Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Snorkeling between Two Continents

If you’re dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime experience, snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure might just be the highlight of your Iceland trip. This tour takes you into one of the world’s top-10 dive sites, where you’ll drift between the North American and Eurasian plates in water so clear you’ll think you’ve entered another world.

What makes this adventure stand out? We love the unmatched underwater visibility, the chance to swim between tectonic plates, and the friendly, knowledgeable guides who keep safety and fun front and center. That said, a potential consideration is that the water is cold—so, proper thermal gear is essential.

This experience suits adventurers who are comfortable in water, curious about geology, and eager for a uniquely Icelandic story to tell. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or new to water sports, you’ll find this tour offers a blend of awe and education wrapped in a fun, guided package.

Good To Know

• Top-ranked experience: Recognized as one of the top-10 dive sites globally, Silfra offers spectacular underwater scenery.
• Spectacular visibility: Expect up to 150 meters of underwater clarity, revealing stunning rock formations and the tectonic divide.
• Guided safety: PADI-certified guides ensure your safety, assist with gear, and provide insights about the geology and history.
• All-inclusive gear: Snorkeling equipment, thermal undersuits, and dry suits are provided, along with hot cocoa and cookies afterward.
• Optional pickup: Available from Reykjavík or meet at Thingvellir Park, offering flexibility for different travelers’ plans.
• Small group size: Limited to six participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Silfra Snorkeling Tour

Starting from Reykjavík or Meeting at Thingvellir

Your adventure begins either with a pickup from Reykjavík or by meeting the guides directly at the Silfra parking lot within Thingvellir National Park. The pickup is optional but convenient, especially considering the early start times and the distance from the city. A well-organized process with limited groups (up to six people) ensures everyone gets personal attention. Those meeting directly should arrive about 15 minutes early to get suited up.

Journey Through the Stunning Icelandic Landscape

The drive from Reykjavík to Thingvellir is part of the charm. Expect to see sweeping vistas of volcanic terrain and rugged lava fields. This landscape forms the backdrop to the geological marvel you’re about to explore. The tour includes the entrance fee to Thingvellir National Park, adding value to the overall experience.

Gear Up for Cold but Comfortable Snorkeling

Once at the site, you’ll get your gear—a mask, fins, snorkel, gloves, boots, and a thermal undersuit. Guides help with fitting and adjusting the dry suits, which are essential for staying warm in Iceland’s chilly waters. Several reviewers mention that while putting on the suits is a challenge, especially in winter, the guides’ patience makes all the difference. One reviewer noted, “the dry suit was difficult to break into, but our guide Chris was extremely helpful and made sure everything was sealed tight.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates

The main event: floating effortlessly over the Silfra fissure, a narrow crack in the Earth’s crust. Here, you’ll literally drift between the North American and Eurasian plates, which are slowly drifting apart at about 2cm annually. The water temperature hovers around 2°C (36°F), but with the thermal gear, you’ll stay cozy. Expect to snorkel for roughly 45 minutes, guided by an expert who will point out features and explain the significance of this geological boundary.

Many reviewers describe the water as “almost surreal” because of its remarkable clarity. One reviewer stated, “the underwater views were stunning, and the visibility up to 150 meters made it feel like floating in space.” The landscape underwater is characterized by blue hues, rock formations, and the crack itself, which is a visual and geological marvel.

Post-Snorkel Warm-up and Photos

After your time in the water, you’ll head back to shore to enjoy hot cocoa and freshly baked cookies—a perfect way to warm up after the cold. Many reviewers appreciated the inclusion of underwater photos taken by guides, which serve as memorable keepsakes. One guest said, “the photos were very good, and it was nice to have a reminder of this truly unique experience.”

Returning to Reykjavík or Meeting Point

The tour ends back at the parking lot or your pickup point, depending on your arrangement. The whole experience lasts between 3 and 5.5 hours, with the snorkeling itself lasting about 45 minutes. The flexible timing allows you to plan around other activities or sightseeing.

Practical Details & Considerations

Pricing and Value

At $142 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience. The cost includes all necessary gear, guides, park admission, and warm refreshments, making it quite reasonable given the exclusivity and uniqueness of the activity. Comparing it to other top Icelandic excursions, this trip balances adventure, education, and comfort, especially considering the highly personalized small-group setting.

