Silfra: Fissure Snorkeling Tour with Underwater Photos

This Silfra snorkeling experience in Þingvellir National Park offers a chance to float between the tectonic plates of North America and Europe—an extraordinary adventure in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With crystal-clear waters, vibrant colors, and professional guides, it promises a truly memorable day that blends natural wonder with a touch of geology magic.

What really draws us in is the careful attention to safety and comfort, especially the high-quality dry suits that keep you warm despite Iceland’s famously cold climate. On the flip side, the tight fit of the suits—particularly around the neck—can be a surprise for some, potentially making the experience less comfortable for those sensitive to feeling constricted. This tour suits those who are comfortable swimming and eager for a unique, educational journey into Iceland’s geological marvels, ideally suited for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of a chill.

Key Points

• Unbeatable Location: Snorkel between two tectonic plates in Þingvellir, a UNESCO site with incredible geological significance.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Lilian, Kevin, and Anna make the experience informative and fun, sharing insights about the scenic fissure and natural history.
• Exceptional Value: For $169, you get high-quality gear, expert guidance, hot drinks, cookies, and free underwater photos, creating a comprehensive and memorable experience.
• Stunning Underwater Views: The vividly colored glacier meltwater offers sights that will stay with you long after the tour ends.
• Suit Fit & Comfort: The dry suits are top-notch but fit snugly—some reviewers mention the neck seals being tight, so it’s good to be prepared.
• Small Group Experience: With only 6 participants, the group size allows personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Arrival and Safety Briefing
Your adventure begins at TrollExpeditions’ designated meeting point inside Þingvellir National Park, specifically at the Silfra parking lot. After a quick check-in, you’ll meet your guide—often praised for their clarity and friendliness—who will give a thorough safety briefing. This is crucial since snorkeling here involves maneuvering in cold, filtered glacier water and wearing a dry suit. Expect to spend around 30 minutes at this stage, during which your guide will explain how the fissure formed and what you’ll see underwater.

Getting Ready
Next, it’s suit-up time. Expect to don a dry suit, which is essential for warmth and dry comfort during your swim. The process involves some patience, as the suits can feel tight—particularly around the neck—and may require adjustments. Many reviewers have commented positively on how well the guides handle this part, making sure everyone is comfortable and secure. You’ll also receive all necessary snorkeling gear, including fins, mask, and snorkel.

Exploring the Fissure
Once suited up, you’ll follow your guide on foot for a 30-minute walk through the park, taking in the stunning landscape and understanding the geological significance of the area. Then, it’s time for the main event: swimming through the famous Silfra Fissure. Expect approximately 50 minutes in the water, during which you’ll glide through the perfectly clear, vibrant waters. The colors are mesmerizing—blue hues from the glacial meltwater and the contrast of the dark volcanic rock make for a surreal experience.

Guides like Lilian and Kevin have been praised for their attentiveness, sharing fascinating stories about the tectonic plates, local plant life, and marine species such as the dwarf char. The water’s clarity allows you to see the fissure’s depth and the plates drifting apart—an experience that feels both scientific and poetic.

Post-snorkeling Relaxation
After your swim, you’ll have some time on foot for photos and reflection. Many reviewers mention the added bonus of free GoPro photos, which capture the underwater beauty and often hilarious moments in the suits. As a nice finishing touch, hot drinks and cookies are provided, warming you up after being in the cool waters.

Return and Final Thoughts
The tour concludes back at the starting point, with many participants noting how smoothly everything is organized. The small group size means you get plenty of attention, questions answered, and a relaxed pace.

For $169 per person, this experience packs a lot of value. The price covers high-quality dry suits, professional guides, all snorkeling equipment, hot drinks, cookies, and most importantly, the stunning underwater photos. Many reviewers have emphasized how the guides—like Anna, Kevin, and Lilian—bring a perfect blend of professionalism, humor, and local knowledge, making the entire experience both educational and fun.

The inclusion of free photos is especially appreciated; they add a nostalgic touch and serve as lasting souvenirs of your Iceland adventure. The fact that the tour is limited to six people ensures a more intimate experience, allowing guides to focus on individual comfort and safety.

• Wear warm clothes underneath your dry suit—think layers, thermal underwear, and socks—many reviewers swear by this setup.
• Arrive prepared with medical clearance if you’re over 60, as the process requires health verification.
• Be comfortable swimming and confident in the water; this tour is not suitable for non-swimmers.
• Suit up early if you want more privacy—the first tour of the day tends to be quieter, according to reviews.
• Bring your curiosity and a sense of adventure. The guides are fantastic at explaining the geology but also happy to answer questions about Iceland’s natural wonders.

If you’re drawn to unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences and aren’t afraid of a little cold, this trip is a perfect fit. It’s ideal for active travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, education, and stunning scenery. The small group setting and expert guides mean you’ll get personalized attention and unlock the secrets behind Iceland’s geological features.

However, it’s not suited for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with mobility or health issues that prevent swimming or wearing a tight dry suit. Also, if you’re over 6 ft 6 in or under 4 ft 8 in, it’s worth double-checking if the suit fits comfortably.

The Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour with TrollExpeditions offers an authentic and immersive experience that combines stunning natural beauty with fascinating geology. The carefully curated guided experience ensures safety without sacrificing fun, and the inclusion of underwater photos adds a memorable keepsake. Despite the snug dry suits, most reviewers find the experience well worth it, especially those who love a bit of adventure and learning.

This tour is particularly recommended for travelers who value quality guides, picturesque settings, and a small-group atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a curious explorer, floating between two continents in Iceland’s clear waters is something you’ll never forget.

Is the snorkeling experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable swimming and can communicate in English. The guides provide safety instructions and support throughout.

How cold is the water during the tour?
The water temperature can be as low as 2°C, but the dry suits keep you warm and dry, making the experience comfortable for most.

Are the dry suits comfortable?
Most reviews say the suits are high-quality, but they do fit snugly, especially around the neck. Some participants mention the tightness can feel constricting, so patience and proper fitting are key.

What’s included in the tour price?
The $169 fee covers all snorkeling gear, a certified guide, hot drinks, cookies, and free underwater photos taken with a GoPro.

Do I need special gear or clothing?
Bring warm clothing such as thermal underwear, long socks, and perhaps gloves if you tend to feel cold easily. The tour provides the dry suit and necessary equipment.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 3 hours, with approximately 50 minutes in the water.

Is parking available at the meeting point?
Yes, you can park at the P5 parking lot in Þingvellir and walk to the meeting spot at TrollExpeditions in Silfra.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, children under 12 are not permitted. The maximum age is 69, with medical clearance required for those over 60.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning your Iceland trip.

If you’re after an adventure that’s as educational as it is breathtaking, the Silfra snorkeling tour is a must-do. It’s a chance to experience Iceland’s geological marvels firsthand, with expert guides ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip. Prepare to be wowed by the clarity of the water, the beauty of the underwater landscape, and the thrill of floating between two continents.