best jokulsarlon zodiac tour

• Zodiac Boat Tour

Step into our boat and witness all the hidden corners of the vast   Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Reach places most people never will.  

• Private Boat

Embark with us for an adventure  among sculpture-like icebergs and sail up to the very secluded glacier wall of Jökulsárlón , where at times we witness complete serenity and at times the captivating view of a breaking glacier (calving). An extraordinary place, only few have seen.

The face of the glacier is about 8 km away from our starting point, therefore, we set the duration of our zodiac boat tour to 75 minutes . The time that is much needed to truly explore the vast nature of the glacier lagoon , which by the year is getting bigger, as the glacier is losing ice. Along the way, we hopefully will meet seals .

No matter the weather, Jökulsárlón is truly unique and certainly one of the most memorable places you will visit in Iceland.

  Check in time : It’s important to check in at the Ice Lagoon truck 10 minutes before the time shown on your ticket.

If you arrive early then it´s always good to finish the check in right away to avoid lines at our check in point.

Your adventure begins at the blue Ice Lagoon Truck . It’s our main base and check-in point by road no. 1 on the main parking space by the lagoon.

After a warm welcome and a quick check-in, we will call you into the truck, so that everyone gets equipped with a floatation suit and a life vest (Please be so kind to take off your shoes before dressing into the suits, as we try to keep our equipment in good condition for everyone. Underneath the floatation suit you should wear appropriate clothes according to the weather at the time – e.g. if it’s raining, wear your rain jacket and pants.

We also recommend you bring: gloves, sunglasses and a hat . Take only all you need for the boat tour and leave your backpack in your car or in the storage compartment on our bus.

Next, we drive you for about 5 min to the dock in our extremely cool Super-Truck-Bus – which is an attraction itself.

Before we start the boat trip on the glacier lagoon, we will brief you on the security on board . Two zodiacs boats will always go out together at the time for safety reasons.

Once on board, we start the clock and bring you to the ~ 8 km far glacier wall, of course, within a safe distance. Otherwise not observable, with the zodiac boat tour we offer the possibility to hear the glacier from close up and sometimes even witness calving (a portion of the glacier wall breaking into the lagoon and forming a new iceberg).

In 2011 we started the tour with one hour, which back then was sufficient to enjoy Jökulsarlon’s nature. As the glaciers are receding, the wall keeps moving further away from shore and we need more time to get the same experience.

Today we want to be the first to offer a 75-minute zodiac boat tour , the longest tour in the lagoon and within the national park glacier lagoons! We believe this is the only way to truly experience Jökulsarlon.  On this tour, we have time to check out the glacier wall, stop by several icebergs and give everyone the chance to have their personal picture taken, if they wish for it.

Once we bring you back, with a head full of memories, you will have experienced this extraordinary place and paid it the attention it truly deserves, instead of being just a mere passerby.

Important note: The total duration of the is up to 2 hours, with all preparations beforehand: dressing up into suits, putting on life vests, 10 min bus ride (to the dock and back to base), the safety briefing at the dock. That is why it is important to be on time.

Note on the weather: Do not despair on a rainy or foggy day! These days are the most magical and offer unique views, seen only by a handful of people. Out on the lagoon, any day is perfect. It doesn’t matter the weather. The only thing that stops us is the wind. Any weather offers us a visually colorful interplay between ice and light.

Private Zodiac Boat

Private boat departure price list for the summer season 2024

The total group price is 169.000 ISK for up to 10 passengers.

For a private boat or any other requests, please send us an e-mail to [email protected] or through the Private Tour drop-down menu in the banner.

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Zodiac Boat tour with Ice Lagoon Adventure

Price 14.900 ISK Children (8-15) 8.500 ISK

Glacier Tour Insight

Embark with us for an adventure among sculpture-like icebergs and sail up to the very secluded glacier wall of Jökulsárlón, where at times we witness complete serenity and at times the captivating view of a breaking glacier (calving). An extraordinary place, only few have seen. If we are lucky we might spot some seals playing around and witness ice breaking off the glacier wall.

Step into our boat and witness all the hidden corners of the vast    Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Reach places most people never will.

• Season: May-October
• Difficulty: Easy
• Start time: From 9:00 - 17:00
• Duration: 2 hours - 75 min on the boat
• Area: Jökulsárlón
• Type: Zodiac boat tour
• Meeting point: Jökulsárlón
• Age limit: 8 year old
• Group size: 12
• Tags: Boat tour

Your adventure awaits

If your looking for some personal and action driven zodiac boat tour and sail through icebergs on Glacier lagoon in a zodiac boat, this is the right tour for you.  Book your Zodiac Boat Tour with our friends from Icelagoon!

This glacier tour is provided by our friends at Ice Lagoon Adventure Tours!

Your adventure begins and ends at the blue Ice Lagoon Truck . It’s our main base and check-in point by road no. 1 on the main parking space by the lagoon.

After a warm welcome and a quick check-in, we will call you into the truck, so that everyone gets equipped with a floatation suit and a life vest (please be so kind to take off your shoes before dressing into the suits, as we try to keep our equipment in good condition for everyone. Underneath the floatation suit you should wear appropriate clothes according to the weather at the time – e.g. if it’s raining, wear your rain jacket and pants.

Next, we drive you for about 5 min to the dock in our extremely cool Super-Truck-Bus – which is an attraction itself.

Before we start the boat trip on the glacier lagoon, we will brief you on the security on board. Two zodiacs boats will always go out together at the time for safety reasons.

Once on board, we start the clock and bring you to the ~ 8 km far glacier wall, of course, within a safe distance. Otherwise not observable, with the zodiac boat tour we offer the possibility to hear the glacier from close up and sometimes even witness calving (a portion of the glacier wall breaking into the lagoon and forming a new iceberg).

In 2011 we started the tour with one hour, which back then was sufficient to enjoy Jökulsárlón’s nature. As the glaciers are receding, the wall keeps moving further away from shore and we need more time to get the same experience.

Today we want to be the first to offer a 75-minute zodiac boat tour , the longest tour in the lagoon and within the national park glacier lagoons! We believe this is the only way to truly experience Jökulsárlón. On this tour, we have time to check out the glacier wall, stop by several icebergs and give everyone the chance to have their personal picture taken, if they wish for it.

Once we bring you back, with a head full of memories, you will have experienced this extraordinary place and paid it the attention it truly deserves, instead of being just a mere passerby.

The total duration of the glacier tour is up to 2 hours, with all preparations beforehand: dressing up into suits, putting on life vests, 10 min bus ride (to the dock and back to base), the safety briefing at the dock. That is why it is important to be on time. 

Note on the weather : Do not despair on a rainy or foggy day! These days are the most magical and offer unique views, seen only by a handful of people. Out on the lagoon, any day is perfect. It doesn’t matter the weather. The only thing that stops us is the wind. Any weather offers us a visually colorful interplay between ice and light.

All tours are taken at the responsibility of participants. Glacier Adventure does not take responsibility for accidents which are caused by their customers or can be traced to their own actions.

It’s important to check in at the Ice Lagoon truck 15 minutes before the time shown on your ticket. If you arrive early then it’s always good to finish the check in right away to avoid lines at our check in point.

ZODIAC BOAT TOUR MEETING POINT is located in a truck by the Glacier Lagoon/Jökulsárlón marked as Ice Lagoon – Adventure Tours. We recommend being there at least 15 minutes before departure time. You will find the Ice Lagoon Adventure meeting point on Google Maps here

The Boat Tour is operated by our local friends at Ice Lagoon Adventure Tours. If you need to contact them: Tel: +354 860-9996 – www.icelagoon.com – [email protected]

What’s included!

• A 75-minute boat ride with a professional guide
• Flotation Device

What to bring!

• Take only all you need for the boat tour and leave your backpack in your car or in the storage compartment on our bus.
• Glacier Adventure reserves the right to always keep a 5% payment fee to cover costs for the booking & rescheduling.
• If you must reschedule or cancel the booking, please provide us with 24-hour notice. This way we might be able to resell the seats.
• Cancellations received less than 24 hours before tour departure, will not be refunded. This includes bookings made within 24 hours before departure.
• If clients cancel their tour more than 24 hours before departure, a 95% refund will be given.
• “No Shows” will not be refunded if the client is not on time before the tour departure.
• Glacier Adventure reserves the right to cancel your trip with your safety in mind.
• With short notice, the tours can be canceled due to safety reasons or other natural conditions. In such cases, a 100% refund is provided.

Note : We don’t refund if the client is late or doesn’t show up, or if the weather is not good and the tour is still on schedule. We recommend that participants stay in a hotel or guesthouse close to Hali the night before the tour.

Photos from this tour

Jökulsárlón Zodiac Adventure with Ice Lagoon

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Jökulsárlón Zodiac Tour – Sail Among Icebergs & Close to the Glacier

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Home / Day Tours / South Iceland / Jökulsárlón Zodiac Tour – Sail Among Icebergs & Close to the Glacier

Sail among the huge icebergs in the picturesque scenery of Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. This Jökulsárlón zodiac tour takes you very close to the huge icebergs.

The glacier lagoon Jökulsárlón is an impressive place where huge icebergs float slowly in the direction of the open ocean. On the zodiac tour, you will cover a large area of the lagoon and get as close as it is safe to the glacier. During the tour, you have the chance to see seals that live in the lagoon and your guide tells you more about the history and about famous films that were shot at the lagoon (such as Batman or James Bond).

Passengers are provided with flotation suits and life jackets for the tour. The tour is not suitable for children under the age of 10. For families with smaller kids we recommend the  amphibian boat tour .

In case this tour is already fully booked on your travel day you can also go on a  zodiac boat tour close by on a lesser known glacier lagoon called Fjallsárlón (11km/ 7 miles west of Jökulsárlón).

This Jökulsárlón boat tour is operated by one of our reliable partners.

Meeting point: Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

South Iceland

10 Years Old

• Boat tour in a zodiac boat
• English speaking guide
• Flotation suits and a life jacket

Not included:

• Warm clothing

What to bring?

• Appropriate clothing for the weather of the day

Meeting Point:

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Requirements:

Minimum age 10 years

Minimum of 130 cm

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Related Day Tours

Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon boat tour in an amphibian boat, glacier lagoon kayaking in iceland, zodiac boat tour – fjallsárlón glacier lagoon, skaftafell glacier hike.

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Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Zodiac Boat Tour

Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon zodiac tour.

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• 7 Hours 30 Minutes
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• Meet on Location

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Availability

May - October

1 Hour 50 Minutes

Minimum Age

ISK 14.900

Tour Highlights:

• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Floating Icebergs
• Small Group Experience
• Professional guidance
• Safety equipment
• Warm overalls
• 1 hour Zodiac Boat tour
• How To Get There

The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Zodiac Boat Tour

The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Zodiac Boat Tour is the perfect addition to a day in the Vatnajökull National Park. On this tour, you will gently sail on this famous glacier lagoon. During the tour, you can get closer to the icebergs that float on the lagoon.

After meeting up with your captain at the Glacier Lagoon, you will suit up in warm overalls and appropriate safety gear. Your guide will give you a briefing on the upcoming adventure before you head out on the lagoon. As the zodiac boat sails amongst the icebergs, your guide will tell you about the secrets of the lagoon.

The Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon Zodiac Boat Tour departs multiple times daily from 9:00 in the morning. In May, the last tour departs at 16:00, but in the high summer season, the last departure is at 17:00. You can easily combine this tour with another adventure, such as a glacier hike in Skaftafell.

Please note 

This tour starts at our ticket sale by the lagoon, where you check in for the tour and get dressed up in flotation suits and life jackets. Then we will drive you in our bus where the boats are located ( about a 1.5 km drive )

It takes about 30 minutes to get dressed and ready for the tour, along with bus transportation.

The boat tour is 1 hour on the lagoon.

It takes about 15 minutes to get back to the ticket sale, undress from the suits, and finish the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

You should wear warm and comfortable clothing for this tour. Keep in mind that it can be colder out on the lagoon than it is on-land. You will be supplied with warm overalls for the tour.

We recommend bringing warm gloves and a hat/cap. Sunglasses can also be very useful.

Yes, you will get a floatation suit and a life jacket for the tour.

Yes, the minimum age for this tour is 6 years. The age limit is not flexible.

No, meals or snacks are not included in this tour.

The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any trip at short notice due to weather conditions.

Cancellations due to weather are solely at the discretion of the tour operator.

If the tour is canceled on your date, we offer you to re-schedule your tour. If you are unable to go on the tour on a different date, we will refund your tour in full.

Yes, if you would like to go on a private tour please contact us at [email protected] for pricing and availability.

Please note that this is a popular activity, so if you would like to book a private tour we recommend making a booking well in advance.

Reservations can be canceled 48 hours prior to departure without penalty.

Cancellations received less than 48 hours before departure are non-refundable.

Cancellations must be submitted in writing to  [email protected] .

Please be mindful of possible time zone differences. Iceland is in the GMT time zone and cancellations must be submitted at least 48 hours before departure in Icelandic local time (GMT).

If you do need to cancel your tour, we recommend that you contact us as soon as possible. 

The meeting point for this tour is at the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon parking lot.

It takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to drive to the meeting point from the town of Höfn. From Reykjavík, the drive takes about 5 hours. Pickup and dropoff in Reykjavík is not available for this tour.

Please note that you must be ready at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the start of your tour.

Book this tour

Price from 14.900 ISK per person.

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Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon - Zodiac Boat Tour - JL-ZBT

Sail among the floating icebergs and enjoy the breathtaking scenery around the glacier lagoon.

• You are here： 
• Jokulsarlon Zodiac Boat Tour

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is the largest ice lagoon in Iceland. The lagoon is filled with giant incredibly shaped icebergs - blue ice, transparent ice, opaque ice and even deep jewel blue ice. The atmospheric gray streaks showing within some of the icebergs will remind you Iceland is a volcanic land with a great fiery heart - the dramatic land of fire and ice!

Duration: ~75 minutes

Pick-up: Meet at Jokulsarlon

Group maximum: 12 participants

Available: May - Oct

Age limit: 8 years

Difficulty: Easy

Tour Highlights:

• Sailing in a glacier lagoon
• Vatnajokull National Park
• Wildlife sightseeing
• Floating icebergs
• South Iceland

Meeting point: We will meet you at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon parking lot, located just off the Ring Road (#1).

Departures: There are several departures everyday, please have a look at the booking engine for more details.

• Zodiac boat tour on Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon
• Knowledgeable guide
• Amazing views of Vatnajokull National Park
• Get up close to the floating icebergs

Children (8 years): 8 500 ISK

• Description

Tour Description

On this tour our Zodiac boat will take you in between these sensational natural ice-monoliths. As you travel across the crystal calm mirror-like waters you will be close enough to feel the cold radiance emanating from these fabulous ice-statues. This is the tour to take when you want to experience Jökulsárlón and feel the incredible power of Iceland´s glaciers, up close and personal. The great weight of Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe, rises high above the lake. Ancient ice will be all around as images of icebergs and ice-peaks are reflected in the water beneath you.

A boat tour on Jökulsárlón is will take you to parts of the ice lagoon you would not see any other way - into vistas which are simply sensational.

The grand Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon began to form at the edge of Breiðamerkurjökull, a glacier tongue of Vatnajökull around 1934. In 1975 the lake had grown to 7.9 km 2 , since that time the rate of growth has accelerated quite a lot because the glaciers in Iceland are receding faster. Recently, the surface area covered 18.2 km 2 , as the glacier continues to recede this kind of growth can only increase. This is the deepest natural lake in Iceland, at its greatest the depth is 284 m. To really enjoy the Jökulsárlón area you should allow enough time to explore the area around the lagoon and a walk to the nearby Diamond Beach. The icebergs which come to rest on the rough black sand are stunning, this surreal sight is something which no visitor to Iceland should miss out on.

The Glacier Lagoon of Jökulsárlón

Related Tours

Jökulsárlon Boat Tour

Amphibian boat tour on glacier lagoon.

This short adventure tour takes you on to the iconic glacier lagoon Jökulsálón (also named: Breiðamerkurlón) in the South of Iceland.

Glacier Kayak Adventure

Kayaking with icebergs on a glacier lagoon in iceland.

Experience the wonders of Vatnajökull glacier from a kayak. Kayak your way through the peaceful Heinabergslón glacier lagoon while enjoying the magnificent landscape of Vatnajökull!

Iceland is open for travel: Volcanic eruption in Iceland 2024

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Glacier Tours

Glacier Tours On Vatnajokull Glacier

Jökulsárlón Boat Ride and Glacier Hike

Picturesque glacier lagoon and glacier hike.

Get close to the floating icebergs on the Jökulsárlón boat tour and explore the incredible ice formations of the largest glacier in Iceland, Vatnajökull!

• Vatnajökull National Park
• Glacier Hiking
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Zodiac Boat Ride
• Guided Glacier Hike
• Certified Glacier Guide
• Specialized Glacier Gear
• Glacier Lagoon Boat Ride

What to bring

• Warm outdoor clothing
• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Good hiking boots with ankle support

Tour Snapshot

Get the best value for money by booking a combo tour for up to 10% less!

• Expert Guides
• Small Group Experience
• No Booking Fees
• Best Price Guarantee
• Operated with our trusted partner

Please select when booking:

• Zodiac Boat Ride first
• Glacier Hike first

This combo tour is for the adventurous ones. A glacier hike on Falljökull glacier and a zodiac boat ride on Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is undoubtedly the ultimate Iceland adventure, filled with exploration and unforgettable views.

On this tour, you’ll get to see the glacier from two very different perspectives. You'll put on crampons and, together with a certified glacier guide,  hike on one of the most scenic outlet glaciers of Vatnajökull .   We’ll take you on an exciting journey to Europe’s largest glacier, where you’ll be to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of this ancient ice mass up close and personal. Also, you’ll get to  ride a Zodiac boat  across the iceberg-filled Jökulsárlón lagoon created by the glacier!

You can choose between two options for this tour : either start with a glacier hike and finish with a boat tour in Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon or the other way around. You can pick an option upon booking. You’ll have to drive between meeting locations for both activities, as transportation is not provided.

Zodiac Boat Ride at Jökulsárlón

The Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is located at the tip of Breiðamerkurjökull, which is an outlet of the vast Vatnajokull glacier. As the glacier retreats, meltwater fills up the depression it leaves behind and creates a glacier lagoon. In a process known as "calving," huge chunks of ice break off the glacier, and the lake becomes filled with floating icebergs.

Jökulsárlón is an extraordinary sight. What makes it most unique is that Jökulsárlón is connected to the ocean, making it a perfect habitat for seals. The water is also salty and bluer than other glacier lagoons.

At the beginning of the tour, you will meet your expert guide in the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon parking area. They will take you to the dock, where you will put on a floatation suit or life vest before jumping on board the Zodiac boats. As our adventure begins, be ready for the majestic sight of Breiðamerkurjökull and Vatnajökull glaciers coming to greet us below the horizon.

This lagoon is a dreamy space full of shining icebergs in magnificent shades of blue and white. The Zodiac boats will carry us to the center of the lagoon, where we'll be able to get up close to these floating blocks of ancient ice, lit up in the sunlight to show off all of their colors. These majestic floating masses of ice are so beautiful that it is impossible to find someone not moved by the sight of them.

Glacier Hike on Falljökull Glacier

Skaftafell Nature Reserve (about a 50-minute drive from Jokulsarlon) is part of Vatnajökull National Park. Skaftafell is a truly unique oasis surrounded by black sands, glaciers, and volcanoes.