Duration and Timing

The tour runs multiple times daily; checking availability is advised. The flexible duration (3 to 5.5 hours) allows you to choose a timeslot that suits your schedule. Early mornings might be colder but less crowded, while later sessions offer more daylight for photos.

Group Size and Safety

Limited to six participants, this tour ensures close guidance and tailored instructions. Guides are PADI-certified, emphasizing safety and technical support. Reviewers highlight the guides’ professionalism, patience, and helpfulness, particularly when fitting into the dry suits or managing nervous first-timers.

What to Bring and Wear

Travelers should wear warm layers, including thermal underwear, and bring a change of clothes. The dry suits and thermal gear provided are designed to keep you warm, but the weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter. Be mindful that there are no changing facilities at the site, so plan to dress accordingly.

Age and Health Restrictions

The activity is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or individuals with certain medical conditions such as heart or respiratory issues. The cold environment, physical demands of fitting into dry suits, and water safety considerations necessitate these restrictions. Reviewers also mention that people over 264 lbs (120 kg), under 4 ft 9 in, or over 6 ft 6 in might find the gear ill-fitting.

Accessibility and Special Needs

People with mobility impairments, claustrophobia, or other health issues should consider their comfort level before booking. The activity requires the ability to swim with assistance from guides, and the suits can be challenging to put on or take off.

Authentic Experiences from Past Participants

Many reviewers praise the guides for their friendly attitude and expertise. “Dominika was my guide,” one reviewer shared, “she made sure everyone was comfortable and enjoyed safely.” Several mention how helpful and patient guides like Fede, Luka, Tereza, and Marvin were.

The underwater scenery also gets high marks: “the water was so clear, it felt like floating in space,” said one guest. Others highlight the emotional impact of swimming between tectonic plates, describing it as “surreal” and “a bucket-list item checked off.”

Temperature considerations come up often—some mention that the water is cold but manageable with the gear provided. A tip echoed by many is to wear thermal layers underneath the suits to stay warm and comfortable throughout.

Final Thoughts

This snorkeling tour at Silfra offers a rare blend of adventure, geology, and natural beauty. The crystal-clear water, the experience of floating between two continents, and the friendly guides combine to create a memorable trip. It’s a perfect pick for those who enjoy outdoor activities, are comfortable in water, and want an authentic Icelandic experience that combines scenery with science.

The value for the price is solid, considering all gear, park fees, and personalized guidance included. Expect a slightly chilly but entirely magical experience that you’ll recall for years. If you’re after a unique story to share with friends, or you simply crave the thrill of swimming in glacier-fed waters, this is the tour to book.

This activity is best for adventurous travelers who don’t mind getting a little wet, paying attention to safety, and appreciating natural wonders. It’s an unforgettable way to see part of Iceland’s geological marvels firsthand.

FAQ

Is pickup from Reykjavík included?
Yes, you can opt for pickup from Reykjavík, which is convenient especially for early or late tours. Just be aware that hotel pickups in the city center are not available, only designated pickup points.

How long does the tour last?
The total activity lasts between 3 and 5.5 hours, depending on the schedule. The snorkeling portion itself takes about 45 minutes.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing and a change of clothes. The tour provides thermal undersuits and dry suits, but wearing thermal layers underneath helps keep you warm.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, participants must be at least 12 years old. The activity is not suitable for children under that age or for pregnant women or those with certain health conditions.

Is the water cold?
Yes, the water is cold—around 2°C (36°F). However, the provided gear is designed to keep you warm and comfortable.

Can I take photos underwater?
Yes, underwater photos are included, taken by guides. Many reviewers say the photos are high quality and a nice keepsake.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to six participants, allowing for more individual attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Is this suitable for non-swimmers?
While some swimming experience helps, guides assist with equipment and safety. The activity is best suited for those comfortable in the water.

What if I have medical conditions?
Certain conditions like heart or respiratory issues and claustrophobia may prevent participation. Check your health before booking.

To sum it up, the Silfra snorkeling tour in Iceland offers an extraordinary experience that combines natural beauty, geological wonder, and guided professionalism. Perfect for explorers eager to tick off a bucket-list item, it’s a trip that delivers both excitement and educational insight in a safe, small-group setting. Just remember to dress warmly, be prepared for the cold, and enjoy floating between continents in one of the most breathtaking waters on earth.

You can check if your dates are available here: