Kayak amongst the icebergs of Iceland
Experience the incredible Fjallsárlón Glacier lake and enjoy an unforgettable glacier kayaking tour in Vatnajökull National Park.Information guide to glacier kayaking in Iceland
The glacier lakes of Vatnajökull are incredible and the best way to experience the world-famous icebergs that float on these lakes is by gliding amongst them in a kayak. Glacier and Volcano Expeditions offer the Glacier Kayaking Iceland tour and this guide aims provide information and to answer frequently asked questions that you may have.
What is a glacier lagoon?
A glacier lagoon/lake forms when a retreating glacier leaves a depression in the landscape that fills with meltwater, creating a lake at the glacier's base. Icebergs often break off from the glacier's edge, floating in the lagoon, which is characterized by the presence of these ice chunks, the sediment-filled glacial ice, and the surrounding landscape.
The Formation Process
Glacial Erosion during advancement period:
As a glacier moves across the land, its immense pressure and movement erodes the ground. Outlet glaciers can carve out depressions and hollows in the bed surface beneath the glacier.
Glacier Retreat:
During warmer periods, or due to climate change, the glacier retreats.
Meltwater Accumulation:
As the glacier retreats the ice evacuates and leaves behind a deep depression that fills with meltwater from the glacier.
Iceberg Calving:
During the glacial retreat phase ice continues to melt and the position of the glacier terminus recedes further. Large chunks of ice break off and float in the newly formed lagoon. The process of ice breaking off the front of the glacier and into the lake is called calving. The ice that breaks off becomes an iceberg.
Why kayak on a glacier lake?
Join us on a Glacier Kayaking Iceland tour & you will enjoy the following features
Environmentally friendly - The environmental impact created during the tour is absolutely minimal as the kayaking tours are human powered. There is no need to create pollution or alter the natural environment.
Adventurous - The layout of the icebergs is constantly changing which makes the tour a unique adventure for guides and guests alike!
Beautiful icebergs - Kayaking is a unique way to experience the beauty of the volcanic icebergs on the water, up close and personal.
Rewarding experience- You are required to power your craft with your own energy. This interactive approach is a rewarding way to experience the glacier lake.
Peaceful - Kayaking is a quiet activity, there is no engine noise pollution.
Freedom to move- You are the captain of your own craft.
Incredible location - Mind blowing scenery of Öræfajökull, Iceland’s tallest volcano and Fjallsjökull glacier.
Unique activity - Iceland is the only place in the world where you can kayak amongst icebergs that formed on the top of an active volcano. Glacier and Volcano Expeditions are the only company that offers kayaking tours on Fjallsárlón glacier lagoon
Where are the glacier lakes located?
The glacier lakes are located in the south east of Iceland at the front of the outlet glaciers of Vatnajökull.
There are multiple glacier lakes in Iceland, each with their own unique geographical characteristics.
Fjallsárlón is the name of the glacier lake that Glacier and Volcano Expeditions guide the Glacier Kayaking Iceland tour on and the meeting location is indicated in the google maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/z9WgHfNc4k1mJD7TA
Fjallsárlón is the lake located at the front of Fjallsjökull glacier which is the largest outlet glacier that flows down from Icelands tallest volcano, Öræfajökull.
Fjallsárlón is located 370 km drive east from Reykjavík.
How to join a glacier kayaking tour?
Glacier and Volcano Expeditions offer the Glacier kayaking Iceland tour on a scheduled basis throughout the summer months starting in May and finishing in October. Please view booking the calendar to check the availability.
If you wish to join a public group tour you can make your reservation online via the booking calendar below. Please select the date the you wish to join with the total number of tour participants and then proceed through the checkout process.
For more information on the Glacier kayaking Iceland tour please visit the product web page, link here.
Glacier kayaking Iceland tour availability schedule
Private glacier kayaking tours
For those that wish to make a private reservation please contact us to arrange this. Private reservations are recommended for:
Families with small children
Large groups (more than 6 participants)
Photography and film projects
Guests who wish to experience the lake without other tour participants
Custom projects and guiding services
Who is the glacier kayaking tour suitable for?
Glacier and Volcano Expeditions are proud to have guided thousands of individuals from different nationalities, ethnicities, religions, and countries across the globe. We extend a warm welcome to all visitors to Iceland and highly recommend the Glacier Kayaking Iceland tour for the following groups:
Adventurous and Open-minded
Individuals who are open to new experiences and enjoy exploring nature are likely to thrive on a glacier kayaking tour. Those who appreciate the thrill of being surrounded by stunning landscapes and should enjoy the elements in the Icelandic wilderness.
Nature Enthusiasts
People who have a strong affinity for water, nature and wilderness will find glacier kayaking particularly appealing. A love for serene environments and the beauty of glaciers can enhance the overall experience.
Fitness-minded
Those who enjoy physical activity and have a moderate level of fitness will likely find glacier kayaking rewarding. The physical demands of kayaking and the ability to navigate the water make it ideal for active individuals.
Social and Team-oriented
Those who enjoy group activities and meeting new people often enjoy the social aspect of such tours. Glacier kayaking can be a great way to bond with others while sharing an incredible experience.
Cautious yet Curious
Individuals who balance curiosity with caution might also enjoy this type of tour. They appreciate the beauty of adventure but are also aware of safety protocols and are willing to follow guidance for a secure experience.
What kind of kayak is used on
the glacier kayaking tour?
User friendly boats and safety equipment
The safest and most comfortable position while kayaking is seated in your boat. At Glacier and Volcano Expeditions, we have selected packrafts for our glacier kayaking tours due to their exceptional user friendly characteristics. The unique design of these boats offers unmatched stability, significantly reducing the likelihood of participants tipping over and falling into the lake, making our tours beginner-friendly.
Our inflatable packraft boats provide a comfortable seating experience and are easy to maneuver through the small icebergs that often dot the glacier lake. While the risk of tipping is minimal, we prioritize safety by ensuring that everyone wears a drysuit and a life jacket which are properly secured for a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Single and double boats available
There are single and a double boats available and both of these boats have advantages and disadvantages. For emaple, Single boats are great for those who want total freedom over their craft or wish to take photos of their partner in a separate boat. Double boats are great for those who prefer to combine forces with a buddy, parents that pair with a child and for those who feel more confident with a friend!
What clothing is best to wear on
the glacier kayaking tour?
It is important to wear the correct clothing and footwear whenever you venture into the wilderness in Iceland as the weather here can be harsh and unforgiving.
Wearing hiking clothing is ideal with synthetic hiking trousers, wool socks, polyester or wool thermal base layers and a wool jumper or down jacket are recommended.
The best clothing layer system is:
Warm base layers made of synthetic or wool fibers (not cotton)
Warm mid layers made of synthetic or wool fibers, lightweight down jacket, soft-shell, wool jumper, etc
Warm woolly hat
Sunglasses
Glacier and Volcano Expeditions advise people to avoid cotton clothing as cotton soaks up moisture and provides very little warmth once it becomes wet.
The drysuit will keep you dry when you are paddling, but the air is still cold when you are on the glacier lake. You will be thankful for bringing the extra layers and wearing them all beneath your drysuit.
Taking sunglasses is always a good idea even when it is raining at the beginning of the tour as it likely that it will become sunny at some point and the glare on the water and ice can make it hard to keep your eyes open.
Drysuit and life jacket information for glacier kayaking
What is a drysuit and why is it necessary?
A drysuit is a waterproof, one-piece suit designed to be worn over your clothing. It is essential during kayaking tours to keep you warm and dry, particularly if you happen to fall into the lake.
Benefits of Wearing a Drysuit
Waterproof Design: The drysuit features a waterproof zipper along with neck and wrist gaskets, providing an effective seal against water.
Comfort in Rainy Conditions: Beyond its protective functions, the drysuit adds an extra layer of comfort during wet weather.
