Kayak Fjallsárlón: Glacier Lagoon Kayaking in Skaftafell, Iceland
Paddle among towering icebergs on Fjallsárlón, a glacier-fed lagoon at the edge of Vatnajökull National Park. This small-group, 90-minute tour supplies drysuits and local guides who position you for the best light and safest passages through an otherworldly ice field.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers under your drysuit
Wear thermal base layers and a light insulating mid-layer—drysuits keep water out but not internal warmth.
Secure electronics in a dry bag
Bring a compact camera or phone in a waterproof case; guides may pause for photos but water is always a risk.
Arrive early via the Ring Road gravel access
The meeting point is down a gravel spur; allow extra time for slow approach and parking near the white equipment van.
Listen to guide briefings
Cold-water procedures and paddling technique explained at the start keep the group safe and moving efficiently.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Short walk to the moraine ridge for a quieter vantage point
- •Nearby Svínafellsjökull offers dramatic glacier faces and fewer visitors
Wildlife
- •Arctic tern
- •Harbor seal
Conservation Note
Visitors are asked to follow leave-no-trace principles—avoid climbing on icebergs or disturbing wildlife; guided tours keep impacts low by limiting group sizes.
The lagoon formed as Vatnajökull's outlet glaciers retreated and advanced over centuries; nearby volcanic activity has laid ash bands visible in the ice.
Photographer's Notes
- • On-water near the central bergs for reflections
- • Shoreline moraine for context shots with glacier and volcano
- • Low-angle shots from the kayak for dramatic foreground ice
What to Bring
Moisture-wicking base layersEssential
Keeps you warm under the provided drysuit without retaining moisture
Neoprene booties or warm socksEssential
Protects feet during short shore carries and provides warmth in cold spray
Insulated gloves or pogiesEssential
Keeps fingers functional for paddling and camera handling in cold conditions
Waterproof camera or dry bag
Protects electronics from spray and lets you capture lagoon light safely
Common Questions
Do I need prior kayaking experience?
No—basic paddling instruction is provided, but participants should be comfortable with moderate physical activity and sitting for the duration.
What equipment is provided?
Drysuits, lifejackets, paddles, and kayaks are supplied; bring your own base layers and footwear.
Is there an age limit?
Participants must be at least 10 years old and able to follow safety instructions.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled for high winds, heavy fog, or unsafe conditions; full refund if canceled by operator or if you cancel at least 24 hours prior.
How do I get to the meeting point?
Drive off the Ring Road onto a short gravel access; the guide’s white equipment van is parked at the end—use the provided GPS link.
Can I bring a camera?
Yes—bring a compact camera or phone in a dry bag; larger DSLRs are possible but more cumbersome and require secure waterproofing.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1–1.5 hours
Location
Skaftafell, Southern Region
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required—comfortable sitting and paddling for 90 minutes and able to follow safety instructions
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