From Reykjavík: Golden Circle Tour with Silfra Snorkeling

Exploring the Golden Circle and Silfra Snorkeling: An In-Depth Review

This tour offers a captivating blend of Iceland’s most famous sights—Thingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss—paired with an unforgettable underwater experience in Silfra Fissure. It’s a full-day adventure that promises spectacular landscapes, fascinating geology, and a chance to float between two continents in crystal-clear waters.

What we really love about this trip is how it balances the classic sightseeing with a rare, adrenaline-pumping activity. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making complex geological and cultural stories both accessible and engaging. A potential snag? The water temperature in Silfra hovers around 3°C, so it’s definitely not for the faint of heart or cold-sensitive travelers. But for those who don’t mind bundling up, this tour suits anyone craving a mix of natural beauty, history, and adventure.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, memorable Iceland tour that goes beyond the usual selfies—plus, it’s a great choice for those comfortable in water and eager to explore beneath the surface. If you’re after a taste of Iceland’s volcanic power and a splash of adventure, this tour delivers.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic sights: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss—all iconic for a reason.
• Unique snorkeling experience: Float between continents in Silfra’s extraordinarily clear waters, with visibility up to 150 meters.
• Expert guides: Guides like Weronika, Tereza, and Tomasz are praised for their patience and wealth of local knowledge.
• Value-packed: The tour includes all necessary gear, park entry, and free underwater photos, making it a convenient all-in-one experience.
• Group size: Small groups keep things intimate and personalized, with WiFi onboard for sharing your photos instantly.
• Considerations: The tour is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or travelers with certain medical or mobility issues.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Morning Pickup and Journey to Þingvellir

You’ll start your day early around 8:30 AM with a pickup from your Reykjavik accommodation. The transport is a comfortable, WiFi-equipped vehicle, which is perfect for relaxing while soaking in scenery on the way to Þingvellir National Park. This UNESCO site isn’t just a pretty backdrop—it’s where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, pulling apart by about 2 centimeters annually. As one reviewer noted, guides like Johan make the geology come alive with stories and fun facts, adding a personal touch to this historic site.

Exploring Geysir and the Geothermal Area

Next, you’ll visit the Geysir geothermal area, the birthplace of the word “geyser.” The star here is Strokkur, erupting every 6-10 minutes with impressive jets of boiling water that shoot up to 30 meters high. The nearby bubbling mud pools and steaming vents are just as captivating. One reviewer mentioned seeing the earth “hiss and steam,” which truly captures the primal power of Iceland’s volcanic landscape.

Gullfoss Waterfall: Iceland’s “Queen of Waterfalls”

The highlight for many is Gullfoss, a two-tiered waterfall cascading into a rugged canyon. Feel the mist on your face and listen to the roar of glacial waters—an awe-inspiring sight. A traveler shared that the water “showcases nature’s raw power and beauty,” and many emphasize the stunning contrast between the lush surroundings and the roaring cascade.

The Heart of Þingvellir

Back at Þingvellir, you’ll walk between the tectonic plates and learn about Iceland’s political history—the site of the world’s first parliament. Guides like Tomasz are praised for blending geology and history seamlessly, making the experience both educational and moving.

The Snorkeling in Silfra Fissure

The highlight of the trip is snorkeling in Silfra, a crack between North America and Eurasia. Thanks to dry suits and thermal undersuits, you’ll stay warm despite the 3°C waters. Visibility here reaches up to 150 meters, offering an otherworldly view of vibrant blue hues and intricate rock formations. Several reviewers mention the professionalism and patience of the snorkeling guides, such as Vasco, who made sure everyone felt safe and comfortable.

The experience of drifting between two continents is surreal. One visitor said, “It was such a unique experience,” and others describe the water as “crystal clear” and the scenery as “stunningly beautiful,” especially when snow dusts the landscape. Afterward, you’ll enjoy warm cocoa and cookies, perfect for warming up after the cold plunge.

Transportation, Duration, and Practical Details

This is a full-day tour lasting about 10 hours, with pick-up times typically starting at 8:30 AM. The journey includes visits to four major sites, with ample time for photographs, walking, and absorbing the scenery. The group size remains small, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

The cost is $236 per person, which might seem steep at first glance, but considering the comprehensive itinerary, inclusion of all necessary gear, park entry fees, and free underwater photos, it’s a solid value. The tour is well-organized, with guides like Johan and Tomasz receiving praise for their knowledge, humor, and attentive support.

What’s Included

• Pick-up and drop-off in Reykjavik
• All snorkeling gear, including dry suits and thermal layers
• Entry fees for Þingvellir National Park
• Expert guide and safety instructions
• Underwater photos taken by your guide
• Hot cocoa and cookies after snorkeling
• WiFi onboard

What to Bring

• Change of clothes and towel
• Remember, luggage and large bags are not allowed on the tour

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Multiple reviewers highlighted the professionalism of guides like Weronika, Tereza, and Vasco, noting their patience and ability to share interesting facts or Icelandic myths. For example, one said, “Our guide was exceptional, telling stories and explaining geology and myths,” making the experience more memorable.

The snorkeling itself often receives glowing comments. A traveler mentioned, “The water was 3°, but the experience was so worth it,” emphasizing how dry suits make the cold manageable and highlight the surreal beauty beneath the surface.

Some travelers, like those who visited in winter, remarked on the snow-enhanced scenery, adding a layer of magic to the day. Even with chilly weather, the overall experience remains warm in spirit, thanks to the guides’ support and the breathtaking views.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive day of sightseeing combined with a daring underwater activity. It’s also well-suited for those interested in geology, history, or Icelandic culture. Since it’s a small-group tour, it provides intimacy and flexibility, making it more engaging than larger bus trips.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or travelers with certain health conditions, mobility issues, or claustrophobia. The cold temperatures in Silfra and the need to wear dry suits require a degree of physical comfort and confidence in water.

Final Thoughts

This tour combines several of Iceland’s most iconic sights with a rare chance to snorkel between two tectonic plates, making it a standout choice for those seeking both scenic beauty and adventure. The guides’ expertise and the well-organized logistics mean you can relax and truly enjoy each moment.

The value lies in the diversity of experiences packed into one day: stunning waterfalls, geothermal wonders, historic sites, and an extraordinary underwater voyage. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see Iceland’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The small-group format, all-inclusive gear, and insider knowledge make this a hassle-free and enriching experience. Just remember to dress warmly and be prepared for the cold water—though, with dry suits, most find it manageable and totally worth it.

For those craving a mix of nature, history, and adrenaline, this tour hits the sweet spot—and you’ll leave with stories and photos to last a lifetime.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off in Reykjavik. You should be ready at your designated pick-up point around 8:30 AM.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, giving plenty of time to visit all the sites and enjoy the snorkeling without feeling rushed.

Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes, swimming skills are required since it’s a snorkeling activity. The dry suits and safety instructions help make it manageable even for beginners.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes and a towel. Luggage or large bags are not allowed on the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12 years old. The activity and cold conditions require a certain level of maturity and comfort with water.

What about the water temperature?
The waters in Silfra hover around 3°C, but dry suits and thermal layers keep you warm during the snorkeling.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change unexpectedly.

In summary, the From Reykjavík: Golden Circle Tour with Silfra Snorkeling offers a rewarding mix of Icelandic natural beauty and unique adventure. It’s a well-rounded experience for those eager to explore, learn, and try something truly different — all with the guidance of passionate locals who make every moment count.