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Fjallsarlon Iceberg Boat Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Fjallsárlón Iceberg Boat Tours

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#fjallsarlon, #glacier, #glacierlagoon, #icebergboattours, #icebergs

Fjallsarlon Iceberg Boat Tours is a small company founded in 2013 by four friends, mostly locals who are passionate about preserving the area. We offer small boat tours on the glacier lagoon, amongst floating icebergs all different in shape, size and color towards the mighty Vatnajokull Glacier. We also offer private boat tours and a luxury boat tour to a Secret Island located in the middle of the Lagoon.

Fjallsarlon Glacier Lagoon is one of the most astonishing natural phenomenal found in Iceland. At times huge icebergs can be seen breaking off the glacier wall before falling dramatically into the lagoon creating a spectacle before drifting away quietly. Come and see for yourself!

Tel: +354 666 8006

Email: [email protected]

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Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon

A Hidden Glacier Lagoon in South Iceland

Attractions

• Information about Fjallsarlon
• How to get there
• Wildlife at Fjallsárlón
• Places to stay
• Places to Eat
• Fjallsárlón in Summer vs. Winter
• Things to do
• Notable Attractions Near

Though Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon is a smaller and less famous version of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, don’t be fooled! It’s just as beautiful and completely worth checking out. Escape the crowds and explore Iceland’s best glacial waters with a visit to Fjallsárlón!

Fjallsárlón is renowned for the shimmering icebergs that float in its waters. The vivid colors of the ice range from electric blue to crystal clear. Some of the icebergs are streaked with grey, caused by volcanic eruptions. 

The icebergs often collide, releasing shuddering groans as they rub against one another. The acrobatic antics of Great Skua seabirds overhead and playful seals in the water make for an awesome show. 

How was Fjallsárlón formed?

Fjallsárlón sits in the shadow of Fjallsjökull Glacier, an outlet of the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajökull. Icebergs break away from the glacier and float on the surface of the glacial lagoon below. Unlike Jökulsárlón, Fjallsárlón is not connected to the sea. This means the icebergs stay there until they melt. 

Where is Fjallsárlón?

The lagoon is located on the edge of Vatnajökull National Park on Iceland’s South Coast. It’s situated just off the Ring Road and is about 230 miles (370 km) from Reykjavik. Nearby places of interest include Skaftafell Nature Reserve (29 miles/47km) and the charming village of Hof (18 miles/29km). 

GPS coordinate of Fjallsárlón :   64.0186° N, 16.3850° W

How to get to Fjallsárlón?

Fjallsárlón can be reached by car by driving around the Ring Road (Route 1). It’s also possible to catch a bus to nearby  Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon  and then taxi from Jökulsárlón to Fjallsárlón.

To get to Fjallsárlón from Reykjavik, simply drive counterclockwise around the Ring Road for 230 miles (370km) until you reach the Fjallsárlón exit. The journey lasts around 4 hours and 45 minutes and will take you along Iceland’s famous South Coast. 

There is no direct bus to the lagoon. However, you can catch the 51 bus from Reykjavik to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. You’ll then need to travel an additional 7 miles (11 km) to Fjallsárlón. The quickest way to do this is to take a taxi. 

Wildlife at Fjallsárlón

Fjallsárlón is blessed with a diverse selection of wildlife. Great Skuas nest in the mountain cliffs around the lagoon, creating dramatic displays as they swoop above its crystalline waters. Visitors should be careful of the birds during the summer, as they are known to divebomb anyone who walks close to their eggs. Seals also reside in the lagoon and like to play among the icebergs.

Places to stay near Fjallsárlón

The best places to stay near Fjallsárlón are the charming villages of Hof, Vik, and Höfn. 

Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon –   Situated on the Ring Road close to Hof, this stylish modern hotel offers spectacular mountain views. 

Adventure Hotel Hof –   A wonderful countryside hotel in Hof is complete with modern rooms and easy access to Vatnajökull National Park. 

Hali Country Hotel –   This family-run three-star hotel has comfortable rooms and an unfussy atmosphere.

