Review: Reykjavik Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Full Day Trip

Okay, so you’re eyeing that Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon day trip from Reykjavik, huh? It’s almost Iceland’s biggest flex, really. Big icebergs chilling on a black sand beach? Count us in! But before you book it, you’re probably trying to figure out if the trip is really worth the hype. After all, it’s very a full day commitment, that is to say you’re trading in a full sunrise to sunset of possible adventures. That said, I’m breaking down all you could possibly want to know, from the mind-blowing sights to those important “is my bum gonna be numb” factors, that might come in handy later. Get ready for a very real look at what you might experience!

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What You Need to Know About the Lagoon

So, first thing’s first: Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon isn’t exactly around the corner from Reykjavik. It’s basically a trek along Iceland’s South Coast. We are talking roughly about a five-hour drive to the lagoon. That’s one way. Yeah, I know. So it does add up. What makes this place special anyway? Well, icebergs! Big ones! These frosty giants have broken off from Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier, bobbing around in the lagoon before they eventually drift on out into the ocean. In a way, it creates a surreal landscape. Picture that classic view – clear blue ice contrasting the stark black sand. It really does look out of this world.

The icebergs themselves are often a crazy blue color. Actually, the blue comes from centuries of compressed snow. As the ice starts to melt, it exposes all kinds of funky shapes and textures. You can often spot seals chilling out on the bergs, too. I’m sure that’s going to put a smile on your face! In that case, I’d advise you to bring your camera and some good zoom lenses, just in case.

The Tour Experience: What’s It Really Like?

Alright, so here’s what a typical full-day tour looks like: you’re going to start early, think dark-thirty AM, especially if you are doing it during the colder times of the year. Buses often will have hotel pickups starting well before sunrise, that means you need to already have had your coffee and everything done! Tours are long, very long. You’re looking at 12-14 hours total, depending on traffic, and the tour group you choose. That’s almost half a day!

Here’s what you need to have on your packing list:

• Dress in Layers
• Comfortable, waterproof shoes (trust me on this one)
• Camera
• Snacks and drinks (sometimes they have options to buy on the bus but often not, and they aren’t always cheap)
• A portable charger for your phone (because Instagram, obviously)
• Sunglasses
• Hat and gloves

The ride itself is mostly driving, but a bunch of tour operators will try to break it up with stops at different viewpoints and sights along the South Coast. Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss are commonly part of it, plus you’re probably going to see some cute Icelandic horses. They’re almost like fuzzy little tanks, truth be told. The guides usually talk about Icelandic history, geology, and random fun facts to make the time go quicker. It definitely adds a level of background to the environment itself, that some people can enjoy quite a bit. On the other hand, the amount and quality of commentary can actually vary from company to company.

When you get to Jokulsarlon, there’s typically an hour or two to explore the lagoon and Diamond Beach. Diamond Beach is where the smaller icebergs wash ashore. If the Sun is hitting them right, they really sparkle, much like real diamonds. At that point, your time is completely your own. Snap photos, soak it all in. Seriously. Just make sure you keep an eye on the clock!

Is It Worth The Trip? The Pros and Cons

Is this thing really worth giving up a whole day? Well, it sort of depends, you know? There’s pluses and minuses to everything. The drive time can be brutal, especially if the weather isn’t exactly helping. Driving in any type of storm isn’t enjoyable. And let’s be honest, that bus seat may start to feel like torture. Yet, that lagoon, though. Very beautiful! If you get lucky with the conditions, that is to say the sun being up, there really is no match. It really is like standing in a dream. I’d suggest you compare doing the trip yourself to an organized group.

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So you are probably wondering, when exactly would be the “best” time to see it all?

• Summer: All the roads are open and accessible, allowing you to explore a little more. Plus, you get longer daylight hours for photography and sightseeing.
• Winter: I think winter has it’s benefits as well. With the colder weather it allows you to potentially see the Northern Lights dancing right over the lagoon, that tends to really happen, so don’t skip out if that’s on your bucket list.

On top of this, it might come down to how much freedom you actually want during your vacation. Group tours can take away freedom of exploration, while traveling alone could make you a little nervous. All things need to be considered!

Choosing Your Tour Operator: Some things you need to think about

Okay, here are a few important aspects to really keep in mind when you’re thinking of who to go with: Tour length is a big one. That is to say you need to look at how much time is really spent at Jokulsarlon, because some trips can cut that down drastically in favor of more time at other South Coast spots, or even more driving.

• See if a boat trip on the lagoon is an option: that usually allows you to get right up close to the icebergs.
• Consider the bus size: Small group tours can offer a more intimate experience, with potentially more personalized service.
• Make sure you do you some digging to see what prior traveler’s are saying about their services and prices: I’d suggest cross-reference a few different reviews and spots if you have the time.

Another factor to keep in mind is price. Tour prices can very often range quite a bit depending on the company and what’s included. Cheaper might be fine, sure. Just read through what people have to say. You really don’t want to find yourself stuck on a cramped bus with a guide who just drones on, do you? No, you wouldn’t, that’s the key. The best fit tends to happen with someone that matches your interests, the time you want to devote to the tour and also is in alignment with the price you are expecting.

Making The Most Of Your Trip: Useful Advice

Very Important things to remember to do so you get your pictures!: get very familiar with the lagoon and beach because lighting can drastically affect your shots. Also, bring extra batteries, your equipment WILL drain quickly! Check out nearby attractions in order to make the most of it if you drove yourself. Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon is only a super-short drive away, too. I cannot stress this enough; if you’re chasing those Northern Lights, look up the aurora forecast. Keep in mind that sometimes tour operators will offer you a second attempt at no charge if there is no display during your tour.

Conclusion: Is Jokulsarlon worth the daylight hours?

So, should you do the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon trip from Reykjavik? Maybe, yes! The icy views are for real a memory-maker, a “remember when you went to Iceland moment!” It’s a super long day, yet the trade off is some wild natural art, a very otherworldly scenery. If sitting on a bus for most of the day isn’t a concern, or driving isn’t out of your abilities. And, If the weather looks like it’s very manageable, then by all means, book that adventure. But it is really, completely and utterly breathtaking! What’s your hesitation, huh? Go for it!

Key Takeaways:

• Expect a very long day, mostly spent on a bus.
• The Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach are seriously striking.
• Pick a tour company that really fits your own needs.
• Double-check conditions before departure and be prepared for any weather!