Jökulsárlón Open Now

Jökulsárlón is a breathtaking glacial lagoon located in southeastern Iceland, near Vatnajökull National Park. It is one of the country’s most iconic natural wonders and is renowned for its serene beauty, with floating icebergs, pristine waters, and stunning landscapes.

Key Features of Jökulsárlón:

1. Formation and Location:
   • Jökulsárlón translates to “glacial river lagoon” in Icelandic.
   • It was formed by the melting of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier, an outlet of the massive Vatnajökull glacier, which is the largest ice cap in Europe.
   • The lagoon started forming around 1934–1935, as the glacier began retreating due to rising temperatures. Over time, the lagoon has expanded as the glacier continues to melt.
2. Icebergs and Glacial Activity:
   • The lagoon is filled with icebergs that calve off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. These icebergs float and slowly drift towards the sea.
   • The lagoon is connected to the North Atlantic Ocean via a short river, making it a mix of freshwater and seawater.
   • The icebergs range in size and color—some are brilliantly white, while others are deep blue due to the dense ice that reflects light differently.
   • As these icebergs melt, some even wash up on a nearby beach known as Diamond Beach, where the chunks of ice glitter like diamonds against the black sand.
3. Wildlife:
   • The lagoon is home to a variety of wildlife, particularly seals, which can often be seen swimming among the icebergs or resting on them.
   • During the summer, seabirds such as Arctic terns and skuas are common around the lagoon, as it becomes a feeding ground for fish.
4. Tourism and Activities:
   • Jökulsárlón has become a popular destination for travelers, offering boat tours that allow visitors to get up close to the icebergs.
   • There are amphibian and Zodiac boat tours available, where tourists can navigate through the lagoon and witness the icebergs up close.
   • The lagoon and its surroundings are also popular for photographers due to the stunning, otherworldly landscapes, especially during sunrise and sunset.
   • In winter, the nearby Vatnajökull ice caves are a major draw, with their striking blue ice formations.
5. Cultural and Cinematic Importance:
   • Jökulsárlón has been used as a filming location for several Hollywood movies, such as James Bond films (“A View to a Kill” and “Die Another Day”) and “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.” Its surreal, icy landscapes provide a dramatic backdrop for action scenes.
6. Climate Change Impact:
   • The lagoon’s formation is directly tied to climate change and the retreat of glaciers. It is a striking example of how rising global temperatures are affecting the natural environment. As the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier continues to melt, Jökulsárlón is expected to keep expanding.

Jökulsárlón is a place of natural beauty and tranquility, offering a unique opportunity to witness the dramatic effects of climate change while experiencing one of Iceland’s most scenic landscapes.