Snorkel the Silfra Fissure-Meet on Location (Free Photos & Cocoa)

A Close-Up Look at Snorkeling the Silfra Fissure in Iceland

Imagine floating in icy, crystal-clear water while gazing down into a 24-meter-deep ravine—this is what makes snorkeling Silfra in Thingvellir National Park such a special adventure. For around $145, you’ll spend approximately three hours exploring the underworld where North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. Your starting point is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Thingvellir, just a short drive from Reykjavik, where you’ll meet your PADI-certified guide and gear up for one of Iceland’s most unique experiences.

What we love most? First, the all-inclusive equipment—dry suits, dry undersuits, hoods, and fins—that keeps you warm despite the icy waters, and second, the small group size (limited to 6 to 12 participants), which means personalized attention and gentle guidance.

One thing to consider: the distance from Reykjavik can be a surprise for some travelers, as transportation isn’t included. If you’re not renting a car or planning ahead, this could add to your costs or planning time.

This tour is best suited for adventure seekers, families with older children, and anyone comfortable in the water. It’s especially appealing if you value expert guides, small groups, and want a safe way to explore a truly otherworldly landscape beneath the surface.

Key Points

• All gear included: Dry suits, snorkel, fins, and more—no hidden costs.
• Small group experience: Limited to 6-12 people, ensuring personalized attention.
• Spectacular scenery: Swim between two tectonic plates in a UNESCO site with stunning turquoise waters.
• Expert guides: PADI-certified guides who prioritize safety and fun.
• Photos and snacks: Underwater pictures and hot chocolate with cookies are included.
• Transportation note: No transfer from Reykjavik, so plan accordingly.

The Core of the Tour: What You Can Expect

When you book this Silfra snorkeling trip, you’re signing up for a carefully curated adventure in one of Iceland’s most notable natural sites. Your journey begins at the information office in Thingvellir National Park, where your guide will hand out all the necessary equipment and give a comprehensive safety briefing. Expect to wear dry suits over your clothes—these are like cozy, waterproof pajamas that keep you warm despite the chilly water temperature.

Once suited up, you’ll wade into the turquoise waters of Silfra, famous for its remarkable clarity and vibrant color. Floating effortlessly in the water, you can look down and see an 82-foot (24-meter) ravine stretching below, where the plates are slowly pulling apart. It’s a surreal experience that makes you feel like you’re floating in a secret world, with the distant sound of your guide pointing out the geological marvels.

Throughout the tour, your guide will be close by, offering personalized attention in small groups. They’ll ensure you’re comfortable and safe, while also helping you appreciate the incredible geology beneath your fins. Many reviewers mention how knowledgeable guides like Christian or Dimitri make all the difference, explaining the significance of the tectonic plates and the legend behind the park.

The Experience’s Highlights

• The crystal-clear water allows you to see down to incredible depths, making for fantastic photos.
• Snorkeling here isn’t just about the scenery; it’s about experiencing one of the few places in the world where you can swim between two continents.
• The dry suits are a game-changer, with many reviewers remarking how warm and comfortable they felt, even in cold water.
• After your swim, you’ll be treated to hot chocolate and cookies, perfect for warming up and sharing stories of your underwater adventure.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many past guests highlight how professional and friendly their guides were. Megan_O called it an “amazing” experience, praising the dry suits and her guide Christian as “amazing,” which adds to the tour’s credibility. Conversely, some reviews mention disappointments, mostly related to logistical issues like transportation or worn-out gear. For example, Maryam_S noted the gear was somewhat aged but still functional, and many appreciated the helpful and enthusiastic staff like Kris or Nebo.

The Practical Details and How They Affect Your Trip

While the price of $145 might seem steep compared to more typical activities, it covers everything—from the dry suits and snorkeling gear to underwater photos and snacks. This comprehensive approach means you’re paying for a hassle-free experience without worrying about extra costs or equipment rental.

However, the tour duration of approximately 3 hours includes the safety briefing, gear-up, the actual snorkeling, and the post-activity snacks. It’s a well-paced experience, especially with a limit of 6–12 participants, allowing guides to give personalized assistance.

A key point, as some reviews point out, is the lack of transportation. The meeting point is at the information office in Thingvellir, about 1.5 hours from Reykjavik by car. If you’re not self-driving or do not have an organized transfer, this could be a hurdle. Budget travelers should factor in the cost of taxis or rental cars.

The small group size—a maximum of 12—also means fewer crowds and more individual attention. The safety aspect is well-addressed by the guides’ professionalism and the high-quality gear, which is essential in a cold-water environment. Participants should have moderate swimming ability and be comfortable in open water.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

Several travelers rave about the bespoke guidance, with guides like Dimitri or Siggi making the experience engaging and safe. Megan_O mentions “Christian was amazing,” epitomizing how a good guide can elevate the trip. Others highlight the stunning visuals—the see-through water and geological features—which make it a photographer’s dream.

Some reviews reveal minor hiccups, such as worn-out equipment or miscommunications about bookings. For instance, one guest expressed frustration about not being on the list despite paying in advance, and others noted the gear’s wear and tear. Still, the overall consensus remains positive, especially when guides are described as helpful, patient, and knowledgeable.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At face value, $145 might seem a lot, but it includes all necessary equipment, guided instruction, photos, and refreshments. Compared with other Icelandic adventures like visiting glaciers or waterfalls, snorkeling in Silfra offers a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience—swimming between two continents in crystal-clear water, with no other site quite like it.

You’ll also appreciate the small group size that provides a more intimate, less rushed experience, and the expert guidance that ensures safety, especially in cold waters. Many reviews speak of guides being enthusiastic, professional, and fun, which makes the overall experience more enjoyable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This snorkel trip is ideal for adventure lovers who are comfortable in water and eager to try something different. It’s perfect for families with teenagers (minimum age 12), provided they’re good swimmers and able to handle the suits and water conditions. Travelers who enjoy geological marvels and outdoor activities will find this a highlight of their Iceland trip.

It’s also a good fit if you value small-group experiences and personalized attention, rather than large, impersonal tours. But be aware that transportation from Reykjavik is not included, so it’s best suited for those who plan ahead or rent a car.

Final Thoughts

Snorkeling the Silfra Fissure offers a truly unique glimpse into the geological forces shaping Iceland. The combination of stunning visuals, expert guides, and the chance to swim between two continents makes it a memorable adventure worth considering. While logistics and gear conditions may sometimes pose small challenges, the overall experience is highly rewarding.

For travelers who love authentic outdoor experiences, don’t mind a bit of cold water, and want to explore a geological wonder with guided safety, this tour delivers excellent value. It’s a chance to see one of Iceland’s most iconic sights in a way few others can match.

FAQ

Do I need to be a strong swimmer?
Yes, participants should be able to swim comfortably, as this is a snorkeling activity. The dry suits help keep you warm, but swimming ability is essential.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation is not included. You need to make your own way to the information office in Thingvellir National Park, about 1.5 hours from Reykjavik.

What gear is provided?
All necessary snorkeling gear is included, including dry suits, snorkel, goggles, fins, hood, shoes, and undersuit. The gear is high-quality but some reviews mention wear and tear.

How long is the experience?
The total tour lasts about three hours, including safety briefing, gear-up, snorkeling, and post-activity snacks.

What should I bring?
Warm layers (fleece or wool, not cotton), wool socks, a small towel, and a change of clothes are recommended. You’ll be given dry suits to wear over your clothing.

Is this suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12 years old, and minors must be accompanied by an adult. Good swimming ability and comfort in water are required.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Can I buy photos of my experience?
Yes, underwater photos are included, and you can purchase additional images for a small fee.

What if I have medical concerns?
Participants should get medical approval if they have health issues. The guide will check each guest’s ability to participate safely.

To sum it up, this snorkeling tour at Silfra is a one-of-a-kind experience that combines geological wonder, expert guidance, and stunning scenery. It’s well worth the investment for travelers seeking something genuinely different in Iceland. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious traveler wanting a memorable story, you’ll come away with lasting impressions—and fantastic photos—of standing between two continents in a crystal-clear water world.