Reykjavik: Silfra Snorkeling & Lava Tunnel Adventure Combo

Imagine exploring a secret volcanic underground world and floating in some of the clearest waters on Earth—all in one day. That’s exactly what this Reykjavik: Silfra Snorkeling & Lava Tunnel Adventure Combo offers. It’s a perfect mix of adventure, geology, and surreal landscapes, designed for travelers eager to see Iceland’s raw power beneath the surface.

What we love about this trip? First, the expert guides clearly know their stuff, making every moment both safe and engaging. Second, the stunning visuals—from vibrant lava formations to the striking blue of Silfra—are truly unforgettable. Third, it offers fantastic value by combining two unique experiences into one day, complete with all gear, photos, and a warm treat afterward.

The only thing to consider? The cold water temperatures and certain physical requirements mean it’s not suitable for everyone, especially very young children or pregnant women. But if you’re comfortable in water and love a good adventure, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits those who enjoy geology, outdoor activity, and exploring Iceland’s lesser-seen underground wonders. Expect a mix of physically active moments and awe-inspiring sights—perfect for explorers and nature lovers alike.

Good To Know

• Unique combination of lava caving and Silfra snorkeling offers a full underground Iceland experience.
• Guides are well-trained, friendly, and attentive to safety and individual needs.
• All necessary gear is provided, making it hassle-free for travelers.
• Underwater photos and hot cocoa add a special touch, enhancing the overall value.
• Time commitment varies from 5 to 10 hours, depending on your choice, but every minute is packed with adventure.
• Suitability is limited for those with medical conditions, mobility issues, or water fears, but most active travelers will find this memorable.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Deep Dive into the Experience

The Lava Tunnel Adventure

Starting with lava caving, you’ll be taken into one of Iceland’s many volcanic rock formations, where the landscape is surreal and wild. According to reviews, the lava caves are “absolutely breathtaking” and provide a real sense of adventure. The guides, like the charismatic guide who shared Icelandic ghost stories, make each step more engaging. They encourage you to explore at your own pace, which means both casual observers and more adventurous explorers will find satisfaction.

Expect to see intricate formations, dark tunnels, and plenty of photo opportunities. The guides also share insights about Iceland’s volcanic activity, helping you understand how these tunnels were created by past eruptions. Reviewers note the friendly, knowledgeable guides—one described as “brilliant,” adding to the sense of safety and fun.

Snorkeling in Silfra

After the lava tunnels, it’s time for the highlight: floating in Silfra’s waters. This fissure, part of Thingvellir National Park, is famous for its clarity and vibrant blue shades. As one reviewer put it, “snorkeling here was out of this world,” and many mention how the water feels surprisingly warm considering the outdoor temperatures, thanks to good insulation and dry suits.

Guides are PADI certified, ensuring your safety and comfort. They check in regularly, support nervous swimmers, and even take underwater photos for free—an added bonus to remember this special experience. Many travelers talk about the weightless, peaceful sensation of drifting between the tectonic plates, making it a genuine once-in-a-lifetime moment.

Practical Details and Logistics

Transportation is typically included if you opt for hotel pickup, which simplifies logistics. The tour duration ranges from 5 to 10 hours, offering flexibility depending on your interests and stamina. The group sizes are kept intimate—some reviews mention only 4 to 7 participants—making it feel personalized.

All equipment is provided, including caving gear and snorkeling suits, which are carefully designed to keep you warm and buoyant. From the reviews, it’s clear that the suits are effective even in freezing outdoor conditions, and guides go out of their way to make sure everyone is comfortable.

A nice touch is the stop at a local bakery, where you can sample Icelandic treats and warm up before or after your activities. The hot cocoa and biscuits post-snorkeling are appreciated, especially after braving the cold waters.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Guides and Safety

Multiple reviews emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of the guides. For instance, one reviewer praised Francesca for her attentiveness and support during snorkeling, especially when a group member wasn’t comfortable. Another mentioned how guides like John and Faith made everyone feel safe and well-cared-for, which is crucial in demanding activities like these.

The Scenic Locations

The lava tunnels are described as visually stunning, with detailed formations that feel almost otherworldly. The underground experience is complemented by the spectacular scenery of Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The contrast between dark lava caves and the bright, shimmering blue of Silfra offers a truly diverse visual journey.

The Value for Money

At $210 per person, the tour offers an incredible amount of value. You get two experiences—incredible geological exploration and an unforgettable snorkeling adventure—plus all gear, photos, and a warm drink included. Considering the quality of guides and the uniqueness of the locations, many reviewers feel it’s a worthwhile investment for a comprehensive Icelandic underground adventure.