Safety Gear Provided
Participants are required to wear a drysuit and a life jacket, both of which will be provided. The drysuit ensures you remain warm and comfortable throughout the kayaking segment, while the life jacket will keep you afloat should you inadvertently fall into the glacier lagoon.
Childrens sizes
We offer children's drysuit sizes, however, we kindly request that families contact us before making a reservation to ensure the drysuit will fit children adequately.
Drysuit size chart
Glacier and Volcano Expeditions require all participants to wear a drysuit whilst kayaking on the glacier lake and we have sizes S, M, L, XL and XXL available. We can accommodate for people with a height range between 140cm (4’6 ft) and 198cm tall (6’6 ft). Also, the total weight limit on the boats is 100Kg.
Drysuit sizes available: S, M, L, XL and XXL - please check the size chart in the gallery to ensure that you fit into a drysuit. You can fit a drysuit that is a little too big, but you cannot fit a drysuit that is a little too small for your body!
Private kayak tours
Exploring the Icelandic wilderness is a unique experience and Glacier and Volcano Expeditions are proud to offer you the opportunity to make a private reservation in order for your tour to be customized and catered to your specific style of adventure.
Private Glacier Kayaking Iceland tours are recommended for:
Families
Groups with more than six tour participants
Special tours such as luxury tours
Photography and film projects
Private combination tours
Eco tourism - Glacier Kayaking
Our Commitment
Ecotourism is a responsible and sustainable approach to travel that focuses on preserving natural areas while supporting local communities and offering educational experiences for visitors. It emphasizes minimal impact on ecosystems and often includes wildlife viewing and cultural interactions in pristine locations like national parks. The key principles of ecotourism include protecting biodiversity, benefiting local economies, and educating tourists about conservation and respectful travel practices.
Minimal Environmental Impact of Our Glacier Kayaking Operations
Our glacier kayaking operations are designed to impose minimal environmental impact while providing an unforgettable experience. By employing human-powered methods, we ensure that our activities are eco-friendly and sustainable. Here are some key points highlighting our commitment to preserving the environment:
Leave No Trace: Our boats are carried to the lake, assembled at the water's edge, and removed afterward, leaving the environment pristine.
Low Impact Practices: We carefully plan our tours to minimize disturbance to natural ecosystems and wildlife habitats.
Peace and Quiet: Kayaking eliminates noise pollution allowing you, other people and the wildlife to enjoy the natural surroundings in peace.
Environmentally Friendly Tours: Without engines, there’s no risk of chemical or oil pollution.
Carbon-Friendly Adventures: Our tours produce no greenhouse gases.
Preserving the Landscape: We do not alter the environment or leave equipment in the wilderness between tours.
Join Glacier and Volcano Expeditions for a kayaking adventure that aligns with sustainable practices while immersing you in the breathtaking beauty of Iceland!
Glacier kayaking tours
Glacier and Volcano Expeditions offer three distinct kayaking tours centered around Fjallsárlón, a breathtaking glacier lake situated at the base of Fjallsjökull, the largest outlet glacier from Öræfajökull, Iceland's tallest volcano. Each tour provides a unique perspective on the stunning glacial landscapes and icebergs.
Glacier Kayaking Iceland
This experience allows participants to glide through the icy waters of Fjallsárlón, surrounded by floating icebergs and stunning mountain views. It is ideal for those looking to embrace the serenity and beauty of Iceland’s glaciers.
Priavte Glacier Hike and Kayaking Combination
This tour caters to those who prefer a more personalized experience. Participants not only kayak but also hike on Iceland's stunning glaciers, providing a comprehensive adventure in one of the world’s most mesmerizing landscapes.
Private Kayak, Glacier Hike and Ice Climbing
For the adrenaline seekers, this unique tour blends the calmness of kayaking with the excitement of ice climbing. It is designed for those wanting to push their limits while discovering the breathtaking beauty of Iceland’s icy terrain.