Paddle among floating icebergs, then strap on crampons and ascend the breathtaking Breidamerkurjokull Glacier — two iconic adventures in one unforgettable day on Iceland's south coast.
Featured Tour
The Glacier Combo Kayaking at Glacier Lagoon and Glacier Hike is the ultimate way to experience one of Iceland's most spectacular natural wonders. You'll begin on the lagoon itself, gliding silently through crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering ice formations while your expert guide narrates the story of each passing berg. Then, after a short breather, a super jeep whisks you to the edge of Breidamerkurjokull Glacier, where crampons and safety gear are fitted before your ascent into a world of blue ice, ancient crevasses, and — if fortune smiles on you — a dazzling natural ice cave.







About This Tour
Few experiences in Iceland match the sheer variety packed into this combo adventure. Starting on the water, you'll don a kayak and glide across the luminous glacier lagoon, weaving between icebergs that glow in shades of white, grey, and electric blue. Your guide shares fascinating facts about how each berg calved from the glacier and what its journey across the lagoon looks like over days, weeks, and months.
Once back on dry land, a brief rest prepares you for the second act. A super jeep transfers your group to the glacier's edge, where crampons are fitted and a safety briefing is delivered before you set foot on the ice. The hike up Breidamerkurjokull takes you through a landscape that feels almost alien — rippled ice, vivid blue seracs, and meltwater streams carving channels through the ancient frozen surface.
Throughout the glacier hike, your guide explains the dramatic changes this ice mass has undergone in recent decades, connecting the experience to the broader story of Iceland's shifting environment. On fortunate days, the group encounters a natural ice cave — an ethereal blue chamber formed deep within the glacier. Whether you start with kayaking or hiking, the order is flexible, ensuring every participant gets the best possible conditions for both activities.
Travel Guide
Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Iceland's south coast weather is famously unpredictable, so layering is essential. Start with a moisture-wicking thermal base layer, add a warm fleece mid-layer, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer shell. Your lower half deserves the same treatment — thermal leggings beneath waterproof trousers will keep you comfortable both on the lagoon and up on the ice where temperatures drop sharply even in summer.
Footwear matters enormously on this combo tour. Sturdy, ankle-supporting waterproof hiking boots are strongly recommended, as crampons will be fitted over them during the glacier portion. Avoid trail runners or casual sneakers. For kayaking, a waterproof dry bag to stow your camera and valuables is a smart addition. Sunglasses with UV protection are also worth packing — the glare off ice and water can be intense on bright days.
Your adventure begins with a welcome briefing at the Jokulsarlon car park, where your guide introduces the day's schedule and safety protocols. Kayak equipment is fitted — including a dry suit if conditions require — and you'll receive a quick paddling tutorial before launching onto the lagoon. The kayak session lasts roughly 90 minutes, during which you'll weave through icebergs of all shapes and sizes while learning about their origin and formation.
After a short refreshment break, the group boards a super jeep for the transfer to the foot of Breidamerkurjokull Glacier. Crampons are fitted on-site and your guide walks you through glacier safety before the ascent begins. The hike covers varied icy terrain and typically lasts around two hours. Your guide points out glaciological features throughout, and the group explores the surface formations, meltwater channels, and — weather and conditions permitting — a stunning ice cave.
This tour operates year-round, but availability and specific conditions vary by season. Summer visits offer extended daylight and generally calmer lagoon waters, making kayaking conditions ideal. Winter tours deliver dramatic moody light and a higher probability of encountering well-formed ice caves on the glacier. In all seasons, the tour runs in most weather conditions — Iceland-style resilience is part of the experience — though safety always takes priority and rare cancellations can occur.
Participants should be in reasonable physical health and comfortable on uneven, slippery terrain. The glacier hike is rated moderate; anyone with mobility concerns should contact the operator in advance. Children are generally welcome on the glacier portion, though minimum age or weight requirements may apply for kayaking — confirm at booking. Wear or carry all your layers to the meeting point, as there are no changing facilities on-site. Arriving 10–15 minutes early is strongly advised.
Traveler Reviews
See why adventurers call our jokulsarlon glacier lagoon hike the most unforgettable day in Iceland.
"Absolutely one of the greatest days of my life. The kayaking across the lagoon was surreal — floating among icebergs while seals bobbed nearby — and the glacier walk afterward felt like stepping onto another planet. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable about glaciology and kept the group safe while making everything fun. I cannot recommend this combo experience highly enough to anyone visiting Iceland."
"We were nervous about the physical demands but our guide assured us the pace was suitable for all fitness levels, and he was absolutely right. Paddling through the crystal-blue lagoon surrounded by calving ice was breathtaking, and strapping on crampons for the glacier walk felt genuinely adventurous. The whole day was expertly organized with no wasted time. Hands down the highlight of our entire two-week Iceland trip."
"A truly spectacular experience that I would happily do again. The lagoon portion was magical — the silence on the water broken only by cracking ice is something I will never forget — and the guides were professional and safety-conscious on the ice. I knocked off one star only because the meeting point instructions could be a bit clearer for first-time visitors to the area. That small hiccup aside, this is a must-do adventure in Iceland."
"This jokulsarlon glacier lagoon hike and kayak combo is the perfect way to experience Vatnajokull from two completely different perspectives. Seeing the glacial walls up close while kayaking and then actually walking on the ice itself gave us a deep appreciation for how dramatic and fragile this landscape is. Our guide shared fascinating facts about climate change and the glacier's retreat throughout the day. A meaningful, thrilling, and beautifully guided adventure."
FAQ
Everything you need to know before embarking on this unforgettable glacier adventure.
Ready to paddle among icebergs and walk on ancient ice — all in one epic day with the Glacier Combo Kayaking at Glacier Lagoon and Glacier Hike?
Reserve Your SpotSpaces on this combo adventure fill up fast — especially during Iceland's peak travel months. Secure your spot today and prepare for a day of paddling, hiking, and pure wonder on one of the planet's most extraordinary glacial landscapes.