Top 5 Vik Tours: See Iceland’s South Coast by Land & Sea

Planning a trip to Iceland? Vik i Myrdal, that’s almost like a jewel on the South Coast, should certainly be on your radar! Very well known for its black sand beaches, towering cliffs, and those iconic basalt columns, Vik has more to offer than you might initially guess. To see the real thing, that is, I put together a rundown of five different tour options that let you take it all in from just about every angle. Prepare for glaciers, beaches, and maybe even a puffin sighting!

1. Black Sand Beach Horse Riding Tour

If you are up for something a little different, consider seeing the black sand beaches from a horseback. These horse riding tours, too it’s almost like, give you a way to experience the landscape at a relaxed pace. Riding on an Icelandic horse gives a unique perspective that other tours sometimes miss.

The gentle clip-clop of hooves as you, like your, trot along the shore; the wind from the ocean – that just makes it all that more wonderful. Usually, the guides share stories that go along with that part of Iceland and their horses. So that adds a dimension. It gives some background. Plus, let’s be honest, you do not need a ton of experience for this, generally making it perfect for riders with just about any kind of experience. It can just feel really special to be on horseback with all of that black sand.

2. Glacier Hike and Ice Cave Tour from Vik

Want something cold? Something maybe even breathtaking? Well, just a little drive from Vik, you could visit a glacier and explore an actual ice cave! Several operators offer guided tours that get you safely onto these icy wonders.

Often, you begin by equipping yourself with crampons because they’re needed to get a grip on the ice, and your guide makes sure you understand everything about the glacier’s history, what to know about its features and the safety needed. The cool, blue light that just filters through that ancient ice? That has got to be something you will absolutely remember. Be sure to dress extra warm because it will most likely be pretty cold. In a way, that’s what adds to the adventure! I think that exploring these frozen spots is something you’ll talk about forever. Plus, that tour makes sure you’re doing it responsibly!

3. Dyrhólaey Arch and Reynisfjara Beach Tour

No trip is complete without seeing Dyrhólaey and Reynisfjara. Fortunately, multiple tour choices ensure that you hit both of those spots in a snap.

Dyrhólaey is, basically, a promontory with just about insane views from that arch. That includes cliffs with puffins in summer! Reynisfjara—it’s that black sand beach—complete with the basalt columns and rough seas. Many of these tours come with someone who tells you all about the area’s geology and the folklore as a matter of fact, making the experience that much richer, too. That tour would probably be for you, really, if you want photos of cool sights without stressing about where to go.

4. ATV Quad Bike Adventure

If, arguably, you’re feeling a little bit adventurous, think about joining an ATV tour. More or less, there are trips where you’re zipping all over the black sand beaches or the countrysides close to Vik on a four-wheeler.

These are some of the times that you will certainly remember when traveling through all that rugged terrain. They usually will supply the helmet and outerwear needed, plus they start with instructions about riding safely. To be honest, that can be super fun, and also a good way to get a thrill. The guides are just usually pros, so it feels secure at all times.

5. Katla Ice Cave Super Jeep Tour

Ready for a totally unique activity? Alright, maybe check out a Katla Ice Cave tour in a Super Jeep. Basically, these Jeeps—they’re enhanced— so you are going off-road, in that case giving you an entrance point for those caves in a way other cars probably couldn’t handle.

Katla Cave typically provides darker ice than those, like your, blue glacier caves. That makes a super distinct appearance. The knowledgeable guide that’s on board that Super Jeep – they make those remote regions quite easily accessible, usually explaining all that landscape along your ride. I feel this tour may give the very best combination; off-road excitement while exploring some really out-of-the-way wonder. That, plus comfort because the Jeeps can be quite deluxe!