If you’ve been to eastern Iceland, chances are you’ve seen — or at least passed — Jökulsárlón. The Glacier Lagoon is famous around the world for its stunning views of Vatnajökull and its surrounding icebergs. Across the street from the lagoon, you’ll find the Diamond Beach, named for the magnificent chunks of ice that wash up on shore and glitter in the sun.

Stepping to the waterline of Jökulsárlón feels like entering a different world; aside from the chatter of surrounding tourists, the experience at this glacier lagoon is accompanied by birdsong and the soothing sounds of lapping icy-cold water.

If you’re fortunate, you might catch sight of a local seal — they are known to swim among the icebergs. Moreover, you can get an even closer look at the icebergs by joining a guided kayaking trip into the lagoon (Extreme Iceland offers excellent tours).

How to Get There

Jökulsárlón is approximately a five-hour drive from Reykjavik and a seven-hour journey if you’re coming from Akureyri. When heading from Reykjavik, you’ll cross a bridge just before reaching your destination. However, if you’re coming from Akureyri and encounter a bridge, you’ve gone a bit too far. The lagoon is conveniently located right off Route 1, the primary road encircling the country.

What to Expect at Jökulsárlón

Once you arrive at the parking lot, you won’t be able to see the glaciers from your car due to a series of dunes obstructing your view. To reach the water — and it is perfectly safe to walk right up to the water here — you will need to traverse up and over the dunes.

In the parking lot, there is a small visitor center where you can use the restroom, grab a bite to eat, or purchase souvenirs. You’ll also find more information about the various tours offered in the area.

Some of the icebergs in the lagoon are enormous, while others barely float above the water. This stunning variety in ice size makes photography in this area truly spectacular.

What to Wear

As with any outdoor venue in Iceland, it tends to be windy and cold. If you plan on getting close to the water, it is advisable to wear waterproof hiking boots and clothing.

While clothing is important, don’t forget to bring your camera! Additionally, ensure you have a dry, secure spot for your camera in case of sudden rain or snow. The weather in Iceland can change rapidly, and since you need to cross dunes to return to your vehicle, being prepared for all weather conditions is wise.

Safety

Unlike Diamond Beach or Reynisfjara, Jökulsárlón is not situated on open water. Therefore, you can stroll up to the shoreline without jeopardizing your safety. Nevertheless, as with any natural setting, be cautious of the local wildlife, as birds and seals inhabit the glacier lagoon.

The dunes adjacent to the lagoon can be a bit tricky. Though there is a manmade walking path, to access some more secluded areas of the lagoon, you may need to do some “off-roading.” The dirt can be loose, so check your footing carefully.

While it may be tempting to walk onto the larger ice chunks residing near the shoreline, it is wise to resist. Unless you’re willing to get soaked, it is impossible to predict how strong the ice is and whether it can support your weight.

The Best Time to Visit

Jökulsárlón is best viewed during the day when ample sunlight illuminates the icebergs. As the area is relatively compact — a narrow stretch of shore — it can become crowded, particularly during the daytime when tour buses visit.

That said, witnessing the Northern Lights from this location is an extraordinary experience, available only at night during the winter months.

Nearby Hikes

Similar to the Diamond Beach, the premier local hike leads over the nearby glacier that feeds into the lagoon, Vatnajökull. It is best to enlist a tour guide for this hike, as they provide specialized equipment and are well-versed in safe routes to follow. The glacier ice can shift unexpectedly, so it is crucial to be accompanied by someone knowledgeable about the area’s conditions.