Guesthouse Gerði –   A three-star guesthouse that offers excellent facilities along with ocean and mountain views. 

Reynivellir –   An no-frills two-star guesthouse in Iceland’s rural heartland. 

Skaftafell Campground –   This year-round campground is around 30 miles (47km) from the lagoon. It has room for 400 tents and offers basic facilities including electricity, showers, washing facilities, and Wi-Fi.  

Places to Eat near Fjallsárlón

There are several nearby restaurants and food stands where you can grab a bite to eat. 

Fjallsárlón Frost Restaurant –   The bistro-style restaurant offers a delicious selection of dishes. From here you can see stunning views of the lagoon. 

Nailed It Fish and Chips –   A traditional Icelandic fish and chip shop with takeout and eat-in options. 

Heimahumar –  A food truck specializing in lobster. It also offers hotdogs and vegan options.

Humarhöfnin –   A dedicated seafood restaurant in Hof, specializing in lobster and fish. 

Íshúsið Pizzeria –   A wonderful pizzeria in Hofn with excellent value for hungry adventurers.

Fjallsárlón in Summer vs. Winter

Fjallsárlón can freeze during the winter, but it’s still worth visiting. The icebergs are covered in snow, and snow-capped mountain peaks puncture the horizon. If the lagoon freezes, it won’t be possible to take a boat ride. However, you can still walk around and take pictures.  

Summer is a wonderful time to visit Fjallsárlón. The icebergs glisten in the sunlight and wildlife flock to the lagoon. It’s the perfect time to catch a zodiac boat ride and see the icebergs up close, or to simply relax in the  nearby restaurant  and enjoy a warm drink.  

Things to do at Fjallsárlón

Zodiac Boat Ride

The best way to discover the wonders of the lagoon is to take a Fjallsárlón Iceberg Zodiac Boat Tour . You’ll get thrillingly close to the icebergs and their vivid colors. If you’re lucky, a playful seal might approach your boat.

If you’re interested in a zodiac boat ride on Fjallsárlón, check out this  Glacier Grand Slam  tour. It also includes a glacier hike!

Helicopter Tour

See Fjallsárlón from a completely different angle on a  Glacier Lagoon Helicopter tour . This tour encompasses both Fjallsárlón and Jökulsárlón, along with the incredible sights of Vatnajökull Glacier. If you want to see how glaciers have shaped the land of fire and ice, then this is the tour for you.

Notable Attractions Near Fjallsárlón

Fjallsárlón is close to many popular attractions on the South Coast. 

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

If you’re wondering “ Fjallsárlón vs Jokulsarlon: Which one to choose? ” Then the answer is, both! Jökulsárlón is the most famous glacier lagoon in Iceland thanks to its huge icebergs.

It sits in the shadow of Vatnajökull Glacier and is blessed with some of the most incredible wildlife in the country. Though it’s much busier than Fjallsárlón, it’s still worth a visit. There are also lots of great outdoor adventures to be had at Jokulsarlon!

The Diamond Beach

Many blue icebergs wash up on the shores of the Diamond Beach. Their vivid colors starkly contrast with the dark volcanic sands. This black sand beach is very popular with photographers.

Vatnajökull Glacier  

Vatnajökull is the largest glacier in Europe, spanning over 3000 square miles (8100 square kilometers). It has over 30 outlet glaciers and is home to Iceland’s tallest peak. The national park that lies in its shadow, Vatnajökull National Park, was recently designated a UNESCO world heritage site. 

Fjallsjökull Glacier

This glacier is famous for its stunning views over Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon. It’s located in Vatnajökull National Park. 

Kirkjugólf, or “the church floor,” is a series of hexagonal basalt rocks that resemble ancient church ruins. However, the rock formations were actually created by nature. Kirkjugólf is located near the picturesque village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur and can be visited on the way to Fjallsárlón.

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Luxury Boat Tour - Fjallsárlón

Luxury boat tour – fjallsárlón.

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Availability

May - October

2 Hours 30 Minutes

Minimum Age

ISK 255.000

Tour Highlights:

• Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Floating Icebergs
• Private Experience
• Professional guidance
• Safety equipment
• Warm overalls
• Refreshments
• How To Get There

Sail among floating icebergs on a private boat to a secret island by the glacier wall. Set foot on land that only a few have entered. Sip champagne and enjoy light refreshments while you explore the drifting icebergs, the towering Vatnajokull glacier, and the surrounding distinctive, rugged mountain ridge!

You will surely be impressed by offering this private venue for your special one or small group, as this unique opportunity is only available to a few. Visiting the secret island will create everlasting memories about the powerful, raw Icelandic nature. We welcome fit travelers, families, incentive and luxury groups looking for an exceptional adventure!

Preparation – short walk to the boat – cruise and visit to the Island and return takes about 2-2,5 hrs.

Check-in time: 5-10 minutes before the scheduled time.

Gear up, walk to the boat: 15 minutes (walk about 5-7 minutes one way).

Boat tour (45 minutes).

Visit the Island with refreshments: 45 minutes.

Sail back to shore: 15 minutes.

Return to base and gear off: 15 minutes.

6 pax max – price per boat 

Frequently Asked Questions

You should wear warm and comfortable clothing for this tour. Keep in mind that it can be colder out on the lagoon than it is on-land. You will be supplied with warm overalls for the tour.

We recommend bringing warm gloves and a hat/cap. Sunglasses can also be very useful.

Yes, you will get a floatation suit and a life jacket for the tour.

The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any trip at short notice due to weather conditions.

Cancellations due to weather are solely at the discretion of the tour operator.

If the tour is canceled on your date, we offer you to re-schedule your tour. If you are unable to go on the tour on a different date, we will refund your tour in full.

Reservations can be canceled 48 hours prior to departure without penalty.

Cancellations received less than 48 hours before departure are non-refundable.

The 5% percent of the cost is nonrefundable.

Cancellations must be submitted in writing to  [email protected] .

Please be mindful of possible time zone differences. Iceland is in the GMT time zone and cancellations must be submitted at least 48 hours before departure in Icelandic local time (GMT).

If you do need to cancel your tour, we recommend that you contact us as soon as possible. 

The meeting point for this tour is at the Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon parking lot.

It takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to drive to the meeting point from the town of Höfn. From Reykjavík, the drive takes about 5 hours. Pickup and dropoff in Reykjavík is not available for this tour.

Please note that you must be ready at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the start of your tour.

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Glacier Lagoon - Jökulsárlon Boat Tour

Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon - zodiac boat, zodiac boat tour on the majestic fjallsárlón glacier lagoon.

Take a Zodiac boat ride around the beautiful Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon. This trip will provide you with plenty of photo opportunities and the chance to cruise around the floating icebergs of Fjallsárlón.

• Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon
• Zodiac Boat Ride
• Get closer to the icebergs
• Flotation suits and a life jacket
• Knowledgeable guide
• Wildlife sightseeing

What to bring

• Warm layers
• Waterproof top layer
• Sturdy shoes

Tour Snapshot

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Fjallsárlón offers Zodiac Boat Tours on the majestic Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon. Fjallsárlón is an isolated glacial lagoon in the realm of Vatnajökull. Arriving to the lagoon is like stepping into a dreamlike world that offers spectacular sights.

Iceland's tallest volcano, the Öræfajökull glacier, looms above the lagoon and reaches down to the water where icebergs break off into the lake and drift serenely around before melting.

During the tour, we will take you on a journey through time and tell you how the local farmers had to struggle with the forces of nature in their daily lives.

We invite you to experience the breathtaking natural scenery as we take you on a guided boat tour along floating icebergs and giant glaciers.

Fjallsárlón is located just off of the main road, some 47 kilometers east of Skaftafell and 10 kilometers west of Jökulsárlón. Look for a sign that says "Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon Boat Tours".

Meeting point

Fjallsárlón is located just off of the main road, 47 kilometers east of Skaftafell national park and 10 kilometers west of Jökulsárlón. Look for a sign that says “Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon Boat Tours”.

GPS Coordinates:   64°0’57.74184”N 16°21’55.67976”W

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Fjallsarlon glacial lagoon (Iceland) – Visit Tips + Photos

Last updated on November 1, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

The Fjallsarlon glacial lagoon in Iceland is the little brother of the famous Jokulsarlon.  It is definitively worth a stop because you are closer to the glacier! Below is my guide to help you plan your visit to Fjallsarlon glacier lagoon with tips, map and photos.

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Iceland:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Iceland: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: Whale Watching

Fun activity: Swimming in Silfra Fissure

My favorite places to stay:

• Reykjavik: see best rated hotels – e.g. Vintage Boutique Hotel
• Lake Myvatn: see best rated hotels – e.g. Hotel Laxa
• Vik area: see best rated hotels – e.g. Hotel Vik i Myrdal

Why visit the Fjallsarlon glacial lagoon in Iceland?

Fjallsárlón is a glacier lake, also called lagoon, from the glacier system of Vatnajökull. Located in South Iceland , it is not right along Road 1 thus people overlook it and rush to the famous Jökulsárlón.  Have a look:

Is the lagoon of Fjallsarlon worth visiting?

In my opinion, absolutely yes. I think a stop here is really worth it as you are  closer  to the glacier, with interesting background mountains and surrounded by  significantly less tourists (although more and more). You can enjoy a quiet moment. It breathes peace and tranquility. It is not always filled with icebergs, but when there are stop they sometimes land on the shore and epic pictures!

About the name + How to pronounce Fjallsarlon?

Lon means lagoon, Fjall means mountain and sar means river – so ‘Mountain river lagoon’ (from what I understood, but I cannot cross reference to confirm). You can listen to the pronunciation HERE .

More photos after the planning tips.

Planning tips & Map – Fjallsarlon, Iceland

Where is fjallsarlon- map and location.

• Eastern half of the South Coast of Iceland
• 10km west of Jökulsárlón, along Road 1
• Vik to Fjallsarlon = 2h15 drive
• Jokulsarlon to Fjallsarlon = 15min drive
• Höfn to Fjallsarlon = 1h10 drive
• Below is a map to help you get oriented and locate Fjallsarlon:

All my favorite locations are included (with GPS coordinates, map of region and planning tips) in my travel guide eBook to help you easily plan your Iceland road trip (for  5 days , 7 days , 10 days , 14 days …)

Plan your dream trip to Iceland with my guides!

• 8 easy-to-plan maps
• 100+ pre-selected locations
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• 2 easy-to-plan maps
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How to get to Fjallsarlon

• You need a car to visit this lagoon. Most tours head to Jokulsarlon as it is more famous.
• From the Ring Road – a road towards inland with a small sign leads to the glacier which you can see from far away
• 1.5 km North of Ring road
• Large carpark

Need to rent a car in Iceland?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Prefer a  compact car  for the narrow streets in villages
• Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

Visiting Fjallsarlon

• Free access
• You can walk up to a viewpoint area – it is quite impressive, and you can see the glacier wall very well
• The path down can be slippery. Pay attention.
• There can be big variances in the number and size of icebergs. But it is always nice.
• If there are none or little icebergs you can still see the details of the glacier. 
• In Summer do not get too close to the big Skuas bird. They are protecting their nests and can dive bomb towards you if you get too close
• Restaurant – You can find food at the Fjallsarlon Frost Restaurant in Summer (bistro-style with views of the glacier)
• Glacier lagoon Boat tours are proposed to get closer to the glacier – Book your seat
• And check out my complete article with detailed suggestions and tips on what to wear and pack for Iceland   to stay warm and comfortable

Best time to visit Fjallsarlon

• Facing South / South East, beautiful light all day long – but better in the morning for photography
• The Glacier lagoon can be visited all year long – it is always a great stop
• Remember that in Iceland, the weather can change quickly
• If visiting in Winter, be careful as the path down to the shore can be slippery

How long to spend at Fjallsarlon

• You can do a simple stop, look at it from the viewpoint and leave – plan 15minutes
• Or you can walk down to the lagoon and walk around, enjoying the views and icebergs, plan 45min to 2h
• Longer if you book a boat tour

Accommodation near Fjallsarlon

• There is no accommodation right at the lagoon
• You can stay West at the Fosshotel Glacier lagoon – Check out photos and availabilities
• You can head East (after Jokulsarlon) to the Skyrhusid Guest House – Check out photos and availabilities
• For more options and restaurants, you would have to stay either in the town Vik ( see options ) or in the town Höfn ( see options )

Where to stay in Iceland?

My favorites:

• Reykjavik , capital city:   see best rated accommodations  – or  my article on where to stay
• Selfoss , between Golden Circle and South Coast: see best rated accommodations
• Vik,  near waterfalls and glaciers:  see best rated accommodations
• Höfn , gateway to the East fjords:  see best rated accommodations
• Egilsstadir , between fjords and North Iceland:  see best rated accommodations
• Reykjahlid , for the wonders of Lake Myvatn:  see best rated accommodations
• Akureyri , capital of the North:  see best rated accommodations
• Grundarfjordur , on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula:  see best rated accommodations

Fjallsárlón lagoon – pictures from viewpoint and shore

Even if you don’t have time on your itinerary for a full visit. You can already enjoy great views from the viewpoint above the carpark. Here are panoramas. It looks small but don’t be fooled by the photo, it is very impressive! As you can see you are quite close to the glacier tongue.

The path to the shore and avoiding the crowds

The path down is well indicated. Most people will stop at the bottom of the path. If you want to be more alone, walk to the right for a few hundred meters. The lake is quite large and you can get icebergs to yourself (they spread evenly on the lagoon).

From the shore

I took a lot of photos of the beautiful Fjallsarlon but it is very hard to render the beauty and charm of the place. The Fjallsarlon lagoon is quieter than Jokulsarlon because it is a closed lagoon. There is no river going to the sea. Therefore you have more chances of enjoying reflections.

A photographer’s paradise

It was funny to watch all those tripods along the lagoon. This was truly a photographer’s paradise

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Fjallsárlón – glacier, lagoon, icebergs, wildlife and geology

Geology / geography – fjallsjökull.

Fjallsarlon is the lagoon that forms where the glacier melt. At this location, it is Fjallsjökull, one of the arms of the giant glacier Vatnajökull. Large icebergs break away from the ice wall and drift on the lagoon until they melt. The lagoon is also fed by the Breida River (from the glacial lake Breidalon).

It was for me the first time I was able to touch icebergs (until my visit to Diamond Beach ). What a crazy experience! Some of them have strange shapes.

No iceberg is alike. They all have different shapes and colors.

In regards to wildlife, you can see interesting birdlife, especially in Summer:

• Seagulls 
• Skuas protecting their nest in Summer and eating the weaker birds and their young 
• seals – you may spot the top of the head of a seal as it bob in and out of the water

Fjallsarlon boat tour (zodiac)

As I wrote earlier, the 2 main advantages of Fjallsarlon is that

• you are closer to the glacier tongue
• it is a lot less touristic

And if you want to get even closer to the wall of ice, you can enjoy a boat tour. The zodiac boats will take you on a thrilling adventure and you may see ice falling from the glacier! The ride lasts about 45 minutes.  Book your seat.

Plan your trip to Iceland this Summer:

• My itineraries :  5 days ,  1 week ,  10 days ,  2 weeks
• Where to stay in Iceland
• Where to stay in Reykjavik: best hotels
• 36 tips to rent a car in Iceland
• Guide to driving in Iceland
• How to plan a road trip in Iceland

Fjallsarlon in Winter

In Winter the experience is different. Compared to Jokulsarlon, the lagoon of Fjallsarlon freezes in Winter.

You won’t enjoy icebergs, but it is still a fantastic stop. The views of the glacier tongue are much better than in Jokulsarlon, in my opinion.

