Silfra: Leidarendi Lava Caving & Snorkeling Tour with Photos

If you’re looking for a way to truly connect with Iceland’s wild side, this Leidarendi Lava Caving & Silfra Snorkeling Tour offers a rare peek beneath the surface. For $295 per person, you’ll spend about seven hours exploring two of Iceland’s most captivating natural phenomena—a lava tube and a freshwater fissure—guided by locals with years of experience. This tour might be a perfect fit for adventure seekers who want to experience Iceland’s volcanic landscape from the inside out, both on foot and underwater.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the guides’ local knowledge shines through—they’re passionate about Icelandic nature and happy to share insights. Second, the combination of caving and snorkeling means you get to see both land and water worlds, unlike a typical sightseeing trip. The easy access to Leidarendi cave’s formations and the crystal-clear waters of Silfra are both highlights. A potential consideration? The tour involves light crawling inside the cave and requires a moderate level of comfort in water; it’s not for everyone. Still, if you’re comfortable with swimming and want an authentic adventure, it’s hard to beat.

This tour appeals most to those eager to see Iceland’s volcanic underground, from the surreal rock formations in Leidarendi to the stunning clarity of Silfra’s fissure. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of physical activity and natural beauty, and who appreciate guides who make the experience both educational and fun.

Key Points

• Unique combination of lava caving and snorkeling offers diverse perspectives on Icelandic nature.
• Expert local guides enhance your understanding of the landscapes and formations.
• No diving certification required—snorkeling at the surface makes it accessible for most water confident travelers.
• All necessary gear is provided, including wetsuits and drysuits, ensuring comfort in the cold waters.
• Small group experience (limited to 6 participants) promotes personalized attention.
• Includes free photos and hot chocolate to keep spirits warm and memories vivid.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Adventure That Connects Land and Water

When we first heard about this tour, what caught our attention was the seamless blend of caving and snorkeling—a combo that promises a full sensory experience. You’ll start by exploring the 900-meter-long Leidarendi lava tube, where the formations are both dramatic and strangely beautiful. You can expect to see stalactites, shelves, and other rock features shaped over 2000 years ago. The cave has fairly easy access, but light crawling may be necessary. We loved the way guides help you navigate these narrow sections, making the experience approachable even for those with a moderate level of fitness.

Next, you’ll venture to Silfra, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Þingvellir National Park. Here, you’ll snorkel in world-famous crystal-clear water—deeply fascinating, given that you can see almost end-to-end in the fissure that is 60-63 meters deep. Many reviews mention how surreal it is to float between two continents, with water so transparent that you might think you’re suspended in space. Guides are equipped to provide both wetsuits and drysuits, with the latter offering more freedom to move and less water sensation. Adventure Vikings is the only company in Iceland that offers wetsuit snorkeling, which many reviewers recommend for maximum comfort.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

The tour begins with hotel pickup, which, depending on the season, starts at 7:30-8:30 AM. The transportation is via a small minivan, which keeps the group intimate and allows for personalized attention. The guides are all English-speaking and bring a wealth of local knowledge — expect plenty of interesting facts and safety tips along the way.

Once at the lava tube, you’ll gear up with caving equipment that is provided. The 900 meters of Leidarendi is a manageable length for most, but as some reviews note, light crawling is involved. The formations inside the cave are the real stars here—stalactites, shelves, and textured walls that tell the story of Iceland’s volcanic past. Guides will ensure your safety and help you navigate the more confined sections, making it accessible even for first-timers.

After a break and some photos, the group will head to Þingvellir National Park for the snorkeling part. You’ll don your wetsuit or drysuit—your choice—and enter the Silfra fissure. Expect to float gently in the cold, freshwater, marveling at the clarity that makes it feel like you’re swimming in air. The water temperature is cold but manageable with proper gear, and no diving experience is necessary. Many previous participants mention how the guides’ safety instructions and encouragement helped them feel at ease.

The tour wraps up with hot chocolate and photos—a nice touch to warm up and preserve the memories—before returning to Reykjavik. The full experience is about seven hours, with timings flexible based on the season and pickup schedule.

What We Love Most About This Tour

One of the most compelling aspects is the expert guidance. Guides like Westin and Bryndis have been praised for their knowledge and personable approach, answering questions and sharing stories that breathe life into the landscape. Their safety-conscious attitude ensures you can relax and enjoy every moment.

Another highlight is the diversity of scenery—from the dark, textured lava formations underground to the bright, almost surreal underwater canyon. The contrast between these two environments makes for a truly immersive day. Reviewers mention that the snorkeling feels safe and accessible—and that they appreciated the option of wetsuit gear, which offers more freedom.

Considerations to Keep in Mind

While this tour offers incredible sights, it’s not without its small challenges. The light crawling involved in the cave can be uncomfortable for some, especially if you have mobility concerns. The cold water in Silfra requires proper gear, so if you’re sensitive to cold, you’ll want to opt for a drysuit.

Plus, the group size is limited to six, which is fantastic for personalized attention but might mean less flexibility with scheduling or availability during peak seasons. You’ll also need to be comfortable in water and swim confidently, as the activity involves snorkeling in a deep fissure.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Appreciate This Experience?

This tour is best suited for adventure-minded travelers who enjoy physical activity and are eager to see a different side of Iceland. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided expertise and want a small-group experience. If you’re fascinated by geology, volcanic landscapes, or underwater environments, you’ll find this especially rewarding. It’s also suitable for most non-divers, since it involves surface snorkeling, not scuba diving.

The experience isn’t ideal for young children (minimum age 12), pregnant women, or anyone with mobility impairments. If you’re not comfortable swimming or crawling in confined spaces, you might find this tour less enjoyable.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone craving an authentic taste of Iceland’s volcanic interior and underwater marvels, this tour provides extraordinary value. You get expert local guides, all gear included, and a chance to experience two of the country’s most iconic natural features—a lava tube and the Silfra fissure—in one day.

The small group size means you won’t feel rushed or lost in a crowd, and the reviews consistently highlight how guides make the experience personal, informative, and fun. The combination of adventure, education, and breathtaking scenery makes this a memorable addition to any Iceland itinerary.

This is well-suited for travelers who want a meaningful, active day in nature, and who don’t mind getting a little wet or crawling through narrow spaces. If you love discovering hidden corners and are comfortable in water, this could be the highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Do I need to be a certified diver for this tour?
No, you do not need a diving certification. Snorkeling is done at the surface, and guides ensure safety and clarity throughout.

What should I bring with me?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothes, socks, and a medical statement are recommended. You should also eat breakfast beforehand, as the tour lasts most of the day.

Can I rent a camera?
Yes, you can rent a GoPro camera for 6900 ISK, which is a great way to capture the experience without worrying about your own equipment.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12 years old. Children under 18 should be accompanied by an adult. The activity requires swimming ability and comfort in water.

What is included in the price?
All snorkeling and caving equipment, guides, hotel pickup and drop-off, free photos, and hot chocolate are included.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This Leidarendi Lava Caving & Silfra Snorkeling Tour offers a compelling way to explore Iceland’s underground and underwater worlds. With knowledgeable guides, stellar scenery, and the chance to experience two of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes, it’s an adventure that will appeal to those craving a hands-on, authentic connection with nature. Just remember to come prepared for the cold and be comfortable in water—this is Iceland’s wild side at its best.

You can check availability for your dates here: