Langjokull Glacier: the Second-largest Glacier in Iceland

Half of what makes us the Land of Fire and Ice (and also why we’re called Iceland, we guess) is our icy giants, the glaciers. The glaciers in Iceland are not just impressive frozen landscapes but also the gateways to all sorts of icy adventures. One of the go-to glaciers for interesting sights and exciting activities is Langjokull Glacier, the second-largest glacier in Iceland.

In this article, we tell you all about this gigantic icy escape, what you can expect from a visit, and which exciting adventures will allow you to experience and explore its frozen terrain. So, let’s not have another second melt away. Here’s what you need to know about Langjokull.

Where is Langjokull Glacier in Iceland?  

Langjokull sits in the western part of Iceland, in one of the more remote regions called the Highlands. Despite being found in such a remote area, Langjokull Glacier is just 150 kilometers (a 2.5-hour drive) from the capital city of Reykjavik.

This means that it’s possible to make visiting Langjokull a day outing from Reykjavik, but only during the warmer months when you’ll have enough daylight hours for traveling back and forth, as well as your chosen glacier adventure. Since you’ll have to use our popular Ring Road route to reach the glacier, many just opt to have Langjokull as a stop along a road trip.

What to Know About Langjokull

• As mentioned, Langjokull is the second-largest glacier in Iceland, but wait till you see its actual specs:

• 64 kilometers (40 miles) long

• 24 kilometers (15 miles) wide

• Covers 1025 square kilometres of land

• Stands 1450 meters (4757 feet) above sea level 

• Langjokull’s acclaimed title of the second-largest glacier does not only relate to Iceland but all of Europe!

• There’s a good reason why you’ll find the Kjalhraun Volcano near Langjokull. It’s hard to believe, but this icy giant sits on top of two very active and very hot volcanic systems. But don’t worry, visiting Langjokull is perfectly safe. We’re well equipped to spot the warning signs for any potential eruptions weeks in advance and are also well prepared for when eruptions occur.

• When exploring the glacier, you may see dark black streaks in the ice. This is not dirt, but actually the remnants of its buried fiery side. These streaks are the ashes of volcanic eruptions that occurred thousands of years ago.

• Langjokull is actually the glacier’s second name. Once upon a time, it was Balljokull, which originated from the old Icelandic word “bollur,” meaning “bubble” or “orb.” This is said to have been because of Langjokull’s rounded ice cap. When exactly it got its new name is unknown, but Langjokull means “Long Glacier.” After you’ve come to visit, let us know which one you think suits the glacier best.

• If it wasn’t for Langjokull, many of our most famous Golden Circle attractions wouldn’t exist. This is because the glacial meltwater from Langjokull is responsible for the water of Gullfoss Waterfall and the water found in the Silfra Fissure, allowing one to go diving or snorkeling between two continents.

• Langjokull’s Ice Cave is not natural but man-made, and it is 100% for the benefit of visitors to the island. Most of our natural ice caves are closed throughout the warmer months due to safety concerns (the majority of which relate to melting ice). So, a group of experts, including engineers, geophysicists, and architects, got together and created a 500-meter-long, 3x3.5-meter tunnel that sits below 25 meters of glacier ice, ensuring that temperatures always stay well below freezing, and visitors can check it out all year round.

Things to Do at Langjokull

Exploring Langjokull can take on different forms. It’s up to you to choose the one most suited (or find the time to do them all):

Snowmobiling Across Langjokull

This fast-paced way of exploring Langjokull is for the adrenaline junkies among us. All accessories and gear, such as a helmet, insulated jumpsuit, and giant mittens, will be provided. Depending on which tour you choose, you will either get picked up or meet up at Reykjavik, Husafell Center, or Gullfoss.

Riding Super Jeeps Across Langjokull

This is exactly what it sounds like; you’ll be traversing the glacier in a Jeep that looks like it’s on steroids. This way of exploring the glacier can be exciting but leaves all the driving and responsibilities to a pro. Once again, points of departure can vary depending on the tour operator you use.

Riding Monster Trucks Across Langjokull

If you double down on the most extreme-sized vehicle to explore Langjokull with, this would be it. These monster trucks look more like extreme 4x4 buses that, once again, promise a once-in-a-lifetime experience without having to be in charge or responsible for anything. Departure points are dependent on the tour operator used.

Going on a Tour of the Langjokull Ice Cave

Langjokull Ice Cave can only be explored via a guided tour (irrespective of no-melting, safety is still a concern). All gear and equipment, such as helmets, are provided, and a professional guide will take you around the cave and share valuable insights and knowledge. Yet again, tour departure points vary.

Combining Langjokull Adventures

If you book a spot on a combination day tour, you’ll get the chance to do multiple of the above-mentioned on the same day.

How Do I Get to Langjökull Glacier? Your Travel Question Answered

This answer will vary depending on whether you’ll be driving yourself or going on a tour. If it’s one of the tours, you’ll have to stick with their arrangements for pick-up or meet-up spots. If you’re planning on driving yourself, you’ll have two options: After driving 100+ kilometers on the Ring Road towards Borgarnes, you can either travel via Husafell and take Road 518 or go via Gullfoss.

Can You Visit Langjökull Glacier on Your Own?

We may not have guards warding off any trying guests, but we cannot stress enough how exploring the glaciers in Iceland on your own is not a good idea. The icy terrain can be treacherous if you don’t know it well, with all sorts of deep crevasses and icy formations that may look safe to climb and make for a great picture but most certainly aren’t. Rather book a spot on one of the tours mentioned above, and experience Langjokull in comfort and safety.

Is Langjökull Glacier Worth Visiting?

After reading about all the exciting ways to explore this geological phenomenon, visiting Langjokull Glacier is absolutely worth it. If it forms part of a larger road trip around the island, even more so!

If you rent a campervan in Iceland and do your road-tripping this way, you’ll even be able to take advantage of beautiful (and super affordable!) accommodation options such as the Husafell Campsite, which will get you pretty close to Langjokull. So, Ring Road your way to Langjokull in comfort and come experience this breathtaking frozen natural wonder for yourself.