Founders & Owners
A Lifelong Brotherhood Forged in the Mountains
Viking Heliskiing was founded by two lifelong friends, elite skiers, and true Icelandic mountain men: Björgvin Björgvinsson and Jóhann Haukur Hafstein. Raised in the rugged natural beauty of North Iceland, their shared journey began as childhood friends exploring the mountains that would one day become the heart of their business.
Both Björgvin and Jóhann pursued careers in competitive alpine skiing, eventually earning places on the Icelandic National Ski Team. They represented Iceland on the world stage for over a decade, including multiple appearances in World Cup events and the Olympic Games. Their experiences competing internationally—and training in the most demanding mountain environments in the world—deepened their love for skiing, refined their skills, and shaped their philosophy: that the mountains are both a place of adventure and deep respect.
After retiring from competitive racing, the pair returned to their roots with a bold vision: to offer world-class heliskiing in Iceland, in terrain few had ever accessed. In 2013, they co-founded Viking Heliskiing with the mission of sharing the raw, untouched beauty of Iceland’s Troll Peninsula and the Gold Coast with passionate skiers and adventurers from around the globe.
Björgvin and Jóhann bring over 25 years of mountain experience and leadership to Viking Heliskiing. Both are certified guides with deep knowledge of avalanche safety, alpine terrain, and weather patterns in the North Atlantic region. Their operational standards are rooted in a commitment to safety, excellence, and personal service.
Today, they are still fully involved—leading tours, scouting new lines, mentoring staff, and greeting guests with the warm hospitality Iceland is known for. Every guest who skis with Viking benefits from their local insight, deep passion, and personal connection to the land.
We grew up in these mountains. Now we’re opening them up to the world—with the same care, awe, and excitement we felt as kids