Fjallsarlon vs Jokulsarlon?

I recommend visiting both Icelandic glacier lagoons, but if you have limited time the essential comparison points are:

• Crowds – Jokulsarlon is way more crowded than Fjallsarlon
• Views – At Fjallsarlon the glacial lagoon is not as wide, so you are closer to the mountains behind, and I preferred their shapes
• Icebergs – the advantage of Jokulsarlon is that the water flows to the sea, so there are a lot more movements for the icebergs than at Fjallsarlon
• Boat tours – you can join a boat tour at both lagoons to get up close to the glacier tongue – book your boat tour at Fjallsarlon
• Kayak – you can kayak at Jokulsarlon – book your spot

Want to see other highlights nearby? 

• The famous Jokulsarlon lagoon and its iceberg – read article
• Diamond beach with icebergs on black sand – read article
• The Svartifoss waterfall and its basalt columns – read article
• The impressive waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss ( read article ) and Skogafoss ( read article )
• The “feather canyon” of Fjadrargljufur – read article
• Or read my complete article about South Iceland
• The Golden Circle – read article
• The best things to do on the Snaefellsnes peninsula – read article
• The best things to do in North Iceland – read article
• Itinerary suggestions – read article

Planning a trip to Iceland?  

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

Plan your dream trip in Iceland thanks to my guide

• 8 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• GPS coordinates direct to the carparks
• Tips to make the most of your time
• 130+ original photos to help you choose

And keep track of your own trip!

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Fjallsárlón vs Jökulsárlón: Comparing the Glacier Lagoons

No trip to Iceland is complete without a visit to one of the country’s pristine glacier lagoons. Thanks to the majestic Vatnajökull glacier, southern Iceland is home to two popular and picturesque lagoons: Fjallsarlon and Jökulsárlón.

Each lagoon is worthy of a visit. However, if your time is limited, the following comparison may help you decide which destination to include on your itinerary.

Jökulsárlón

This magical place is located just south of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier. Jökulsárlón is probably the most well-known glacier lagoon in Iceland. The lake also happens to be Iceland’s deepest. It began forming in the 1930s as the nearby Breiðamerkurjökull glacier retreated.

Since the 1970s, the lagoon has quadrupled in size. It will continue to grow as the glacier melts—visible evidence of the effects of global warming.

Location of Jökulsárlón

Jökulsárlón is a five- to six-hour drive from Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital city. It is easily visible from the country’s main Ring Road, Highway 1. The drive takes you past some of the southern coast’s most breathtaking scenery. This includes:

• The thundering waterfalls Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss
• The black sand beaches of Reynisfjara
• Mýrdalsjökull glacier
• Eyjafjallajökull volcano

In fact, you may want to allow a day or two for travel to the lagoon. This will give you time to stop and take in the spectacular sights offered by South Iceland. For more about this, check out our post South Iceland: 12 Incredible Experiences .

If you prefer not to drive yourself, you can always join one of the many tours available to the area. This includes  this two-day tour that comprises glacier hiking, a boat trip and stops by the southern coast’s black sand beaches and waterfalls.

Both Jökulsárlón and Fjallsárlón are located within the Vatnajökull area. Thisis the second-largest national park in Europe (Russia’s Yugid Va is the largest).

More precisely, Jökulsárlón sits between the towns of Höfn and Skaftafell on the edge of the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. This is a tongue of Vatnajökull that towers more than a half-mile above the crystal waters. It makes this landmark impossible to miss.

Landscapes of Jökulsárlón

Because the lagoon is perpetually growing and shape-shifting as the glacier melts, its appearance can change from day to day. However, two constants are the pure, glassy surface of the water and the vibrant blue of the glacier they reflect.

As massive chunks of ice break off the glacier and fall into the lagoon, they slowly drift out into the North Atlantic Ocean. Here, they are tumbled and polished by the crashing waves before washing up on the black sand beaches of Breiðamerkursandur. There, the smooth chunks of ice glitter like diamonds in the sunlight, giving the area its nickname: Diamond Beach.

Visitors to Jökulsárlón are likely to spot members of the area’s thriving seal population swimming in the lagoon or frolicking along the coastline. The lagoon is also home to several feathered species, including the arctic tern.

However, don’t come to Jökulsárlón in search of the country’s famous puffins. These colorful birds are typically most populous along the tip of the southern coast near the city of Vik.

Activities around Jökulsárlón

During the summer months, boat tours are a popular method for viewing the area. In the high season—July and August—tour operators run as many as 40 trips per day on amphibious and Zodiac vessels. These boats were popularized by their appearance in the movie Tomb Raider and are likely to sell out. For this reason, be sure to reserve your spot as far in advance as possible.

Winter visitors may opt for an ice caving excursion , which are typically available from November to March, depending on the weather. The blue-hued caves form as the Vatnajökull glacier melts and rivers of water run beneath the ice. This creates a maze of tunnels for adventurers to explore.

If you do decide to visit the caves, be sure you’re accompanied by an experienced guide who has checked the cave for safety. The caves can fill with water and even collapse if temperatures rise too high.

If you have your heart set on touring an ice cave, only the Sapphire Blue Ice Cave is open year-round. Located high on the glacier, the cave maintains its shape and condition even in the warmer months. Although, it should be noted that bad weather may still prevent visitors from reaching it.

Many visitors to Jökulsárlón incorporate a search for the Northern Lights into their time at the lagoon. Here, the clear, placid waters reflect and magnify the stunning dancing colors of the auroras. The Northern Lights are most likely to be visible from late September to early April when nights are darkest. Weather can also be a factor in their appearance, so check the aurora forecast beforehand.

Accommodations near Jökulsárlón

If you decide to extend your visit to the lagoon area, you’ll enjoy a wealth of options for overnight accommodations. Located closest to the lagoon are the Hali Country Hotel and the Gerði Guesthouse.  Both of these include guest rooms with private bathrooms.

Slightly further out is Hotel Skaftafell in Freysnes, located near the gorgeous Skaftafell Nature Reserve. This family-run business is well-known for its hospitality and prized for its proximity to the region’s natural wonders.

For visitors seeking a more luxurious setting, the four-star Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon is an elegant choice with a variety of room sizes and service levels available.

In contrast, travelers on a budget should consider Vesturhús Hostel or Hostel Vagnsstaðir , which offer comfortable shared spaces and access to hot showers, internet and a kitchen.

Fjallsárlón

Though smaller and less well-known than its popular counterpart Jökulsárlón, the Fjallsarlon glacier lagoon may just be Iceland’s best-kept secret.

Location of Fjallsárlón

Located almost adjacent to Jökulsárlón, Fjallsarlon is about one-tenth its size, giving visitors the opportunity to get much closer to the calving Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. Most of the tour buses also flock to the larger lagoon, which means the crowds at Fjallsarlon are far more manageable.

From the capital city, Fjallsarlon is about a five-hour drive. Located off the Ring Road between Vik and Höfn, this hidden gem is tucked away behind a small hill just beyond the main road. Watch for the signage and you shouldn’t have trouble finding it.

Landscapes of Fjallsárlón

Once you park your car, a short trail will lead you to an overlook where you can take in the awesome views of the lagoon and surrounding glacier. You’ll bear witness to the powerful sights and sounds of the glacier calving, which can at times resemble a small earthquake at this short distance.

While you won’t get to see the glistening ice chunks on Diamond Beach, you’re still likely to see some smaller icebergs washing up on the shore of the lagoon.

Due to their proximity, the wildlife at Fjallsarlon tends to resemble that of Jökulsárlón. You’re likely to see seals bouncing playfully along the larger icebergs or bobbing in the waves, and during the summer months, large seabirds known as skuas make their nests in the area.

Activities around Fjallsárlón

Zodiac boat tours are available on this smaller lagoon as well. These 90-minute excursions are limited to 10 people per trip, so it’s always a good idea to book your ticket in advance. The small boats allow travelers a much closer view of the glacier and icebergs, and the knowledgeable guides provide unique insight into the nature and history of the region.

After your tour, you can warm up with a hot beverage and grab-and-go meals at Frost restaurant , open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Accommodations near Fjallsárlón

Its slightly more remote location means you’ll have to drive a bit to find a place to stay near Fjallsarlon . The closest hotels are the previously mentioned Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, about 12 miles away, and Hof 1 Hotel , a quaint countryside inn in the town of Höf (about 20 miles away). If they’re booked, you’ll need to drive more than 25 miles to the Hótel Skaftafell at Skaftafell National Park.

Traveling east on the Ring Road, you’ll have a few hostel-style options, including the Reynivellir Guesthouse (about 14 miles away) and Skyrhúsid Guesthouse (16 miles away).

Which to Choose— Jökulsárlón or Fjallsarlon?

Both Jökulsárlón and Fjallsarlon are incredible destinations worthy of your time, and because they’re located so close to each other, you’d be wise to squeeze in a visit to both if your schedule allows. However, if you have to make a choice between them, your decision will be driven by your tourism preferences.

If you don’t mind large crowds and want the quintessential glacier lagoon experience—complete with views of the sparkling shores of Diamond Beach—then you’ll want to plan a trip to Jökulsárlón. However, if you tend to choose the road less traveled, then the more intimate setting of Fjallsarlon is likely to appeal to your sensibilities.

No matter which glacier lagoon you visit, one thing is for certain: the destination is sure to become one of your most vivid and cherished memories from your Icelandic vacation.

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Fjallsárlón Travel Guide

Fjallsárlón is a glacial lagoon in Iceland, located on the southern end of  Vatnajökull glacier.

Explore this region on a self drive tour in Iceland.

Fjallsárlón can be found off Iceland’s main Ring Road , 47 kilometres (29 miles) east of Skaftafell Nature Reserve .

The outlet glacier Fjallsjökull, originating from Vatnajökull , extends all the way to the lagoon’s surface, where large icebergs break away from the ice cap and fall into the water below.

With the many hundreds of icebergs that float atop the lagoon’s surface, Fjallsárlón is considered to be a strong second to the nearby, and more famous, Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon .

Though smaller than its neighbour, it is less known, thus less crowded with other visitors.

Like Jökulsárlón, Fjallsárlón is characterised by its unique and glittering icebergs. No iceberg is alike, with many hundreds of different shapes and sizes floating lazily atop the water. As these icebergs drift from place to place, they will often collide, exulting a loud groan as the ice rubs against itself.

It is possible to take boat tours on Fjallsárlón, an excellent way of both seeing the icebergs up close and adding a sense of adventure to the lagoon’s serene tranquillity. Those who choose to take a boat ride will be provided warm and protective overalls, as well as receive a safety briefing that will further educate you to the surrounding glaciers and their origins.

These tours are undertaken on zodiac boats, meaning that each voyage is personal and fitted to small groups (max. 10 participants). Boat rides on Fjallsárlón will last approximately 45 minutes.

There is also a small bistro at Fjallsárlón, perfect for travellers looking to grab some light snacks and refreshments whilst in the area. Guests can pick from a variety of different meal options, including sandwiches, salads, soups, cakes and sweets. In the summer, the bistro is open from 9.30 AM to 06.00 PM, and in the winter, from 10.00 AM to 05.00 PM.  

For those visitors hoping to travel to Fjallsárlón during the summer months, it is important to be aware of the nesting Skuas, a large species of seabird known to protectively dive bomb anyone foolish enough to walk too close to their eggs.

Other wildlife in the lagoon includes resident seals who will happily bob in and out of the water, making for a fantastic added extra for all those looking to see as much as Iceland can offer.

Popular Tours to Fjallsárlón

Scenic 4-day northern lights tour of vatnajokull ice cave, jokulsarlon & the south coast, affordable 1-hour boat tour of jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, 1-hour zodiac boat tour of jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, attractions nearby.

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