What to Know About Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon lies on Iceland’s southeast coast, beside Vatnajökull National Park. It began forming in the 1930s as the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier started melting due to rising temperatures. The lagoon is filled with glacial meltwater and continues to expand as the ice retreats.

At about 18 sq km (7 sq mi) and over 248 m (814 ft) deep, it’s now Iceland’s deepest lake. The icebergs drifting here are ancient—up to 1,500 years old—constantly changing shape and colour as they melt.

Jökulsárlón has appeared in Batman Begins, Tomb Raider, and James Bond films. It’s also home to seals, Arctic terns, and skuas, often seen resting or feeding near the water.

How to Get to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon from Reykjavík by Car

Reaching Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon from Reykjavík is straightforward since it sits directly along Route 1 (Ring Road). The drive is long but scenic, with ever-changing landscapes, from mossy lava fields to glacier views.

Driving Distance and Route Overview

• Distance: About 380 km (236 mi) one way
• Driving time: Around 5–6 hours without long stops

The Ring Road begins just outside Reykjavík and runs east along the South Coast. It’s fully paved, well signposted, and suitable for 2WD vehicles year-round, though a 4WD rental is safer in winter. Key towns along the route include Hveragerði, Selfoss, Vík, and Höfn, each with cafés, fuel, and rest stops.

Best Stops on the Drive from Reykjavík to Jökulsárlón

Driving east from Reykjavík, you’ll pass geothermal valleys, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and canyons. Here are the best stops, listed in order:

• Hveragerði: A geothermal town of steam vents and hot springs. With extra time, hike to Reykjadalur Hot Spring River for a warm soak.
• Caves of Hella: Ancient man-made caves carved into volcanic rock. Guided tours share their mysterious history.
• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: Walk behind the cascade for a unique view. Nearby, Gljúfrabúi hides behind a mossy cliff.
• Skógafoss Waterfall: A 60-metre (197-ft) waterfall often crowned with rainbows. Nearby Kvernufoss sits quietly in a green gorge.
• Dyrhólaey Arch and Reynisfjara Beach: Watch puffins at Dyrhólaey and admire the basalt cliffs and sea stacks at Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach.
• Vík í Mýrdal: Ideal for lunch. The red-roofed church above town offers sweeping coastal views.
• Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon: A short detour to a twisting green canyon with easy walking paths along the rim.
• Svartifoss Waterfall: In Skaftafell, the last big stop before Jökulsárlón. A 45-minute hike leads to basalt columns that inspired Reykjavík’s Hallgrímskirkja Church.

Road Conditions and Safety Tips for Driving to Jökulsárlón

The South Coast section of Route 1 is paved and open year-round, but weather can change quickly. Keep these tips in mind when driving in Iceland’s South Coast:

• Check road conditions: Visit road.is before setting out for live updates on closures and icy areas.
• Choose the right vehicle: A 2WD is fine year-round, though 4WD offers better stability for winter driving in Iceland.
• Fuel up often: Fill your tank whenever possible, as fuel stations become less frequent east of Vík.
• Watch for strong winds: Gusts can be powerful on open plains; hold the wheel firmly and open doors carefully.
• Watch for Icelandic animals on the road: Sheep often wander onto the road in summer, especially in rural stretches.
• Use dipped headlights: Headlights must be on at all times, day or night, regardless of conditions.
• Slow down on bridges: Some bridges east of Vík are one-lane. Drive carefully and give way if another car is already crossing.
• Park in designated areas: Use the Parka app to find parking zones and pay for tickets.

Top Things to Do at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

There’s more to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon than sightseeing. Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty of ways to experience the lagoon up close.

1. Take a Boat Ride Among the Icebergs

Boat tours run from summer through autumn, offering the classic way to glide among the lagoon’s glowing icebergs. Zodiac boats are small and fast, getting you close to the glacier for a thrilling, splashy ride. Amphibian boats are larger and steadier, offering a smoother trip with plenty of photo opportunities.

2. Kayak Through the Glacial Waters

Available in summer and early autumn, kayaking offers a peaceful way to explore the lagoon at your own pace. Paddle between floating icebergs, sometimes close enough to touch the ice as seals glide past or follow curiously. It’s calm, immersive, and gives you a sense of just how vast and alive the glacier really is.

3. Watch for Seals and Arctic Birds

Seals are often seen resting on floating ice or swimming alongside the icebergs, especially in summer and autumn. You might spot them diving or curiously following tour boats. The area is also a haven for Arctic terns and skuas. They nest nearby and fill the sky with calls and flashes of white.

4. Visit the Sparkling Diamond Beach

Just across the road, Diamond Beach glows with ice chunks scattered across the black sand. The name comes from the way these clear, glistening pieces of ice resemble scattered diamonds in the sunlight. The striking contrast between dark sand and bright ice makes it one of Iceland’s most photogenic spots. Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best views.

5. Go Glacier Hiking

For a true sense of scale, join a guided glacier hike on one of the nearby outlet glaciers. Walking on ancient ice surrounded by mountains and deep crevasses is both humbling and unforgettable. Tours range from easy walks to more challenging climbs, all led by guides who share insights about Iceland’s dynamic glaciers.

6. Explore the Crystal Ice Caves

In winter, you can venture inside Iceland’s natural ice caves. These are formed beneath the glacier as meltwater carves shimmering tunnels through the ice. Each cave is unique and changes every year, glowing with deep shades of blue when sunlight filters through. Tours usually take place in Vatnajökull National Park, and are guided for safety.

7. Warm Up at the Glacier Lagoon Café

After exploring, stop by the Glacier Lagoon Café for a cosy break. Along with popular sandwiches, enjoy hot soup, coffee, or hot chocolate while watching icebergs drift. In the off-season, when boat tours pause, it’s still a great stop for the view and a warm drink.

Best Time to Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is open and beautiful year-round. But the best time to visit depends on what you want to see and do.

• Summer (June–August): Long daylight hours, mild weather, and calm roads make summer ideal for driving and sightseeing. All tours, including boat rides and kayaking, operate during these months.
• Winter (November–March): Expect fewer crowds, glowing blue ice, and a chance to see the Northern Lights. Boat tours pause, but ice cave tours and snowy landscapes make it equally magical.
• Spring and Autumn: These shoulder seasons are quieter, with shifting colours, fewer visitors, and dramatic light—perfect for photographers.

One-Day vs. Two-Day Trip from Reykjavík to Jökulsárlón

A one-day trip to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon from Reykjavík is possible, but it’s long. You'll drive 10–12 hours round-trip, leaving little time for stops. It’s doable if you start early and focus on the lagoon itself.

A two-day trip is more comfortable and lets you explore at a relaxed pace. You can stay overnight in Vík, Kirkjubæjarklaustur, or near Jökulsárlón. That way, you can also enjoy sunrise or sunset at the lagoon and have plenty of time for scenic stopovers.

Travel Tips for Visiting Jökulsárlón by Car

A road trip to Jökulsárlón is one of Iceland’s great adventures. To make it stress-free and memorable, keep these quick travel tips in mind before you set off.

• Dress for the weather: Bring warm, waterproof layers, even in summer. Winds from the glacier can make it feel colder than expected.
• Book tours early: Reserve boat or ice cave tours in advance, especially during summer when visitor numbers peak.
• Pack snacks and water: Facilities near the lagoon are limited, so it’s smart to bring a few essentials for the drive.
• Start early: Leaving Reykjavík early gives you time to enjoy the scenery and stop for photos along the way.
• Bring a camera and extra batteries: Cold weather drains batteries quickly, and you’ll want plenty of charge for photos.

Experience the Magic of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon by Car

The drive to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon from Reykjavík is one of Iceland’s most rewarding journeys. The South Coast unfolds in layers, boasting waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and vast lava fields that lead to distant glaciers. Every kilometre brings a new view and another reason to stop.

With a comfortable rental from MyCar, you can travel freely. Detour to quiet villages, linger at viewpoints, and take the trip at your own pace. When the lagoon finally comes into view, the long road feels worth every moment behind the wheel. The sight of ancient icebergs drifting across still, glacial waters is the perfect reward for the journey.

FAQs About Visiting Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon from Reykjavík

Is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon worth it?

Absolutely! The lagoon’s drifting icebergs, nearby Diamond Beach, and stunning coastal views make it one of Iceland’s most unforgettable sights.

How do I get to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon?

You can choose between a self-drive or guided tour in Iceland. Driving to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon from Reykjavík offers flexibility, while tours are great if you prefer a set itinerary.

How do I go from Reykjavík to Jökulsárlón?

Follow Route 1 (Ring Road) east from Reykjavík for about 380 km (236 mi). The lagoon is signposted near Skaftafell, and the drive takes 5–6 hours.

Can you see the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon without a tour?

Yes. Both the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach are free to access. You can easily get there by renting a car in Iceland.

How long do you need at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon?

Plan 1–2 hours to enjoy the views and visit Diamond Beach. Allow more time for a boat tour or glacier hike.

Is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon free?

Yes, visiting is free. Only paid activities, such as boat tours, kayaking, or ice cave trips, require tickets.