Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Diving with Optional Pickup

Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Diving with Optional Pickup — A Detailed Review

Imagine gliding through water so clear you feel like you’re suspended in air, surrounded by surreal rock formations and the feeling that you’re standing at the edge of two continents. That’s exactly what you get with the Silfra Fissure Diving Tour in Þingvellir National Park, just a short drive from Reykjavik. Priced at $278 per person and lasting between 4 to 6 hours, this adventure is designed for qualified divers eager to see one of the world’s most unique underwater landscapes.

We love how this tour offers a personalized experience—small group sizes, expert guides, and all necessary equipment included. We also appreciate that there’s an optional pickup from Reykjavik, which makes the logistics easier and allows you to relax as you head out into the Icelandic wilderness.

One minor consideration is that certification is a must—no exceptions—so if you’re not certified or don’t have the required dry suit experience, this might not be suitable. Still, for seasoned divers craving a once-in-a-lifetime setting, this tour is a genuine highlight. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value stunning scenery, expert guidance, and a well-organized, hassle-free outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique Geological Setting: The only place on Earth where you can dive between two tectonic plates.
• Excellent Visibility: Crystal-clear waters with over 100 meters of visibility.
• All Equipment Included: Comprehensive gear—dry suits, tanks, and more—are provided.
• Small Group Size: Limited to three participants for a personalized experience.
• Expert Guides: Certified dive masters ensure safety and share insights.
• Optional Pickup: Convenience for travelers staying in Reykjavik.

Overview of What You Can Expect

The Silfra Fissure is more than just a dive site; it’s an extraordinary glimpse into the Earth’s geological forces. Located within Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a chance to float between North America and Eurasia—a rare geological spectacle.

This tour is tailored for certified and experienced divers. If you meet the requirements, you’ll find yourself in crystal-clear glacial waters, where the 150-meter visibility makes it feel like swimming through a liquid display case. The water’s clarity is due to the filtering effect of volcanic rock, which cleanses the meltwater from Iceland’s glaciers.

The experience involves guided snorkeling or diving, depending on your certification and preference. You’ll be equipped with all necessary gear, including dry suits, masks, fins, and more. As the guide, Christian (mentioned positively in reviews), will share insights about the geological features and keep safety a priority.

The Itinerary: From Meeting Point to the Fissure

The day begins with either a pickup from Reykjavik (if you booked the option) or a meet-up at Thingvellir Parking P5, about 400 meters from the dive site. The walk to the site is straightforward, and the guide will be waiting at the designated area with all the gear.

Once everyone is ready, you’ll head to the diving location, where you’ll begin with a briefing about safety procedures and diving protocols. The actual diving or snorkeling takes place in the Silfra Fissure, a narrow crack filled with incredibly clear water.

What makes this spot so special is the geological activity—you’ll literally be between two continents, observing the rift that separates North America from Eurasia. The waters are consistently cold, but the dry suits keep you warm and comfortable. Many reviews highlight how spectacular the views are, with some describing the water as looking like a fantasy land.

After your dive, you’ll retrace your steps back to the meeting point, where you can warm up and reflect on the experience. The entire process, including transfers, setup, and the actual time in the water, spans about 4 to 6 hours.

What We Love About This Experience

First, the ability to dive between two tectonic plates is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that few places on Earth can offer. The geological significance alone makes this a fascinating experience for anyone interested in Earth’s natural processes.

Second, the quality of the scenery underwater is astonishing. Several reviewers remark on the crystal-clear water and the fact that visibility exceeds 100 meters, creating a surreal, almost otherworldly environment. The water’s transparency makes it easy to appreciate the layered rock formations and the play of light filtering down, which is a visual treat for both divers and snorkelers.

Third, the guides receive high praise, particularly for their expert knowledge and professionalism. Christian, for example, was called an “amazing guide”, who made the experience both safe and informative. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, making it easier for beginners to ask questions or for experienced divers to share their enthusiasm.

Fourth, the all-included equipment means you don’t need to worry about gear—everything from drysuits to regulators is provided. This not only saves you money but also simplifies logistics, especially if you’re traveling from Reykjavik and want to keep things straightforward.

More Great Tours Nearby

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

The main limitation is the requirement of a valid dry suit diving certification. If you don’t meet the certification criteria or lack experience with dry suits, this tour might not be an option. It’s also worth noting that medical conditions, such as certain health issues, could disqualify you from participation, so reading the provided handbook beforehand is essential.

The cold water environment is another factor—though dry suits help, the water temperature remains low, and the experience isn’t suitable for those sensitive to cold or with mobility impairments. People over 60 need a doctor’s note, and the size restrictions for dry suits could be a consideration for larger or shorter individuals.

Lastly, the small group size is a double-edged sword: it provides intimacy and personalized service but also means limited availability during peak seasons. Booking well in advance is advisable.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is best suited for certified divers with dry suit experience who are looking for an adventure showcasing Iceland’s unique geology. If you’re a nature lover or geology enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the chance to float between continents in remarkably clear waters.

It’s also ideal for travelers who value small-group tours and want the peace of mind that comes with expert guidance and all gear included. Non-divers or those with medical issues or mobility limitations might need to look for snorkel-only options or alternative excursions, as this tour involves diving in cold water.

The Sum Up

The Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Diving Tour offers a genuinely special experience for certified divers. The combination of stunning underwater scenery, expert guides, and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be between two continents makes it a must-do for anyone with a passion for geology and adventure. While the certification requirement narrows the field somewhat, those who qualify will find this tour to be well-organized, breathtaking, and worth every penny.

If you’re seeking a unique, visually spectacular underwater experience and don’t mind the cold, this tour will meet and surpass your expectations. Its small-group focus and all-inclusive gear ensure a seamless, memorable day—ready to leave you with stories about floating in Iceland’s most extraordinary waters.

FAQs

Do I need to be a certified diver?
Yes, a valid dry suit diving certification is required. If you have at least 10 previous dry suit dives logged, with proof, you’ll qualify to participate.

Is transportation included?
Transportation from Reykjavik is optional. If you choose the pickup option, you’ll be collected from designated points in the city, making the trip more convenient.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, a change of clothes, a towel, socks, your diving certification, a medical statement if needed, and your dive log. Bare feet are not allowed.

How long does the tour last?
Expect the total experience to last between 4 and 6 hours, including transfers, briefing, gear-up, and water time.

Is the water cold?
Yes, the water remains cold year-round, but dry suits keep you warm and comfortable. The focus is on the unique environment and scenery.

Can non-swimmers or people with health issues participate?
No, due to safety concerns and certification requirements, non-swimmers and certain medical conditions are not suitable.

If you’re a certified diver eager to explore one of the most extraordinary underwater sites on Earth, and you’re prepared for the cold, this Silfra Fissure tour from Reykjavik makes for a genuinely unforgettable chapter in your Iceland adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: