When we think about natural wonders, Iceland is definitely one of the first countries to come to mind. Its location is so close to the north pole, and the volcanic activity at play, truly shape fascinating scenery in the country’s landscape. The Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon has to be the main attraction; the view, the wildlife, and the tour help make it the number one destination for tourists, but how did this diversity come to life?

A natural design

The glacier is located on the edge of Vatnajökull National Park where Iceland meets the Atlantic Ocean, but over the years and the tidal changes, the glaciers started receding from the edge in an inland direction. Over the last few years, climate change did its part and some glaciers melted which increased the size of the lagoon and made it as big as it is today. The size isn’t the best feature though, the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon is the deepest lake in Iceland at 248 meters (814 ft).

The unique wildlife

The animals that can be found in that region are the reason behind the special stature of the lagoon. Whether you’re seeking land animals, birds, or even fish, you’ll find it there. Starting with the sea creatures, a vast range of fish types call this lake their home. Trout, salmon, krill, herring and capelan, which serve as food for the big seabirds such as Skuas can be found in the lake.

The big and dark birds, nesting in large sand deposits, feast on the fish and even on smaller birds like gannets and puffins. Apart from the hunger games between birds and fish, the lagoon is also home for seals with fish being their main dish. Most of the time though, seals can be found just laying there on the icebergs and glaciers.

Completing the experience with the tour

The lagoon is privately owned by the Jökulsárlón Landowners Association and they, along with other corporations, organize two types of tours through the pond.

The first type is the amphibian boat tour, rarely found in other places around the world. These boats allow tourists to venture between the icebergs in the water and witness the seals in their natural habitat on land. Part of this tour also is to taste 1000 years old ice, collected specifically from that location.

The other type is the Zodiac Tour, it allows even closer encounters with wildlife in the area and comes even closer to the icebergs to get that “Titanic experience” (hopefully not though!).

Unfortunately, these two tours are only available between the months of May and October and within specific hours due to the harsh weather. However, an on-sight restaurant is open for business all year long.

It’s easy to distinguish the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon from other natural wonders around the world because it’s not limited to sightseeing but it presents a personal experience to get in touch with nature there and the animals. Iceland has always been the place to go to when it comes to natural beauties, and this lagoon is just one of its many attractions.