Vik, Iceland, is a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Its dramatic landscapes—black sand beaches, towering glaciers, and rugged mountains—make it a perfect base for hiking and trekking adventures. We love the Solheimajokull Glacier hikes because they offer close-up glacier views with expert guides who share insightful stories about Iceland’s icy giants. For example, the Solheimajokull Glacier 3-Hour Small-Group Hike provides a personalized experience exploring rugged terrain, with all necessary gear included. Meanwhile, the Vik Guided Glacier Hike on Solheimajokull hits the sweet spot for its approachable, safety-focused journey through one of Iceland’s most accessible glaciers.
Beyond glacier walks, Vik’s terrain welcomes ice caves, super jeep safaris, ziplining, and mountain hikes. These tours showcase the area’s diverse landscapes—some with a focus on ice, others on breathtaking viewpoints or rugged wilderness—making Vik a top destination for outdoor adventures. Below, you’ll find a detailed rundown of the best hiking and trekking tours in Vik, each with its own unique appeal.
1. Solheimajokull Glacier 3-Hour Small-Group Hike
At number 1, this half-day glacier hike offers an up-close look at the Sólheimajökull glacier with a small group for personalized attention. Your guide will lead you over rugged ice and volcanic ash, sharing insights into glacial formations and local flora and fauna. All equipment—crampons, helmets, and harnesses—is included, ensuring safety and comfort. This tour is praised for its accommodating guides and stunning scenery, with reviews highlighting its interactive nature and photo opportunities.
Why it ranks high: It’s accessible for most fitness levels, safe, and offers a real sense of walking on a frozen wonderland. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive glacier experience without spending the entire day.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded glacier adventure with expert guiding and small-group intimacy, this tour delivers excellent value.
2. Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike – Small Group Adventure (Easy)
For around $115, this easy glacier hike is designed for those seeking a manageable yet unforgettable experience. Walking on the ice tongue of Sólheimajökull, you’ll explore crevasses, moulins, and ice formations with a professional guide. Crampons and safety gear are provided, and the route is tailored to ensure a comfortable pace. Guests mention the friendly guide Steve, who reassures those with apprehension, making it suitable even for those with limited hiking experience.
Why it ranks highly: It balances adventure and accessibility, appealing to families and first-timers. The reviews praise the safety precautions and educational component.
Bottom Line: A top choice for travelers looking to walk on a glacier with minimal technical difficulty and maximum scenery.
3. Skaftafell: Ice Cave Tour and Glacier Hike
Stepping into a blue ice cave inside Vatnajökull—Europe’s largest glacier—is a life-changing moment. This 4-hour tour combines a glacier hike on Falljokull with a visit to a stunning natural ice cave in Skaftafell National Park. Your guide will share insights into glacier formation and climate change while leading you through this surreal frosty environment. Guests rave about the friendly Czech guide and the added educational component about global warming.
What makes it special: Seeing the vibrant blue ice inside the cave adds a magical touch. The tour’s combination of hiking and ice cave exploration makes it a highlight.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting an immersive glacier experience with the added bonus of an ice cave—memorable and photogenic.
4. Zipline and Hiking Adventure Tour in Vik
If you prefer an adrenaline rush combined with scenic views, this zipline and hiking tour offers just that. In about 1.5 to 2 hours, you’ll soar over rivers, waterfalls, and glaciers, then hike through Icelandic terrain, catching views of Mýrdalsjökull and the Hundafoss waterfall. Guides share local stories, and the “leap of faith” adds a fun challenge.
Why it stands out: It’s a quick, energetic experience suitable for those who enjoy a mix of adventure and nature. The reviews confirm the trip’s fun, with guides being friendly and safety-conscious.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers craving a quick dose of thrill and stunning scenery in a compact package.
5. Vik: Guided Sólheimajöku glacier Hike
This 3-hour guided glacier hike on Sólheimajökull is a solid option for those who want to explore the glacier’s deep crevasses, tunnels, and moulins with a certified guide. Included are glacier boots and equipment, plus a short walk to the glacier’s edge. It’s praised for its relaxed pace and the enthusiastic guide who shares insights into the glacier’s natural history. Guests enjoy crossing the ice and sampling glacier water.
Why it’s recommended: It offers a safe, comprehensive glacier experience that’s suitable for most fitness levels. The reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and the stunning views.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers looking for a classic glacier trek with a friendly guide and good value.
6. Vik: Guided Glacier Hike on Sólheimajöku
For a non-technical, scenic glacier walk, this 3-hour tour fits the bill. The guide makes sure everyone feels comfortable, and the route offers great photo opportunities. Guests mention how Agnes and Kamila made the experience engaging and memorable, with some pointing out the beautiful scenery and glacier water.
Why it ranks here: Its focus on a relaxed, accessible hike makes it perfect for families or less experienced hikers who still want to enjoy glacier landscapes.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a gentle but impressive glacier adventure.
7. From Vik: Zipline and Hiking Adventure Tour
This 2-hour tour combines zipping across natural formations and hiking between viewpoints, including a “Leap of Faith” over a river. Guides lead the way, sharing stories about local legends and geology. The small group size makes it more personal, and reviews mention how friendly and safety-minded the guides are.
Why you’ll like it: It’s ideal for those who want a quick, energetic experience with lots of photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: A fun, high-adrenaline choice that blends active exploration with scenic views.
8. Thorsmork by Super Jeep with Optional Hike
This full-day tour explores the stunning Thorsmork valley, located between three glaciers. The rugged super jeep takes you through rough roads and glacial rivers, with the option to hike into the valley. The tour includes a lunch stop at Volcano Huts. It’s praised for its personalized service and the breathtaking scenery.
Why it’s top-rated: The combination of off-road adventure and optional hiking makes it flexible for different energy levels.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a comprehensive, scenic exploration in a small-group setting.
9. Thorsmork Hike Day Tour
For hikers eager to immerse themselves fully, this 7-hour trek into Thorsmork combines driving, waterfall visits, canyon crossings, and hikes up to Valahnukur peak. The guide customizes the route based on conditions, ensuring a fresh experience each time. Reviews note the guide’s deep knowledge, though some mention the hike can be muddy.
Why it’s recommended: It suits active travelers wanting an intensive, scenic day in Iceland’s wild terrain.
Bottom Line: A serious hike for those looking to explore multiple landscapes in one day.
10. Sólheimajökull Ice Climb and Glacier Hike
If climbing ice walls sounds exciting, this 4-hour tour offers the chance to climb and walk on Sólheimajökull with expert instruction. Safety gear is provided, and guides teach ice climbing techniques. Guests mention the guide’s enthusiasm and the chance to see incredible ice formations.
Why it’s special: It combines ice climbing with glacier walking, perfect for thrill-seekers ready to learn new skills.
Bottom Line: For those who want to push their limits and learn ice climbing, this is an ideal pick.
11. Sólheimajökull Ice Climbing & Glacier Hike – Optional Pickup
This 4.5-hour adventure caters to active travelers eager to climb and hike on the glacier. With a small group, you’ll refine ice climbing skills, explore crevasses, and enjoy panoramic views. Many reviews highlight the attentive guides and the thrill of ice climbing.
Why it’s worth considering: It offers a personalized, hands-on experience with plenty of time to practice skills.
Bottom Line: Great for those with some climbing experience who want to develop their ice skills.
12. Skaftafell National Park: Falljokull Ice Climb and Hike
This 4-hour tour combines ice climbing on Vatnajökull’s outlet glacier with a scenic hike, often called “the favorite of climbers” by reviewers. The guide provides safety instructions and leads the group across spectacular ice formations.
Why it stands out: It’s perfect for those wanting a challenging climb and to see Jurassic Park-like landscapes.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for experienced climbers or those eager for an advanced ice adventure.
13. Sólheimajöku: Guided Glacier Hike
This shorter, accessible glacier hike offers the chance to see deep crevasses and rushing water. Guided by an experienced glacier guide, you’ll learn about the landscape and safety practices. The reviews note the guide’s passion and the excellent scenery.
Why it’s recommended: It’s perfect for travelers wanting a time-efficient but rich glacier experience.
Bottom Line: A good option if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful glacier trek.
14. Glacier Hike at Solheimajokull in Small Group
This small-group tour emphasizes personal attention and a relaxed pace. You’ll explore blue ice, jagged ridges, and volcanic black sand, all while learning about glacial dynamics. Reviews praise the friendly guides and the chance to photograph stunning ice formations.
Why it’s special: Its limited group size ensures a more intimate experience, ideal for photographers and curious travelers.
Bottom Line: A perfect fit for those seeking a personalized, leisurely glacier walk.
15. Small-Group Ice Climbing and Glacier Hiking in Solheimajokull
Finally, this 4.5-hour small-group tour combines ice climbing with glacier trekking, perfect for adventurous spirits of all levels. Guides teach climbing techniques and point out features like moulins and crevasses. Many reviews highlight the fun, safety, and skill-building aspect of this experience.
Why it ranks here: It offers a personalized, skill-focused experience with plenty of time for multiple climbs.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers eager to learn ice climbing in a friendly, safety-conscious environment.
How to Choose Your Perfect Vik Hiking or Trekking Tour
When selecting the right tour, consider your fitness level, experience with outdoor activities, and what kind of scenery or challenge you want. A glacier hike like the Solheimajokull Glacier 3-Hour Small-Group Hike offers a balanced mix of scenery, education, and manageable effort. If you’re after a more technical adventure, the Ice Climb and Glacier Hike or Ice Climbing & Glacial Trekking are excellent choices. For those who want more adrenaline, the zipline tours provide quick thrills and scenic views.
Practical tips include booking early, especially in summer, and considering your fitness level. For a less demanding day, the Vik Guided Glacier Hike is ideal. If an immersive, full-day experience is your goal, the Thorsmork Super Jeep Tour or the full-day Thorsmork hike will satisfy your adventurous spirit.
Final Thoughts
Vik offers a wide spectrum of hiking and trekking options, from gentle glacier walks to challenging ice climbs and exhilarating ziplining. For a family-friendly option with educational value, the Solheimajokull Glacier small group hike is a wonderful choice. For those seeking an adrenaline-packed adventure, the Ice Climb and Glacier Hike or Small-Group Ice Climbing will challenge even experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
No matter your skill level or interests, Vik has a tour to match your outdoor enthusiasm. Be sure to book early during peak seasons—these tours fill up fast. Now, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to explore the stunning Icelandic landscape in ways you’ll never forget.