Admission to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is not free
Please be informed that there is a mandatory entrance fee for visiting Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. The minimum cost for entry by an ordinary family car is ISK 1,000 ($6.00) and is collected at the parking lot entrance. The fee is processed through an application provided by Parka, which has received criticism due to its poorly designed user interface. Additionally, your entrance and license plates are monitored by surveillance cameras.
Regrettably, despite the collection of relatively high fees, the parking infrastructure, pathways, information services, and, least of all, restroom facilities do not meet expected standards.
Why visit Jökulsárlón Glacier and iceberg lagoon?
1. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a unique natural wonder on planet Earth
2. The icebergs in the lagoon are easily accessible to everyone
3. You can visit Jökulsárlón at any time or any season
4. Jökulsárlón is one of the most photogenic natural wonders you will ever find
5. In between the icebergs in the lagoon is abundant wildlife, birds, and seals
6. By the shoreline, you can enjoy the fascinating movement and rotation of icebergs
7. The parking lots are only steps and minutes away from the main attraction
8. From the middle of June to the middle of July, you can view it 24 hours of daylight
9. The drive from Reykjavík is long but loaded with many natural wonders
10. In winter Northern Lights are often displayed by the Jökulsarlón lagoon
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a magical place to visit
Jökulsárlón is an iceberg lagoon in southeast Iceland. This large glacial lake is one of Iceland's most popular tourist attractions and for a good reason. The lagoon is one of a few places on the planet where you can get close to a glacier and icebergs without entering a wilderness or having to travel to remote areas like the Icelandic Highland. Easily accessible,
Jökulsárlón Iceberg Lagoon is part of the Ring Road drive in Iceland
Jökulsárlón is located on the Ring Road, the main road that goes around the coastline in Iceland. In Icelandic, Lón means a lagoon. Jökulsárlón is usually full of icebergs that constantly break away from the edge of the glacier tongue Breiðarmerkurjökull outlet glacier that is part of Vatnajökull, the largest ice cap in Europe. It is a great place to visit and a stunning tourist attraction. It is the perfect place to take spectacular photos, to see the northern lights, to learn about nature and geological forces, and to go for a short hike. Even if Jökulsárlón were the only natural wonder in Iceland, it alone would be worth the trip to this Arctic island. Many times, I have seen how overwhelmed visitors are after viewing this remarkable natural phenomenon. Even if you stay for a few hours, leaving is often difficult. You can stop by and enjoy it for hours on end. Along with Landmannalaugar and Gullfoss, it is the jewel in the Icelandic crown of natural wonders.
Jökulsárlón is a stunning work of nature
Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and the forces of nature
In any sense, geological or otherwise, the lagoon is new. This might sound odd, but it has only been around for a few decades, and in a few more decades it might be gone. Its development by the forces of nature took a bit longer, though, possibly a few thousand years, but as a natural wonder, it has a short lifespan. Contrary to stagnant waterfalls that don’t change for centuries, even thousands of years, it is a living thing. It is a natural wonder deepening on forces such as temperature, high and low tides, and precipitation. Several centuries ago, the glacier tongue and the outlet glacier that you see on the farthest side of the lagoon reached the Atlantic coastline. This is right where the bridge on the Ring Road spans the short glacial river Jökulsá, the river that connects the lagoon with the ocean. At the beginning of the 4th decade of the last century, the glacier started melting, retreating, declining, and revealing the lagoon. From then on, the lagoon became larger as the glacier tongue shrank and retreated, in a way moving from the coastline toward the mountains where it is today. In the seventies the lake was eight square kilometers. Today the lake covers 18 square kilometers and is Iceland's deepest lake at approximately 248 meters. Eventually, the glacier tongue will retreat fully to the mountains and no longer deliver icebergs to the lagoon.
How was the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon made?
When you drive toward the lagoon on Ring Road no. 1 (great vacation road trip) from the west, if you look north, you will see many small hills on your left. These hills prevent you from seeing the lagoon until you reach the bridge. If you had passed by this place at least one hundred years ago, you would have seen ice or a glacier tongue above the hills. At that time, the tongue was progressing toward the shoreline, pushing the soil in front of the ice and below the ground into the hills, or the moraines as they are called. As the ice cap, the outlet glacier, and the glacier tongue were moving over thousands of years, the ice was forced through the ground like a giant bulldozer digging a huge hole. And then everything stopped right by the moraines. At the same time, the temperature shifted, and the glacier started to retreat, leaving a hole in the ground full of glacial water. This is the lagoon that is known today as Jökulsárlón or the Glacier Lagoon.
The role of the ocean in making Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Imagine the breathtaking spectacle of Jökulsárlón, standing out among the many majestic glaciers and glacier tongues of the Vatnajökull ice cap! What makes it truly remarkable is its unique location at sea level, where the ocean meets the lagoon directly at the shoreline. Picture the magic that happens during high tide, as the warm seawater mingles with the cold glacial water, transforming the lagoon into a mesmerizing sight. This dynamic interaction not only enhances the beauty of the lagoon but also plays a crucial role in breaking down the glacier tongue. And when the tide recedes, watch in awe as the lagoon's currents carry the icebergs towards the river, guiding them to the stunning Diamond Beach, where they meet their fate in the warm seawater. The dance between the tides, river, and glacial water is a sight to behold, with the icebergs either venturing out to sea or being held back in a captivating display of nature's forces. Spend a few hours at this enchanting place, and you'll witness the magical rhythm of the tides, shaping the currents beneath the bridge in a mesmerizing way!
The role of precipitation
One of the most exciting aspects crucial for the incredible growth of any glacier is the annual snowfall on its ice cap, which plays a vital role in its expansion! When heavy precipitation hits, the outlet glaciers and glacier tongues charge forward, conquering the terrain with their majestic presence. A remarkable example of this occurred to the south of Vatnajökull between the 14th and 19th centuries, where the rapid advancement of glacier tongues led to the awe-inspiring destruction of numerous farms. This period was marked by cold climatic conditions and dramatic changes in the region. But fear not, for a new chapter began as the glacier tongues gracefully started to retreat, driven by the insufficient snowfall to combat the rising temperatures, elegantly withdrawing towards the mountains. Oh, the wonders of nature never cease to amaze!
Full of life in the cold and deep lagoon
Despite its cold temperature, the lagoon is a thriving ecosystem teeming with diverse marine life. The nutrient-rich waters are home to a variety of species, including herring, trout, salmon, and krill, which are brought in by the tides from the sea. These fish attract seals, who can often be spotted frolicking in the water, adding a playful charm to the serene landscape. Moreover, the lagoon serves as a sanctuary for numerous seabirds, with thousands of Arctic terns, skuas, and gannets nesting in the surrounding area. The sight of these graceful birds soaring overhead or diving into the water in search of food creates a mesmerizing spectacle that further enhances the lagoon's natural beauty. For visitors looking to immerse themselves in the wonders of this unique environment, a leisurely stroll to Diamond Beach offers a breathtaking experience. Here, the contrast of the icebergs melting against the black sand pebble shore creates a striking visual display that is both awe-inspiring and humbling. Witnessing the gradual transformation of these majestic ice formations as they drift ashore is a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between nature's power and fragility. Exploring the lagoon and venturing to Diamond Beach provides an opportunity to connect with the raw beauty of the natural world, offering a truly unforgettable experience that showcases the harmonious coexistence of life and landscape in this remarkable coastal region.
What makes Jökulsárlón so interesting?
The mesmerizing sight of icebergs cascading from the glacier's edge into the lagoon, where they gracefully dissolve, tumble, and drift for one-and-a-half kilometers toward the Atlantic Ocean, is absolutely spellbinding! The lagoon's deep waters effortlessly guide these colossal ice masses towards the ocean, with only a fraction - approximately 10% - peeking above the water's surface, while the rest hides beneath, adding to the mystery and grandeur of the scene. As these majestic icebergs thaw, their balance may shift, leading to spectacular flips that leave you breathless. Sometimes, the lagoon is alive with many icebergs, each boasting its unique features and shapes, while other times, it seems almost deserted, creating a sense of awe-inspiring tranquility. Every now and then, you might catch a glimpse of dark streaks or entirely black icebergs, remnants of ash from a distant volcanic eruption that have settled on the ice cap. Witnessing the lagoon in action, one can't help but feel like a spectator to the timeless wonders of nature unfolding before their eyes. While many glaciers are sadly retreating due to the impact of climate change, the ebb and flow of glacial movements have been a constant for millions of years worldwide. However, one striking effect of climate change is the rapid retreat of Breiðamerkurjökull, spurred by the warming ocean temperatures in the northern hemisphere. Let's marvel at nature's beauty and power while reflecting on the urgent need to protect and preserve these precious wonders for future generations to enjoy!
Access to the Jökulsárlón lagoon is as simple
When traveling on Ring Road No. 1, Jökulsárlón is a must-see attraction located conveniently along the main route connecting Skaftafell and the town of Höfn í Hornarfirði. The site is undeniably remarkable and a captivating natural marvel. Despite its enduring popularity among tourists over the years, the amenities in the vicinity have long been substandard. While parking has historically been inadequate, recent improvements have been made, including the introduction of an admission/parking fee. However, restroom facilities remain limited even now in 2024 and in poor condition, and the refreshment options are still below par. Additionally, the hiking paths lack proper signage. Despite a significant investment by the Icelandic Government to acquire the land surrounding the lagoon, the current situation is a source of embarrassment for both the government and the Icelandic tourism sector. Therefore, visitors should be well-prepared before visiting. It is advisable to use restroom facilities beforehand, bring refreshments if planning an extended visit, and aim to arrive early in the day to secure a suitable parking spot.
Photography and popular culture
The Jökulsárlón lagoon has been a location for many internationally acclaimed films, including A View to a Kill, Die Another Day, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, and Batman Begins, as well as the reality TV series Amazing Race. At one point, it was such a popular location for films that it was nicknamed the Bond Lagoon. For photographers, it provides a wealth of ideas as the foreground is constantly changing and also the background, as it is continuously affected by the weather in the mountains and the glaciers surrounding the lagoon. Jökulsárlón is one of the natural wonders in Iceland that you can visit all year round. Each season has its advantages and provides sharp contrasts. In November, you have the low light when the sun only shines for a few hours and comes up and sets south of the lagoon delivering a spectrum of interesting colors. In summer, you have the 24-hour sunlight and spectacular sunrises and sunsets north of the lagoon. Not to mention the Aurora Borealis, the northern lights during winter.
Is sailing on the glacier lagoon worth it?
Several tour companies offer very expensive sailing tours along the lagoon. Even though seeing the lagoon from a boat is nice, a sailing tour won’t add much to your visit. If you decide to take a sailing tour, be sure to bring your camera, as the lagoon invariably delivers stunning photos from any angle, both when sailing on the lagoon and walking by the shoreline. And you’ll have better opportunities to get up close and personal with the icebergs. If you have limited time, skip the boat tour, walk for a bit along the shoreline toward the north, and then walk under the bridge to Diamond Beach. The time spent on the beach is much more interesting than a boat tour.
When is the best time to visit?
You can visit Jökulsárlón at any time of the year. It is stunning in summer and offers an amazing experience in winter. What you need to think about, though, is the weather in Iceland. Usually, during the summer, you will be able to reach the lagoon, and the roads are fine. You have 24-hour daylight and many interesting opportunities for spectacular photography. However, in winter, the weather and the road conditions can easily prevent you from making the 6-hour drive from Reykjavík to Jökulsárlón. And daylight only lasts for about 6 hours. So, the best time to visit the lagoon is from the beginning of September until the end of October. The weather is usually fine, the light is great, and you can expect to see the northern lights. And, best of all, there’ll be less traffic by the lagoon.
If you're planning to tour Iceland in a rental car, make sure to read this article about the type of car that would be best for your trip.