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Jokulsarlon Seal Colony
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wildlife
Jökulsárlón is a glacial lagoon located on the southeastern edge of Vatnajökull National Park, famous for its resident colony of seals. The lagoon began to form around 1934 as the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier started retreating from the coastline. Today, its waters reach depths of up to 248 meters, making it the deepest lake in Iceland. Harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) and occasionally grey seals utilize the drifting icebergs as resting platforms and protection from marine predators. During the winter months, large numbers of seals congregate in the lagoon because the tidal currents bring in an abundance of food, including herring and other fish species. The mixture of glacial meltwater and inflowing seawater creates a unique brackish ecosystem that also attracts various seabirds, such as arctic terns and skuas. For visitors, the lagoon provides a rare opportunity to observe seals in their natural habitat amidst shimmering blue ice fragments. As the glacier continues to recede, the lagoon expands, constantly altering the environmental conditions for the resident seal population.
- Location: Iceland
- Top sights: Vestri-Fellsfjara · Eystri-Fellsfjara · Jökulsárlón
- Nearby: Skaftafell (39 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 3 | 1 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 284 | 262 | 222 | 175 | 109 | 92 | 115 | 146 | 220 | 251 | 230 | 271 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The best time to see seals on the icebergs in Jökulsárlón lagoon is from June to August. During summer months the seals are most active and the lagoon is ice-free.
Best time of day
Early morning the seals often lie quietly on the icebergs and are easy to observe. Late afternoon they can be seen swimming and diving.
Etiquette
Keep at least 100 meters from seals on icebergs as they are easily disturbed. Do not feed or touch the animals; this can alter their behavior.
What to bring
Binoculars with high magnification are needed to see the seals in detail on the icebergs. Warm, waterproof clothing and a camera with a telephoto lens are highly recommended.
Getting there
The lagoon is right by the Ring Road and easily reachable by car. There is a large parking lot nearby, and short walks lead to the best viewpoints along the shore.
What to expect
Seals can rest on icebergs for a long time before going into the water. Take your time and watch the lagoon calmly; they often appear suddenly in another spot.
Geography
Facts
- Deepest lake in Iceland, reaching a depth of 248 meters.
- Began forming in 1934 due to glacial retreat.
- Home to a significant population of harbor seals.
- Floating icebergs provide protection from predators.
- Herring brought in by tides is a major food source.
- Part of the expansive Vatnajökull National Park.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Jokulsarlon Seal Colony (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you take boat tours on the lagoon?
Yes, tours are available via amphibian vehicles and Zodiac boats.
What is Diamond Beach?
The nearby black sand beach where sparkling ice chunks wash ashore.
Are there seals there?
Yes, you can often see seals resting on the icebergs.
Is there a parking fee?
Yes, there is a parking fee payable via app or at a machine.
Is swimming allowed in the lagoon?
No, it is life-threatening due to the cold and strong currents.
Jokulsarlon Seal Colony: where is it located?
Jokulsarlon Seal Colony is located in Iceland.
Jokulsarlon Seal Colony: what is there to see?
Highlights include Vestri-Fellsfjara, Eystri-Fellsfjara, Jökulsárlón.
Jokulsarlon Seal Colony: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Jokulsarlon Seal Colony: why is it worth visiting?
Jökulsárlón is a glacial lagoon located on the southeastern edge of Vatnajökull National Park, famous for its resident colony of seals.
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