Guide to Visiting Blue Lagoon in Iceland

How was the Blue Lagoon created?

Over 6000 feet below the ground, salty ocean water, and freshwater combined in a tectonic kingdom of sizzling heat and heavy pressure. This created geothermal water. It then headed up to the surface through geothermal extraction wells. From here the water surfaces are enriched with algae, silica, and minerals. The combination of these three ingredients resulted in the now magical water that has been known to heal your body.

When was the Blue Lagoon discovered?

Back in the 1980s local residents began bathing in the Blue Lagoon. It is said that the lagoon formed in the lava field beside the Svartsengi Geothermal Resource Park. It became quite famous from word of mouth by residents in Iceland. Visitors said that they left with a “sensation” after soaking in the lagoon. Some Icelanders came to heal their illnesses while others came purely for enjoyment.

Why is the Blue Lagoon so blue?

The majestic and drop-dead gorgeous shade of bright blue occurs from the Silica reflecting sunlight. There is no question why it is so iconic and one of the most photographed lagoons in the entire world. Some think the color is enhanced in photographs, but it is truly the natural color of the volcanic waters.

What is the temperature of the Blue Lagoon?

Way down in the rocks of the earth the water’s temperature sits at a scorching 240° C or 464°F

Once the water reaches the lagoon it is warm, 38° C or 100.4°F. Which is way more enjoyable than burning your skin off! It is an ideal temperature for soaking your body.

What are the benefits of the Blue Lagoon?

There are so many benefits of soaking in natural mineral water. The Blue Lagoon specifically is a mix of freshwater and seawater. This means that algae plants combined with high concentrations of silica can benefit the skin. The silica can help improve skin diseases such as psoriasis and eczema. In addition to its healing powers, it is known to prevent premature aging while tightening the skin. Soaking in hot water is also amazing for sore muscles. Athletes and avid hikers make it a solid part of their weekly routine. Your body, skin, and mind will thank you.

What are the hours at the Blue Lagoon?

In the upcoming fall and winter months, the Blue Lagoon will have different hours than in summer. In October they are open from 08:00 AM - 9:00 PM, and from November-December 15th they will be open from 08:00 PM - 8:00 PM. From December 16th -January the lagoon is open from 08:00 AM - 9:00 PM. 

Holiday hours are Christmas Eve, from 08:00 AM-4:00 PM, and New Year's Eve, from 08:00 AM-6:00 PM. The hours are normally longer in the summer with the Blue Lagoon staying open until Midnight. Be sure to always check current hours ahead of visiting.

As the closing time of the lagoon changes from season to season, guests must always exit the water thirty minutes before closure.

How to get to the Blue Lagoon?

The Blue Lagoon is conveniently a 20-minute drive from Keflavik Airport and a 50-minute drive from Reykjavik. It can be a great option for those who just landed and are waiting for their hotel room check-in. It can also be a suitable stop before boarding your flight home.

The Northern Lights

One of the most common questions is, “Can you see the Northern Lights from the Blue Lagoon?”. Yes, you can! It all depends on the time of day and year that you visit. There is minimal light pollution near the Blue Lagoon, ideal for viewing the aurora.

Autumn and winter bring a greater chance of viewing the northern lights. This means you can see them anywhere from September to March. November through February will be the best time for you to see them, due to the sky's darkness. January is the wettest month of the year in Iceland, so cloud cover could be an issue. Sometimes the Northern Lights appear earlier in the night, other times it could be the wee hours of the morning. There is really no way of predicting this. We do recommend downloading the Hello Aurora App, which can give you an estimate of when the aurora will be at its highest. Download the

Spend your evening soaking in the turquoise-blue healing waters while you wait for the show to begin. If the Northern Lights come out early you can view them from the lagoon. If they are planning on making a later entrance, spend a night in the Silica or Retreat Hotel. You can sit out on your private balcony as they cascade over the lagoon.

What To Expect

From the moment you walk in the door, you will feel welcome at the Blue Lagoon. The friendly and experienced staff will guide you through your whole experience. We are going to let you know what you can expect, from start to finish.

Showering Before The Lagoon

Before entering the lagoon it is necessary that you take a shower. This is important to keep the minerals in the water pure. Oils that come from lotions or perfumes could damage the water. Luckily you do not have to shower after the lagoon unless you want to. The minerals from the water are known to be amazing for your skin. So it is recommended to leave them on for long periods of time.

Since geothermal seawater has high levels of silica, it can make your hair stiff and difficult to manage. If you are planning on swimming in the lagoon it is advised to apply conditioner before entering the lagoon. If you are planning on going under the water, shower after and apply some again. The conditioner and body wash are complementary and a part of the Blue Lagoons' luxurious hair and skin care line. Just another added perk when visiting.

The Mask Bar

Once you enter the Blue Lagoon you will indulge in the Mask Bar. Which is literally a swim-up bar located in the lagoon. Here you will speak with the technician and pick your mask of choice. They will give it to you in a small cup and you will apply it to your face in the lagoon. The steam from the lagoon will open up your pores, allowing the benefits of the masks to seep deep into them. There are a few different masks you can try and these depend on your package of choice, which we will discuss in a minute.

The Silica Mud Mask is the most popular mask and is included in the basic Blue Lagoon package. Silica is composed of silicon and oxygen. It is a component of lava that merges with geothermal seawater in the volcanic rock deep underground. When the superheated water reaches the surface and cools, silica molecules are set free, becoming the iconic white mud that is one of Blue Lagoon’s staples.

The Algae Mask is another favorite. It is a microorganism that is unique to geothermal seawater. An analysis of the lagoon ecosystem, conducted in 1996, revealed that this potent organism is a completely novel species of blue-green algae. Patented in 2006, Blue Lagoon algae is cultivated and harvested through sustainable methods at their research center.

Torn between the two? The algae mask is part of the Blue Lagoon anti-aging line. It is also known as a facelift in a jar. The Silica Mud Mask is more of a deep cleansing treatment, offering a smoother and clearer complexion. If you want to try both you can by taking advantage of the Premium Package. The mask bar is an absolute treat for your face and your skin will be glowing after.

The In-Water Bar

You can enjoy a drink when floating around the Blue Lagoon by visiting their swim-up bar. Choose from an enticing selection of smoothies, juices, soft drinks, beer, and wine. It is important to stay hydrated when swimming in hot water so be sure to fill up your water bottle or purchase one at the bar, especially if you are indulging in an alcoholic beverage.

Blue Lagoon Wristband

You are floating around in the lagoon and decided to grab another smoothie or mask, so how do you pay? Your wallet will be nestled in your locker near the changing rooms and getting in and out of the water is not ideal. Don’t worry, The Blue Lagoon will give you a wristband upon arrival. This will be the key to your changing room locker and your in-water payment method. You can use this to purchase drinks and refreshments anywhere in the spa area. You can link either your credit or debit card to the wristband for a convenient way to pay.

Sauna & Steam Rooms

The Sauna and Steam Rooms are included in your entrance to the blue lagoon. It is the perfect way to end your soaking session. The benefits of sitting in a Sauna are detoxification, increased metabolism, weight loss, increased blood circulation, pain reduction, antiaging and so much more. Steam Rooms are great for clearing congestion, improving skin health, lowering blood pressure, and enhancing circulation. A complimentary healing add-on to your already rejuvenating trip.

What Package Is Best For You?

The Blue Lagoon has a variety of packages for you to choose from! Individually catered to every kind of traveler. We will talk about each one in detail, so you can plan a flawless trip to the lagoon.

Comfort: Blue Lagoon

Cost: This package starts from 8,490 ISK or $58.

It includes entrance to the Blue Lagoon, a Silica mud mask that you can put on your face in the lagoon, the use of a towel, and one drink of your choice.

Premium: Blue Lagoon

Cost: This package starts from 10,990 ISK or $75

It includes entrance to the Blue Lagoon, a Silica mud mask that you can put on your face in the lagoon, two additional masks of your choice, the use of a towel, and a bathrobe. You will also get your 1st drink of choice as well as one glass of sparkling wine if dining at Lava restaurant.

Luxury: Retreat Spa

This package starts from 59,000 ISK or $406

This package includes five luxurious hours at the Retreat Spa with a private changing suite and unlimited access to both the Retreat Lagoon and the Blue Lagoon. You will also get a chance to experience The Blue Lagoon Ritual and use their sought-after skincare amenities.