Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is Iceland’s deepest lake, formed in 1934 from the retreating Breidamerkurjokull glacier. The lagoon has a unique color since it is composed of seawater and freshwater and the icebergs are over 1,000 years old. Seals can be frequently seen swimming in the lagoon and resting on top of icebergs.
South Iceland Award Accommodations
Hotel Ranga is the only Hyatt points option to book in the Hella region of Iceland and one can use it as a base to explore most of South Iceland. I will be staying there in August 2024 and am very excited for the trip (https://awardcracker.com/my-2024-hyatt-globalist-strategy/). Hotel Ranga selectively releases award nights for Hyatt points and if you are staying for 5 nights, plan to book 365 days in advance.
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon distance from Reykjavik
Jokulsarlon is located to the south of Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier and is about 5 hours drive from Reykjavik. We drove from Hella to visit the lagoon which is a 3 hour drive.
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Accommodations
We stayed at Hali Country Hotel which is the only option there with private bathrooms (Booking.com). The hotel is overpriced, but close to the glacier lagoon and to experience super jeep tours on the Vatnajokull glacier. I recommend staying for 3 nights in Hali town to fully experience the nearby activities.
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon boat tours
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon amphibian & Zodiac boat tours operate (up to 40 boat tours per day in peak summer months) between April and October. Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon kayak tours can be booked during the summer months and Blue Ice Cave tours can be booked during the winter months.
Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon Scenery
Conclusion
Iceland has many natural attractions and tourists tend to miss both Landmannalaugar (https://awardcracker.com/landmannalaugar-iceland/) and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon when visiting for the first time. These two attractions are at the top of my recommendations for any nature lover visiting Iceland.