Day Trip Guide

Jökulsárlón Tours from Reykjavik

The ultimate Icelandic day trip. Traveling from the capital to the crown jewel of the South Coast is a journey you will never forget.

The Journey at a Glance

  • 📍 Distance: 370 km (230 miles) each way
  • ⏱️ Drive Time: 4.5 - 5 hours each way
  • ⏳ Total Duration: 14 - 16 hours
  • 🛣️ Route: Scenic Route 1 (Ring Road)

A jokulsarlon glacier lagoon tour from reykjavik is one of the most popular activities in Iceland. While it is a long day, the landscape transitions from mossy lava fields to black sand deserts and massive glacier tongues make the drive an adventure in itself.

Day Trip vs. Multi-Day Tour

Day Trip from Reykjavik

Perfect for travelers with limited time. Most jökulsárlón glacier lagoon day trips from reykjavik include stops at Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, and Vík, plus 1-2 hours at the lagoon.

Pros: Maximize your time; see the highlights in 16 hours.

Cons: A very long day; limited time at each location.

2-3 Day South Coast Tour

If your budget and schedule allow, a multi-day tour offers a much more relaxed pace and includes deeper exploration of the South Coast.

Pros: Includes ice cave tours (winter); more time for photography.

Cons: Requires overnight accommodation budget.

Practical Info

Is it worth the 10-hour round trip?

In a word: Yes. Every jökulsárlón glacier lagoon full day tour from reykjavik is designed to showcase the best of Iceland. For many visitors, seeing the icebergs at the lagoon and Diamond Beach is the singular highlight of their entire Icelandic vacation.

Pro Tip for Self-Drivers

If you are driving yourself from reykjavik to jokulsarlon, consider staying overnight in the town of Vík or Höfn to break up the journey and experience the lagoon at sunrise or sunset without the crowds.

Short on time?

If the drive from Reykjavik feels too long, you might prefer a shorter journey. Explore our guide on visiting Jökulsárlón from the charming coastal town of Vík.

Tours from Vík Guide