Silfra Drysuit Snorkeling with Free Photos – Meet on Location

Snorkeling in Silfra, Iceland’s famous fissure located within UNESCO’s Thingvellir National Park, offers something truly extraordinary: the chance to float between two continents in crystal-clear waters. This tour promises an unforgettable experience, combining natural wonder, expert guidance, and a bit of adventure gear. From dry suits that keep you warm to the breathtaking views underwater, it’s a trip that’s often praised for its authenticity and value.

What we love most? The expert guides, like Niko and Klaudyna, who make sure every participant feels safe, comfortable, and informed, even if it’s your first time in water. Plus, the included underwater photos let you relive the moment without scrambling for your camera.

A potential consideration? The dry suits can feel quite tight and constricting, especially around the neck and wrists, which might be uncomfortable for some. Also, the tour lasts around 3 hours, but most of that is geared towards gearing up, briefing, and changing, with about 40 minutes in the water — so be prepared for a quick but impactful experience.

This tour suits travelers who are comfortable swimming, want to explore something genuinely different, and aren’t put off by cold water or tight-fitting suits. It’s particularly great for those celebrating special occasions or looking for a bucket-list adventure in Iceland.

Key Points

• Unique location: Snorkel in a fissure between tectonic plates in UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park.
• No certification needed: Suitable for beginners thanks to professional guidance and safety measures.
• All-included gear: Dry suits, wetsuits, and photos are included, ensuring comfort and memorable keepsakes.
• Short but sweet: Around 3 hours in total, with 40 minutes of actual water time—perfect for a half-day adventure.
• Expert guides: PADI-certified instructors like Niko and Klaudyna lead the tours, making safety and fun a priority.
• Great value: For $152, you get not just the snorkeling but also the experience, gear, and photos—adding up to a solid deal for such a unique outing.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Splash

The adventure kicks off at the meeting point in Thingvellir National Park, about 50 km from Reykjavik. Arriving here, you’ll be greeted by your guide and quickly checked in. Most reviews mention how well-organized and warm the changing facilities are—crucial for the cold Icelandic weather. Klaudyna, one of the guides, is often praised for her professionalism and attention to detail, making participants feel at ease right from the start.

Once suited up in your dry suit—an experience some find a bit tight but usually very effective—you’ll head toward the snorkel entry point. The process of putting on the gear, checking the fit, and listening to safety instructions takes around 15 minutes. The guide will review safety protocols, including how to communicate underwater, which is key since the water is so clear that visibility extends beyond 100 meters.

The actual snorkeling involves navigating through an underwater canyon or fissure formed as the tectonic plates drift apart at about 2 cm per year. Here, you’ll glide through the water, marveling at the spectacular colors and clarity that make Silfra one of the top snorkeling spots globally. Reviewers consistently mention the surreal feeling of “flying” through the water or the sensation of being in a different world. A common comment is how the water, despite being around 2°C, feels almost warm thanks to the dry suits, which are designed to keep you dry and insulated.

Expect to spend approximately 40 minutes in the water, with most participants describing the experience as both peaceful and exhilarating. Some reviewers highlight the importance of wearing thermal layers underneath, such as long underwear and wool socks, which greatly enhance comfort. The guides often take plenty of photos, capturing moments that you’ll treasure long after the tour ends.

After snorkeling, you’ll walk back to the changing area, where your dry suit is removed, and you’re handed a warm hot chocolate—an appreciated touch to warm up after the chilly dip. Many reviewers note that the hot chocolate, served by guides like Ed, is the perfect end to an already memorable experience.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

At $152, this tour provides a comprehensive experience. Included in the price are all necessary gear—such as dry suits and wetsuits—and the unforgettable photos taken by your guide. For many, the combination of expert supervision, high-quality equipment, and the chance to see nature in such a unique geological setting makes it worth every cent.

Compared to other options, this small-group tour—with a cap of six snorkelers—ensures a more intimate experience. You won’t be lost in a crowd and will receive personalized attention from your guide. Plus, the availability of wetsuits, alongside dry suits, caters to different comfort levels, with reviews praising how guides like Wilmar and Nando help make sure everyone is comfortable.

The tour’s brief duration means it fits nicely into a day’s itinerary without feeling rushed. Most reviews emphasize how surprisingly easy it is to do, especially with knowledgeable guides who clarify every step, making this accessible even for beginners. And with the photos included, you’ll have a visual record of your Icelandic adventure, an excellent souvenir.

The Experience in Detail: From Gear to Gliding

The process begins with a thorough briefing where guides explain safety measures and what to expect. Expect a short walk on a platform before slipping into your gear, which some describe as feeling quite snug but reassuringly secure. As Jennifer H notes, “your suit leaked a bit from the back when I turned over, but as long as I stayed face down, I was fine.” This honesty from reviewers highlights that minor discomforts are common but manageable.

Once in the water, you’ll notice how remarkably transparent the water is—seeing the bottom at 100 meters is possible. This clarity, combined with the silence and stillness underwater, creates a sensation of floating in a different realm. Many reviewers mention how relaxing and peaceful the experience is, even if your hands or feet go numb at times. The guides are attentive and will help if anyone feels uncomfortable.

It’s worth noting that the guides also take plenty of photos, often capturing your face underwater with a big smile, and some reviews mention how those pictures become treasured keepsakes. The hot chocolate served afterward is a simple but appreciated reward, especially considering the chilly water temperature.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Supportive

Several reviews highlight the professionalism of guides like Arnold, Hugo, Ed, and Klaudyna. Their expertise clearly reassures nervous participants and ensures safety is always a top priority. For example, as one reviewer states, “Ed was fantastic and gave us lots of good information and support.” Their friendly, patient approach makes the whole experience approachable for first-timers and seasoned swimmers alike.

Guides also help with gear fitting, ensuring dry suits or wetsuits are correct size and properly sealed. Klaudyna, in particular, gets praise for her confidence and ability to put everyone at ease, as well as her attention to safety details—crucial when dealing with cold water and tight-fitting suits.

Practical Tips: Making the Most of Your Snorkeling Trip

• Wear thermal layers: Long underwear and wool socks help keep you warm during the dry suit experience.
• Bring contact lenses: Glasses aren’t recommended since the suits can feel tight, and guides suggest bringing prescription masks if needed.
• Eat breakfast beforehand: You’ll be in the water for about 40 minutes, so a good meal can help you stay comfortable.
• Prepare for the cold: Expect some numbness in hands and feet—it’s normal, but guides are ready to assist.
• Book early: The tour is popular, typically booked 36 days in advance, and limited to six participants per group.
• Have a medical form ready: All participants need to submit one, and those over 65 or with medical concerns should get physician approval.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Book This?

This tour is ideal for adventure lovers looking for a truly unique experience, beginners eager to try snorkeling without certification hassle, and nature enthusiasts captivated by Iceland’s geological wonders. It’s also perfect for those celebrating special occasions, like birthdays, as reviewers have noted how guides often make those moments extra memorable.

If you’re comfortable swimming and prepared for icy water—plus a snug suit—this tour offers fantastic value for the chance to snorkel in one of the world’s clearest and most extraordinary fissures. The inclusion of photos, expert guides, and the beautiful setting makes it a sound investment in a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be certified to do this snorkeling tour?
No, certification is not required. The guides are certified instructors, and safety measures are in place to accommodate beginners.

How cold is the water in Silfra?
The water temperature is approximately 2°C (around 35.6°F), but dry suits keep you warm. Some reviewers mention feeling cold in their hands or feet, but overall, most stay comfortable with proper thermal layers.

How long is the actual snorkeling in the water?
Most participants spend about 40 minutes in the water, which is enough to enjoy the stunning scenery and experience a peaceful float between two continents.

What gear is included?
The tour provides all necessary snorkeling equipment, including dry suits or wetsuits, and underwater photos taken by guides.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12 years old, and all participants must know how to swim comfortably. Participants over 65 should have medical approval.

What should I wear during the tour?
Bring thermal underwear, wool socks, and waterproof clothing for the weather. It’s also wise to bring a change of clothes for after the snorkel.

How do I prepare for the gear fitting?
Arrive early, wear fitted underwear, and inform the guides of your height and weight. They will ensure your dry suit is snug but comfortable.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

Snorkeling in Silfra offers a mix of natural beauty, adventure, and unmissable scenery. Thanks to knowledgeable guides, excellent gear, and the clarity of the waters, it’s a top choice for anyone visiting Iceland seeking a memorable outdoor activity. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, chasing a bucket-list experience, or simply want to see one of nature’s most surreal landscapes, this tour delivers with authenticity and value.

Just keep in mind that the dry suits can feel tight and that the water is cold—so pack your thermal layers and be ready for a brief but awe-inspiring ride beneath the surface. It’s an adventure that truly stands out from the crowd, offering a chance to float between two continents without needing any prior experience.

Embark on this once-in-a-lifetime journey in Iceland and see the world from a different angle—underwater, between tectonic plates, and totally unforgettable.