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Imagine floating in water so clear that you can see 100 meters ahead, surrounded by the dramatic rift between two continents. This is exactly what the Silfra Freedive Adventure offers—an opportunity to explore one of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders, guided by knowledgeable professionals who prioritize safety and fun. Priced at $219 per person for about three hours, this tour combines adventure, education, and breathtaking scenery in a way that’s hard to forget.
What we love most about this experience is how accessible it is for both beginners and more seasoned freedivers. The small group size means personalized attention, and the guides really know their stuff. The only potential downside? You’ll want to plan for the fact that it’s not suitable for children under 12 or those with certain health conditions, but for anyone in good physical shape who loves water activities, this is a genuine highlight.
This adventure is ideal for travelers eager to experience Iceland’s unique geology and pristine waters in a safe, guided environment. If you’re comfortable in water, curious about freediving, or simply seeking a wow factor on your trip, this is likely to be one of your most memorable moments in Iceland.
Key Points
Stunning Visibility: Over 100 meters of crystal-clear water makes for unforgettable underwater scenery.
Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides like Bjarney and Biggie prioritize safety and fun, making everything smooth and relaxed.
Small Group Experience: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention and fewer crowds.
All-Inclusive: Dive gear, wetsuits, overcoats, and hot chocolate included — no hidden costs or stress about equipment.
Accessible for Beginners: Despite the technical feel, many reviews mention it’s suitable even for first-timers with proper guidance.
Timing & Location: Conveniently starting at the Þingvellir National Park parking lot, with no transportation included but easy to reach.
The Itinerary and What to Expect
Meeting Point at Þingvellir National Park
Your adventure begins at the Þingvellir P5 parking lot, where you’ll meet your guide and gather your gear. The meeting spot is easy to find—look for the vans bearing the Freedive Iceland logo. From here, you’ll walk about 300 meters to the dive vans, which serve as your changing stations for the day.
Preparing for the Freedive
Once you arrive, your guide will explain the route and safety procedures thoroughly. You’ll gear up in a free-diving wetsuit and equipment, including dryrobe overcoats to stay warm when you’re out of the water. The wetsuits are designed to keep you comfortable in the cold Icelandic waters, and many reviewers note they’re easy to put on and keep you warm during the activity.
Entering the Water
After everything’s set, you’ll descend the staircase to the water’s edge. Your guide will lead you into the Silfra fissure, where the real magic begins. Freediving here feels surreal—you’re swimming through a crack in the Earth’s crust, with the continental plates of North America and Europe just meters apart.
The Freediving Experience
You’ll have the freedom to move at your own pace, guided by your expert. Reviewers like Carrie and Danielle appreciated the small group size, which made the experience more personal and less crowded. The water’s clarity allows for stunning views of the underwater formations, and the experience is described as both peaceful and invigorating.
Duration and Flexibility
You can stay in the water as long as you like once you’re comfortable. The tour lasts approximately three hours, which includes preparation, the actual freediving, and warming up afterward with hot chocolate—an appreciated touch after the chilly dive.
Warming Up and Reflection
Back on land, you’ll relax with a cup of hot chocolate, provided as part of the tour. Many reviewers emphasize how this simple gesture helps you warm up and reflect on the incredible experience in a cozy setting.
The Value of the Experience
While $219 might seem steep at first glance, it actually covers quite a lot. The entry fee, all diving gear, wetsuit, dryrobe overcoat, and hot cocoa are included, making it a straightforward, hassle-free activity. The guides’ expertise, small group size, and safety measures add to the overall value, especially considering the unique nature of freediving in one of Earth’s most iconic locations.
Compared to other snorkeling or diving tours in Silfra, this activity offers a more personal, less hurried experience. It’s especially valuable for those who want to try freediving in a safe environment without committing to a full training course or more expensive dive package.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is best suited for adventurous water lovers comfortable in a wetsuit and in good physical condition. While no prior freediving experience is necessary, you should be comfortable swimming and in good health. The tour explicitly excludes pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, and those over 6’6″ (200cm) or under 88 lbs (40 kg).
If you’re traveling with children under 12 or are not comfortable in open water, this might not be the best fit. However, for nearly everyone else, the combination of stunning scenery, expert guidance, and the thrill of floating between two continents makes this experience a standout.
What Reviewers Say
Several guests have shared glowing feedback that highlights what makes this tour special. Carrie appreciated the ample time to get ready and felt confident with the guide’s helpfulness and knowledge. She also loved the small group setting, which allowed her to feel like she had the place to herself—a rare luxury in a popular site like Silfra.
Reina was thrilled with the freediving aspect, noting that she preferred it over snorkeling because of the three-dimensional experience. She found her guide easygoing and knowledgeable, which helped her relax and enjoy the moment fully.
Danielle praised her guide Bjarney for being attentive and personable, making the experience intimate and memorable. She also appreciated how the mild current made her feel like she was just floating effortlessly, a feeling many reviewers describe as soothing and surreal.
Marta highlighted how her instructor Biggie made everyone laugh and feel comfortable, which is especially helpful if you’re nervous about freediving. She also appreciated the personalized attention and the chance to take her time in the water, noting that the small group made all the difference.
Practical Tips for Your Tour
- Arrive prepared with comfortable shoes, a camera, and casual clothes for after the activity.
- The activity lasts around 3 hours, so plan your day accordingly.
- No transportation is included, so you’ll need to drive to the Þingvellir parking lot.
- The wetsuit and gear are provided, but if you’ve freedived before, you might prefer to bring your own flippers.
- Wear warm clothes for before and after the dive, as Iceland’s weather can be quite chilly.
- Be aware that the tour is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues.
FAQs
Is transportation provided for this tour?
No, the activity starts and ends at the Þingvellir National Park parking lot. You will need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.
What should I bring with me?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and casual clothes for before and after the activity. Since all gear is provided, you don’t need to bring your own equipment.
Can I participate if I’ve never snorkeled or freedived before?
Yes. Many reviews mention that even first-timers felt comfortable, thanks to the guides’ clear instructions and the appropriate wetsuits.
Is it safe for people with no swimming experience?
You need to be comfortable in water and know how to swim. This activity is not suitable for non-swimmers or those with certain health conditions.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately three hours, including gear-up time, the freediving in Silfra, and warming up afterward.
Are there age restrictions?
Yes, children under 12 are not permitted. The experience is mainly designed for teens and adults in good health.
What if I get nervous or change my mind?
You can stay in the water as long as you like once you’re in, and your guide will support you throughout. The small group and personalized attention aim to make everyone feel comfortable.
Final Thoughts
The Thingvellir Silfra Freedive Adventure delivers a truly special way to experience Iceland’s unique geology and natural beauty. The combination of crystal-clear waters, expert guides, and the thrill of floating between two continents makes for a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime outing.
It’s ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, active experience that stands out from typical sightseeing. The small group setting, inclusive gear, and well-organized safety measures make it accessible and enjoyable for those comfortable in water, even if they’re new to freediving.
While it’s not suited for everyone—especially those with health restrictions or with young children—it offers excellent value for the quality, scenery, and personal attention provided. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply looking to add a touch of adventure to your Iceland trip, this tour is a fantastic choice.
In summary, if you’re after a unique, visually stunning adventure with knowledgeable guides in a safe environment, the Silfra freediving tour in Thingvellir offers excellent value and memorable moments. It’s perfect for those eager to explore Iceland’s geological marvels from a new, exhilarating perspective.