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

Snorkeling through the Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park offers an adventure unlike any other. This tour lets you swim between two continents—North America and Eurasia—while surrounded by crystal-clear waters and striking volcanic landscapes. With a small group, professional guides, and all gear included, it’s designed for travelers seeking a memorable, authentic Icelandic experience.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how accessible it makes this extraordinary environment; you don’t need prior experience, just a willingness to get a little chilly and enjoy one of nature’s most surreal sights. However, it’s important to consider that the tour involves some physical activity, and logistics like transportation are not included. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and anyone eager to tick off a bucket-list experience in Iceland.

Key Points

• Small Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and safety.
• All Equipment Provided: Includes dry suits, snorkels, fins, and more—no need to bring anything but warm layers.
• Stunning Sights: Swim in crystal-clear waters that reveal breathtaking views of the fissure and tectonic plates.
• Flexible Scheduling: Multiple daily departures fit into various itineraries.
• Expert Guides: PADI-certified guides enhance safety and share interesting insights.
• Photos & Refreshments: Underwater photos available for purchase; enjoy hot chocolate and cookies after your swim.

What to Expect on the Tour

Meeting and Preparation

Your adventure begins at the Arctic Adventures meeting point in Thingvellir National Park. Here, your guide greets you and provides all necessary equipment, including dry suits designed to keep you warm in the icy waters. Expect a thorough safety briefing that covers how to use your gear and what to expect underwater. The small group setting means you’ll get plenty of individual pointers, making first-time snorkelers feel confident.

The Equipment and Safety Gear

All gear is included, from snorkels and goggles to dry suits, undersuits, hoods, and shoes. Reviewers like Megan_O appreciated the dry suits, noting, “The water wasn’t even very cold with the dry suits on, which was awesome.” It’s worth noting that some equipment might show signs of wear, like torn zippers or worn-out wetsuits, but guides are generally very attentive and ensure everyone’s comfort.

The Snorkeling Experience

Once suited up, you’ll wade into the turquoise waters of Silfra, which offers visibility often exceeding 100 feet. Expect to be floating gently over an 82-foot (24-meter) deep ravine, with stunning views of the fissure’s walls and the plates beneath your fins. The water’s clarity is one of the tour’s biggest draws—reviewers rave about how easy it is to see the bottom and the surrounding rocks.

Guides like Dimitri and Alex, praised for their helpfulness and professionalism, will supervise and assist throughout. Expect to spend around 30-40 minutes swimming and exploring, with plenty of time to marvel at the scenery. Many mention how peaceful and almost otherworldly the environment feels, especially with the current gently pushing you along.

The Tectonic Divide

What makes Silfra truly special is its location: the crack between the North American and Eurasian plates. Your guide will explain the geological significance of the site, and you’ll get to swim right between these giant tectonic plates—an experience that photos and videos only partly capture.

Post-Snorkel Warm-up and Photos

After your swim, you’re led back to the starting point where hot chocolate and cookies await—a perfect way to warm up and reflect on the experience. Photos taken underwater are available for a small fee, and many reviewers like Megan_O and Linda_M mention how much they cherish these keepsakes.

Logistics and Practical Details

Duration and Timing

This tour lasts approximately 3 hours, which includes equipment fitting, safety briefing, snorkeling, and warm-up refreshments. Multiple departure times are available daily, giving flexibility for different schedules.

Group Size and Guides

The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 participants, with some reviews mentioning groups of just 6 for an even more intimate experience. Guides like Christian, Nebo, and Byron are repeatedly praised for their enthusiasm, patience, and professionalism—making sure even beginners feel safe.

Cost and Value

At around $145, this experience offers good value when you consider the included gear, expert supervision, and the unique environment. Several reviewers, such as Julie_L, emphasize how the guides made the experience fun and manageable, even for first-timers. Although equipment wear was noted, guides’ attentiveness generally kept the experience positive.

Physical Requirements and Age Limits

Participants need to be comfortable swimming; all must be able to swim to participate. The minimum age is 12, with minors needing adult supervision. Travelers with medical issues should seek approval from a doctor beforehand. Remember to wear warm layers under your dry suit and bring a change of clothes.

Transportation and Accessibility

Transport to the meeting point in Thingvellir National Park is not included. Many travelers find this a consideration—either plan to rent a car or book additional transport. One common frustration was from those unaware of the park’s distance from Reykjavik, as some found taxis expensive, making logistics trickier.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

What Travelers Love

The overwhelming praise revolves around the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude. Megan_O called her guide Christian “amazing,” and Linda_M highlights Dimitri’s humor and calmness, especially when she panicked underwater. The environment itself receives high marks—many mention how clear and peaceful the water feels.

Common Challenges

A few reviews mention equipment issues, like torn dry suits—though guides are usually quick to assist. Some travelers were disappointed due to logistical surprises, such as not realizing how far Thingvellir is from Reykjavik or the inability to reschedule if running late. Others noted that older equipment could be improved.

Notable Moments

Several reviews share the thrill of swimming between tectonic plates—an awe-inspiring sight. The underwater visibility often exceeds expectations, and the experience of floating effortlessly over the fissure’s bottom is described as “surreal” or “magical.” The post-swim warmth of hot chocolate and cookies is a small but appreciated touch, making the cold more bearable.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This snorkeling experience is perfect for adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Iceland’s geological marvels. It appeals especially to those who aren’t afraid of a little cold—or at least are willing to brave it with dry suits. Given the small group size, it’s well-suited for travelers who prefer personalized attention rather than large, rushed tours.

If you’re comfortable swimming and enjoy exploring unique landscapes, you’ll find this tour a highlight of your Iceland trip. It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those who aren’t confident in water, as swimming ability is essential.

The Sum Up

This Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour offers a rare glimpse into one of Iceland’s most extraordinary natural features. The combination of crystal-clear waters, the thrill of crossing between two continents, and the guidance of knowledgeable, friendly guides make it a memorable adventure. While equipment wear and logistics may cause minor hiccups, the overall experience is well worth the price, especially for those who crave authentic, off-the-beaten-path encounters.

It’s a fantastic choice for curious travelers who want a safe, well-organized way to enjoy the otherworldly beauty of Iceland’s geology. If you’re looking to add a splash of adventure to your trip and don’t mind some cold water, this tour is sure to leave you with stories—and photos—you’ll cherish for years.

FAQ

Is equipment included in the tour?
Yes, all snorkeling gear including dry suits, snorkels, goggles, fins, and shoes are provided.

Do I need to bring my own clothing?
It’s recommended to layer warm fleece or wool base layers underneath your dry suit, and bring a small towel and change of clothes for after the swim.

What is the minimum age?
Participants must be at least 12 years old; minors under 18 need an adult on the tour.

Can I participate if I don’t know how to swim?
Swimmers are required for participation, as the tour involves swimming in open water.

How long does the snorkeling last?
The entire experience, including preparation and warm-up, lasts about 3 hours, with roughly 30-40 minutes in the water.

Are the tours available year-round?
Yes, multiple daily departures are offered, but confirm availability based on weather conditions.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or full refund.

Is transportation from Reykjavik included?
No, transportation to Thingvellir is not provided, so plan accordingly.

What if I arrive late?
Late arrivals may not be able to join the tour, and refunds are not given if you miss your scheduled slot.

Can I buy photos of my experience?
Yes, underwater photos are available for purchase for a small fee, allowing you to relive your adventure.

In essence, this snorkeling tour at Silfra Fissure is a captivating blend of geology, adventure, and stunning scenery, perfect for travelers eager to add a unique chapter to their Iceland story.