Silfra Drysuit Snorkeling with Free Photos – Meet on Location

Discover the Unique Adventure of Snorkeling in Silfra with Adventure Vikings

Imagine floating in some of the clearest water on Earth, with visibility stretching over 100 meters, all while standing between two continents—Europe and North America. That’s exactly what you get with the Silfra Drysuit Snorkeling tour operated by Adventure Vikings, costing $152 per person. Starting from Reykjavik, this roughly 3-hour experience is led by knowledgeable guides, including several with PADI certification, ensuring safety and professionalism. You’ll don a dry suit or wetsuit (both included), and spend about 40 minutes in the water marveling at the underwater fissure created by the slow drifting apart of tectonic plates.

What we love about this tour is how it combines spectacular geological significance with the thrill of snorkeling in some of the world’s most transparent freshwater. The guides are often praised for their patience and knowledge, making the experience accessible even for beginners. Plus, the included underwater photos mean you’ll have tangible memories of this once-in-a-lifetime journey. A small group size—just six snorkelers—ensures personalized attention, which makes a big difference when managing gear and comfort.

A possible consideration is that the dry suits can feel tight and constricting, especially around the neck and wrists, which might be uncomfortable for some. Also, weather conditions can influence the experience, so dressing appropriately is essential. This tour suits those who are comfortable swimming and in good health, and it’s especially ideal for travelers eager to tick off a major Icelandic highlight while enjoying an expert-guided, safe environment.

Key Points

• Unique geological experience of snorkeling between tectonic plates in Silfra’s crystal-clear waters
• Small group size of up to six snorkelers ensures personalized guidance and safety
• Inclusion of photos offers memorable keepsakes of your underwater adventure
• Expert guides, many with PADI certification, focus on safety and sharing knowledge
• Weather considerations mean dress warmly and be prepared for Iceland’s climate
• Age and health restrictions help ensure a safe, enjoyable experience for all participants

The Experience: What to Expect on Your Day in Silfra

When you book this tour, you’re signing up for a carefully organized journey that balances adventure, education, and comfort. You’ll meet your guide at the Silfra Adventure meeting point in Thingvellir National Park, about 50 km from Reykjavik. From the start, the guides set the tone with a thorough safety briefing, walking everyone through the steps of gear-up and snorkeling. The small-group format makes it easy to ask questions and share concerns, which many reviews highlight as a major plus.

Gearing Up and Safety Briefing

Once you arrive, you’ll change into your provided snorkeling gear, which includes a dry suit or wetsuit—choice depending on your confidence in water and comfort preferences. The dry suits, while offering excellent insulation, can feel quite snug; as one reviewer noted, “they can be tight and constricting, especially around the neck and wrists.” Don’t worry, your guide will help ensure your suit fits properly to prevent leaks or discomfort.

After gear check, the guide will go over safety procedures and demonstrate how to use your equipment. You’ll also fill out a medical form to confirm you’re fit for snorkeling, with stricter restrictions for those over 65 or with specific health concerns. The guides are trained to keep everyone safe and comfortable, particularly given the cold water temperature (around 2°C).

The Journey into Silfra

The walk from the changing area to the water is brief—about two minutes—but it’s where you’ll inevitably start feeling the chilly air and prepare mentally for what’s ahead. Once you’re ready, you’ll step onto the platform and slip into the water under the watchful eye of your guide.

The actual snorkeling lasts about 40 minutes. During this time, you’ll glide through an underwater canyon with visibility of at least 100 meters. You’ll encounter the fissure itself, created over thousands of years by the tectonic plates pulling apart at around 2 cm per year. As one review put it, “It feels like flying,” thanks to the incredible clarity and surreal landscape below.

The Underwater Landscape

You’ll marvel at the colors and textures of the fissure, with walls that display layers of ancient volcanic rock and mineral deposits. Because the water is freshwater and filtered through volcanic rock, it’s exceptionally clear, allowing you to see formations and tiny fish that seem impossibly close. The experience of floating between two continents—Europe and North America—is utterly unique, and many reviewers describe it as “magical” or “unforgettable.”

Wrapping Up and Warm Drinks

After your time in the water, you’ll walk back to the changing area. Here, the guides help you remove your gear and serve hot chocolate—a simple but highly appreciated gesture to warm up after the chilly dip. Some reviewers mentioned that the hot chocolate and the warm van to change in are small but thoughtful touches that elevate the experience.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Your tour package covers the snorkeling equipment, a PADI-certified guide, and free underwater photos—a highlight for many travelers who want to relive the moment or share it with friends. The hot chocolate is a lovely, warming finish to the adventure.

However, you’ll want to come prepared with clothing suitable for Iceland’s weather. Thermal underwear and wool socks as base layers are recommended to stay warm under the dry suit. It’s wise to bring a change of clothes, especially because dry suits have a small chance of leaking. Also, leave behind bulky clothing like jeans or heels, and bring contact lenses or your own prescription mask instead of glasses.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This snorkeling in Silfra is best suited for adventurous travelers who are comfortable swimming and can handle cold water. People with claustrophobia might find the snug dry suits uncomfortable, so wetsuits could be a better option if available. The minimum age is 12, but those over 65 should seek physician approval beforehand.

It’s a fantastic choice for nature lovers and geology buffs, since standing between two tectonic plates in such a pristine environment is a rare privilege. Plus, if you’re after photo opportunities, the included shots make this experience even more worthwhile.

The Value and Why It’s Worth It

At $152, this tour offers a remarkable blend of adventure, education, and picture-perfect moments. When you consider the small group size, expert guidance, and the opportunity to see a UNESCO World Heritage site in such pristine condition, it’s a solid investment in unforgettable memories. The inclusion of professional photos ensures you don’t just have a mental picture but a tangible keepsake of your Icelandic adventure.

Authentic Experiences from Other Travelers

Many reviews highlight the professionalism and enthusiasm of guides like Arnold, Wilmar, and Hugo. Their patience and storytelling turn what could be a straightforward snorkel into a memorable experience. One reviewer mentioned that their guide Edgar made the morning “fantastic,” and another praised Niko for making everything run smoothly.

Several travelers were impressed with the views and underwater scenery, describing it as “beautiful” and “surreal,” with some noting how surprisingly warm they felt once in the water—thanks to the well-fitted dry suits. Conversely, some mention the initial coldness and the tightness of the suits, reminding future guests to dress warmly and be prepared for the snug fit.

The Sum Up

The Silfra Drysuit Snorkeling experience by Adventure Vikings offers a rare opportunity to float between two continents in one of the clearest waters on Earth. It’s perfect for those who seek an adventurous, visually stunning experience with the comfort of expert guidance and professional photos. The small-group format guarantees more individual attention, making it good for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike.

If you’re after a geo-physical marvel combined with the extra comfort of a dry suit and the chance to capture those unforgettable underwater moments, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime outing that balances fun, safety, and awe-inspiring scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, beginners are welcome as long as you are comfortable swimming and in good health. The guide will provide safety instructions, and the small group size helps ensure personalized attention.

What should I wear under the dry suit?
Long thermal underwear and thick wool socks are recommended as base layers. Dress warmly because Iceland’s weather can be cold, and you’ll be outside before and after snorkeling.

How long is the snorkeling time?
The time spent in the water is approximately 40 minutes, during which you’ll experience the incredible clarity and landscape of Silfra.

Are photos included?
Yes, underwater photos are part of the package. Many reviewers appreciated this, as it allows them to remember the experience vividly and share with friends.

What’s the minimum age?
The minimum age is 12 years old. Participants over 65 need to get a doctor’s approval before booking.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This snorkeling adventure in Silfra is more than just a splash. It’s a chance to experience one of Iceland’s most extraordinary landscapes with expert guidance, excellent equipment, and memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or just seeking an unforgettable story, this trip is well worth considering.