Authentic Experiences and Local Flavor

Travelers also appreciate the stops at local bakeries, allowing for culture beyond just the underground spots. The guides’ storytelling and Icelandic insights add a layer of authenticity, making the day more than just a physical activity but also an educational journey.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the cold water temperatures—the suits are well-insulated, but you should be prepared for the initial shock of immersion. Some reviewers mention that the snorkeling part lasts about 40 minutes, so it’s not a long swim but enough to genuinely feel the magic. Also, the activity is not suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or anyone with certain medical conditions.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Morning:
Depending on your pickup time, you’ll be transported from Reykjavik to the lava caves. The journey offers Icelandic scenery along the way, with guides sharing interesting facts about volcanic activity and Icelandic traditions. When you arrive at the lava tunnels, you’ll gear up with headlamps, helmets, and sturdy clothing, as you explore formations created by past eruptions.

Most reviewers describe the lava caves as “full of interesting formations” and appreciate guides who encourage exploration. The guides also share amusing stories, like ghost tales, which add a fun local touch. The experience is flexible—some guides give you time to take photos and explore at your own pace.

Midday:
After exploring the lava tunnels, a short drive takes you to Thingvellir National Park. Here, you’ll suit up for snorkeling in Silfra’s cold, clear waters. Guides assist with donning dry suits and snorkeling gear, explaining the significance of the location—floating between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

The actual snorkeling lasts around 40 minutes, during which you’ll glide over underwater ridges in water so transparent you can see the bottom clearly. Reviewers love how “you hardly notice the cold” thanks to the suits, and describe the experience as “once in a lifetime,” with some mention of the surreal feeling of weightlessness.

Afternoon:
Post-snorkeling, everyone gathers for hot cocoa and biscuits, giving you a chance to warm up and chat about the highlights. If you’re lucky, your guides will take underwater photos—complementing your memories with professional shots included in the tour. The return trip to Reykjavik is smooth, with many travelers reminiscing about the day as “the highlight of their Iceland trip.”

Practical Tips for Travelers

• What to bring: Warm clothing, a change of clothes, towel, socks, and possibly contact lenses if you don’t wear glasses underwater.
• Physical requirements: Participants should be comfortable in water and be able to swim. The suits are buoyant, so swimming ability is less critical, but confidence in water is recommended.
• Medical considerations: Pregnant women, non-swimmers, and those with medical conditions should carefully review the snorkeling handbook and consult a doctor if needed.
• Timing: Check the starting times and book in advance, especially during peak seasons, as small group sizes fill quickly.
• Cost: While at $210, the tour isn’t cheap, it offers excellent value for the combination of experiences, professional guiding, equipment, and photos.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This combo adventure is ideal for curious travelers eager to see Iceland’s underground worlds and floating in its renowned clear waters. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable in water, enjoy physical activity, and appreciate geological marvels. It’s also a great choice for couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting a personalized experience.

However, it’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues. Expect a full day of activity, so it’s best for energetic travelers ready for a mix of exploration and adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you select the hotel pickup option, you will be transported comfortably from Reykjavik to the tour locations.

How long does the tour last?
The tour duration varies from 5 to 10 hours, depending on your chosen schedule and stops.

What gear is provided?
All necessary caving and snorkeling equipment, including dry suits and helmets, are provided, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own.

Can I participate if I’m not a strong swimmer?
Most participants find it manageable due to the buoyant suits, but you should be comfortable in water and able to swim. Guides support everyone throughout.

Is the snorkeling water cold?
Yes, but the suits are designed to keep you warm. Many reviewers mention that they hardly felt the cold thanks to the insulation.

Are underwater photos included?
Yes, your guides will take and provide free underwater photos, which many reviews highlight as a nice bonus.

Final Thoughts

This Silfra and lava tunnel combo tour offers an extraordinary glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic roots and underwater beauty. The combination of underground caving and snorkeling creates a diverse, engaging experience that appeals to adventure seekers and geology enthusiasts alike.

The guides consistently earn praise for their friendliness and professionalism, making even the most nervous feel safe and supported. The scenery is truly stunning, and the memories of drifting between tectonic plates or wandering through dark lava tunnels will stay with you long after your trip ends.

While it’s not for everyone—those uncomfortable in water or with certain medical conditions might want to reconsider—the overall value and uniqueness make it a top choice for those wanting a full underground Icelandic experience. Prepare for an active, awe-inspiring day that combines nature’s raw power with a touch of otherworldly magic.

You can check if your dates are available here: