The glacial system of Jokulsarlon at Vatnajökull National Park is the spot where the largest icecap of Europe can be found. It is a series of impeccably beautiful icebergs that slowly float on the crystal blue lake water. The shores comprise the black sand Icelandic beaches that brilliantly offer a contrast to the iceberg crystals.
Jokulsarlon is the destination where contrasting natural forces come together to present a radiant spectacle to all who come here to revel in the beauty untarnished by man-made forces.
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How to get to Jokulsarlon?
It will take you about five hours to cover this journey if you opt for a car ride or rental from Reykjavik to Jokulsarlon. However, the journey from Akureyri to Jokulsarlon lagoon takes significantly longer, that is, seven hours. Alternatively, you can also book a tour to Diamond Beach, Iceland, or choose public transport. The Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is on Route 1.
How far is Diamond Beach from Reykjavik?
The distance from Reykjavik to Jokulsarlon lagoon, and consequently Diamond Beach that is present right opposite Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon is 370 kilometers.
Why is it called Diamond Beach?
Diamond Beach, Iceland is inspired by the shimmering icebergs that float to the beach from the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. They are ginormous ice blocks that drift off from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier at first. Subsequently, these ice blocks move to the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.
When tourists began visiting this beach to witness the stunning natural occurrence, the Diamond Beach name was coined to be cherished for posterity.
What is the best time to visit Jokulsarlon?
Diamond Beach is one of the perennial tourist destinations that attract tourists all around the year regardless of the seasonal changes. The only difference is that the daylight lasts longer during summer.
We recommend a visit while it is still daytime to appreciate the majesty of the icebergs. Moreover, the shore tends to get crowded as the day progresses.
So, the sooner you can get in, the better. But if you wish to see the Northern Lights, the best time to see this natural phenomenon is during winter nights.
What can you do at Jokulsarlon?
Go Hiking: One of the best hiking trails at Jokulsarlon is at Vatnajökull. Book a tour guide to show you the route and provide the hiking equipment, as the glaciers can be a tricky area to navigate.
Book a Boat Journey: There are numerous boating tours available at Jokulsarlon, especially during the months of July and August. Tourists can choose between the Amphibian boat tour on the lake that offers opportunities for seal-watching, and the Zodiac boat tour gives you a closer look at the icebergs.
Undertake Ice Carving Tours: The Ice Carving tours take tourists on an immersive experience traversing the ice caverns and tunnels. Don’t miss the Crystal Caves – it is nothing short of a modern art exhibition.
Where to stay when visiting Jokulsarlon in Iceland?
Some of the great hotels to stay include Hotel Vik, Hali Country Hotel, Reynivellir, Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon, Icelandair Hotel Herad, and Vagnsstadir HI Hostel.
