Silfra: Snorkel Between Continents. Free Professional Photos

If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming between two tectonic plates, this tour at Silfra in Iceland is about as close as it gets. Though I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an extraordinary adventure that combines natural beauty, expert guidance, and thoughtful touches—like dry gloves and high-quality photos—that make it truly stand out.

What we love about this experience is how it promises an intimate, personalized encounter with one of the world’s clearest waters, a focus on comfort with dry gloves, and the chance to capture stunning images without extra cost. Plus, the small group size ensures you’ll receive plenty of attention from guides who are passionate about sharing this magical spot.

One thing potential visitors might want to consider is the limited availability—this tour only runs with one group at a time, so booking ahead is essential. It’s best suited for travelers who love natural wonders, don’t mind a bit of cold water (the water temperature hovers around 2°C), and appreciate professional photography.

Good To Know

• Exclusive Experience: Only one snorkeling group at a time, creating a more personal adventure.
• Superior Comfort: Dry gloves keep hands warm, a feature not offered by every operator.
• High-Quality Photos: Professional camera with a flash captures crisp images, included at no extra cost.
• Expert Guides: Guides explain geological formations and ensure safety and comfort.
• Small Group: Limited to six participants, making the experience more relaxed and personalized.
• Convenient Amenities: Hot chocolate and cookies after snorkeling add a cozy finish to the tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Silfra Snorkeling Tour

Why This Tour Is Special

This tour is rooted in the idea of providing an unmatched level of exclusivity at Silfra. Unlike many other operators, Diving Island runs only one group per time slot, which means no crowded waters or rushed moments. Several reviews highlight how this approach creates a more intimate feeling, allowing guides to focus entirely on your safety and enjoyment.

On top of that, dry gloves are a game-changer. As Egoitz from Spain put it, “the gloves that attach to the suit keep the water out, helping keep your hands dry and warm,” which is a crucial detail when water temperatures sit at a brisk 2°C. Many other companies only offer wetsuits, but this tour’s focus on warmth and comfort really pays off.

Adding to the quality of experience are the professional photos. Instead of relying on action cameras, the guide uses a camera with a flash, capturing crisp, close-up shots of you floating between continents. As several reviews state, these photos are a highlight, allowing you to relive the moment in high detail without paying extra.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The journey begins at the Silfra meeting point, where your guide will provide a safety briefing that lasts around 30 minutes. Expect clear explanations about the geological formations that created Silfra and how the drysuit differs from traditional wetsuits. This educational component enhances the sense of wonder, making the snorkel not just an activity but an immersive lesson in natural history.

Next, you’ll walk for about 30 minutes to reach the water. The walk is straightforward, but it’s worth noting that comfortable footwear and a light base layer are recommended—plus socks, as reviewers suggest. Once at the water’s edge, your guide will assist you with donning the full equipment: drysuit, warm undersuit, dry gloves, mask, snorkel, and fins.

The actual snorkeling lasts approximately 25-30 minutes, during which you’ll glide through the exceptionally clear water, observing the underwater rock formations and the geological marvels that make Silfra unique. Reviewers consistently mention how crystal-clear water and breathtaking views make this experience unforgettable.

Afterward, you’ll have a 30-minute break, during which you can warm up with hot chocolate and cookies—a perfect way to relax after the chilly adventure. Many guests mention how this small touch adds a welcoming vibe and makes the entire outing feel more like a friendly, curated experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

• Limited Groups: As the only operator running one group at a time, the experience feels more personal and less rushed.
• Attention to Comfort: Dry gloves and professional gear ensure you stay warm and comfortable in icy waters.
• Guided Expertise: Guides like Kris, Héðinn, and others are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and patience, helping even nervous snorkelers feel confident.
• High-Quality Photos: The included images are a big hit, with many reviewers appreciating the professional flash photography that captures their joy and awe.
• Small Group Size: With a maximum of six participants, you get more individual attention and a chance to ask plenty of questions or get tips during the setup.

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Practical Details and Value

While the tour costs $164 per person, the value is evident in the experience’s quality and inclusions. The full equipment, drysuit, warm undersuit, dry gloves, and professional photos all contribute to a fuss-free, enjoyable adventure. The National Park entry fee is included, so no hidden costs there.

Meeting logistics are straightforward but worth noting: you’ll park at Thingvellir P5 parking lot, then walk about five minutes to the meeting point. The guides will be waiting in a small white bus with a distinctive “DIVING” license plate and a “Diving Island” sign. Arriving 10 minutes early is crucial—being late results in missing out, as the tour runs on a strict schedule.

Review Highlights

• Guests frequently mention the knowledgeable guides who explain everything in detail and help with dressing, making the experience accessible even for first-timers.
• The small group setting is praised for making the tour more relaxed and personalized, especially in reviews where groups of 4-6 participants felt like a friendly adventure.
• The glacier-cold water doesn’t feel as daunting thanks to the dry suit, with many reviewers noting they didn’t feel cold at all—some say it’s even warm enough for a relaxed snorkel.
• Guides like Héðinn are remembered for their warm, friendly attitude and clear instructions, which is essential given the chilly environment.
• The inclusion of hot chocolate and cookies at the end offers a cozy reward, sealing the experience as a memorable, well-rounded outing.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This snorkeling adventure is ideal for travelers who want a personal, well-organized experience in one of Iceland’s most stunning natural sites. If you appreciate small groups, expert guidance, and high-quality photography to capture your moment, this tour ticks all the boxes.

It’s perfect for adventure-seekers comfortable with cold environments, as the dry suit keeps you warm. Those looking for an educational twist—learning about the geological forces that created Silfra—will also find this tour enriching.

However, it’s not suitable for everyone. The age limit is 12 to 60 years, and those with medical issues, mobility impairments, or certain health conditions should seek advice before booking. If cold water or tight suits are a concern, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

This snorkeling tour at Silfra offers an unbeatable mix of exclusivity, comfort, and professionalism. The small group size, combined with dry gloves and high-quality photos, ensures a memorable and comfortable experience in one of Iceland’s most awe-inspiring settings.

Guides like Kris and Héðinn have earned high praise for their friendliness and expertise, making even nervous snorkelers feel at ease. The inclusion of hot chocolate and cookies after the activity is a thoughtful touch that rounds out the adventure perfectly.

This tour provides excellent value for its price, especially given the quality gear, personalized attention, and stunning underwater views. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience with a focus on comfort, photography, and authenticity.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides explain the equipment and safety procedures clearly, and the drysuit helps keep you warm, making it accessible for first-timers.

What should I wear under the drysuit?
A thin base layer and thick socks are recommended to stay comfortable during the snorkel.

How long does the snorkeling last?
The guided snorkeling portion lasts approximately 25-30 minutes, with additional time for preparation and breaks.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, full equipment including drysuit, gloves, mask, snorkel, and fins are provided.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers full equipment, drysuit, dry gloves, high-quality photos, national park entry fee, hot chocolate, and cookies.

Where do I meet the guide?
At the Silfra meeting point, with parking at Thingvellir P5—about a five-minute walk from the parking lot.

Can I join if I have medical conditions?
You need to sign a medical statement certifying you have no issues; certain health conditions or age restrictions might prevent participation.

What if I am late?
Arriving more than 15 minutes late means you will miss the tour, so plan to arrive early and be on time.

This tour is a rare chance to combine stunning natural beauty with personalized service and thoughtful extras. It’s perfect for travelers who value quality, comfort, and memories—just be sure to book early and prepare for a chilly, yet unforgettable adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: