Vík í Mýrdal, Iceland's southernmost village, offers dramatic black sand beaches, basalt columns, and stunning coastal views, serving as a base for exploring South Iceland's natural wonders. Visitors are drawn to adventurous activities like glacier hikes, ice cave tours, and the opportunity to observe puffins.
The village of Vík í Mýrdal is a small settlement with a laid-back atmosphere, offering local restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets primarily in its town center. While there are options for dining and basic amenities, significant nightlife or extensive social districts are not present, making it more suitable for a peaceful experience.
Top 6 Things to do in Vík í Mýrdal
Vík í Mýrdal provides opportunities for exploring stunning black sand beaches, iconic sea stacks, a picturesque church, embarking on thrilling ice cave and glacier expeditions, and engaging in adventurous ziplining experiences.
1. Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach and Reynisdrangar Sea Stacks
Stepping onto Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, one is immediately struck by its dramatic landscape of jet-black volcanic sand, powerful Atlantic waves, and the towering basalt columns of Hálsanefshellir Cave. Just offshore, the Reynisdrangar sea stacks rise majestically from the ocean, believed by local folklore to be petrified trolls. It is crucial to respect the ocean's power here; 'sneaker waves' are unpredictable and dangerous, so always maintain a safe distance from the water's edge and never turn your back on the sea. During summer, the cliffs become a nesting ground for puffins.
Cost: Free to visit.
Transport: Reynisfjara is approximately 10 minutes west of Vík by car. There is a dedicated parking area.
2. Dyrhólaey Arch and Lighthouse
Perched on a 120-meter high promontory, Dyrhólaey offers breathtaking panoramic views of the South Coast, including the famous natural arch, the black sand beaches stretching in both directions, and the Mýrdalsjökull glacier on clear days. The Dyrhólaey lighthouse stands proudly at the top. This is a prime location for birdwatching, particularly for puffins, which nest on the cliffs from May to August. Access to certain areas may be restricted during nesting season to protect wildlife.
Cost: Free to visit.
Transport: Dyrhólaey is about a 20-minute drive west of Vík. Follow Route 1 and then turn onto Route 218. There are both upper and lower parking lots.
3. Víkurkirkja (Vík í Mýrdal Church)
Standing on a hillside overlooking the village, Víkurkirkja is a charming red-roofed church that has become one of Iceland's most photographed landmarks. From its elevated position, you can enjoy sweeping views of Vík village, the dramatic coastline, and the Reynisdrangar sea stacks. It offers a peaceful contrast to the wild surrounding landscape and is considered a safe spot in case of a volcanic eruption due to its high elevation.
Cost: Free to visit.
Transport: The church is a short uphill walk or drive from the center of Vík village.
4. Katla Ice Cave Tour
Embark on an exhilarating journey into the Katla Ice Cave, located beneath the mighty Mýrdalsjökull glacier, which covers the Katla volcano. This guided super jeep tour takes you over rugged terrain to an otherworldly landscape of ice and volcanic ash. Equipped with crampons and helmets, you will explore a natural ice cave, marveling at the vibrant blue and black ice formations, a result of centuries of glacial movement and volcanic activity. The size and shape of the cave change annually, ensuring a unique experience.
Cost: Tours typically cost between 29,990 ISK to 39,900 ISK (approximately €180 to €250) per person. This usually includes all safety equipment and super jeep transport.
Transport: Tours depart directly from designated meeting points in Vík, often the Ice Wear parking lot. Transport to the glacier is provided by a super jeep as part of the tour.
5. Glacier Hike on Sólheimajökull
Experience the raw power of Iceland's nature with a guided hike on Sólheimajökull, an outlet glacier of the larger Mýrdalsjökull ice cap. With an experienced guide, you will be equipped with crampons and an ice axe to safely navigate the glacier's surface. Marvel at the intricate ice formations, deep crevasses, and striking blue ice, learning about the glacier's geology and the impact of climate change. This accessible hike offers an unforgettable adventure for most fitness levels.
Cost: Guided tours typically range from approximately $120 to $200 USD (around 11,500 - 19,500 ISK) per person and include all necessary gear.
Transport: The meeting point for these tours is usually at the Sólheimajökull glacier parking lot, located about 30 minutes west of Vík by car. Visitors are responsible for their own transport to this meeting point.
6. Ziplining in Vík
For an adrenaline rush, embark on a ziplining adventure right next to Vík village. The experience typically includes an easy hike through a breathtaking river canyon, followed by multiple zipline rides. You will glide above stunning scenery, including rock formations and waterfalls, gaining a unique bird's-eye perspective of the landscape. It's a safe yet thrilling activity suitable for those seeking a challenging experience.
Cost: Tours typically cost around 11,900 ISK (approximately $113-120 USD) per person. This includes all safety equipment and a guided hike.
Transport: Tours depart from a meeting point in Vík (e.g., Nordur Vik or Víkurbraut 5). From there, a short drive and a moderate hike will take you to the zipline starting platforms.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
