Silfra Wetsuit Snorkeling Tour with Underwater Photos – From Reykjavik

Imagine gliding through crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the breathtaking geology of Thingvellir National Park, where two tectonic plates—North American and Eurasian—drift apart at about 2 centimeters per year. This is exactly what you get with the Silfra Wetsuit Snorkeling Tour, offered by Adventure Vikings. For around $189 per person, you’ll spend roughly five hours experiencing some of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders—complete with a small group of just six people, making it more intimate and personalized. The tour includes round-trip transfers from Reykjavik, warm hot chocolate afterward, and underwater photos to remember your adventure.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the guides (many of whom are highly praised for their friendliness and knowledge) ensure you feel comfortable even in the icy water, and second, the stunning visibility in the water—often described as almost surreal—means you’ll see remarkably clear views of the underwater rock formations and the fissure’s depths.

One possible consideration is the gear fitting process; it can take some time, especially during peak seasons or if you’re particular about your equipment. This means patience is essential, particularly when changing in cold weather.

This tour is perfect for adventurers and nature lovers who want a unique experience and don’t mind the cold, as long as they’re prepared with the right gear. If you’re comfortable in water and eager for a once-in-a-lifetime view of Iceland’s geological marvels, this snorkeling trip is an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Unique geological experience: Snorkel between two tectonic plates in a stunning, crystal-clear fissure.
• Small-group intimacy: Max six participants for personalized attention.
• All-inclusive comfort: Wetsuits or drysuits, photos, and transfers included.
• Highly praised guides: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and dedicated to making the experience enjoyable.
• Good value for the price: Includes gear, transportation, photos, and hot chocolate.
• Weather considerations: Prepare for cold water, but drysuits help, and the experience is well worth it.

The Experience: What to Expect on the Tour

Starting Your Day
The adventure begins with a 45-minute transfer from your Reykjavik accommodation to the park, giving you a chance to take in the Icelandic landscape and chat with guides about what’s ahead. We found that the pickup service is convenient and stress-free, especially after a long travel day or early morning.

Meet Your Guide & Safety Briefing
Once at Silfra, your guide runs through safety instructions and what to expect. They’ll check your gear fit and make sure you’re comfortable before heading into the water. Expect a concise safety briefing, emphasizing the importance of breathing calmly and not panicking. Guides like Gretar, Dory, and Edgar are frequently praised for their friendly demeanor and helpfulness, which puts nervous first-timers at ease.

Gear Up & Get Ready
You’ll wear your swimsuit underneath your wetsuit or drysuit. Many reviews highlight the importance of thick socks (preferably wool), which significantly improve comfort. You might spend some time fitting the drysuit, especially around the neck and wrists—this can feel restrictive, but it’s key to staying warm. The dry suits are especially recommended, as they maintain body warmth better than wetsuits, which is appreciated by those who want more freedom of movement.

The Snorkeling Experience
Once suited up, it’s time to enter the water. Expect to snorkel for about 30-40 minutes, swimming through the glacial waters that are just around 2°C (36°F). Don’t let the temperature scare you; the drysuits keep you warm and dry, and many reviewers mention that the water feels surprisingly mild once in. The water clarity is often described as “almost surreal,” offering views of underwater rock formations, fissures, and the bizarre, ever-changing landscape that’s constantly widening as the tectonic plates drift apart.

Photos & Memories
Throughout the snorkeling, guides like Dory and Kevin take high-quality photos, often more than 40. These are included in the price, and reviews rave about how they capture the magic of the moment. Many visitors mention how these photos and videos are a treasured keepsake.

Post-activity Warm-up
After emerging from the water, you’ll head back to dry land, where a gratifying hot chocolate awaits. This is the perfect way to warm up and reflect on your experience while still immersed in the peaceful, surreal environment.

What Makes This Tour Special

The sense of standing between two tectonic worlds is unmatched. You’ll love how crystal-clear the water is, allowing you to see deep into the fissure’s depths. Many reviews mention how the “water wasn’t cold at all in February,” which surprises first-timers who might expect Iceland’s icy reputation. The guides’ expertise is consistently praised, with some reviewers noting their patience and helpfulness, especially if you’re feeling nervous or need extra reassurance.

The inclusion of underwater photos—delivered just days after your trip—is a highlight, providing a way to share your experience with friends or keep as a memory. The small group size ensures you get more attention and personalized guidance, which can make all the difference when trying something as unusual as snorkeling between two tectonic plates.

Gear and Preparation

Gear is supplied, including wetsuits or drysuits, masks, snorkels, and fins. The guides emphasize bringing thick wool socks for added warmth, as well as a swimsuit, towel, and a change of clothes. Since the drysuits can feel tight and constricting, especially around the neck and wrists, it’s wise to wear long thermal underwear underneath for added comfort.

Weather conditions are a consideration; you’ll want to dress appropriately for the transfer and waiting times, especially in winter. The tour operators recommend no heels or jeans, and suggest bringing contact lenses instead of glasses because of the gear fitting process.

Health and safety are taken seriously, with all participants required to fill out a medical form beforehand. The minimum age is 12, and those over 65 should get a physician’s approval. If you’re under 150cm or over 200cm tall, or outside the weight range (50-120kg), it’s important to communicate with the operator to ensure proper gear fitting.

The Itinerary in Detail

Departure & Transfer
The day begins with a comfortable 45-minute transfer from Reykjavik, allowing travelers to relax and absorb the scenic surroundings. It’s convenient and straightforward, often praised in reviews for its ease.

Arrival & Orientation
Upon arrival at Silfra, guides provide a briefing, explaining safety protocols, what to expect, and how to use your gear. Expect to spend around 30 minutes getting into your wetsuit or drysuit, with some waiting involved, especially during peak seasons.

Snorkeling in Silfra
Your actual snorkeling lasts approximately 30-40 minutes. The water’s exceptional clarity allows you to see deep into the fissure, with underwater currents manageable thanks to the guides’ instructions. Many reviewers mention how “the water wasn’t cold at all in February,” thanks to the dry suits.

Post-swim & Photos
After exiting the water, you’ll warm up with hot chocolate and receive your photos. This is a key highlight, with many travelers commenting on how “the pictures turned out great” and serve as lasting memories.

Return Transfer
The tour concludes with a drop-off back in Reykjavik, typically around midday, leaving plenty of time for other explorations.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Reviews consistently highlight the expertise of guides like Gretar, Dory, Kevin, and Edgar, who are lauded for their patience, friendliness, and helpfulness. Many mention that guides do an excellent job of making first-timers comfortable and ensuring everyone gets quality photos.

The visual spectacle of Silfra’s transparent water and unique setting is a common theme. Travelers describe it as “one of the most beautiful and surreal experiences” of their Iceland trip. Several reviewers share that snorkeling in Silfra was their favorite activity, often calling it a “bucket list” experience.

While some mention the gear fitting process taking longer than expected, most agree it’s well worth the wait. The cold water isn’t as uncomfortable as one might imagine, especially with drysuits. Patience and proper preparation are key to enjoying this experience fully.

Practical Tips for Your Adventure

• Book early, as this tour is popular and often booked 46 days in advance.
• Wear thermal underwear under your drysuit for extra comfort.
• Bring contact lenses if you don’t wear glasses; the gear doesn’t accommodate glasses well.
• Bring a change of clothes and towel for after the activity.
• Eat breakfast beforehand—the activity can be physically demanding.
• Prepare for the wait while getting into gear; bring snacks or read about Iceland.
• Consider the weather—dress appropriately for transfers and waiting periods.
• Bring your own GoPro if you want additional footage; guides take excellent photos, but personal cameras can capture more angles.
• Bring warm socks; many reviewers swear by wool for warmth.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This snorkeling adventure is ideal for adventure enthusiasts eager to see a geological wonder. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable in water, enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides, and want photos to remember your trip. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate small-group experiences and authentic connections with guides.

If you’re someone who values stunning scenery and unique natural features, and you’re prepared to handle the cold, this trip offers a genuine, memorable Icelandic highlight. Families with older children, especially those over 12, will find it an exciting and safe activity, provided they’re comfortable in water.

The Sum Up

The Silfra Wetsuit Snorkeling Tour from Reykjavik offers a rare opportunity to explore the incredible geological fissure between two continents. With expert guides, stunning water clarity, and included underwater photos, it’s a remarkable way to connect with Iceland’s dramatic landscape. While gear fitting and weather considerations require some patience, the experience more than compensates with breathtaking views and a sense of adventure.

For travelers who crave authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences and enjoy geological marvels, this tour ranks highly as a must-do. It suits those willing to brave the cold, with the drysuits doing most of the work to keep you warm and comfortable. In the end, it’s a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime journey into the heart of Iceland’s natural beauty—sure to be a highlight of any trip.

FAQs

Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes, all participants must know how to swim and be comfortable in water, as snorkeling requires basic swimming ability.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12, making it suitable for teenagers and older. Younger children should consult with the operator for specific conditions.

What should I wear during the tour?
Bring a swimsuit to wear under your wetsuit or drysuit, plus a towel and warm clothes for after. Dress appropriately for the weather during transfers and waits.

How long is the actual snorkeling?
You’ll spend about 30-40 minutes in the water, floating between the tectonic plates.

Are photos included?
Yes, the guide takes 40-100 high-quality underwater photos, which are provided digitally a few days after the tour.

What if I get cold?
Dry suits are designed to keep you warm, even in water as cold as 2°C. Many travelers comment that they felt surprisingly comfortable.

Can I bring my own camera or GoPro?
Yes, guides often encourage you to bring your own cameras if you want additional photos or videos beyond those taken by the guide.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Book early, wear thermal layers, bring contact lenses, and arrive ready to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What if I’m nervous or worried about safety?
Guides are experienced and attentive, giving clear instructions to ensure safety. Many reviewers mention feeling reassured and well cared for.

This snorkeling tour offers an extraordinary chance to witness Iceland’s geological forces firsthand, with the added bonus of expert guidance and beautiful photos. If you’re in Reykjavik and craving a memorable adventure, this is definitely worth considering.