of velvety black sands and hard glistening ice pieces. Blocks of icebergs in different shapes and sizes stay silently on the beach as waves come and go, creating a breathtaking rhythm of nature, which can only be found in Iceland.
A/C Bus
4
Vik Village
The charming Vík í Mýrdal is Iceland’s southernmost town, a seafront village hosting 300 inhabitants that doubles as a great place to rest and recharge. The church of Vik is an iconic landmark on the hill, and to the other side, you can see the majestic Reynisdrangar sea stacks from afar and many gift shops are available, where you can find Icelandic signature souvenirs.
A/C Bus
5
Seljalandsfoss waterfall
An impressive waterfall with a cascade of 60 meters, Seljalandsfoss is one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland. Its best feature is a cave behind the cascade, which you can walk through, when the condition allows. This special surprise grants visitors a whole new perspective to appreciate the waterfall and its fascinating view of the surroundings.
A/C Bus
6
END POINT
Reykjavik
See Iceland’s legendary Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and waterfalls in one epic day, with a boat ride among ancient icebergs.
- Everything you get: Round-trip bus transfers from Reykjavik, an English-speaking guide, and a 30-minute boat tour on the glacial lagoon. Comfort stops, waterfall visits, and time at Diamond Beach and Vík Village included.
- Why choose this: Cruise past floating icebergs that are over 1,000 years old in Jokulsarlon. Explore Skógafoss waterfall, Diamond Beach, and the dramatic black sand shores of Vík in a single 14-hour day tour.
See Iceland’s legendary Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, Diamond Beach, and waterfalls in one epic day, with a boat ride among ancient icebergs.
- Everything you get: Round-trip bus transfers from Reykjavik, an English-speaking guide, and a 30-minute boat tour on the glacial lagoon. Comfort stops, waterfall visits, and time at Diamond Beach and Vík Village included.
- Why choose this: Cruise past floating icebergs that are over 1,000 years old in Jokulsarlon. Explore Skógafoss waterfall, Diamond Beach, and the dramatic black sand shores of Vík in a single 14-hour day tour.
Inclusions
- Full-day trip to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon & Diamond Beach
- English-speaking guide
- 30-minute boat trip to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
- Round-trip bus transfers from Central Reykjavik
- Free Wi-Fi
Exclusions
- Pick-up & drop-off from your hotel (additional fee may apply)
- Food and drinks
What to bring
- Bring along warm, waterproof clothing and comfortable shoes.
What's not allowed
- Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted to guests under the age of 6 years.
Accessibility
- This experience is not wheelchair and pram/strollers accessible.
Additional Information
- The duration of the tour is around 14 hours. Please be aware that the tour could run long if affected by bad weather or other delays.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION11 hours - 14 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
START POINT
Reykjavik
Reykjavik, on the coast of Iceland, is the country's capital and largest city. It's home to the National and Saga museums, tracing Iceland’s Viking history.
1
Jokulsarlon Crystal Ice Cave
Drift past floating icebergs in Iceland’s dreamlike glacial lagoon and see seals in their native habitat.
2
Vatnajökull glacier
Explore Europe’s largest glacier, along with its ice caves, volcanoes, and glacial landscapes.
3
END POINT
Reykjavik
Take a Super Jeep adventure to explore a blue ice cave deep within Europe's largest Vatnajokull glacier.
- Everything you get: A small-group tour with an expert English-speaking guide. Enjoy a Super Jeep transfer to and from Jokulsarlon, and get glacier gear including crampons and helmets.
- Why choose this: Set off in a rugged Super Jeep and explore the heart of Vatnajökull glacier with a certified guide. This small-group experience includes all glacier safety gear and takes you into the shimmering blue depths of the Crystal Ice Cave—only accessible in winter.
Take a Super Jeep adventure to explore a blue ice cave deep within Europe's largest Vatnajokull glacier.
- Everything you get: A small-group tour with an expert English-speaking guide. Enjoy a Super Jeep transfer to and from Jokulsarlon, and get glacier gear including crampons and helmets.
- Why choose this: Set off in a rugged Super Jeep and explore the heart of Vatnajökull glacier with a certified guide. This small-group experience includes all glacier safety gear and takes you into the shimmering blue depths of the Crystal Ice Cave—only accessible in winter.
Inclusions
- Jokulsarlon Crystal Ice Cave small-group tour
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Super Jeep transfer to/from Jokulsarlon to the Ice Cave
- Glacier gear including crampons and helmets
- Safety equipment
- Free Wi-Fi
Exclusions
- Pick-up & drop-off (additional pick-up fee may apply)
- Bring warm clothes, waterproof jackets, hiking boots, headwear, and gloves.
- This experience is restricted to guests under the age of 6 years.
- Participation is not permitted past the 7th month of pregnancy due to safety risks from the bumpy ride and icy conditions.
- This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
ReykjavikJokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Tours
Why visit Jokulsarlon glacier Lagoon
Iconic icebergs
Your Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon ticket options explained
Day tours from Reykjavík
- Duration: 14 hours
- Perfect for: Families seeking a relaxed sightseeing day and first-time visitors who want a broad overview.
- Why choose this: Day trips cover a lot of ground, departing from Reykjavík and traveling along the scenic south coast. They include multiple stops with guided commentary and a fixed schedule.
- Highlights: Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Diamond Beach, and Jökulsárlón lagoon.
Recommended experience: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon & South Iceland
Boat tours on Glacier Lagoon
- Duration: 14–14.5 hours
- Perfect for: Adventure enthusiasts and photographers wanting close-up glacier views and wildlife sightings.
- Why choose this: Boat tours take you right onto the water, weaving through floating icebergs. You can choose between amphibious boats (larger, slower) and zodiac boats (faster, smaller, closer to the ice).
- Highlights: Up-close iceberg, glacier views, and wildlife spotting.
Recommended experience: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Boat Ride & Diamond Beach Tour
Adventure experiences
- Duration: 11–14 hours
- Perfect for: Adventurers seeking a unique and unforgettable winter activity.
- Why choose this: Offers rare access to a natural blue ice cave within Vatnajökull. The small group setting and special vehicles ensure safety while adding to the sense of adventure. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
- Highlights: Expert guide, Super-Jeep transfer to the ice cave, glacier safety gear (crampons and helmet).
Recommended experience: Jokulsarlon Crystal Ice Cave Tour
Things to do on your Jokulsarlon day trip
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon
Find massive icebergs drifting serenely in the glacial waters against a backdrop of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. Don’t miss the chance to spot seals and capture the ever-changing light reflecting off the ice—arrive early to enjoy a quieter experience.
Diamond Beach
Just across from the lagoon, Diamond Beach offers a striking contrast between ice chunks and black volcanic sand. Take a leisurely walk along the shore to see these diamond formations up close and watch how the waves sculpt and polish the ice.
Jokulsarlon boat tour
A boat tour on Jokulsarlon lagoon lets you glide among the icebergs. Zodiac boats provide an adventurous ride close to the ice, while amphibious vehicles offer a stable, family-friendly option.
Jokulsarlon glacier walk
For those wanting to experience the glacier up close on foot, guided glacier walks provide a thrilling experience to learn about glacial formations, crevasses, and climate impact from expert guides.
Plan your visit to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
Timings
Best time to visit
Getting there
Rules
Facilities
Food
Tips
- Opening hours: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day, as it is a natural outdoor site.
- Boat tours operating hours: Typically run from 9am to 6pm during summer months (May to September). In shoulder seasons (April and October), tours operate from 10am to 4pm. Winter tours (November to March) have limited hours, usually 10am to 3pm, depending on daylight and weather conditions.
- Last entry for boat tours: Last boarding is generally 30 minutes before the scheduled tour departure.
- Guided tours: Take a 14-hour guided adventure along Iceland’s scenic South Coast, with round-trip transport from Reykjavík.
- Note: Some tours, like ice cave explorations or kayaking, will have shorter operating windows in the winter.
- Weekdays vs. weekends: Weekdays, especially early mornings, are less crowded, offering a more serene experience. Weekends tend to be busier, particularly in peak summer months.
- Peak season (June to August): Long daylight hours and milder weather make this the most popular time. Expect larger crowds but excellent conditions for boat tours and photography.
- Low season (November to March): Fewer visitors and a magical winter landscape with ice caves and Northern Lights opportunities. However, the weather can be harsh, and some tours may be canceled due to safety concerns.
- Shoulder Seasons (April, May, September, October): Balanced crowds and changing landscapes; spring thaw and autumn colors add unique beauty.
- Special events: Northern Lights tours are best from September to April, and midnight sun tours are exclusive to June and July.
- Transfers: The day tours offer round-trip bus transfers from Reykjavik for ease of exploring the glacier.
- By car: Jokulsarlon is located about 370 km (approx. 4.5-hour drive) southeast of Reykjavik along the Ring Road (Route 1).
- By public transport: No direct public transport to Jokulsarlon. You can join guided tours departing from Reykjavik or nearby towns.
- Nearest bus stop: The closest bus stop is at the lagoon parking area, served by some seasonal tour buses.
- Walking: The lagoon area is walkable, with well-marked paths along the shore and to Diamond Beach (approx. 500 meters from the lagoon parking).
- Large backpacks and luggage are not allowed on boat tours and storage lockers are not available, so pack light.
- Respect wildlife and the natural environment. Do not disturb seals or birds. Maintain quiet on boat tours to preserve the serene atmosphere.
- Follow all safety instructions from guides, especially on boat tours and ice cave explorations.
- Only small personal items are allowed on boats; no food or drinks are permitted on tours.
- Children under 6 may have limited access to certain boat tours for safety reasons.
- Parking: Large free parking lot near the lagoon entrance.
- Restrooms: Available near the parking area.
- Cafes & Shops: Seasonal food truck or café nearby during summer months offering snacks and hot drinks.
- Wheelchair accessibility: Paved paths and ramps provide access to key viewpoints and boat boarding areas. Boat tours may not be accessible.
- Lockers: No lockers or cloakrooms are available, so plan on traveling light.
- On-site: Seasonal café near the parking lot serves light meals, coffee, and Icelandic pastries during summer.
- Nearby dining options (within 10-15 minutes by car):
- Hali Country Hotel Restaurant: Traditional Icelandic cuisine with local lamb and seafood specialties.
- Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon Restaurant: Upscale dining with panoramic views, offering fresh, locally sourced dishes.
- Vagnsstadir Guesthouse Café: Cozy spot for coffee, sandwiches, and homemade cakes.
- Arrive early in the morning to enjoy peaceful views and avoid tour group crowds.
- Dress in layers and bring waterproof gear as the weather can change rapidly.
- Check the weather and tour cancellation policies before your visit, especially in winter.
- Consider guided tours for expert insights and hassle-free transport.
- Wear sturdy, non-slip footwear for walking on uneven or icy terrain.
Frequently asked questions about the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon tour
When is the best time to visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon?
The lagoon is open year-round, but the best time for Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon boat tours is from May to October. Ice cave tours operate from November to March, and winter offers a chance to see the northern lights.
Can I visit Jokulsarlon from Reykjavík in a day?
Yes, but it’s a long day—about 10 to 15 hours round-trip. Many Jokulsarlon tours from Reykjavík include scenic stops on Iceland’s south coast, so plan for a full-day excursion.
Is Jokulsarlon accessible for people with limited mobility?
The lagoon viewing areas are accessible, and amphibious boat tours are suitable for many mobility levels. However, zodiac rides, ice cave tours, and kayak tours may not be ideal for those with physical limitations.
Can I see the Northern Lights at Jokulsarlon?
Yes, during the winter months (typically September to March), Jokulsarlon is a popular northern lights viewing spot. Choose a Jokulsarlon northern lights tour for the best chance of catching them.
What should I wear for Jokulsarlon tours?
Dress in warm, waterproof layers. Even in summer, boat rides can be cold and windy. Some tours provide thermal suits or overalls, especially on zodiac or ice cave tours.
How far is Jokulsarlon from other attractions?
Jokulsarlon is near Diamond Beach, just across the road. It’s about 80 km (1 hr) from Höfn and 380 km (5–6 hrs) from Reykjavík. The tours include other South Coast highlights like Skógafoss, Seljalandsfoss, and the Black Sand Beach.