Bucket list experience:
Iceland
This glacial lagoon in southeast Iceland is a unique sight. Shimmering under the great ice cap of Vatnajokull, the lagoon is filled with icebergs, which glint in a rainbow of icy colours, from snow white to translucent blue.
Simply wandering around the lagoon’s edges is an experience in itself, but the best way to explore is to hop on a guided boat cruise. Steering through the enormous icebergs allows you to see them up close and appreciate their shape and colours. Around the mouth of the lagoon, look out for seals diving for fish.
The icebergs are shards of the nearby Breidamerkurjokull glacier, which cleave off into the lagoon, and are pushed towards the sea as the glacier moves down the valley. It’s well worth walking down to the beach at the mouth of the Jokulsa river, where icebergs wash up onto the black volcanic sands. For obvious reasons, it’s dubbed Diamond Beach.
Unsurprisingly, Jokulsarlon is a favourite location for film crews: Lara Croft, Batman and James Bond are just a few of the big-name movies which have used it as a backdrop.
Want more recommendations in this destination?
Destination Guide >The lagoon is a long drive from Reykjavik. You’re better off making a day trip of it from somewhere like Hotel Ranga on the south coast.
Boat trips depart frequently – every half hour between June and August – and last about 30-40 minutes. You can pre-purchase vouchers online, or just buy a ticket when you get there.
There are two types of boats – amphibian boats are larger and slower, but more stable. More expensive Zodiacs are smaller, faster and more nimble and can get closer to the icebergs.
Wear warm clothes and bring waterproofs – the boat trips take place on Zodiacs and other open boats so you’re exposed to the elements.
There are usually a couple of food trucks parked up near the lagoon serving excellent lobster rolls and fish and chips.
Tours operate from May to mid-November, weather permitting, departing frequently throughout the day.
Sunset is a wonderful time, as the icebergs glow in magical colours. The experience quality is heavily weather dependent, so if the weather is bad, don’t bother.
Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity
Reykjavik
€155 | Rating 4.40 / 5 [461 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Reykjavik
$156 | Rating 4.65 / 5 [320 ratings]
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Reykjavik
$211 | Rating 4.73 / 5 [78 ratings]
Tour supplied by:
Reykjavik
$226 | Rating 4.60 / 5 [174 ratings]
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Our writer’s recommended tour operators to book with
Iceland
Long-running outfit offering tours on tours on their four amphibian boats, or the faster and more nimble Zodiacs (for closer iceberg viewing).
Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Oraefi, Iceland[26.6 miles]
An architecturally contemporary hotel on the south coast, offering top-end luxury and an excellent modern Icelandic restaurant, and a handy location halfway between Jokulsarlon and Skaftafell.
Official star rating:
Hofn, Iceland[53.1 miles]
A former dairy plant that’s been turned into a simple, stylish guesthouse. It’s the ideal stop for a night near Hofn and its renowned seafood restaurants.
Official star rating:
Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Iceland
From volcanoes and glaciers to black beaches, geothermal pools and the Northern Lights, Iceland is one of the world’s wildest, weirdest destinations. A paradise for adventurous travellers.
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Breidamerkurjokull, Vatnajokull National Park, Iceland[15.8 miles]
This sparkling ice cave is on Breidamerkurjokull Glacier, a spur of Vatnajokull. It’s famous for its colours, which range from translucent blue to clear white – it’s best seen on a sunny day, when the display can be dazzling. Guided tours depart from Skaftafell or Jokulsarlon.
Best for ages: 8+ | Free | 1 night
Hofn, Iceland[52.6 miles]
Hofn is a salty fishing town on the southeast coast, but amongst Icelanders it’s famous for one thing: its seafood, especially its langoustines. These tasty crustaceans can be tasted at several restaurants around town – you’ll never taste them sweeter or fresher. Time to get cracking…
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
