From Reykjavík: Golden Circle Tour and Silfra Snorkeling

If you’re seeking a comprehensive day in Iceland that combines stunning scenery with a unique underwater adventure, this tour from Reykjavík hits the mark. Covering the famous Golden Circle sights and the extraordinary Silfra Fissure, it promises breathtaking landscapes and an adrenaline rush for adventure lovers.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to stand beneath the roaring Gullfoss waterfall—it’s simply awe-inspiring. Second, snorkeling in Silfra offers a surreal feeling of floating between two continents. Last, the knowledgeable guides bring a mix of professionalism and friendly humor that makes the long day fly by.

A potential consideration? The snorkeling activity requires being comfortable in the water and wearing a tight dry suit, which might not suit everyone, especially those sensitive to cold or with certain health restrictions. But for most travelers, this is a small price for one of the most memorable experiences Iceland has to offer.

This tour suits those who love a mix of scenic sightseeing and active adventures. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see Iceland’s iconic sights without sacrificing the thrill of something truly unique like snorkeling in Silfra’s crystal-clear waters.

Good To Know

• All-in-one Experience: Combines Golden Circle highlights and snorkeling in one day.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides enhance the experience.
• Stunning Landscapes: Expect breathtaking views at Þingvellir, Gullfoss, Geysir, and more.
• Adventure & Comfort: Drysuits and all equipment provided for a safe, warm snorkeling experience.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Value for Money: At $294, it offers a full day of sightseeing, adventure, and expert guidance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Convenient Pickup and Transportation

Starting early, usually around 8:00 AM, the tour kicks off with a pickup from your centrally located accommodation in Reykjavík. The minibus ride, which takes about 70 minutes to reach Þingvellir National Park, offers a glimpse into Iceland’s typical scenery—volcanic landscapes, moss-covered rocks, and rolling hills. Most travelers appreciate that the bus is equipped with Wi-Fi and music, making the journey pleasant and entertaining.

Many guests mention their guides, like Bjorn and Elsa, as being friendly, informative, and skilled at weaving interesting stories into the ride. One review notes that the driver even added an extra waterfall stop because of punctuality, highlighting the flexibility and attentiveness of the team.

Snorkeling at Silfra – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

The highlight for many on this tour is the snorkeling at Silfra. The water here is famously clear, filtered through glacial melt, providing visibility of over 100 meters on a good day. You’ll float between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, an experience described as “incredible,” “surreal,” and “bucket list-worthy” by multiple reviewers.

Guides like Anna and Pablo ensure safety and comfort, giving thorough safety briefs and helping with drysuit fittings. Many reviewers appreciate the professionalism and patience of their guides, as well as their efforts to take photos during the activity—an added bonus that lets you relive the moment later.

The water temperature hovers around 37°F (around 3°C), which is cold, but the drysuits and fleece layers provided do an excellent job of keeping you warm. Some reviewers mention that it takes a few minutes to get used to swimming in the dry suit, but once you do, it’s surprisingly comfortable. For those worried about the cold, wearing extra thermal base layers or socks is recommended.

Exploring Þingvellir National Park

After snorkeling, the tour moves to Þingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the site of Iceland’s historic parliament. Here, travelers have about 30 minutes for a self-guided exploration and photos. The rift valley offers dramatic scenery—fault lines, mossy hills, and striking views—perfect for a quick walk and picture-taking.

Guests note that while some wished for more time here, the brief stop still captures the essence of the area’s natural beauty and significance. It’s a peaceful spot to reflect on Iceland’s geological history and enjoy a quick break.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Gullfoss Waterfall – Power and Beauty

Next, the tour visits Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most photographed waterfalls. This two-tiered cascade plunges into a deep canyon, creating a thunderous roar and misty spray. The timing at Gullfoss tends to be perfect, with most travelers enjoying about 30 minutes to walk around, take photos, and soak in the raw power of the water.

Reviewers often mention the wind and spray here, so layering up is key. The views are breathtaking regardless of weather, and guides usually provide interesting facts about its formation and history, adding depth to the visit.

Geysir – The Erupting Hot Springs

The geothermal area of Geysir is next, where the famous Geysir and Strokkur erupt periodically, shooting hot water high into the sky. While Geysir itself is less active, Strokkur erupts approximately every 5-10 minutes, providing excellent photo opportunities.

Guests typically spend about an hour here exploring the bubbling pools and steaming vents. It’s a fascinating natural spectacle, especially on a clear day when the contrast of hot water against the cold air is striking.

Wrapping Up the Day

After Geysir, the bus makes a two-hour drive back to Reykjavík, often with some extra stops if time permits. Many reviews praise the guided commentary throughout, with guides sharing fun facts, history, and stories that make the long day enjoyable.

The Value of This Tour

Priced at $294 per person, this full-day experience packs in a lot—scenic stops, cultural sites, and a truly unique underwater activity. The inclusions, such as transportation with Wi-Fi, all snorkeling gear, dry suits, a certified guide, hot drinks, and photos, make it an excellent value for such a comprehensive adventure.

Compared to booking separate activities or self-driving, the convenience of having an expert guide and all logistics handled simplifies things and maximizes your time. The tour operates with small groups, which adds a personal touch and ensures you’re not lost in a crowd.

Authentic and Experienced Guides

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ professionalism, friendliness, and knowledge. Guides like Gummi, Homer, and Karina receive praise for making everyone feel safe and comfortable, especially during the snorkeling portion. Their ability to share interesting insights into Iceland’s geology, history, and culture enriches the day beyond just sightseeing.

Practical Aspects and Considerations

The tour is suitable for those who are physically fit, comfortable in water, and between 12 and 69 years old. Participants over 60 are advised to obtain a medical clearance, and the activity is not recommended for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or children under 12.

What to bring? Think warm, layered clothing—thermal underwear, fleece, waterproof outer layers—and a good attitude for adventure. The dry suits are snug, especially around the neck, so those with long hair should plan to wear it in a way that doesn’t interfere with the seal.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers craving an active, diverse day that combines nature, history, and adventure. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind cold water and want to tick off a bucket-list activity like snorkeling between two continents. If you enjoy guided tours with friendly, professional hosts and want to see Iceland’s top sights in one go, this tour is a smart choice.

However, it’s not suitable for individuals with mobility issues, unaccompanied minors under 12, or pregnant women. The physical requirements and cold-water conditions mean it’s best for active, healthy travelers comfortable in water.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, pickup is from designated locations in central Reykjavík. You should provide your accommodation details so the provider can inform you of your closest pickup point.

How long is the snorkeling activity?
The snorkeling in Silfra lasts approximately 2.5 hours, including gear fitting, safety briefing, and the actual float through the fissure.

What should I wear for the tour?
Wear warm, layered clothing, including thermal base layers and fleece, as you’ll be outside for most of the day. For snorkeling, a dry suit, fleece underneath, and waterproof gloves and socks are provided.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking is flexible with the “Reserve Now & Pay Later” option.

Is snorkeling suitable for non-swimmers?
While most reviewers say guides do a great job of helping everyone, participants should be comfortable in water and able to swim. The activity is not suitable for non-swimmers or those with significant water anxiety.

What is the age range?
Participants must be between 12 and 69 years old. Those over 60 need medical clearance, and children under 12 are not permitted.

How cold is the water during snorkeling?
The water temperature is around 37°F (3°C), but the dry suits keep you warm enough to enjoy the experience comfortably.

Will I get photos?
Yes, professional photos are taken during the snorkeling and sent to you afterward, allowing you to relive the experience.

How long does the whole tour last?
The full day typically runs about 10 hours, including pickup, sightseeing, snorkeling, and return to Reykjavík.

In The Sum Up

This tour from Reykjavík offers a well-balanced mix of Iceland’s most iconic sights and the thrill of snorkeling in a stunning, crystal-clear fissure. The guided aspect ensures you’re well-informed and safe, while the small group format keeps the experience intimate and engaging. The inclusion of all necessary equipment and the opportunity to capture photos makes it a convenient, valuable choice for adventurous travelers.

If you’re eager to see the land of fire and ice from multiple angles—both on land and underwater—this trip is hard to beat. It’s especially ideal for those who want a full day packed with natural beauty, scientific wonder, and active fun. Just remember to dress warmly and be prepared for a slightly chilly but unforgettable adventure.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history buff, or just someone eager to tick off a once-in-a-lifetime activity, this tour hits a sweet spot. It’s a smart, well-organized way to experience Iceland’s highlights in a single day—complete with stories, scenery, and a splash of adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: