If you’re heading to Vik, Iceland, you’re in a prime spot for some of the most striking Hiking and Trekking experiences in the country. Vik’s dramatic glaciers, ice caves, and rugged landscapes make it a natural playground for outdoor lovers. We especially love the glacier hikes, like the Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike, which combines accessibility with jaw-dropping scenery. For thrill-seekers, the Zipline and Hiking Tours offer adrenaline alongside stunning views of waterfalls and glaciers. Whether you want a family-friendly walk or a challenging ice climb, Vik delivers memorable Icelandic adventures.
Quick Overview
Vik boasts a variety of tours suitable for different interests and skill levels: from easy guided glacier hikes and small-group explorations to more advanced ice climbing and Ice Cave experiences. There are also adventure-packed zipline and super jeep tours for those craving thrills and scenic rides. The list below covers the best options, with details on what makes each unique, so you can choose the right fit for your Iceland trip.
1. Sólheimajökull: Glacier Hike Adventure
This family-friendly glacier hike takes you across the icy tongue of Sólheimajökull, one of Iceland’s most accessible glaciers. Led by a certified glacier guide, you’ll get close to ice crevasses, glacier mills, and even ice cave tunnels. The tour offers magnificent views and plenty of opportunities to learn about glacier formations and glacial erosion. With reviews praising knowledgeable guides and a small-group setting, it’s suitable for travelers of all ages who want a safe, engaging experience. Expect to explore frozen landscapes and see a glacier lagoon up close. The trek is short but packed with scenery and educational moments.
Bottom line: Perfect for families or anyone wanting a safe and informative glacier adventure.
2. Solheimajokull Glacier 3-Hour Small-Group Hike
For around $120, the 3-hour small-group hike on Sólheimajökull offers a personalized experience with all necessary gear included. Led by guides like Kamilla, you’ll trek over rugged terrain, learning about glacial processes while discovering ice sculptures, crevasses, and moulins. Guests love the interactive nature and the small group size, which ensures plenty of attention from your guide. One reviewer highlights Kamilla’s helpfulness and her knack for finding photogenic spots. This tour is ideal if you want a deeper dive into glacier terrain without a full day commitment.
Bottom line: Great for those seeking a personalized, well-equipped glacier trek** that balances education and adventure.**
3. Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike – Small Group Adventure (Easy)
If you’re looking for a less technical but still immersive glacier walk, this easy 3-hour tour is ideal. You’ll put on crampons and explore ice formations, crevasses, and shafts with a professional guide. While some reviews mention it’s slightly more challenging than the “easy” label suggests, most find it accessible. Guides like Steve ensure safety and fun, and the tour is suitable for families and first-timers. You’ll get to walk on pure ice and experience the frozen landscape up close. Expect to see natural ice sculptures and learn about the glacier’s formation and history.
Bottom line: A solid choice for beginners or those wanting a gentle glacier experience.**
4. Skaftafell: Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Hike
This 4-hour tour combines the thrill of walking on Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, with the awe of stepping inside a natural blue ice cave. Starting at Skaftafell National Park, you’ll take a scenic bus ride, receive a safety briefing, and then hike up Falljokull Glacier. The highlight is entering an ice cave, where the blue ice formations create unforgettable photo moments. Reviewers rave about the friendly guides and the spectacular scenery. The tour balances adventure with education, also touching on glacial geology and climate change.
Bottom line: An extraordinary experience for nature lovers and photographers wanting to see inside the glacier.**
5. Zipline and Hiking Adventure Tour in Vik
For those craving adrenaline, this 1.5-hour zipline tour blends speed and scenic views. Starting near Vik, guides will lead you across rapids, waterfalls, and glaciers, ending with a leap of faith over a stream. Between zips, there’s a hiking route that offers bird’s-eye views over Mýrdalsjökull and the Grafargil canyon. Reviews mention the friendly guides and breathtaking scenery. This tour suits adventure enthusiasts with a taste for heights and fast-paced fun. The small group setting ensures a personalized experience.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for adventure seekers wanting a thrilling outdoor activity with superb landscapes.**
6. Vik: Guided Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike
This 3-hour guided hike takes you across Sólheimajökull, focusing on ice formations and natural features like tunnels and crevasses. Led by an experienced glacier guide, you’ll benefit from specialized equipment and detailed explanations about glacial processes. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. The tour includes coffee and chocolates to keep you energized. It’s a solid choice for first-time glacier hikers who want safety, education, and spectacular views.
Bottom line: A reliable and well-reviewed glacier hike that’s perfect for beginners and nature lovers alike.**
7. Vik: Guided Glacier Hike on Sólheimajökull
A non-technical glacier hike, this 3-hour tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Guides like Agnes and Kamila are noted for being encouraging and energetic. You’ll enjoy photo opportunities and taste the glacier water straight from the ice. The tour is praised for its friendly guides and beautiful scenery. It’s a good pick for families or travelers who want a straightforward but memorable glacier experience.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting a casual, scenic walk on a glacier with no climbing involved.**
8. From Vik: Zipline and Hiking Adventure Tour
This 2-hour tour in Vik features three ziplines over famous landmarks like Hundafoss waterfall and Grafargil. Guides lead you on a hiking route between zips, with plenty of local stories and insights. Reviewers love the fun guides and spectacular scenery. It’s perfect if you want adrenaline and scenery in a short time, with a small-group atmosphere that makes everyone feel comfortable.
Bottom line: Ideal for families and adventure lovers who want a quick, exciting experience.**
9. Thorsmork by Super Jeep with Optional Hike
This full-day tour takes you into Thorsmork, a valley between three glaciers. Traveling in a rugged super jeep, you’ll explore dramatic valleys, waterfalls, and volcano landscapes. After a lunch stop at Volcano Huts, you can opt for an easy hike to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery. Reviewers love how personalized and flexible this tour feels, and the breathtaking views of glaciers and volcanic terrain. It’s perfect for active travelers with a sense of adventure who want to see more of Iceland’s wild side.
Bottom line: A luxurious, flexible option for those wanting off-road exploration with scenic hiking options.**
10. Thorsmork Hike Day Tour
This 7-hour hiking tour takes you deep into Thorsmork, with stops at waterfalls, canyons, and glacier rivers. Your guide will tailor the route based on current conditions, leading you through Stakkholtsgjá canyon, Nauthúsagil, and possibly Valahnukur peak. The tour is suited for active, fit travelers with a love for outdoor exploration. Reviewers mention the wealth of local knowledge and scenic highlights. It’s a great choice if you want a full day of hiking in Iceland’s rugged landscape.
Bottom line: Perfect for experienced hikers wanting a comprehensive day exploring Iceland’s natural wonders.
11. Sólheimajökull Ice Climb and Glacier Hike
For the adventurous, this 4-hour tour combines a guided hike with ice climbing on the glacier’s ice walls. Led by certified guides, you’ll learn climbing techniques and get up close to ice tunnels and crevasses. Many reviews highlight the professionalism of guides and the thrill of scaling ice formations. Suitable for those with some physical fitness, it’s a unique experience that blends outdoor sport with spectacular scenery.
Bottom line: Best for adventurers seeking a challenging, hands-on glacier experience.**
12. Private Guided Hike Experience on Sólheimajökull Glacier
Offering a tailored experience, this private tour is perfect if you want the ultimate personalized glacier adventure. Led by a dedicated guide, you’ll explore blue ice formations, deep crevasses, and scenic viewpoints. The tour includes all safety equipment, and with several departures daily, you can easily fit it into your schedule. Past travelers praise the knowledgable and friendly guides like Heather and Javier, who make the experience both informative and fun.
Bottom line: Ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a customized, intimate glacier trek.
13. Sólheimajökull Ice Climbing & Glacier Hike – Optional Pickup
This 4-hour tour combines ice climbing with glacier trekking. Small groups (max 10) benefit from personalized coaching and up-close views of ice formations and crevasses. Guides like Monica and Gaia are highly recommended for their professionalism and encouraging attitude. The tour is challenging but incredibly rewarding, especially if you’re interested in learning ice climbing techniques.
Bottom line: Best suited for adventurous travelers looking for a hands-on ice-climbing experience.**
14. Skaftafell: Falljokull Ice Climb and Hike
This 4-hour experience offers ice climbing on Falljokull Glacier, combined with hiking in Skaftafell National Park. It’s perfect for those who want to try snow and ice sport techniques while exploring epic landscapes. Guides like Lily lead safety-focused, yet fun climbs, and reviewers mention spectacular views and a thrilling challenge. It’s suitable for active travelers who want a full day of vertical adventure.
Bottom line: A great choice for adventurers looking to conquer ice walls and enjoy breathtaking scenery.
15. Sólheimajökull: Guided Glacier Hike
This shorter, accessible glacier hike is perfect for beginners or those with limited time. Guides like Stefen or Javier take you across deep crevasses and pristine streams, with plenty of photo stops. Many reviews mention knowledgeable guides and safety-conscious instructions. It’s an ideal introductory tour for travelers wanting a taste of glacier exploration without a full-day commitment.
Bottom line: An excellent starter tour for anyone curious about glaciers but short on time.**
16. Glacier Hike at Solheimajokull in Small Group
This small-group tour offers a relaxed pace and plenty of photo opportunities, with guides like Heather ensuring everyone stays safe and happy. The blue-ice and black sand scenery is distinctive, and the fun, friendly guides make it accessible for almost everyone. It’s a good option if you want to learn about glacial landscapes at a comfortable pace.
Bottom line: Perfect for travellers wanting a relaxed, personal glacier walk with great scenery.
How to Choose Your Perfect Vik Hiking & Trekking Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your fitness level, time available, and adventure appetite. For example, if you’re after a family-friendly introduction to glaciers, the Sólheimajökull Guided Glacier Hike is a reliable choice. If you want a full-day adventure with ice climbing, the Sólheimajökull Ice Climb and Glacier Hike may suit you better. Those seeking spectacular inside-the-ice experiences should consider the Ice Cave Tour, which blends scenic hiking and stunning cave exploration.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the Private Guided Hike, which fill quickly. Also, check the season and weather conditions, as some tours are better suited for winter or summer.
Vik offers a wide array of hiking and trekking tours that can cater to every adventurer. Whether you’re after a simple glacier walk, a thrilling ice climb, or an aerial zipline experience, this list provides the best options to make your trip memorable. For most travelers, combining a guided glacier hike with a zipline adventure makes for an action-packed day. Remember to book early and pick the experience that matches your fitness and curiosity level — Iceland’s landscapes won’t disappoint.