Silfra: Hot and Cold Snorkeling and Spa Tour – Self Drive

This self-drive experience in Iceland offers something truly unique: the chance to snorkel in the crystal-clear, icy waters of Silfra between two tectonic plates, followed by unwinding in a naturally hot geothermal pool. It’s a carefully curated blend of adventure and relaxation, designed for travelers who want to get up close with Iceland’s extraordinary landscape but with the flexibility of self-driving.

One of the aspects we love most about this tour is its small-group format—with only six guests max, it feels intimate and personalized. The guides are experienced and attentive, making sure everyone stays warm, safe, and well-informed. An additional highlight is the opportunity to soak in Laugarvatn Fontana’s geothermal waters afterward, giving you a perfect balance of cold thrill and heat therapy.

On the flip side, a consideration is that dry suits can feel quite tight and constricting**, which might be uncomfortable for some. Plus, since it’s a self-drive tour, you’ll need to be comfortable handling your vehicle and navigating Iceland’s sometimes unpredictable roads—definitely doable but worth noting if you prefer guided transport.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and a touch of luxury. If you’re comfortable in water, enjoy a bit of driving, and want a seamless combination of cool and hot experiences, this tour will tick all those boxes.

Key Points

• Small-group intimacy ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Two contrasting experiences: snorkeling in icy Silfra and relaxing in hot springs.
• Self-drive format offers flexibility and independence.
• Guided equipment and safety briefing maximizes comfort and confidence.
• Hot chocolate and cookies provide a cozy treat after snorkeling.
• Tour is suitable for most travelers over 12, with some health and comfort considerations.

An In-Depth Look at What This Tour Offers

The Itinerary Breakdown

The adventure begins at the DIVE.IS Meeting Point in Thingvellir National Park, an easy-to-find location that acts as the starting hub for this icy and warm journey. Once assembled into a small group—max six participants—the guide provides all the necessary gear: drysuits, warm undersuits, and snorkeling equipment. The inclusion of all equipment and a heated changing van ensures you won’t be left shivering before stepping into the water, which reviewers consistently praise.

The guide then explains how to use the gear, safety protocols, and shares interesting facts about Silfra’s geological significance—namely, that it’s situated between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, separated by a crack of frigid water. Expect a briefing that combines safety with fascinating local geology, which adds a layer of context to this surreal environment.

Following this, you’ll walk a few minutes to the actual snorkeling site. Here, you’ll spend approximately 30 to 45 minutes exploring the Big Crack, Silfra Hall, and Silfra Cathedral—each offering a different visual experience. Reviewers like Shana and Melissa mention the stunning underwater views and the feeling of swimming in a pristine, otherworldly landscape. The water is famously clear, with visibility often exceeding 100 meters, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Snorkeling in Silfra: What to Expect

The crystal-clear waters are cold but manageable thanks to the dry suit and thermal undersuit provided. Travelers consistently comment that the suits are well-fitting but sometimes feel tight—important to consider if you’re sensitive to constriction. The guide explains how to breathe calmly and use your snorkel, and many mention feeling safe and well-cared-for, even if it’s their first time in such conditions.

Several reviews highlight the natural beauty of the fissure, with Shana marveling at how she felt “really enjoyed Silfra and the hot springs after.” The experience is described as “bucket list-worthy”, with some noting how the stark contrast of cold water and warm pools amplifies the overall adventure.

Post-Snorkeling Indulgence in Laugarvatn Fontana

After the underwater adventure, the tour continues to the Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Pool. Here, you can indulge in soaking in naturally hot springs, enjoying the thermal lake, saunas, and steam rooms at your leisure. The hot chocolate and cookies served afterward are a well-received touch, offering a cozy moment to reflect on the chilly dip. Many reviews mention the hot springs as a highlight, with Tracey noting that her 79-year-old mother loved every minute—highlighting the tour’s inclusiveness for a wide age range.

This part of the tour is unstructured, giving you the freedom to relax as long as you like. The natural hot water, combined with the sauna and steam room, delivers a soothing experience that balances the initial adrenaline rush.

The Flexibility and Practicalities

Driving yourself between Silfra and Laugarvatn gives you control over your schedule, which is a unique aspect of this tour. You can take your time, explore the surroundings, or simply soak in the scenery as you prefer. The tour lasts approximately five hours, including gear-up, snorkel time, and relaxation in the hot springs.

The price point of $206 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusion of all equipment, guidance, entrance fees, and the hot chocolate treat afterward. Reviewers feel the value is high, especially given the small group size and the memorable nature of the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurers who enjoy water activities and scenic drives. It’s also ideal for those who want to avoid large tour groups, thanks to its intimate size. Travelers comfortable in water, physically fit, and over 12 years old will find it accessible—though over-60 participants need medical approval, so check with your doctor if uncertain.

If you’re seeking a combination of excitement and relaxation with a dash of Iceland’s geological wonder, this tour hits the spot. Photographers will appreciate the stunning underwater vistas, while relaxation seekers will love the geothermal soak afterward.

Final Thoughts

This Silfra: Hot and Cold Snorkeling and Spa Tour strikes a fantastic balance. It offers an adventure in one of Iceland’s most iconic locations, where you get to swim between two continents in crystal-clear water, an experience unlike any other. Following that with a relaxing soak in geothermal waters ensures you get the best of both worlds—an icy thrill and a warm, soothing retreat.

The small-group format with attentive guides ensures safety and personalized service. The inclusion of all gear, a guided safety briefing, and extra treats like hot chocolate make it feel well thought out and worth the cost.

While it requires a bit of physical effort and comfort in water, most reviewers agree the experience is absolutely worth it. Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or a first-timer, the sense of achievement and awe at the scenery makes it a standout Iceland adventure.

For travelers craving a blend of outdoor adventure, geological marvels, and relaxing indulgence, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for those who love exploring at their own pace and soaking in Iceland’s natural wonders.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, it’s generally suitable for participants over 12 years old, provided they are comfortable in water and physically fit.

Do I need prior snorkeling experience? No, the guide provides all necessary instructions, and safety briefings are thorough, making it accessible even for beginners.

What should I wear under the dry suit? It’s recommended to wear long thermal underwear and thick wool socks as a base layer, as dry suits can feel tight.

How long do I spend snorkeling in Silfra? Expect approximately 30 to 45 minutes of snorkeling, during which you’ll see some truly stunning underwater formations.

Is the self-drive aspect complicated? Not at all—your rental car will be straightforward to navigate, and the meeting point is easy to locate. Just ensure you’re comfortable driving in potentially snowy or icy conditions.

What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are poor, you might be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I buy photos of my snorkeling experience? Yes, souvenir photos are available for purchase, although they are not included in the tour price.

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded, unforgettable Icelandic experience—perfect for adventurous souls who value authentic, small-group encounters, and who want to combine thrilling water exploration with soothing geothermal relaxation.