Kayaking Fjallsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Paddle among icebergs

Paddle among icebergs on a glacier lagoon formed by Iceland's highest volcano.

Kayaking on Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon in East Iceland puts you on the water among icebergs with a live English-speaking guide, drysuits and all paddling equipment provided, in a group of no more than six. The activity runs 90 minutes. Minimum age is 12. Moderate physical fitness is required, and it is not suitable for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnancy or cardiovascular concerns.

The experience

You arrive at Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon ready to paddle. The guide, who owns the company, meets you and fits you with a drysuit, lifejacket and paddling gear, then leads you onto the water among icebergs calved from Vatnajökull, Iceland's largest glacier. The lagoon sits in Skaftafell, part of Vatnajökull National Park, and the icebergs themselves formed on the slopes of Iceland's highest mountain. The group stays small, never more than six paddlers, so the guide can watch everyone and steer you toward the best angles for photographs.

The paddle lasts 90 minutes on the water. You navigate through the natural ice formations, moving at a pace the guide sets based on conditions and the group's comfort. The guide handles safety and navigation while you focus on the paddle strokes and the landscape around you. By the end of the session, you've spent time on an active glacier lagoon (a place most visitors only see from the shore), and you have the photographs to prove it.

What’s included

• Kayaking guide in English.
• kayak and paddle.
• drysuit and lifejacket.
• all paddling equipment and safety gear.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 1 Jun 2027

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (12 to 60 years) · Under 12: can't be booked

GroupUp to 6

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Paid on siteUS$ 8.23

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Glacier and Volcano Expeditions

Is this one for you?The 90-minute paddle fits a free afternoon or a morning slot in a longer day exploring Skaftafell and the surrounding glacier region. If you have limited time in East Iceland, this activity gets you on the water without eating up a full day.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What is Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon and how did the icebergs get there?

Fjallsárlón is a glacier lagoon in Vatnajökull National Park in East Iceland where icebergs calve from Vatnajökull, the country's largest glacier. The icebergs themselves formed on the slopes of Iceland's highest mountain and drift on the lagoon's meltwater.

Do I need kayaking experience to paddle on Fjallsárlón?

No prior kayaking experience is required. The guide leads the activity and ensures you are safe and comfortable on the water. You do need moderate physical fitness and must be at least 12 years old.

What gear is provided and what do I need to bring?

The activity includes a drysuit, lifejacket, paddle and kayak. Bring warm layers underneath the drysuit, a waterproof camera if you want photos, and any personal items you need. Parking fees are not included.

How long is the kayaking session and what time of day does it run?

The activity lasts 90 minutes on the water. Specific departure times are not listed in the booking details, so confirm the schedule when you reserve.

Is this activity suitable for someone visiting Iceland for the first time?

Yes, if you meet the fitness requirement. The guide handles navigation and safety, and the small group size means personalized attention. The 90-minute duration fits easily into an afternoon in the region.