Route 1 beside Jökulsárlón will close overnight on Sunday 28 September from 20:00 until 07:00 Monday morning for paving and bridge-end repairs. A single supervised crossing is scheduled at 22:00. The closure affects the section of the Ring Road that runs directly past the lagoon and Diamond Beach.
Why this matters for photographers
Late September is one of the most rewarding times to visit Jökulsárlón, with low golden-hour light, early autumn colours, and the possibility of northern lights after dark. Many photographers plan evening or overnight sessions at Diamond Beach precisely during these hours. A closed road means that access from either direction will not be possible outside the scheduled 22:00 crossing window, disrupting arrival and departure timing for night shoots.
What photographers should do
- Arrive at Jökulsárlón before 20:00 on Sunday if you intend to shoot that evening, or plan to reach the site after 07:00 on Monday morning.
- If you need to cross Route 1 during the closure, note that one supervised crossing is available at 22:00 — plan your position and equipment accordingly before that time.
- Check the Vegagerðin (Icelandic Road Administration) website at road.is for any updates to the schedule before you travel, as closure times can shift.
Jökulsárlón and Diamond Beach are sensitive environments; stay on established paths, keep a safe distance from icebergs and the lagoon edge, and do not move or reposition ice on the beach.
For full guidance, see our Jökulsárlón & Diamond Beach Photography Guide.
Source: Iceland Review — https://www.icelandreview.com/news/jokulsarlon-ring-road-closure-september-27-2026/