Winter
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in winter is enchanting.
The landscape at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is stunning year round, with ghostly icebergs floating atop the glacial waters and the majestic backdrop of the Vatnajokull Glacier.
In the winter, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon looks even more surreal, especially if you visit when snow has recently fallen. The area surrounding the glacial lagoon becomes a white wonderland, with the ice-blue of some of the icebergs standing out against the white.
Winter in Iceland also brings with it the opportunity to view the northern lights, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is an excellent place to photograph the aurora borealis.
Does Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon freeze in the winter?
The lagoon does not freeze over completely in the winter, since it is fed by waters from the Breiðamerkurjökull Glacier. So while parts of the surface are frozen, you will still see icebergs floating slowly across parts that are not frozen.
Locals that know their way around skate on the frozen surface of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in the winter, but it’s not something visitors should try on their own, since it’s not possible to know to what depth the lagoon is frozen.
Do Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon boat tours run in the winter?
Typically, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon boat and kayak tours are only available in the summer months, generally between April and October, weather permitting.
So you will not be able to take a boat tour of Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in the winter.
Things to Know About Visiting Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in Winter
Daylight hours are limited
In the middle of winter, you will only have about four hours of daylight in Iceland.
If you want to visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon during daylight hours, you have to time your departure from your base (Reykjavik, Vik, or Hofn) appropriately to have enough time here and to walk across to Diamond Beach..
Unless you plan to visit just to see the northern lights at Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, you’ll definitely want to arrive while it’s still light out, so you can walk around the edge of the lagoon to admire the icebergs and take lots of pictures.
You can check sunrise and sunset times at Jokulsarlon here.
Be cognizant of driving conditions
Although the Ring Road is kept cleared in the winter, the weather in Iceland in the winter can be challenging for drivers, with frequent precipitation (rain/snow), icy roads, and strong winds.
If you plan to drive to Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon from Reykjavik, know that the drive takes about 5 hours in good weather and with no stops. Allow a lot more time if road conditions are not ideal.
Joining a guided tour is a stress-free way to visit Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon in the winter. You can leave the driving to a local that’s used to the weather and the roads!
This highly-rated tour from Reykjavik takes you to both Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach, and also stops at Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss. Enjoy wifi aboard the bus and commentary by a live guide.
>>> Check price and availability for a guided tour of Diamond Beach and Jokulsarlon now!
Dress warm!
Winter clothing is a necessity at all outdoor locations in Iceland in winter, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is no exception.
Be prepared for below-freezing temperatures, and wind, and arrive appropriately dressed to enjoy your time here.