Day 10: Jökulsárlón Lagoon, Diamond Beach & Iceland's most beautiful Canyon

Standing here feels just like stepping onto a movie set. Today I’ll take you along to some of South Iceland’s most magical locations: the surreal Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, the sparkling Diamond Beach, and the dramatic Múlagljúfur Canyon.

The Otherworldly Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon
Whether you’re starting your journey from east or west, Jökulsárlón is a must-see. Known as Iceland’s largest glacier lagoon, it’s filled with gigantic, blue-tinted icebergs slowly drifting along. The lagoon was formed when the glacier began retreating, leaving behind a deep basin that filled with meltwater and chunks of glacial ice. Since it connects directly to the sea, the water is brackish—making it a safe haven for seals, as the drifting ice blocks out their main predators: orcas.

I arrived early in the morning, before the crowds, and it was pure magic. Several tours are available on the lagoon, from zodiac boats to amphibian rides. I joined an amphibian boat tour (no sponsorship here—just genuine recommendation!). It brought me surprisingly close to the iceberg formations, and with a little luck, you’ll spot seals gracefully swimming—or even lounging on a floating block of ice. With the glacier looming in the background, the scene feels like something out of a fantasy movie.

Diamond Beach: Ice and Black Sand
Right next to the lagoon lies Diamond Beach, one of the most photogenic locations in Iceland. Here, crystal-clear ice chunks wash up on the black sand shoreline, glittering like scattered diamonds in the sunlight. The striking contrast between inky black sand and sparkling ice makes it a dream for photographers and travelers alike.

The Enchanting Múlagljúfur Canyon
After soaking in the icy beauty of Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach, I set off for the Múlagljúfur Canyon, often described as Iceland’s most beautiful canyon. Getting there is part of the adventure: a rough gravel road best tackled with a 4x4. But trust me—every bump along the way is worth it.

From the parking area, the hike takes about an hour uphill. Good hiking boots are a must, as the trail climbs steadily. But when you arrive at the viewpoint, the reward is beyond words: emerald-green canyon walls, cascading waterfalls, and mist swirling through the valley. When I visited, the fog added an eerie, fairytale-like atmosphere, making the view feel almost unreal. If there’s one place in Iceland that truly captures the phrase “breathtaking,” this is it.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Best time to visit: early morning or late evening for fewer crowds and soft light.

• Hiking: bring proper hiking boots, water, and allow enough time for the Múlagljúfur trail.

• Photography: a wide-angle lens is essential to capture the vast scale of Jökulsárlón and the canyon.

South Iceland doesn’t just impress—it sweeps you off your feet. Between drifting icebergs, glittering beaches, and hidden canyons, every stop feels like stepping deeper into a living fairytale.