Wings Over Grafargil: Zipline and Canyon Hike Above Vík's Glacial Edge
A swift, scenic fusion of zipline adrenaline and a hands-on canyon hike beneath Mýrdalsjökull
Thirty meters up a steel cable, the world sits arranged like a landscape painting—brittle black sand beaches receding to the west, basalt sea stacks thin as cathedral spires, and Mýrdalsjökull, a white, patient giant, laced with crevasses and the dark shadow of Katla beneath. The first zipline takes your weight and sends you forward with a soft whoosh; the air feels colder and clearer, and the canyon below seems to lean in to watch. This is not fantasy—this is a 90–120 minute loop that stitches together two ziplines, a short but lively hike through Grafargil canyon, and a few well-placed moments of theatrical exposure that make Vík feel both intimate and immense.
Trail Wisdom
Secure your camera
Use a wrist or chest strap—dropping a phone off a zipline is common and expensive.
Layer for variable weather
A breathable base, insulating midlayer and waterproof shell will keep you comfortable in wind and spray.
Wear grippy shoes
Choose hiking shoes with good traction for rocky, wet canyon sections.
Listen to your guide
Briefings cover harness safety and timing—follow instructions for a smooth run.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Old Route 1 viewpoint between the canyon and the village for quiet glacier views
- •A small waterfall upstream in Grafargil that receives fewer visitors—ask your guide to point it out
Wildlife
Puffins (offshore in summer), Seals along the coastline
Conservation Note
Stick to marked paths, avoid trampling moss (which takes decades to regrow), and follow guide instructions to minimize erosion and disturbance to nesting birds.
Mýrdalsjökull overlays Katla, a historically active volcano; the interaction of ice and fire has shaped local settlement and routes for centuries.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Fewer crowds, Migratory birdwatching
Challenges: Unpredictable weather, Colder canyon temps
Spring brings melting snow and active rivers—good for waterfalls but pack warm layers and expect variable conditions.
summer
Best for: Stable weather windows, Long daylight hours, Best wildlife viewing
Challenges: Higher visitor numbers, Occasional wind
Summer is the optimal season for consistent tours, longer days and calmer seas—ideal for pairing the zipline with other South Coast sites.
fall
Best for: Autumn light for photography, Fewer tourists
Challenges: Shortening days, More wind and rain
Fall offers dramatic light and quieter trails; check cancellation policies as storms become more frequent.
winter
Best for: Snow-blanketed scenery, Northern lights viewing (night tours unlikely)
Challenges: Icy conditions, Possible cancellations
Winter turns the landscape stark and beautiful but increases the chance of route changes—book with a flexible operator.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof shellEssential
Protects against wind and canyon spray—essential in Icelandic weather.
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Provides traction on wet rock and uneven canyon terrain.
Gloves (thin, grippy)
Keeps hands warm during brief scrambles and when handling harness straps.
Secure camera or phone strapEssential
Prevents accidental drops from the ziplines and captures hands-free shots.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The experience runs about 90–120 minutes from meeting to finish, including briefings, two ziplines (240m and 140m), and the hike through Grafargil canyon.
Is this suitable for kids or beginners?
Yes—many families join; guides manage all technical aspects. Children must meet operator age/weight requirements, so check before booking.
What happens in bad weather?
Strong winds or heavy rain can force cancellations; reputable operators will refund or reschedule when conditions are unsafe.
Are there weight or age limits?
Most operators set weight and height limits for safety—confirm exact limits when you book, as they vary by company.
Can I bring a camera on the zipline?
Yes, but secure it with a strap. Many guests prefer hands-free mounts or phones tethered to a wrist or chest strap.
Do I need prior zipline experience?
No—guides provide full instruction and handle rigging. A basic comfort with heights is helpful but not mandatory.
What to Pack
Water (500–1000ml) for hydration; waterproof outer layer for wind and spray; sturdy hiking shoes for traction on uneven rock; camera with strap to capture aerial views safely
Did You Know
Mýrdalsjökull sits above the Katla volcano, which last produced a major eruption in 1918—its behavior has shaped the South Coast for centuries.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive in Vík with extra time for parking and check-in; dress in layers and pack a waterproof; secure electronics with straps; confirm meeting point with the operator before arrival
Local Flavor
After the tour, warm up at a café in Vík—Halldórskaffi and Suður-Vík serve hearty soups and Icelandic lamb; then walk a short distance to Reynisfjara to see black sand and basalt columns or grab a local beer and listen to stories of the coastline.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Keflavík (KEF) ~2.5-hour drive; Meeting point: 3-minute drive from Vík village; Driving distance from the nearest town: immediate; Cell service: generally available near roads, limited in the canyon; Permits: none required.
Sustainability Note
Trails and moss are fragile—stay on paths, pack out waste, and avoid disturbing nesting seabirds along the coast.