Double Snorkeling Adventure near Húsavík in North Iceland

Double Snorkeling Adventure near Húsavík in North Iceland: A Deep Dive into Iceland’s Underwater Wonders

Imagine floating in crystal-clear waters surrounded by otherworldly scenery—this is exactly what you get on this double snorkeling experience near Húsavík. For just $274 per person, you’ll spend around six hours exploring two very different but equally captivating sites, guided by knowledgeable PADI instructor Arnar. The tour begins at Nesgjá, a freshwater fissure often called the “Silfra of the North,” and culminates in the enchanting Litlaá river, where bubbling sands create a surreal landscape.

What we love most about this trip is the contrast: the first stop offers tranquility and visibility beyond 100 meters in shallow, pristine waters, while the second immerses you in a dynamic ecosystem with warm water, green algae, and colorful sediments. Plus, you’ll enjoy hot cocoa and cookies after each snorkel—simple pleasures that make chilly Icelandic waters a lot more welcoming.

A potential consideration for some travelers is the physical requirement—you need to be comfortable in water, able to swim, and meet the age and health criteria. The drysuit can feel snug, especially over layered clothing, so proper thermal underwear is recommended. This experience suits adventure-loving travelers who appreciate unique natural sights and are comfortable in water. It’s particularly great if you’re keen on guided, small-group outings that focus on quality and safety.

Key Points

• Two distinct snorkeling sites in North Iceland offer contrasting scenery and ecosystems.
• Expert guides ensure safety and enrich your understanding of the environment.
• High-quality equipment, including dry suits and warm undersuits, guarantee comfort even in cold waters.
• Authentic Icelandic adventure with a focus on natural beauty and ecological interest.
• Small group size maximizes personal attention and safety.
• Post-snorkel warmth with hot cocoa and cookies adds a cozy touch to the experience.

Exploring the Double Snorkeling Adventure: An In-Depth Review

Starting Point: Meeting at Skúlagarður Country Hotel & Restaurant

Your adventure kicks off at the Skúlagarður hotel in Ásbyrgi, about 10 a.m., where you’ll meet your guide Arnar and the small group of snorkelers. The convenience of a central meeting point means you won’t waste precious time driving around. From here, the journey to the first site is short—about 15 minutes—allowing you to arrive relaxed and ready to go.

The First Stop: Nesgjá Fissure – Iceland’s Version of Silfra

Nesgjá is a freshwater fissure renowned for its clarity and shallow depth—perfect for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike. It’s often called the “Silfra of the North” because of its similar water qualities, making it one of Iceland’s treasured underwater sites. The fissure’s water is so transparent that visitors have reported seeing further than 100 meters, thanks largely to the guide’s joke that the visibility “depends solely on the quality of your dive mask.”

Upon arrival, Arnar will give a comprehensive briefing, explaining safety protocols and what to expect. His calm and friendly approach puts even nervous travelers at ease. You’ll then don top-quality dry suits and gear, which are critical to staying warm and dry in the cold waters. The suits fit snugly but are designed for comfort, especially if you wear thermal underwear and wool socks—advice the guides often emphasize.

Your 30-45 minute snorkel will take you down into the fissure, where you can marvel at the striking features of Iceland’s geology. The shallow lagoon allows for easy navigation and provides an unobstructed view of arctic charr, a salmonide species that sometimes swims by. Many reviewers, like the Tripadvisor comment “it was beautiful to have this fissure all to ourselves,” note the serenity and untouched nature of this spot.

Warming Up with Cocoa and Cookies

Back on shore, you’ll be greeted with hot cocoa and cookies—simple yet very welcome after chilly waters. This breaks the ice and gives you time to chat with your guide about the environment or the next adventure.

The Second Stop: Litlaá River and the Bubbling Sands

Next, you’ll head to Litlaá River, where the water is around 20°C—warmer than Nesgjá—and the scenery is markedly different. Here, the water erupts from the bottom, creating mesmerizing “Bubbling Sands”, a natural phenomenon that looks like an alien landscape. You’ll snorkel in fields of green algae, multicolored sediments, and observe countless snails, making it a truly unique ecosystem.

The guide will again walk you through the process, ensuring you’re comfortable and prepared. Many visitors describe this part as “like exploring an alien world,” emphasizing the surreal quality of the hot-cold water interaction and the rich, strange flora. The river float at the end offers a gentle, scenic finish, and numerous reviews praise guide Arnar for his helpfulness and storytelling.

Authenticity, Safety, and Equipment

Throughout both snorkels, you’re in the capable hands of a PADI instructor guide. The emphasis on safety and professional equipment is evident—dry suits, warm undersuits, and snorkel gear are all top-notch.

What’s Included and What Isn’t

Your fee covers all equipment, guided tours, and post-snorkel refreshments. Photos of your experience are available for purchase—though reviews suggest many travelers find the images worth it, capturing the surreal environment and their own expressions of awe.

Practicalities and Considerations

• The meeting point is straightforward, and the timing fits well for a full morning of adventure.
• The small group size (max 4) allows for personalized attention and safety.
• You’ll need to fill out a medical form online beforehand and provide height, weight, and age details to ensure proper fitting gear.
• The dry suits can feel tight, especially for larger or taller individuals, so accurate sizing is critical.
• Participants should be comfortable swimmers and able to communicate in English.
• Participants over 60 require a doctor’s approval, so check with your doctor if you’re in that age bracket.

Authentic Reviews and Real Experiences

Many travelers find this tour to be “fantastic” and “beautiful”, with guides like Arnar earning praise for their friendliness, professionalism, and helpfulness. Comments like “it was a treat to have the fissure all to ourselves” reflect how special this experience feels away from crowded tourist spots.

Snorkeling in Litlaá’s bubbling sands is often described as “like exploring an alien world,” with the environmental features creating a fascinating ecosystem. The opportunity to see arctic charr and other aquatic life adds depth to the adventure.

Guides’ explanations about the geological features, combined with the stunning visuals, make the tour not just about floating in water—it’s about engaging with Iceland’s geological and ecological wonderland.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This double snorkeling adventure is ideal for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those curious about Iceland’s underwater landscapes. The small-group format ensures an intimate experience, perfect for travelers who value safety, expert guidance, and authenticity. It’s especially appealing if you want to combine geological marvels with a touch of ecological discovery.

While the tour demands a moderate level of physical fitness and comfort in water, it offers a unique, hands-on experience that few other Icelandic tours can match. The mix of tranquil fissure waters and surreal bubbling sands guarantees that you’ll walk away with unforgettable memories—and some fantastic photos to prove it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need previous snorkeling experience?
No, this tour is suitable for those comfortable in water and able to swim, but no prior snorkeling experience is required. Guides provide thorough instructions.

What should I wear underneath the dry suit?
Long thermal underwear and thick wool socks are recommended to stay warm and comfortable during the snorkel.

Are the dry suits tight?
Yes, dry suits can feel quite snug, especially over layered clothing. Proper sizing, which your guide will confirm after you provide your height, weight, and age, helps ensure comfort.

Can I do this if I’m over 60?
Participants over 60 need a doctor’s signed approval to participate, so check with your healthcare provider beforehand.

How long is each snorkeling session?
Each stop lasts around 30-45 minutes, giving ample time to enjoy the environment and take in the scenery.

What is included in the price?
All necessary snorkeling gear, dry suits, guided tours, and post-snorkel hot cocoa and cookies are included. Photos can be purchased afterward.

Is transportation provided?
The meeting point is at Skúlagarður, and the tour operates from there. The short drive to the sites is included in the itinerary.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

In essence, this tour offers a rare peek into Iceland’s underwater universe, guided by friendly experts and set among stunning natural landscapes. It’s perfect for those wanting an authentic, adventurous experience that’s both safe and deeply memorable.