Outlet glaciers of Vatnajökull enclose the valley, out of which Falljökull is the most impressive glacier tongue. Its name in Icelandic means the "falling glacier," which is pretty accurate. The massive icefall drops impressively down the mountains towards the ocean.

As we arrive at the glacier's edge, we will strap our crampons on and make our way up the icy yet easily accessible slopes. We'll witness incredible ice formations and crevasses while learning about how they are formed and how the glacier continuously reshapes itself.

We'll approach the awe-inspiring icefall up close to see how the ancient ice falls hundreds of meters off the mountaintop as it slowly moves toward the ocean. A journey that it will never complete as global warming continues to fuel the melting of the glacier and its slow retreat.

How far are Skaftafell and the Glacier Guides sales office from Reykjavik?

Skaftafell is located about 330 kilometers from Reykjavík. See map for directions.

What is the difference between the Glacier Wonders (4 h) and Glacier Explorer (5.5 h) hour trips?

The main difference between these trips is that they take you to different locations on the glacier.

Our Glacier Explorer (5.5 hours) trip spends approximately 3 hours on the ice, exploring the magnificent ice-fall where it falls down from the Öræfajökull caldera.

The Glacier Wonders (4 hours) trip explores the easier part of the glacier which is lower and you will spend approximately 1 hour on the ice, giving you a fantastic but brief encounter to the highlights of Falljökull glacier.

Both trips start about 15 min driving away from our Skaftafell base camp. After the drive, we continue on foot following the retreat of the glacier for about 25-30 minutes where we set foot on the ice. Once there the 3.5-hour walkers spend their time exploring the features of the lower glacier and seeing spectacular views of the icefall. The 5.5-hour walkers explore the glacier more thoroughly and experience majestic pinnacles and deep crevasses. Both trips sometimes come across spectacular ice-caves but due to the nature of glaciers, this is not always the case.  

The 5.5-hour walk requires a higher level of fitness and agility as you will be on your feet for a longer period of time and the terrain is more challenging.

What does meet on location entail?

Meet on location means traveling to the location of the tour yourself and then meeting our tour guides rather than being picked up and taken to the location.

What should I wear on our glacier trip in Iceland?

Iceland is known for its colorful weather. It can sometimes show you all 4 seasons in one day.

Dressing for this sort of weather can be a challenge so we always recommend dressing in layers . 3 or 4 upper layers are highly recommended such as a light t-shirt (preferably wool) next to the skin, then a fleece or heavy wool garment, topped off with a waterproof windbreaker.

Jeans are not recommended for our trips as they become very heavy, cold and uncomfortable to wear when they get wet.

Lightweight hiking pants, track pants or long cotton pants are best and then wind/waterproof pants over. We also recommend using sunglasses and sunscreen even if it is cloudy due to the high UV and sunlight reflecting off of the glacier.

You will need sturdy hiking boots with ankle support that fit crampons for the glacier hiking tours. If you do not own a pair then we rent out good hiking boots as well as a waterproof raincoat and trousers.

Do I need to bring a backpack on a glacier trip in Iceland?

We recommend bringing your own backpack on our full day or 1/2 day tours. It’s great to carry a small lunch and some extra clothing.

Can I bring my camera along on a glacier tour?

You can bring your camera along, and you should definitely bring one since the setting on the tour is full of amazing, scenic views.

I am pregnant, can I still join a glacier hike?

This is, of course, a personal choice, we have often had pregnant women on our trips. We recommend you take a close look at our trip description and difficulty rating , they will hopefully give you a better idea. It is also good to contact your physician, pregnant women’s health can be quite different. Feel free to contact us if you have further questions or concerns.

Do I need to bring a lunch with me on the glacier tours?

We do not provide lunch on any of our trips, so we recommend you bring your own lunch (for the longer trips), snacks and a bottle of water (you can refill it on the trip).

What are crampons?

Crampons are metal spikes that we attach to the soles of your hiking shoes, these enable you to walk on the glacier ice without slipping. Get to know how to put crampons .

Is there a guide on each Arctic Adventures glacier tour?

Yes, there is a specially trained and certified glacier guide on every glacier tour that we offer.

What equipment is provided when taking part on a Glacier Hike?

When glacier hiking you will be provided with an ice axe, crampons, harness and helmet. This will help you to complete the tour safely. The minimum shoe size to attach crampons is EU 35.

Why are there glaciers in Iceland?

When snow stays long enough in one place it turns to ice. Over long periods of time, the ice layers up becoming huge blocks called glaciers. As there is a lot of snow in Iceland,  it forms to create ginormous glaciers that sweep across huge masses of land. Iceland is home to Europe’s largest glacier named Vatnajökull . This Glacier Guide will also tell you everything you may want to know about Glaciers.

What if it is raining?

Rain is not uncommon in Iceland. However, we do not let the rain stop our tours. This is why having appropriate clothing is very important to keep you warm and dry. Nature is not something that we can control and therefore we need to adapt to the weather. If your safety is compromised by going on the tour, we will cancel and you will be fully refunded.

Where can I find more information to prepare me for my Glacier Hiking tour?

This guide to Glacier Hiking includes all the information you might need when preparing for a glacier hike.

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Arctic Adventures offers pick up service from selected Reykjavík pick up points. Note that you can always update your pick-up / drop-off location through our customer portal: https://my.adventures.is You can press the login button in your confirmation email for an easy login to the customer portal. If you experience an error with logging into the customer portal or can't find your booking, please contact us on Facebook Messenger, or send us a message here below. Chat with us on Facebook Messenger

WE WELCOME YOU

ZODIAC TOURS

On the Zodiac we are able to cover large areas of the glacier lagoon and get closer to the icebergs than on the amphibian. When possible the Zodiac goes almost all the way up to the glacier (as close as safe).

AMPHIBIAN BOAT TOURS

We offer exciting boat trips on the glacier lagoon in one of our four amphibian boats. During the excursion you sail among the huge icebergs in the picturesque scenery of Jökulsárlón.

ICE CAVE TOURS

Join us on an exciting two and a half-hour adventure exploring the wonders of Vatnajökull Glacier. Our luxurious Iceland tours will take you to the largest glacier in Europe.

Chase the Midnight Sun: Iceland and Canada tours available now!

Glacier Tours

Glacier Grand Slam - Glacier hike & Boat ride

Jökulsárlón Zodiac Boat Ride & Glacier Hike

Explore the famous glacier lagoon and vatnajökull glacier.

This extraordinary combination tour is ideal for anyone who wants to understand glaciers, experience them up close and personal, and admire the incredible landscapes they have helped shape.

This tour includes an exciting Zodiac boat ride across a spectacular Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon and a hike on the Falljökull glacier. There is no better way to see these vast bodies of ice that make Iceland so unique. So, buckle up and get ready for an exciting day exploring Iceland’s legendary glacial landscape!

• Vatnajokull Glacier, Europe's largest glacier
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Glacier Hiking
• Zodiac Boat Ride
• Guided glacier hike
• Certified glacier guide
• Specialized Glacier Gear
• Glacier Lagoon Boat Ride

What to bring

• Warm outdoor clothing
• Waterproof jacket and pants
• Good hiking boots with ankle support

Tour Snapshot

Save up to 10% by booking a combo tour!

• Expert Guides
• Small Group Experience
• Free Cancellation
• No Booking Fees
• Best Price Guarantee

Please select when booking:

• Boat tour first
• Glacier hike first

Please note : there are two tour versions, and you can select the option you like more in the booking widget. You can choose a different sequence of activities - to do a glacier hike or a boat ride at Jokulsarlon first.

Zodiac Boat Ride at Jökulsárlón

Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is located at the tip of Breiðamerkurjökull, an outlet of the vast Vatnajokull glacier. As the glacier retreats, meltwater fills up the depression it leaves behind. In a process known as “calving,” huge chunks of ice break off the glacier, and the lake fills up with these floating icebergs.

Jökulsárlón is an extraordinary sight. What makes it unique is that Jökulsárlón is connected to the ocean, making it a perfect habitat for seals. The water is also salty and bluer than other glacier lagoons.

Your certified guide will meet you in the parking lot and drive you to the dock. As soon as you arrive, you’ll be given a floatation suit/life vest. We’ll then launch the Zodiac boats and start our exciting hour-long ride. As we set sail, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the glacier with Vatnajökull towering over us on the horizon. 

Within no time, the Zodiac boat will carry us into the heart of the lagoon. This dreamy, iceberg-dotted wonderland is filled with glistening chunks of ice that come in all shapes and sizes. Visitors to Jökulsárlón are always amazed by the colors of the icebergs, which light up when the sun hits them. Some icebergs are sapphire blue, while others are crystal-clear, making for some truly remarkable photos. 

Zodiac boats are the perfect way to explore Jökulsárlón as their maneuverability means that we can get amazingly close to the icebergs. If you examine the icebergs closely, you’ll see some gray streaks running through them as a memorial to the many volcanic eruptions Iceland has experienced.

Jökulsárlón is also renowned for its incredible wildlife, and our guides will happily point out the friendly family of seals residing in the glacier lagoon. Look up, and you’ll see Arctic terns doing spectacular acrobatics high above our heads, while you may also get the chance to see giant seagulls and Arctic skuas.

Glacier Hike on Falljökull Glacier

Skaftafell National Park is a green oasis surrounded by spectacular glacier tongues. Here, your qualified glacier guide will meet you at the Booking Center. We’ll drive to the foothills of Falljökull glacier, which will be the starting point for your adventure.

From here, we’ll continue on foot. So, once we gear up with crampons and helmets, we’ll start to walk up to the ice! This hike is a thrilling journey across a wondrous glacial landscape that will provide memories that will last a lifetime. You can expect one of the best panoramas in the world, dotted with mountain peaks, other glaciers, and dramatic volcanoes.

Glaciers are constantly moving and generate a remarkable landscape of winding crevasses, deep moulins, dramatic ice sculptures, and ancient icefalls. Look up and see Hvannadalshnúkur, Iceland’s tallest peak, towering above the remarkable scene. We guarantee that you’ll take some great photos and leave a profound sense of awe at just how majestic nature can be!

Your expert guide will point out the fascinating patterns that have been cut into the landscape by the glacier. They’ll also tell you about how glaciers form and warn you about some of the bleak predictions for their future.

This highly-popular trip is called the Glacier Grand Slam for a good reason. It’s a brilliant combination of the most thrilling adventures a glacier can offer: a glacier hike and a scenic boat ride across a glacial lagoon. This epic tour will undoubtedly tick a few boxes on your bucket list! Join us!

Meeting point

The meeting point depends on which option is chosen during the booking process. If you have chosen the zodiac boat ride at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon as a first activity, you will need to meet your guide at the Jökulsárlón parking lot no later than 9:45 AM. If you have chosen the glacier hike on Falljökull glacier first , you will need to meet your guide at the base camp in Skaftafell National Park no later than 8:45 AM.

Practical information

Duration : Boat ride: 90 minutes (45 min in the boat); Glacier hike: approximately 3.5 hours.

Shoe size : Please note that children must have at least a size EUR 35 to partake in the glacier hike. This is because our crampons (necessary for the glacier hike) do not fit smaller shoe sizes.

What our Travelers are saying about Glacier grand slam tour

What is best to wear on our iceland glacier trips.

Iceland is known for unforeseeable weather. It is likely that you can see all 4 seasons in one day. Dressing for that kind of weather can always be demanding, so we suggest dressing in layers. 3 or 4 upper layers are highly recommended, for example, a light t-shirt (preferably wool) next to the skin, then a fleece or heavy wool garment topped off with a waterproof windbreaker. Jeans are not recommended for our trips as they are not suitable for the weather conditions, they become very heavy, cold and uncomfortable to wear when they get wet. Lightweight hiking pants, track pants or long cotton pants are convenient and wear wind/waterproof pants over them. There is high UV and sunlight reflecting off on the glacier so we highly recommend using sunglasses and sunscreen even if it is cloudy. You will need sturdy hiking boots that fit crampons for the glacier hiking tours. If you do not own a pair then we rent out suitable hiking boots as well as a waterproof raincoat and trousers.

Is a backpack necessary on a glacier trip in Iceland?

It is good to bring your own backpack on our full-day or half- day tours. It’s the best carry-on for a small lunch, extra clothes, and other necessary items.

Is a camera allowed on a glacier trip?

The scenery on the tour is full of stunning, breathtaking views that you’ll almost definitely want to capture forever, so you should definitely bring your camera along. Your tour guide will also be happy to take your photo.

Are you allowed to join a glacier hike if you are pregnant?

This is surely a personal choice, we do not deny pregnant women on our glacier trips but we highly recommend you to take a closer look at our trip description and difficulty ratings, they will hopefully give you a better idea. We also recommend you to contact your physician, as pregnant women’s health can be quite different. If you have any further questions or concerns then feel free to contact us.

Is lunch provided on the glacier tours?

Lunch is not provided on any of our trips, therefore we recommend you bring your own lunch , snacks, and a bottle of water (you can refill it on the trip). It is especially important to make sure you bring lunch on our longer trips.

What are crampons?

Crampons enable you to walk on the glacier ice without slipping. They are metal spikes that we attach to the soles of your hiking shoes.

Does Adventures.com have a guide on all of their tours?

Yes, we have specially trained and certified glacier guides on every glacier tour that we offer. And for our 3rd party tours we only partner with operators that meet our quality and safety standards.

Do you provide equipment when taking part in your glacier tours?

Yes, we provide you with all the necessary glacier gear for our glacier hiking tours. Ice axes, crampons, harnesses, and helmets are provided. This will help you to complete the tour safely. The minimum shoe size to attach crampons is EU 35.

Why do we have glaciers in Iceland?

Iceland is known to have a lot of snow and when the snow stays long enough in one place than it turns to ice. Over long periods of time, the ice layers up becoming huge blocks called glaciers. It forms to create ginormous glaciers that sweep across huge masses of land. Iceland is home of the largest glacier in Europe that is called Vatnajökull. The Glacier Guides can tell you more about and everything you need to know about the Glaciers.

What happens if it is raining?

Rain is common in Iceland but we never let the rain be in our way to go forward with our tours. That’s why we highly recommend appropriate clothing so you can stay warm and dry. Nature is out of our control and therefore we need to adapt to the weather. Your safety is our priority so if your safety is compromised by going on the tour then we will cancel it and you will get full reimbursement.

Can I find more information about how to prepare for my Glacier Hiking tour?

The guide on your g lacier h iking tour will provide you with all the information you might need when preparing for a glacier hike.

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Adventures.com offers pick up service from selected Reykjavík pick up points. Note that you can always update your pick-up / drop-off location through our customer portal: https://my.adventures.com You can press the login button in your confirmation email for an easy login to the customer portal. If you experience an error with logging into the customer portal or can't find your booking, please contact us on Facebook Messenger, or send us a message here below. Chat with us on Facebook Messenger

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Zodiac Boat Tour

Posted on Published: September 16, 2016  - Last updated: July 6, 2024

Categories Blog , Ecotourism , Europe , Iceland , Tours

Experience the stunning landscape of the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon on a Zodiac boat tour.

Jökulsárlón is one of the greatest natural wonders of Iceland. You really can’t miss it, even from the road. As we approached Jokulsarlon on the Ring Road, we were immediately in awe of the massive icebergs floating down the glacial lake. These huge ice blocks break apart from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and drift around the lagoon, eventually joining the Atlantic Ocean.

This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

As the climate gets warmer, Jokulsarlon gets larger due to the melting of the glaciers. The lake itself formed only 60 years ago, and has doubled in size over the past 15 years. As the glaciers rapidly retreat, it will be interesting to see how Jokulsarlon changes over the years. Only recently, it became the deepest lake in Iceland with a depth of 250 meters.

Table of Contents

ZODIAC BOAT TOUR

The best way to experience Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is by taking a Zodiac boat tour . These smaller boats allow you to get right up close to the icebergs and the glacial wall.

Tip: Be sure to reserve your Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon Zodiac boat tour well in advance. These tours fill up quickly, and you don’t want to be disappointed!

Don’t fret if the Zodiac boat tour is fully booked. You can also experience the lagoon on the larger Amphibian boat. It’s even an incredible experience to admire the icebergs from the black sand shorelines.

Justin and I took the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon Zodiac boat tour. It was an epic adventure, nothing like I’ve ever experienced before. Don’t miss traveling here when you visit Iceland. Even if you travel to Iceland for less than a week, find a way to incorporate this tour into your travel plans.

Justin and I zipped up our oversized one-piece winter attire, provided by the tour company and mandatory for the Zodiac boat tour. It can get so chilly out there, even on a warm, sunny day.

And…we’re off! The Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon Zodiac boat tour takes small groups out to the lagoon, rides past numerous icebergs, and reaches the glacial wall.

Our tour guide grabbed a chunk of ice that broke from a larger iceberg, and brought it on board. This ice was heavier than it looked! We passed it around, and I even gave it a lick. It’s not every day that you get to taste ice that’s over 1000 years old.

PHOTO ESSAY

More than I can express in words, Jokulsarlon is simply stunning. I can’t recommend visiting it enough. I’m sure you’ll agree after viewing these photographs.

Here’s our trip in pictures, starting with our first glimpses of icebergs. We heard the eerie, creaking sounds of ice breaking apart from the icebergs. It was fascinating to watch that sparkling, translucent ice splash down into the water.

On the boat, we took a journey around the iceberg lake. We were close enough to some of the icebergs that we could reach out and touch them. Some icebergs were blue; some were streaked with black, volcanic ash from ancient eruptions.

Finally, we approached the glacial wall, gliding past it as closely as possible. We even got to see a lounging seal, soaking up the sunshine from a floating iceberg.

Back on the shore, the air was shrouded in a dense fog. We stood on the black, volcanic sands and watched the massive chunks of ice slowly drift through the gray haze.

Can’t get enough photographs of Iceland? You’ll find our collection of Iceland photos in our travel photography section . You can even purchase our prints directly from the site!

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Plan your trip in advance to avoid disappointment, especially if you’re thinking about booking a Zodiac boat tour. The boat ride itself is about 40 minutes long. The boat tours operate from early May until September. Inquire in advance as it all depends on the weather and the changing seasons.

You can’t miss the lagoon from the Ring Road in southeast Iceland. You’ll drive across a large bridge, and you’ll see icebergs floating on either side of the road. That’s Jokulsarlon lagoon! Visit the Glacier Lagoon website for online booking and more details.

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South Coast of Iceland in a Day Golden Circle Self Drive Tour Reykjavik One Day Itinerary

Have you visited Jokulsarlon before? Have you seen icebergs in person?

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Sunday 16th of July 2023

This article was very helpful! I'm planning on doing the Zodiac tour this August. Do you have a recommendation as to which lens I should have on my camera? I'm guessing it's too difficult to bring/change multiple lenses on the boat.

I have a Nikon z6ii with a 14-30mm, 24-70mm and a 70-200mm. How likely is it to see seals? Is it mostly just shooting big ice glaciers (so wide angle the best?)

Lauren Yakiwchuk

Monday 17th of July 2023

Hi Jono! The wide angle will work the best for this one as I'm not sure if seeing seals is a regular occurrence or not. We only saw one seal here. Might not hurt to bring along the other lens just in case! Have fun on your trip :)

Tuesday 18th of June 2019

These are beautiful!

Thank you so much!

Mariana Moraes

Thursday 10th of August 2017

Wow, guys, what a beautiful post. Your photos are sublime. You were so lucky to have had such good weather during your visit, I hope I have the same fortune when me and my husband take this same tour in the end of September. Whilst reading your description of this tour around the glacial lagoon, I was wondering when did you had the chance to visit, and if you went in the morning or in the afternoon period . I am not sure what time (of the year and day) it would be ideal to take this tour, so please let me know what you think. Many thanks! Xx

Terry Conner

Saturday 20th of May 2017

Just amazing. Just starting at these photos made me so happy. Looking forward to visiting this place. I am sure that it will be a memorable trip. Thank you for sharing.

Monday 15th of May 2017

Wow what an experience. My husband and I are visiting in a couple of weeks. Do you recommend taking our DSLR on the Zodiac tour? Or using a waterproof camera?

Jennifer, we brought a GoPro and our DSLR on the boat! You don't need to worry about damaging your camera as long as you keep hold of it. The water didn't splash on the boat too much!

The Complete Guide to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in Iceland

Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Facts

Where is jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, wildlife at jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, jokulsarlon lagoon as a film location, how to get to jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

• Things to Do at Jokulsarlon Glacier

Jokulsarlon Lagoon Boat Tours

Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon ice cave tours, take in the northern lights, where to stay at jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, what to be aware of at jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

Learn everything you need to know to plan your trip to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon in Southeast Iceland. This ice lagoon has become one of Iceland's most popular attractions due to its stunning beauty. Jokulsarlon translates to “Glacier's River Lagoon.”

• Find the perfect Jokulsarlon boat tour
• Get to know Iceland on a nature tour
• Learn more about glaciers in Iceland

Jokulsarlon is one of Iceland's natural crown jewels, and the nearby black beach has coined the name Diamond Beach , as the ice chunks lying on it resemble diamonds glistening in the sun. 

Thousands of people are drawn to Jokulsarlon year-round to watch the free-flowing icebergs, explore the lagoon on boat tours, and snap pictures of seals.

You can find a place to stay at Hofn , a nearby town to the glacier lagoon. If you're visiting during the winter, we recommend renting a 4x4 vehicle to get around in the countryside of Iceland. There's also an opportunity to hike on the very glaciers that feed water into the glacier lagoon, book a glacier hiking tour , and explore more of the icy side of Iceland!

Top Jokulsarlon Tours

Best ice cave tour in vatnajokull glacier starting from jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, 2 day ice cave tour with south coast waterfalls & jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, 3-day northern lights tour of iceland’s golden circle & south coast with ice caving & glacier hiking.

With a maximum depth of 814 feet (248 meters), Jokulsarlon is Iceland's deepest lake.

Jokulsarlon's surface area measures 11.2 square miles (18 square kilometers).

It takes approximately five hours to drive to Jokulsarlon from Iceland's capital, Reykjavik .

The icebergs in Jokulsarlon are composed of ice that is over 1,000 years old.

Jokulsarlon glacier first started forming in 1934, when the Breidamerkurjokull glacier started retreating, leaving the lagoon in its path.

This glacial lagoon in Iceland has increased fourfold since the early 1970s.

The lagoon connects with the ocean and is composed of seawater and freshwater. This is what creates the unique color.

Seals can be seen in Jokulsarlon year-round, but they flock to the lagoon’s mouth to catch fish in the winter.

Jokulsarlon sits south of Vatnajokull , Europe's largest glacier.

Vatnajokull and its surrounding area, including Jokulsarlon, compose Iceland's largest national park , and the second-largest national park in Europe, after Yugid Va in Russia.

• Find out more about National Parks in Iceland  

The lagoon formed naturally from melted glacial water and continues to grow as ice blocks crumble from the ever-shrinking glacier.

As Jokulsarlon increases in size, the retreating glacier visibly demonstrates the effects of global warming, with noticeable receding year after year.

This makes the lagoon and the nearby glacier tongue even more unique, as they will look different each time you visit them.

The icebergs that break away from the glacier and fall into the lagoon slowly melt and drift out to sea, where the North Atlantic waves polish them before being washed ashore on the jet-black beach called Breidamerkursandur .

As a result, this black stretch of sand is always covered in translucent, compact ice sculptures that glisten in the sun, much like diamonds. This is why Breidamerkursandur is sometimes called the  Diamond Beach .

Seals can be seen swimming in the lagoon and relaxing on top of icebergs.

The lagoon is also teeming with birdlife , especially during summer, when you see the arctic tern and many other species. 

This is not a popular area for puffins. But if you are driving from Reykjavik, you can stop by Dyrholaey lighthouse and Reynisfjara beach on the way to see some puffins if you’re visiting in the summer months.

Remember that the drive along the South Coast to Jokulsarlon is breathtakingly beautiful. Take your time and enjoy the sights.

Jokulsarlon's icy landscapes have attracted many filmmakers to shoot scenes for their movies in Iceland.

• Find out more about  movie locations in Iceland  

The James Bond films “ Die Another Day ” and “ A View to a Kill ” were filmed at the glacial lagoon. “ Tomb Raider ” was filmed there, too.

Both “ Batman Begins, ” and “ Interstellar ” were shot nearby at the Svinafellsjokull glacier inside Vatnajokull National Park.

Most recently, however, Vatnajokull National Park was used as a filming location for “ The Secret Life of Walter Mitty .” The scenes from this movie that were shot there show Walter supposedly trekking in the Himalayas.

Several commercials and music videos have also been shot at Jokulsarlon, such as Bon Iver's Holocene, Justin Bieber's I'll Show You , and the music video to Gerua from the Bollywood film Dilwal e starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol.

To reach Jokulsarlon, you can either drive yourself or join a tour that takes you to the lagoon .

If you are driving from Reykjavik, note that it's 236 miles (380 km) to reach the glacier bay in Iceland. It can take anywhere from five to six hours.

The drive itself is incredibly scenic, so it may take you longer to get there, given all the great stops you'll want to make on the way. We, therefore, recommend spending at least two days traveling from Reykjavik to Jokulsarlon and back.

We highly recommend this 2-day tour which includes transportation and accommodation . It will take you to Jokulsarlon and stop at the best South Coast spots along the way. You’ll get to visit a stunning blue ice cave and enjoy opportunities to see the northern lights.

The drive is one of the most stunning journeys in Iceland. You'll pass by some incredible South Coast scenery, including the gorgeous waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss , the black beach of Reynisfjara, Myrdalsjokull glacier, and Eyjafjallajokull volcano.

There are so many places to explore on the way, so we have several suggested self-drive itineraries  to maximize your experience. 

A 6-day self-drive tour of the South Coast and the Golden Circle will help you make the most of your trip to Iceland if you’re planning on staying for at least a week in the summertime.

If you plan to visit in winter, a 6-day winter drive is our recommendation, as it includes access to the ice cave by Jokulsarlon. While there, why not try out a Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon ice cave tour ? 

If you are looking for a shorter trip, there's also a 3-day winter drive that includes a visit to the ice cave.

However, if you’re looking for a specific itinerary we don’t currently provide, contact us, and we can customize a self-drive plan specifically for you.

If you want to plan for yourself, we can help you find a cheap rental car for your adventure.

Jokulsarlon is accessible all year round, although it may be a little more weather-dependent in winter.

If there's a raging snowstorm or high winds , it’s best not to drive.

Most days, however, you'll be fine. The roads along the south coast are typically clear all year. There is a bit of traffic, so someone will surely stop by quickly to help you out if you run into trouble.

The advantage of traveling in winter is catching the northern lights . 

A considerable part of the fun of exploring Iceland is the journey. You must keep up to date with weather and road conditions (checking each daily is best) and be prepared to change plans if your safety is at risk.

But spending some time at Iceland’s crown jewel, Jokulsarlon, is well worth the journey. 

If you don't want to drive yourself, you can always book a tour, such as a 3-day South Coast adventure or a 2-day winter tour with ice caving .

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can also include glacier hiking on a 2-day tour to Jokulsarlon . This provides the most breathtaking views as you stand on top of Europe's largest glacier.

Things to Do at Jokulsarlon Glacier 

Visitors can do many different things when visiting the Jokulsarlon lagoon and glacier. What to do depends on how much time is available and what types of experiences are of interest. 

Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon boat tours operate in the summertime, between April and October.

They're the same boats used in “ Tomb Raider ” and were featured in the clip above.

During the high season (July and August), up to 40 boat trips run Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon tours per day.

You can choose between going on an amphibian boat tour that leaves multiple times per day or a Jokulsarlon Zodiac boat tour with a fixed schedule. 

Individuals don't need to book the amphibian boat tours in advance, but groups larger than 12 people will need to book ahead.

The Zodiac tours can sell out, so it's best to book them in advance as they only operate from June to September.

To get even closer to nature, booking a Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon kayak tou r is something you won’t forget. This tour happens in the summer months only and allows you to move between the floating pieces of ice and get up close and personal to the glacier. 

It’s possible to go on an ice cave tour from Jokulsarlon and explore a natural blue ice cave within the Vatnajokull glacier.

The ice caves form when the glacier is melting and rivers run underneath the ice, sculpting the ice into a tunnel.

Each cave is different, but they all share an incredible shade of blue ice.

As the glacier moves, it creates different-looking ice caves each year and there are multiple ice cave tours which you can take during your visit. No two visits are ever the same when exploring.

Most ice caves are only accessible from mid-October to March each year, although some operators do not start until November, and tours are dependent on the weather.

However, if you want to visit an ice cave outside of winter, you don't have to miss out. One of the most beautiful caves to visit is the blue Vatnajokull ice cave, which is now available year-round. You can visit with this ice cave tour in Vatnajokull , which starts from the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon.

Top Ice Cave Tours

If it's too warm, the caves can fill with water, melt or even collapse in places, so you should never enter an ice cave unless you're with a guide that knows the area and the cave has been deemed safe to enter.

One of the best-known caves is the Blue Ice Cave . It's also one of the more extensive caves and forms in a similar position from the same meltwater system each year.

You can go there from Jokulsarlon. Your tour will include a guided super jeep ride to reach the ice caves opening high up in the glacier.

The guide will also explain everything to know about Iceland’s glaciers and the ice caves and answer all of your questions.

The tour departing from Jokulsarlon is the only one that visits this particular cave, providing visitors with the opportunity to enjoy it far away from all the crowds.

Jokulsarlon is also a popular place to try and catch the northern lights dancing in the skies above.

The scenery creates a phenomenal foreground for photographers, often with the auroras reflected in the water and the ice.

On intense aurora shows, it can light up the entire lagoon with dancing colors, including green, pink, red, purple, and blue. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime aurora viewing opportunity.

The northern lights occur all year but are only visible when dark. Therefore, they can’t be seen when the nights are bright in the summertime.

You can view the aurora in Iceland from early September until mid-April, depending on a clear sky and how active the northern lights are .

Check out our 5-day winter package that includes the glacier lagoon, hunt for the northern lights, ice cave, and much more to help make your visit to Iceland genuinely spectacular.

Top Boat Tours

You can easily book a stay near the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon if you plan to stay in the area overnight.

One of the closest establishments is the Hali Country Hotel . It's located in the countryside, and all of the rooms come with private bathrooms.

If you’re traveling on a higher budget, Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon is a stylish, four-star hotel in the area. The hotel has all the amenities you could need, plus a waterfall right outside.

Hotels and hostels close to the lagoon tend to book up very early.

If you aren't fortunate enough to get a room at one, the second most convenient option is to stay at the nearby town of Hofn (an hour away from Jokulsarlon).

If you were planning on traveling the Ring Road or wanted to finish your day in a place with a wealth of amenities, the town of Hofn is an excellent choice. It's home to the best-tasting lobster in Iceland and close to the stunning Vestrahorn mountain .

Hofn also has various lodgings to suit different budgets and styles.

Hotel Hofn is a lovely hotel for those who prioritize comfort.

If you are traveling all around Iceland, and Jokulsarlon is just one of the many places you plan on staying, you’ll always find plenty of places to stay on your route .

There's one primary safety measure you should know when you go to this ice lagoon.

It should go without saying that it's not wise to swim in a lake full of enormous icebergs or climb on top of those icebergs . But many people are tempted to do so.

People sometimes underestimate Icelandic nature and find themselves in dangerous situations, often needing the aid of some of Iceland's search and rescue teams .

So don't be tempted to do what many film characters or singers do (such as James Bond, Shah Rukh Khan, or Justin Bieber) and swim in the lake or climb on top of the icebergs.

Have a great time when you visit but keep in mind the current in the lagoon is powerful and can easily carry you out to sea. The lagoon is 656 feet (200 meters) deep and is Iceland's deepest lake. What you see of the massive icebergs floating in the lagoon are just their tips as 90 percent of the ice is below the waterline.

Sometimes icebergs tip over when the ice underneath the water surface becomes smaller than what’s seen above the surface. This occurs due to the cracking or melting of ice.

If people climb to the top of the ice and then the ice tips over, they can get caught underneath the ice and be in a life-threatening situation.

That's not worth a good picture!

Take care and enjoy this gorgeous location, making sure you avoid doing dumb things on your visit to Iceland .

Whether you opt to drive, plan your journey, book a self-drive, or take a guided tour, a visit to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is one not to be missed. It’s known as Iceland’s crown jewel for a reason, and many people go there at all times of the year to enjoy its splendor. We’d love to answer any questions and read about your experiences in the comments below.

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