15 Things you need to know before visiting Iceland’s Blue Lagoon

The blue lagoon is a geothermal spa located not far from Iceland’s capital city Reykjavik. Officially known as one of the 25 wonders of the world the blue lagoon is a tourist hot spot and a huge bucket list destination in itself.

The blue lagoon’s soft blue murky waters are beautiful and make for the perfect photograph as well as being good for wellness and your skin.

Iceland’s blue lagoon had been on our bucket list since we started travelling and we were excited to finally get to experience this amazing scene. After visiting Iceland once and not securing a reservation to the Blue Lagoon there were definitely some things we wish we knew before visiting. 

1. Book in advance

The Blue Lagoon is the number one tourist attraction in Iceland. To ensure you get a reservation make sure you book before you fly. At peak times the blue lagoon can be booked up weeks in advance. Special times such as sunrise and sunset can also get booked ahead of time so be sure to plan your visit according to your needs and book the perfect time slot. Booking can be done easily yourself through the blue lagoons website and you can choose the package that suits you best. Several tour companies also offer services to book the blue lagoon for you or book the blue lagoon as part of other tours. 

2. You can arrive any time within an hour of your time

Although you select your visiting time when booking your ticket for the blue lagoon you can enter the Blue Lagoon within an hour of the time printed on your tickets. So don’t panic if you are running a little late.

3. 45 – 60 minutes from Reykjavik
Give extra time for your journey, the Blue Lagoon is located 45-60 minutes from Reykjavik by car. 

4. Allow extra time to check out the surroundings.

The blue lakes that surround the area of The Blue Lagoon are stunning. Spare some time to take in the beauty and catch a few snaps on your camera. The whole drive from Reykjavik is absolutely beautiful and there will be plenty of places for you to stop off and marvel at the landscapes and scenery. 

5. Bring flip flops

Slippers are not provided and the floor surrounding the lagoon is freezing during the winter months so bring a pair of flip flops for walking aorund.

6. It’s near the airport

The blue lagoon is located only a 10 minute drive from the airport. Choosing to visit the lagoon at the end of your trip can really save you so much time. Lockers are provided to store luggage whilst you bath. 

7. Naked shower

You have to shower without your swimwear before entering the lagoon. The showers are located at the changing room exit, so do not out your swimwear on first!

8. Hair conditioner

The water int he lagoon can make your hair feel stiff and unmanageable. Apply conditioner all over your hair before entering the lagoon and again after. Conditioner is provided by the lagoon.

9. No money

When entering the lagoon complex you are given a wristband to wear for all of your in water purchases. No need to carry money along with you. Be careful not to lose the wristband though as there is a 5000ISK charge.

10. Silika mask is free

When purchasing your tickets for the blue lagoon you are given many options from standard to luxury. The standard silica mud mask is free of charge and comes with all packages. Packages from comfort onwards also come with the algae mask.

11. The Blue Lagoon is man made

Many people believe the Blue Lagoon is a natural phanonamon, however that’s actually not completely true. The water is heated from he local hot springs but is then pumped to the Blue Lagoon. The water is naturally the murky blue colour you see though due to the mix of algae and silica. 

12. Sauna and steam room are included 
Located next to the spa area of the lagoon is an area with a jacuzzi and rooms for a sauna and seam room. Be sure to include this in your trip for the ultimate experience.

13. Swim up bar
The swim up bar in the lagoon offers an array of local drinks and imported brands. Enjoy a local beer or glass of prosecco as you bath and pay on your wristband. Packages from comfort upwards include your first drink for free.

14. Towels and robes are extra
You need to purchase towels and robes in the packages for them to be included. Towls are included from comfort upwards and robes from premium upwards.

15. You can visit in any weather

The lagoon is warm and heated at around 33 celsius. Visiting in any weather is fine, you will not get cold. Visiting during snow and rain showers is equally fine. We would highly recommend the Blue Lagoon for anyone visiting Iceland. it was definitely a bucket list experience for us.