Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Travel Guide

 

Jokulsarlon is Iceland’s most famous glacier lagoon, located in Southeast Iceland by Route 1, about halfway between the Skaftafell Nature Reserve and the town of Hofn. It's a highly popular stop when visiting Iceland.

The stunning Jokulsarlon, Iceland's largest lake, is a must-visit landmark where icebergs break away from an outlet of the vast Vatnajokull glacier and drift gracefully toward the Atlantic Ocean. Located on the island's southeast side, this iconic landmark is a highlight of any trip to Iceland.

You can experience Jokulsarlon by joining a guided tour that can take you all the way from Reykjavik to the lagoon to experience this natural wonder. In summer, take the opportunity to join a boat tour across the lagoon, where you’ll glide past massive icebergs as they drift peacefully in the water. It can even be explored on a kayak tour!

In winter, you can visit two wonders in one trip by exploring a crystal-blue ice cave in a nearby glacier on a tour that starts from Jokulsarlon, a truly unforgettable adventure you won’t want to miss.

Read on to uncover everything you need to know about this remarkable location, from its unique geography and history to the best accommodations near Jokulsarlon.

Geography

Glacier lagoons are lakes that are filled with meltwater from an outlet glacier. The water from Jokulsarlon comes from Breidamerkurjokull, an outlet glacier of Europe’s largest ice cap, Vatnajokull.

What makes it stand out, however, is that it is also filled with impressive icebergs that break off from the glacier, some of which tower several stories high.

As the icebergs complete their journey across the lagoon, they either drift into the sea or wash up on the nearby black sands of Breidamerkursandur. Their shimmering appearance against the dark shore has earned this area the nickname of the Diamond Beach. This beach is often visited alongside the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon due to their close proximity.

Despite being a relatively recent formation, Jokulsarlon is already the deepest lake in Iceland, plunging to 814 feet (248 meters). With a surface area of 7 square miles (18 square kilometers), it continues to grow, steadily becoming one of the largest in the country.

History

Jokulsarlon has not been around since Iceland’s settlement; it only formed around 1935. This was due to rapidly rising temperatures in the country from the turn of the twentieth century; since 1920, Breidamerkurjokull has been shrinking at a dramatic rate, and the lagoon has begun to fill its space.

Today, the expansion of Jokulsarlon is accelerating. In 1975, it had less than half its current surface area. In the relatively near future, it is expected that the lagoon will continue to grow until it becomes a large, deep fjord.

Though a dark omen for Iceland’s glaciers and ice caps in general, the retreat of Breidamerkurjokull has resulted in an incredibly beautiful, if temporary, site. Hollywood has not overlooked this.

Jokulsarlon has been featured in the James Bond films A View to Kill in 1985 and Die Another Day in 2002, 2001’s Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, and 2005’s Batman Begins.

In 2017, Jokulsarlon was enveloped in the Vatnajokull National Park; thus, it is now fully protected by Icelandic law.

Jokulsarlon Wildlife

Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon is a thriving haven for Icelandic wildlife, thanks to the abundance of herring and capelin brought in by the tides.

During summer, Arctic Terns nest here, and visitors should steer clear of their nesting areas. These birds are famously protective, often dive-bombing anything they perceive as threatening their eggs. Skuas also make their nests along the lake’s shores during this time.

Seals are a year-round highlight at Jokulsarlon, often seen swimming among the icebergs or resting on them. The lagoon offers these animals a safe refuge to relax and interact, which is particularly important given the waters of southeast Iceland are home to a notable population of orcas.

Where to Stay Near the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

There are several good accommodation options close to the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon. The closest option is the luxurious Glacier Lagoon Hotel, a 4-star hotel that's about a 15-minute drive away. For a more affordable option, book a stay at Hotel Smyrlabjorg, a comfortable 3-star hotel in the same area.

Another great option to choose from is to stay at the renowned Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, a 4-star property that has been an all-time favorite amongst visitors to Iceland for years.

Otherwise, the most popular area to stay is in the town of Hofn. As the closest town, Hofn provides access to essential services, as well as local restaurants and shops. You'll find a variety of accommodations in Hofn that cater to different preferences and budgets, with the most recommended option being the Arnanes Country Hotel.