Imagine floating effortlessly in crystal-clear waters between two continents—Europe and North America—in the heart of Iceland’s famous Thingvellir National Park. For $146 per person, you can spend between 2.5 and 5 hours exploring this geological wonder, with guided tours operated by DIVE.IS. The experience includes all necessary gear, warm drysuits, and the chance to see some of the most breathtaking underwater sights Iceland has to offer.
What we love about this tour is how accessible it makes such a surreal experience—no diving certification needed—and the way guides keep things informative and fun. We also appreciate the spectacular visibility of 100 meters, which makes it feel like you’re flying through a shimmering, otherworldly landscape. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the chilly water temperature, though the provided drysuits do an excellent job of keeping you warm.
This adventure suits travelers who love nature, geology, and unique experiences. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced snorkeler, you’ll find this tour accessible, especially since many reviews mention how guides like Henry, Konrad, and Papi put everyone at ease. If you’re comfortable in water and eager for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this is likely to be a highlight of your Iceland trip.
This experience made our article of 3 Best Tours In Selfoss (With Reviews & Prices).
Key Points
- Unmatched Clarity: The water’s visibility of 100 meters creates a surreal, flying-over-the-landscape sensation.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Konrad and Papi make the experience engaging and safe.
- Geological Wonder: Float between tectonic plates in a UNESCO World Heritage site, exploring where continents drift apart.
- Comfort & Safety: All gear, drysuits, and safety briefings are included, making it accessible for non-certified snorkelers.
- Authentic Experience: Small groups of six ensure personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Value for Money: With all gear, instruction, and warm refreshments included, many reviews call it an excellent investment for the experience.
The Experience: What to Expect and Why It Matters
Planning more time in Selfoss? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point & Logistics
The tour begins at a designated meeting point within Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll meet at the Silfra Meeting Point, with clear signage and parking available at P5. The process begins with a safety briefing, which lasts about an hour, where guides explain how to handle the gear and what to expect in the water. This is key because understanding safety protocols and equipment use helps you relax and enjoy the adventure fully.
The Gear & Preparation
You’ll be fitted into a wetsuit, drysuit, and warm undersuit—a crucial aspect considering the water temperature hovers around 2-4°C (36-39°F). Reviews frequently highlight how the drysuits “keep you dry” and surprisingly warm, allowing even those concerned about cold water to participate comfortably. You’ll also get gloves, hoods, and fins, plus a heated changing van nearby for comfort before and after the tour.
The Snorkeling Itinerary: Highlights and Unique Features
The actual snorkel in Silfra lasts about 45 minutes. You’ll start by entering the water at the Big Crack, the narrowest section where the two tectonic plates are so close you might feel like you could reach out and touch them. As you float through this channel, you’ll marvel at the vivid colors of the glacier meltwater—a spectrum of blues and aquamarines that make it look more like a surreal art installation than a water body.
Next, the guide leads you into Silfra Hall, an expansive chamber with incredible sightlines. If the angle is right, you can see all the way across to Lake Thingvallavatn, over 150 meters away. You’ll love how the water’s clarity makes it seem as if you’re flying over the uneven, boulder-strewn seafloor, with the silty bottom visible in astonishing detail.
The most impressive part is the Silfra Cathedral, at a depth of 23 meters. Here, you’ll float past towering underwater rock formations and glacial silt that gives the water its striking blue hue. Many reviews describe this as “spectacular” and “unearthly,” emphasizing how it feels like exploring another world.
More Great Tours NearbyPost-Snorkel Relaxation & Reflection
After your underwater adventure, you’ll return to the Silfra Lagoon. Here, many guides offer hot chocolate and cookies, giving everyone a chance to warm up and chat about the experience. This downtime is appreciated in reviews for making the trip feel more personal and less rushed. It’s also an excellent opportunity to ask questions or take some photos.
The Itinerary in Detail
- Pickup & Arrival: Depending on your booking, you might be picked up from central Reykjavik or meet directly at the park. The convenience of optional pickup means less hassle, especially after a long travel day.
- Safety Briefing: An important 1-hour segment where guides explain the gear, safety tips, and what to expect during the snorkel.
- Short Walks: Two brief 10-minute walks on foot take you from the meeting point to the water entry points and back. These are straightforward but worth noting for those with mobility concerns.
- Snorkeling Time: Approximately 45 minutes in the water with your guide. The small group size (up to 6 participants) ensures personalized attention.
- Break & Free Time: After snorkeling, you get around 30 minutes for photos, warming up, or chatting with your guide.
- Drop-off & Location: The tour ends back at the pickup point or designated drop-off locations, with 35 possible drop-off points around Reykjavik, making it very convenient for city-based accommodations.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
The quality of guides is consistently praised in reviews. Names like Henry, Konrad, Papi, and Veli come up as engaging, knowledgeable, and personable. They help ease nervous beginners and make the experience memorable with their friendly approach and insights into the geology and history of Silfra.
The visual spectacle of the underwater scenery is another major highlight. Many reviewers mention how the crystal-clear water and vivid colors create a feeling of floating through a fantasy landscape. Whether it’s the narrow fissures or the wide Silfra Hall, these sights are truly unforgettable.
On top of that, the value for money is evident. The price includes all necessary gear, safety instructions, and even warm refreshments. Many reviewers call it a “spectacular” experience worth every penny, especially considering the professional guidance and small group sizes.
The Possible Drawbacks and Considerations
While this snorkeling tour offers an incredible experience, there are some points to consider. The water temperature, although well-managed by drysuits, can still be cold, especially for those not used to chilly environments. Preparations like wearing thermals or wool socks are recommended, as many reviews suggest.
The duration of the safety briefing and gear-up process can take up to an hour, so it’s not a spontaneous activity. If you’re pressed for time or have mobility issues, this might require some planning.
Lastly, the activity is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or individuals with certain physical limitations or weight restrictions (over 264 lbs/120 kg, or under 4’9″/150 cm). It also requires a basic comfort level in water, even if no certification is needed.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who crave something genuinely different from typical sightseeing. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy nature and geology, and who don’t mind getting cold briefly in exchange for unparalleled views and a memorable story. The small group setting and guides’ attentiveness make it ideal for anyone wanting a personalized, engaging experience.
If you’re a water lover, a geology enthusiast, or just seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Iceland, this tour offers both excitement and authenticity. It’s especially appealing for travelers who appreciate excellent guides and value good photo opportunities—many reviewers note how helpful guides are about capturing moments.
The Sum Up
The Silfra snorkeling tour offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Floating between two tectonic plates in the world’s clearest water is as surreal as it sounds, and this tour makes it accessible and safe for most travelers. The professional guides, beautiful scenery, and inclusive gear all contribute to a high-value adventure that many reviewers rave about.
While the cold water might be a hurdle for some, the drysuits and warm beverages help keep the experience enjoyable. If you’re willing to spend a couple of hours in a wetsuit, this is a remarkable way to connect with Iceland’s geological marvels and create unforgettable memories.
This tour is best suited for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and curious travelers who want an authentic, small-group experience with expert guides. It’s a perfect highlight for your Iceland trip if you’re eager for something both breathtaking and educational.
FAQ
Do I need to be a certified diver?
No, you do not need certification. This snorkeling activity is suitable for anyone over 12 who can swim and feel comfortable in water.
How long does the snorkeling part last?
The actual snorkeling lasts about 45 minutes, but the entire tour, including briefing and gear-up, lasts between 2.5 and 5 hours.
What should I wear?
Thermal underwear, thick socks, and warm clothes are recommended for before and after the water. The drysuits will keep you dry during the snorkel.
Is the water really cold?
Yes, the water temperature is around 2-4°C, but the drysuits keep you warm and dry, making the experience comfortable for most.
How many people are in each group?
Tours are limited to 6 participants per guide, ensuring a personalized and safer experience.
Are there any age restrictions?
Participants must be at least 12 years old. The tour is not suitable for children under this age, pregnant women, or those over certain weight/height limits.
Is there a safety briefing?
Yes, a detailed safety briefing lasts about an hour and covers gear, safety tips, and expectations.
Can I buy photos of my experience?
Many guides take photos during the tour. Some are included, but others are extra—check with your guide for details.
Is pickup available?
Pickup is optional and from various Reykjavik locations. Otherwise, you meet directly at the Silfra meeting point in Thingvellir.
What if I have a medical condition?
You must read and sign a medical statement before participating. Those over 60 need physician approval.
In the end, if you’re looking for a unique, awe-inspiring adventure that combines Iceland’s geology with a splash of fun, the Silfra snorkeling tour is hard to beat. It’s a great way to see the country’s natural beauty from a totally different perspective—underwater between continents.
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