Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Snorkeling between Two Continents - Gear and Preparation

Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Snorkeling between Two Continents

If you’ve ever dreamed of floating between two continents, this tour offers just that—snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure, where you drift over the dividing line between the North American and European tectonic plates. Starting from Reykjavík, the journey takes you into the heart of Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its geological significance and stunning scenery. For a cost of $142 per person, you’ll spend about 3 to 5.5 hours immersed in one of the world’s most unique snorkeling experiences, guided by certified professionals and complemented by cozy post-swim treats.

What we love most about this experience is the remarkable underwater clarity—up to 150 meters of visibility—which makes floating between these ancient plates feel like a surreal dream. Plus, the exhilarating sense of standing in a place where Earth’s crust is literally splitting apart is hard to match. On the downside, the cold glacier waters can be a challenge, especially for those unprepared for the chilly temperatures or who are sensitive to cold. This tour suits adventurous travelers, geology buffs, or anyone eager to tick off an extraordinary bucket list item while enjoying Iceland’s breathtaking landscape.

Key Points

Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Snorkeling between Two Continents - Key Points

  • Unmatched clarity: Up to 150 meters of underwater visibility creates an ethereal snorkeling experience.
  • Unique location: Float between the North American and European tectonic plates in a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Expert guidance: PADI-certified guides ensure safety and help with gear, making it accessible even for first-timers.
  • Convenient options: Optional pickup from Reykjavík or meet directly at Thingvellir National Park.
  • Post-swim comfort: Hot cocoa, cookies, and underwater photos help warm you up and create lasting memories.
  • Limited group size: Small groups (up to 6) mean more personalized attention and a less crowded experience.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transport

Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Snorkeling between Two Continents - Starting Point and Transport

The adventure begins at the Silfra car park in Thingvellir National Park, a short drive from Reykjavík. If you choose the pickup option, a vehicle will collect you from designated points in the city, making the journey easy and comfortable. For those meeting directly, the GPS coordinates (64°1523.508N 21°658.676W) lead you to a parking lot where all the snorkel vans gather.

We appreciate how the tour balances convenience and flexibility. The small group size (limited to 6 participants) means you’re not lost in a crowd, and guides can give focused attention. If you’re self-arranged, just arrive 15 minutes early and walk from the main parking lot back along the road to the smaller lot where guides and equipment are ready.

Gear and Preparation

Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Snorkeling between Two Continents - Gear and Preparation

Once at the starting point, you’ll be fitted with all necessary gear—a mask, fins, snorkel, gloves, boots, and a thermal undersuit. The dry suit is a highlight, keeping you warm despite the icy water, and guides are attentive to ensure everything fits properly and seals are water-tight. As one reviewer noted, “Putting on a dry suit is a difficult task, but the team was so helpful, even adjusting masks to prevent leaks.”

In winter or colder conditions, donning the gear can be a bit daunting, especially without dedicated changing facilities. Travelers should wear warm base layers underneath and bring a change of clothes for after the snorkel, as the experience can be physically demanding and cold.

The Snorkeling Itself

Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Snorkeling between Two Continents - The Snorkeling Itself

The main event lasts about 45 minutes, during which you’ll glide through crystal-clear waters that seem almost unreal in their transparency. We loved the way guides explained the geology—the water originates from Langjökull glacier, flowing through lava fields to the lake, which creates this pristine environment. As one reviewer put it, “The water was so clear, it felt like floating in the sky.”

Floating between the tectonic plates is a surreal experience; you can see the crack running down between the two continental halves. Underwater, the views of the blue fissure are breathtaking—the water’s color is striking, and visibility allows you to see far into the depths.

Post-Swim Warm-up and Photos

Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Snorkeling between Two Continents - Post-Swim Warm-up and Photos

After the snorkel, guides serve hot cocoa and cookies, which are much appreciated after the cold immersion. Many reviews highlight the quality of the underwater photos taken by guides—a free souvenir that captures your moment between two worlds. As one traveler wrote, “The photos were very good, and having them is such a great memory.

This part of the tour is also a good chance to chat with your guide, get tips for future adventures, and soak in the landscape. Since the water is cool, the warm treats and the camaraderie of fellow travelers make the experience more enjoyable.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Snorkeling between Two Continents - Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and geology enthusiasts. It appeals to those who don’t mind a bit of cold and are eager to see an extraordinary part of the world that few people get to experience. The small group and guided format make it accessible even if you’re new to snorkeling or don’t have advanced diving skills.

However, it’s not suitable for young children, pregnant women, or travelers with certain health issues—these restrictions are in place to ensure safety and comfort given the cold environment and physical nature of the activity.

For $142, you’re not only getting a chance to snorkel in one of the top-10 dive sites globally, but also access to guides who are experts in safety and environment. The included equipment, park fees, and photos add to the value. The experience’s uniqueness, combined with the stunning landscape of Thingvellir, makes this a worthwhile investment for those seeking something beyond typical sightseeing.

The hot chocolate and cookies are a simple touch that enhances the overall experience, turning a chilly adventure into a cozy memory. The small group size and professional guides ensure safety and personalized attention, vital when dealing with icy water and technical gear.

Starting in Reykjavík, the drive to Thingvellir is scenic, offering glimpses of the Icelandic countryside and volcanic landscapes. The trip from Reykjavík takes approximately an hour, giving you time to enjoy the view and chat with your guides.

Once you arrive at the park, the guides prompt you through gear-up, emphasizing safety and comfort. The dry suit is a highlight—warm, waterproof, and designed for cold water, allowing you to focus on the beauty around you rather than discomfort. As one reviewer mentions, “The suits kept us warm, and the guides were patient and helpful.”

The 45-minute snorkel takes place in the fissure, where the water’s extraordinary clarity makes it feel like floating in an underwater cathedral. You’ll see the crack between continents, the dark lava formations, and the vibrant blue waters, all while drifting effortlessly with your guide’s instructions.

Afterward, you’ll return to the meeting point for hot cocoa, photos, and a chance to discuss the experience. Some tours include a brief walk around Thingvellir, letting you explore more of this UNESCO site’s geological features.

  • Dress warmly for the drive and post-snorkel, as the water temperature is cold and staying warm before and after the activity is key.
  • Arrive early to allow time for gear fitting and briefing.
  • Book in advance, especially in high seasons, as groups are limited.
  • Be aware of restrictions: this tour is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility, respiratory, or heart conditions.
  • Remember that the water is cold, so thermal layers and proper clothing are essential; guides will provide gear but bringing extra warmth is advisable.
  • The small group format means a more personal experience, but it also requires early booking to secure your spot.

Snorkeling in Silfra is more than just a water activity—it’s a peek into the Earth’s deep past and a chance to float between two continents. The extraordinary visibility, combined with expert guides, makes this experience more accessible and enjoyable than you might expect.

This tour offers excellent value for those eager to tick off a once-in-a-lifetime moment. It’s perfect for adventurers, geology buffs, and curious travelers who want to see Iceland’s landscapes from a truly unique vantage point.

While the cold water might give pause, the guides’ professionalism, the warm treats afterward, and the breathtaking scenery make this a highlight of any trip to Iceland. If you’re comfortable with cold weather and are looking for something truly extraordinary, this could be a top choice.

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you choose the optional pickup, you’ll be collected from designated points in Reykjavík. Otherwise, you can meet at the Silfra car park in Thingvellir.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs from about 3 to 5.5 hours, including transportation, gear-up, the snorkeling itself, and post-swim refreshments.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing, a change of clothes, and thermal layers. The tour provides dry suits and thermal undersuits, but dressing warmly beforehand helps with comfort.

Can children participate?
No, this activity is not suitable for children under 12 years old.

Is prior snorkeling experience necessary?
No, guides assist with gear and provide instructions, making it accessible even for first-timers.

What about the water temperature?
It’s cold, coming from glaciers, but the dry suits keep you warm enough for the 45-minute swim. Still, extra layers for before and after are advised.

Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility or respiratory issues, or people with certain medical conditions listed in the restrictions.

Can I take photos underwater?
Yes, guides include underwater photos in the package, and many reviews praise the quality of the pictures.

What is the scenery like?
Expect stunning views of the fissure, lava formations, and clear blue waters—like floating in a natural cathedral beneath Iceland’s dramatic landscape.

How intimidating is the cold?
While chilly, most travelers find the dry suits effective, and guides are helpful. Several reviews mention feeling warm and comfortable once in the water.

To sum it up, snorkeling at Silfra offers a rare chance to experience the geological wonder of Iceland in a way that’s both thrilling and photogenic. If you’re prepared for the cold, eager for a unique adventure, and appreciate expert guidance, this tour is a memorable highlight worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: