Iceland is a unique place to visit in the era of so-called “overtourism.” On one hand, it isn’t uncommon for tourists to outnumber locals by a large multiple in this era of mass tourism, particularly for anyone who spends time outside the capital of Reykjavik.
On the other hand, there are many caveats to the assumption that Iceland is crowded. The main one? The season you visit. Even if summer is a mob scene (which isn’t always the case), coming in winter or “shoulder” months like October and April can mean you more or less have the place to yourself.
This is true not only at the country’s famous waterfalls and hot springs, but also at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. You say you aren’t familiar with this place? Well, continue reading, and I promise that you will be.
How to Reach Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
The Iceland Glacier Lagoon, when you look at pictures and videos of it, can seem like some far-flung place. But in fact, it’s only a few hours from the capital along the South Coast, taking the highway almost the entire way. I say “taking the highway,” so you can probably guess: The easiest way to get here is via car, even if limited public transportation exists in the summer, and some private tours can get you from Reykjavik to here.
Another option? Consider campervan rental in Iceland to take care not only of your transportation needs, but also lodging. The reality is that most accommodation is overpriced and underwhelming. If you can take your bedroom with you, you can avoid this disappointment, and save a lot of money in the process. And you can wake up literally at the Glacier Lagoon—how many tourists can honestly say this?
Things to Do at Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Take a kayaking tour
One way to get a sense of how big a glacier is? Paddle right up to it in a kayak. There are many kayak tours available in Jökulsarlon, or you can bring your own boat. Regardless of what you choose, you can get so close to Breiðamerkurjökull (the name of the glacier here) that it might bring a tear to your eye. We are really so small!
Or ride in a sightseeing boat
Want to see Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon up-close and personal without breaking a sweat? A sightseeing boat tour might be more your thing. The good news is that these tours are rather passive; you can even have a beer or glass of wine while onboard. The bad news is that they can’t generally get as close as a kayak.
Hike on the glacier itself
While independent kayakers can take to the water of the Glacier Lagoon, you’ll need an organized tour to hike Breiðamerkurjökull. This is because it isn’t safe to mount the ice without proper gear and training, which your tour company and guide will supply, respectively.
Make a detour to an ice cave
The good news? If your visit to the Iceland Glacier Bay is very prmeditated, you can browse dozens of tours that also take you inside ice caves within Vatnajökull National Park. The better news? If you don’t book one in advance, you may very well be able to add it on once you’ve arrived at the Lagoon.
Or a “diamond beach”
Alternatively, make the short drive from Jökulsárlón to Iceland’s so-called “Diamond Beach.” This black-sand beauty is where many of the icebergs from the lagoon wash up before they make their journey out to sea, and it quite literally sparkles, especially if you’re lucky enough to visit on a sunny day.
Can You Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon in Summer?
It might sound paradoxical, but you can absolutely visit Iceland’s Glacier Lagoon in summer. The clue of why this is possible is in its name. While ordinary snow and ice melts in Iceland’s summer (even if it is short and relatively cool), glaciers are by definition permafrost. This means that the Glacier atop the Lagoon spits icebergs out into its waters 365 days per year.
The added benefit of this, of course, is if you wish to visit Diamond Beach Iceland. Which, as you may know, is right down the road from the Glacier Lagoon, relatively speaking. Because the “diamonds” on the beach come from the Lagoon, they don’t melt as temperatures rise. Practically speaking, this is advantageous because it allows you to take a picture that looks like winter in the middle of the summer.
Other FAQ About Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Is Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon worth it?
In my opinion, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a compelling destination that fits in well with Iceland’s other amazing attractions. However, on its own, it’s not necessarily worth the journey. When you combine it with Diamond Beach, however, and all the other treasures of Iceland’s South Coast, it’s definitely a highlight of the country.
Can you go to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon without a tour?
You can drive right up to Jöulsárlon Glacier Lagoon—no tour required! However, since public transportation is limited (and, during much of the year, non-existent), you will need to have your own set of wheels, be that a rental car or a campervan.
How do I get from Reykjavik to Jökulsárlón?
You can drive from Reykjavik to Jökulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in about 5 hours. The bad news? Five hours is a pretty long time. The good news, thankfully, is two-fold. First, the majority of the journey takes you along Ring Road 1, so it’s a pretty mindless drive. Secondly, you’ll encounter countless other attractions along the way, which makes the time pass quickly.
The Bottom Line
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is one of the most captivating places in Iceland, whether or not you knew it existed before today. Located near the more famous “Diamond Beach,” it is in fact the source of the icebergs that wash up on those black sands, which makes its comparative obscurity slightly ironic. Likewise, while there is obviously more glacial ice during the colder months of the year, you can appreciate the lagoon’s winter wonderland just about any time you plan to come to Iceland. Speaking of planning a trip to Iceland, I do hope you’ll consider hiring me as your Travel Coach. I mean, at least if you want me to plan a custom Iceland itinerary for you.
