Silfra Wetsuit Snorkeling – Meet on location | Free Photos

Silfra Wetsuit Snorkeling – Meet on Location and Capture Free Photos

Exploring Iceland’s extraordinary underwater landscapes might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but this snorkeling tour at Silfra proves otherwise. For just $152 per person, you’ll spend around three hours marveling at some of the clearest water you’ve ever seen, all while floating between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Led by PADI-certified guides, this small-group adventure (limited to six participants) offers a rare peek into a UNESCO World Heritage Site within Thingvellir National Park.

What we love about this experience are two things: first, the jaw-dropping water clarity—sometimes exceeding 100 meters of view—making it feel like snorkeling in a giant, glass aquarium; second, the personalized attention with small groups, which means plenty of guidance and photos to remember your adventure. A possible downside? The tight-fitting dry suits can be uncomfortable for some, especially if you’re not used to being strapped in tightly, but the trade-off is staying warm in Iceland’s famously chilly waters.

This trip is perfect for active travelers who are comfortable in water and eager to see one of Iceland’s most unique features. If you enjoy adventure with a touch of education and stunning scenery, and don’t mind donning a snug dry suit, you’ll find this experience well worth its price.

Key Points

• Unmatched Water Clarity: Visibility often surpasses 100 meters, offering a surreal underwater view.
• Expert Guidance: PADI-certified guides ensure safety, comfort, and plenty of local insights.
• All Equipment Provided: Wetsuits or dry suits, plus a goody bag of 40-100 free photos.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (max six) promote personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Accessible for Most: Most travelers can participate if comfortable swimming and communicating in English.
• Ideal for Adventure Seekers: Perfect for active, curious travelers looking for a unique Icelandic experience.

Exploring the Silfra Snorkeling Adventure in Depth

The Unique Appeal of Silfra’s Location

Most visitors think of Iceland as a land of waterfalls, geysers, and volcanoes. But beneath the surface lies an intriguing fissure—the Silfra Gorge—where continental plates are slowly drifting apart. It’s one of the few places on Earth where you can snorkel directly between two tectonic plates, and it’s this geological wonder that makes the tour a bucket-list experience.

Our guides, such as Inigo or Jane (mentioned in reviews), are not only knowledgeable about the tectonic activity but also passionate about sharing the history and geology of the site. They will point out features like the crack or canyon that fills with meltwater from nearby glaciers, which results in the remarkably high visibility—a key highlight for many.

The Itinerary Breakdown – What to Expect

Meeting Point and Check-in:
The tour starts at the designated meeting spot at Silfra Adventure Vikings, where you’ll gather with your small group before gearing up. All equipment—fins, masks, wetsuits, or dry suits—are provided. The guides run through a safety briefing, emphasizing that all participants must know how to swim and communicate in English, ensuring everyone’s safety.

The Gear-Up Process:
You’ll put on your bathing suit underneath (recommended), along with thick socks to keep your toes warm—an important tip since cold feet can spoil the experience. Guides are meticulous in ensuring suits fit snugly, although some reviews suggest that the dry suits can feel uncomfortable or tight around the neck and wrists. If you opt for a wetsuit instead, you’ll find it easier to move and dive a bit deeper.

The Snorkeling Experience:
Once suited up, you’ll enter the water, which is astonishingly clear and cold. The guides will help you navigate the 30-40 minute snorkeling route, during which you can enjoy the visibility that often exceeds 100 meters. As some reviewers noted, the sensation of floating and viewing the underwater landscape—including famous rock formations and the gap between two continents—is unforgettable.

Photography and Memories:
Your guide will take 40 to 100 photos during the tour, often at no extra charge, and these are downloadable after a few days. Many reviewers appreciated this thoughtful gesture, as it captures the moment when they are flying through the crystal-clear water.

Warm-up and Refreshments:
After returning to shore, you’ll be treated to a hot chocolate —a well-earned comfort after braving the cold. This moment allows you to relax, share impressions, and review your photos.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The main draw is the exceptional water clarity—most reviews highlight how the water is incredibly transparent, making it possible to see down to 42 meters in some cases. Tourists also love the personalized service from guides like Fernando, who are praised for being friendly, funny, and helpful.

Another point many mention is that the dry suits keep most of the water out, making the cold more bearable. As one reviewer put it, “snorkeling in the cold water was made comfortable with the proper equipment,” which is a relief for those wary of icy Icelandic waters.

The Challenges and Considerations

A few reviews pointed out some disadvantages. The dry suits can be tight and uncomfortable, especially if they don’t fit perfectly, which might cause some participants to feel restricted or awkward. For larger or shorter travelers, this might be a concern, so providing accurate height and weight info beforehand is essential.

Also, this tour is not suitable for children under 12 or those over 65 without medical clearance, mainly because of the physical demands and the suits’ fit. Participants should be comfortable swimming and prepared to wear tight gear for roughly three hours.

Who Will Love This?

If you’re adventurous, enjoy unique natural wonders, and aren’t squeamish about cold water or tight gear, this snorkel will be a highlight of your Iceland trip. It’s particularly perfect for geology buffs or anyone wanting to stand between continents in a surreal setting. The small-group format ensures a more intimate experience, making it ideal for travelers who want personal guidance and lots of photo memories.

Practical Tips for Your Snorkeling Trip

• Bring warm socks to keep your toes warm—this is a popular tip among seasoned snorkelers.
• Wear your swimsuit underneath the wet or dry suit, and consider long thermal underwear and wool socks for extra warmth.
• Contact lenses or your own prescription mask are recommended since glasses are not allowed, and the water is cold.
• Eat a good breakfast before the tour to fuel your adventure.
• Dress for the weather outside, but remember, the gear keeps you warm in the water.
• Arrive on time at the meeting point to avoid missing out on the adventure.

FAQs

Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes, all participants must be comfortable swimming and able to communicate in English.

What equipment is included?
All snorkeling gear, wetsuits or dry suits, and photos taken during the tour are included in the $152 price.

Is the water really that clear?
Yes, many reviews mention visibility exceeding 100 meters, making it feel like snorkeling in an enormous, pristine aquarium.

Can I choose between wetsuit and dry suit?
Yes, you can select either option, but guides highly recommend the wetsuit for more flexibility in diving down, while the dry suit keeps you drier and warmer.

How long is the tour?
The entire adventure lasts about three hours, including gear-up, safety briefing, snorkeling, and warm-up time.

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

Final Thoughts

This snorkeling experience at Silfra is a truly remarkable activity that combines geology, adventure, and stunning scenery. It’s a bucket-list trip for anyone visiting Iceland who craves a unique and memorable way to connect with the country’s natural forces. The small-group setting and professional guides ensure safety and personalized service, making it accessible for most active travelers.

While the tight dry suits may not be everyone’s favorite, the spectacular underwater visibility and the chance to float between two continents make it more than worth a bit of discomfort. The photos and memories you’ll bring home are invaluable, capturing an experience unlike any other.

If you’re looking for a true Icelandic adventure that beautifully blends nature, geology, and a dash of adrenaline, this tour is a perfect choice. Prepare to be amazed by the crystal-clear waters and the fascinating geological story beneath your feet.

Additional Information

• Price: $152.00 per person
• Duration: approximately 3 hours
• Location: Meet at Silfra Adventure Vikings, Thingvellir National Park
• Group Size: Limited to 6 participants for a more intimate experience
• Booking: Book 38 days in advance on average, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

This activity is an excellent way to add an extraordinary chapter to your Iceland itinerary, blending adventure, education, and breathtaking scenery into one unforgettable experience.