Vik , Iceland

Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike Adventure

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About this experience

Explore the stunning expanse of Sólheimajökull, one of Iceland’s most accessible glaciers, on this engaging 3-hour guided hike. After meeting your certified glacier guide at the glacier parking lot, gear up with crampons, a helmet, and a harness for your journey onto the ice. Traverse the glacier’s surface, encountering fascinating features like deep crevasses and dramatic ice formations. Your guide will share insights about glacier formation and environmental changes, blending adventure and education. This small group experience ensures a personal connection to Iceland’s frozen wilderness, making it perfect for adventurers aged 8 and up.

Available options

Sólheimajökull Glacier Hike Adventure

What's included

Certified glacier guide

Glacier gear: crampons, helmet, harness

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Step into an otherworldly landscape of ice and ash with our 3-hour guided glacier hike on Sólheimajökull, one of Iceland’s most accessible and striking outlet glaciers. This adventure is perfect for travelers looking for a hands-on glacier experience without the need to travel from Reykjavik—simply meet us at the glacier parking lot, and your journey begins.
After meeting your expert glacier guide on-site, you'll gear up with crampons, a helmet and harness.. Following a short walk to the glacier’s edge, you'll step onto the ice and begin your guided hike into the frozen heart of Sólheimajökull.
As you hike across the glacier's surface, you'll encounter deep crevasses, moulins (ice holes), ridges, and dramatic ice formations. Your guide will explain how glaciers are formed, how they’re changing, and the powerful natural forces that continue to shape them. It’s a fascinating blend of adventure, education, and raw natural beauty.

What's not included

Bottled water

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Sólheimajökull Glacier Parking Lot – easily accessible by car, located just off Route 221 (about 2.5 hours from Reykjavik).

About Vik

Vik is a charming coastal village in South Iceland, known for its stunning black sand beaches, dramatic basalt columns, and picturesque landscapes. It's a gateway to some of Iceland's most iconic natural wonders, including Reynisfjara Beach and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

Top Attractions

Reynisfjara Beach

One of Iceland's most famous black sand beaches, known for its basalt columns, powerful waves, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Reynisfjall Mountain

A striking mountain with dramatic cliffs and views over Reynisfjara Beach and the surrounding area.

Nature 1-3 hours depending on hike length Free

Dyrhólaey Arch

A dramatic rock arch formation with panoramic views of the coast and Reynisfjara Beach.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Vík í Mýrdal Church

A historic wooden church with a rich history and beautiful views over the village and coast.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations appreciated)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lamb Soup

A hearty soup made with Icelandic lamb, root vegetables, and herbs.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat, gluten (from bread served with it)

Fish and Chips

Freshly caught fish, typically cod or haddock, battered and fried, served with chips (fries).

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (from batter and chips)

Skyr

A thick, protein-rich Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or fruit.

Breakfast/Snack Dairy product, can be sweetened or plain

Popular Activities

Hiking Ice caving Photography Beach walks Coffee breaks with a view Stargazing Visiting local churches and museums Exploring Icelandic crafts and history

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer offers the best weather for outdoor activities, with long daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, it's also the busiest time of year.

8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F) 46°F to 59°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Icelandic
Widely spoken: English, Danish, Norwegian, Swedish
English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

Icelandic Krona (ISK)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (Western European Time)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Vik is generally safe, but visitors should be cautious of natural hazards like powerful waves and unpredictable weather.

Important Precautions:

• Stay away from the water's edge at Reynisfjara Beach due to powerful waves
• Be cautious of weather changes and dress appropriately
• Follow safety guidelines for all activities, especially hiking and ice caving

Getting there

By air

Keflavík International Airport • 130 km (80 miles) northeast of Vik

By bus

Reykjavík Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are available but infrequent. Check schedules in advance.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None widely available, call local taxi services

Rentals

Car

Neighborhoods

Vik Village Center

Day trips

Seljalandsfoss and Gljúfrabúi Waterfalls

30 km (18 miles) northeast of Vik • Half day

Two stunning waterfalls where you can walk behind the cascading water. Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland's most famous waterfalls, while Gljúfrabúi is a hidden gem tucked into a canyon.

Katla Ice Cave

60 km (37 miles) northeast of Vik • Full day

A breathtaking ice cave formed within the Katla volcano. Guided tours are required to enter the cave.

Thakgil (Þakgil)

40 km (25 miles) northeast of Vik • Half day to full day

A stunning glacial valley with dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a popular spot for camping and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Vík í Mýrdal Music Festival • Late June to early July

Pro tips

Visit Reynisfjara Beach at different times of day for varying light and wave conditions
Dress in layers and be prepared for rapid weather changes, especially near the coast
Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
Try local Icelandic cuisine, including lamb soup and fresh seafood
Be cautious of the powerful waves at Reynisfjara Beach and stay away from the water's edge