A glittering, turquoise lagoon with icebergs floating on its surface, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is one of the most otherworldly sites in all of Iceland. From driving to the glacier lagoon and where to stay nearby, here’s everything you need to know about Iceland’s most famous glacial lagoon.
Where in Iceland is Jökulsárlón?
Jökulsarlon is located along the South Coast of Iceland, just off the famous Ring Road (Route 1). To reach this stunning glacial lagoon from Reykjavik, take the Ring Road in a counterclockwise direction.
The drive takes approximately 5 hours (380 km), making it a manageable day trip if you start early, though staying overnight nearby is highly recommended for a more relaxed experience.
Along the way, you’ll pass some of Iceland’s most iconic landmarks, including Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and the charming town of Vik, which is roughly halfway through the journey.
The location map
How Far Is the Jökulsarlon Car Park from Reykjavik?
Once you reach Jökulsarlon, you’ll find a dedicated parking area conveniently located near the lagoon. From Reykjavik, it’s a 5-hour drive to the car park, making it an easy stop on your South Coast adventure. The parking area is just a short walk from the lagoon’s edge, giving you quick access to enjoy the spectacular scenery and activities.
Parking Fees at Jökulsarlon
There is a parking fee of ISK 1000 per vehicle to park at Jökulsarlon. This fee is used to maintain the area and its facilities, ensuring visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience. The fee applies whether you’re visiting for a quick stop or spending a few hours exploring.
How to Pay the Parking Fee
Paying for parking at Jökulsarlon is easy. Simply use one of the self-service machines located in the parking area. These machines accept both credit and debit cards, so there’s no need to worry about carrying cash.
Some machines may even allow contactless payments for added convenience. Make sure to display your ticket clearly on your dashboard to avoid any fines.
You can also pay the parking fee digitally via the Icelandic parking app Parka. or on the parka website.
How far is it from Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon to Diamond Beach
Jökulsarlon and Diamond Beach are located just opposite each other with only the Ring Road separating them. It’s only a five minute walk between the two and you should absolutely combine your visit to see both of these stunning natural wonders.
Why are there icebergs in the Jokulsarlon lagoon?
Jökulsarlon is a glacial lagoon, a spectacular natural feature formed by meltwater from a nearby glacier. This particular lagoon owes its existence to Breiðamerkurjökull, an outlet glacier connected to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull, located within the Vatnajokull National Park. Over time, chunks of ice break off from the glacier—a process known as calving—and float into the lagoon. These floating icebergs create the mesmerizing, ever-changing scenery that makes Jökulsarlon so famous.
The formation of icebergs is a direct result of the glacier’s continuous movement and melting. As Breiðamerkurjökull shifts and flows slowly toward the lagoon, its front edge weakens due to melting and pressure, causing large chunks of ice to break away.
During the summer months (June, July and August) the melting process accelerates due to warmer temperatures, leading to an increase in the number of icebergs entering the lagoon. This seasonal effect often results in a more dramatic display of icebergs, with the lagoon brimming with chunks of ice in varying shapes and sizes.
Once in the lagoon, the icebergs gradually float toward the ocean. Some make their way to the nearby Diamond Beach, where they rest against the black sand beaches, creating a stunning contrast between the sparkling ice and the dark volcanic sands. Others drift out to sea, eventually melting in the salty waters.
What is the Best Time to Visit the lagoon…..
To See the Most Icebergs
If your goal is to see Jökulsarlon brimming with floating icebergs, the summer months (June to August) are the best time to visit. During this season, the warmer temperatures cause more chunks of ice to break off from Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, filling the lagoon with sparkling, turquoise icebergs of various shapes and sizes. The long daylight hours of summer also allow you to spend more time exploring and enjoying the breathtaking views.
To Explore Vatnajökull National Park
For outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking and exploring nature, summer is also the perfect season. Many hiking trails in Vatnajökull National Park, such as the path to Svartifoss waterfall or the glacier routes near Skaftafell, are clear and accessible during these months. Combining a visit to Jökulsarlon with a day of hiking or exploring nearby attractions offers a full, adventure-filled itinerary.
To Experience the Winter Magic
If you’re enchanted by the beauty of Iceland in winter, visiting Jökulsarlon between November and March is an excellent choice. While there may be fewer icebergs in the lagoon, the ones that remain are often coated in frost, creating a magical scene. Winter visitors also have the chance to join ice cave tours inside Breiðamerkurjökull, an unforgettable experience unique to the colder months. On clear nights, you might even catch the northern lights shimmering over the lagoon.
No matter the time of year, Jökulsarlon offers something special for every traveler. Choose the season that matches your interests for a visit you’ll never forget!
What to do in Jökulsarlon?
Sightseeing in Jökulsarlon is possible year round, with lots of great tours taking off from the lagoon. Here are a few tips to make your visit to this gorgeous glacier lagoon a success.
Sightseeing the Jökulsarlon Lagoon. Can you drive to Jökulsarlon glacier lagoon?
Yes! It’s possible to drive to Jökulsarlon at any time of year. While you can choose between self-driving or taking a guided tour, we highly recommend you rent your own set of wheels and drive. This will allow you to go at your own pace and stop at other attractions along the way, including Diamond Beach.
How can you drive to Jökulsarlon? Rental car suggestions and driving tips.
Jökulsarlon is just 380 km from the capital of Iceland, Reykjavik. If you’re traveling counterclockwise on the Ring Road, you’ll reach Jökulsarlon in just under five hours. Those that are circumnavigating the Ring Road in a clockwise direction will probably drive from Egilsstaðir, which takes just over four hours and is a journey of 322 km.
If you aren’t planning to complete the entire Ring Road, the shortest route is from Reykjavik. It’s best to plan an overnight trip from the capital so that you can stop at other famous attractions along Iceland’s South Coast.
Which car rental option you choose will depend on what season you’ll be visiting Jökulsarlon. In summer, a standard vehicle will work beautifully.
Fall, spring, and winter bring different challenges as weather and road conditions vary. It’s a good idea to rent a 4×4 vehicle during these months. You can also head to the Firefly website for more tips.
Guided tours that you can join at the lagoon
Guided tours from Jökulsarlon vary by season. Here are a few ideas for your trip to the lagoon.
Summer & Autumn Only: Head out on the water in a ZODIAC for an up close look at the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier and the glittering icebergs. You can also opt for kayaking if you’re not afraid to get a bit wet. These activities are available May through October.
Another great option is the amphibian boat tour, which combines land and water exploration. These boat rides operate from late spring (May) to autumn, depending on the weather conditions each year. The amphibian boat offers a more relaxed way to experience the lagoon and get close to the floating icebergs while learning about the area’s unique geology from knowledgeable guides.
Winter & Spring Only: From September to April, you’ll have the opportunity to go inside the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier on a ice cave tour of the Blue Ice Cave. Walk through tunnels of ice, formed over the summer by meltwater. Even if you’ve done this activity before, it’s different every year!
Year-Round: For a truly thrilling adventure, you can join a glacier hiking tour on Breiðamerkurjökull. This activity is available year-round, offering an incredible chance to explore the glacier’s icy terrain on foot. Guides will provide all the necessary equipment and ensure your safety as you navigate the glacier’s crevasses and ridges. However, keep in mind that tours may get canceled at the last minute if the weather turns bad—so it’s always a good idea to check conditions ahead of time!
Where to stay near Jökulsarlon Iceland
There are several hotels, campsites, and Airbnb’s available in the area around Jökulsarlon. One of the most famous nearby towns that has plenty of accommodation options is Hofn. If you want to head back towards Reykjavik, the town of Vik makes for a good halfway stopping point.
Book your accommodation earlier rather than later as prices will vary according to the season, the highest prices being in summer. Popular spots also book out months in advance.
Safety tips for visiting Jökulsarlon glacier lagoon
Jökulsarlon is a beautiful but wild natural site in Iceland and it’s important to keep a few safety tips in mind when visiting.
- NEVER try to step or hop on icebergs that are close to shore
- DO NOT swim in the lagoon. Water temperatures hover close to freezing and hypothermia can set in within minutes of entering the water.
- DO NOT get close to the Atlantic Ocean’s waves at Diamond Beach. A phenomenon known as sneaker waves have been known to drag unsuspecting travelers into the sea.
- DO NOT disturb wild birds. Arctic terns nest close to Jökulsarlon in the summer. Remain a safe distance away if you want to observe them.
Read our itinerary suggestions for trips to Jökulsarlon to help you plan.
Fun Facts About Jökulsarlon in Iceland
Did you know that Jökulsarlon isn’t just a breathtaking natural wonder—it’s also a favorite location for Hollywood filmmakers? This glacial lagoon has made star appearances in several blockbuster films thanks to its otherworldly beauty.
One of the most iconic scenes filmed here is from the James Bond films Die Another Day (2002). The lagoon was transformed into a frozen battlefield where Bond races his Aston Martin across the icy surface in a dramatic car chase. Of course, don’t try to reenact this yourself—the lagoon isn’t really frozen solid like in the movie!
Another Hollywood hit that brought Jökulsarlon to the big screen is Lara Croft: Tomb Raider (2001), where Angelina Jolie’s Lara Croft explores icy landscapes in search of ancient treasures. The sparkling icebergs and surreal atmosphere of the lagoon made it the perfect stand-in for mysterious Arctic terrain.
With such cinematic credentials, it’s no wonder that Jökulsarlon is nicknamed “Hollywood’s Glacier Lagoon.” Visiting this famous spot might make you feel like you’ve stepped straight into an action-packed adventure or a fantasy world. Keep an eye out for floating icebergs—you never know which one might have once starred alongside a Hollywood icon!
Ending
Jökulsarlon is one of Iceland’s most impressive sites and typically at the top of most visitors’ bucket lists. Check out our vast blog resource to help plan your trip, gather information about renting a car in Iceland, and to book a car with Firefly Iceland Car Rentals, one of the least expensive options in the country.
