From Reykjavík: Silfra Snorkeling with free photos

If you’re dreaming of a truly one-of-a-kind adventure in Iceland, snorkeling in the Silfra fissure might just top your list. This guided tour, offered by TrollExpeditions, takes you to the heart of Thingvellir National Park, where you’ll glide between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in crystal-clear waters. We haven’t done it ourselves, but the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear this experience offers awe-inspiring views and professional guidance—key ingredients for a memorable day.

What we especially like about this tour is its combination of convenience and authenticity. The included transportation makes the journey hassle-free, and the small-group setting promises personalized attention. Plus, the added bonus of free underwater photos means you can relive the moment long after you’ve left Iceland. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the strict medical and physical requirements, which might exclude some travelers. But if you’re generally comfortable in water with basic swimming skills, this tour can be a highlight of your trip, especially for those keen on experiencing Iceland’s geological marvels firsthand.

This experience suits adventure seekers, geology enthusiasts, or anyone looking for an unforgettable story to tell. It’s not just about the snorkeling but also about connecting with the dramatic landscapes and understanding Iceland’s unique position on the planet.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience: Transportation, gear, dry suits, photos, and post-snorkeling treats are covered.
• Professional guides: Certified PADI dive / dive-master guides ensure safety and expert support.
• Exceptional visibility: Clear waters with about 100 meters of underwater visibility make for stunning sights.
• Small groups: Personal attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Strict medical requirements: Some health conditions and age limits do apply.
• Comfortable gear: Dry suits and thermal clothing keep you warm despite icy waters.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Silfra Snorkeling Tour

This tour is a well-structured experience designed to maximize your enjoyment while maintaining safety. Starting from Reykjavík, you’ll hop into a minivan marked TrollExpeditions and begin your approximately 6-hour adventure. The pickup is straightforward, with a pickup window of up to 30 minutes, depending on where you’re staying, and the tour includes WiFi onboard, so you can even check your emails or share your excitement during the ride.

From Reykjavík to Thingvellir National Park

The journey takes you from the capital into the heart of Iceland’s stunning landscape, culminating at Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its geological significance. Once there, the guide will meet you at the designated point, and after a quick gear check and instructions, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the Silfra fissure.

The Snorkeling Experience

Despite appearances from afar—a seemingly ordinary lake—the true magic begins once you don your dry suit and thermal layers. These suits are essential, as they keep you warm in the cold glacier water, which is surprisingly clear and feels invigorating rather than chilling. The extraordinary visibility of around 100 meters means you’ll see through the water to the lake’s rocky bottom, vibrant with the geological history of Iceland.

Your guide will be right there with you, taking photos throughout the activity, so you’ll have plenty of memories to take home. Reviewers consistently praise the guides; one mentions, “Vero, our guide, was highly professional and took amazing photos of us,” which speaks to the quality of the personal touch. The experience is about safety, fun, and marveling at the natural world, not rushing through.

The Highlights Inside the Water

Swimming between two tectonic plates—a literal boundary of continents—is an unforgettable thrill. The silence underwater, interrupted only by your breathing and the occasional guide’s instructions, makes you feel like you’re floating in a different world. Despite the cold water, the dry suit keeps you comfortable, and the visual spectacle makes it all worthwhile.

Once you’re finished, you can enjoy some hot chocolate or tea and Icelandic chocolates—a perfect way to warm up and reflect on an extraordinary adventure. The tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to Reykjavík.

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The Value of the Experience

At $192 per person, this tour offers a lot. It’s not just about the activity, but the all-inclusive nature, which simplifies planning. All the necessary gear—including the dry-suit and underwater camera—are provided, removing the hassle of sourcing your own equipment or worrying about cold water. The small-group atmosphere ensures you get personal guidance, which many reviewers have appreciated, describing guides as “professional” and “funny,” elevating their overall experience.

The fact that photos are included for free adds significant value, allowing you to share your adventure or keep it as a keepsake. Plus, the transportation from Reykjavík removes logistical stress, which can be a real bonus when navigating a foreign country.

Who will appreciate this tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure lovers who are comfortable with basic swimming abilities and physically able to wear a tight dry suit. It’s also perfect for those interested in geology or seeking something truly unique to tell friends back home. However, it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or travelers with certain medical conditions—so be sure to review the medical requirements carefully.

Practical Tips for Your Silfra Snorkeling Day

• Wear comfortable, thin thermal clothes underneath the dry suit for added warmth and mobility.
• Bring a medical statement if you have any health concerns; some conditions (back problems, heart issues, pregnancy, etc.) may exclude you.
• The tour lasts about 6 hours, including transportation, gear, and the activity itself.
• Sign the Medical Statement form at the meeting location, available online for convenience.
• Prepare for a 5-minute walk from the meeting point to the fissure, so wear suitable footwear.
• Bring your own medical statement and ID, and arrive prepared with the required height and weight specifications (minimum 150 cm and 45 kilos; maximum 200 cm and 120 kilos).
• Not suitable for travelers over 70 years or under 12; check the age restrictions if you’re traveling with children or seniors.

Authentic Feedback from Past Participants

Many who’ve taken this tour speak highly of the guides and stunning scenery. One reviewer praised the professionalism from start to finish, noting, “Gerys, our guide, was so patient with us all, especially those who were nervous at first.” Others highlight the funny and informative guides—Lilian and Vero—who made the experience both safe and enjoyable, with one saying, “We felt safe during the entire Silfra experience and enjoyed it completely.” The clarity of the water and spectacular underwater views seem to be a consistent highlight, alongside the personalized photos.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This snorkeling trip to Silfra is a fantastic, well-organized adventure that combines spectacular scenery, expert guidance, and convenience. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable in water, able to wear a dry suit, and eager to experience Iceland’s geological marvels firsthand. It offers excellent value for the price, especially with included photos and transportation, making it a hassle-free way to add a slice of aquatic adventure to your trip.

While the medical and age restrictions may exclude some, for those who qualify, this is undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim between continents in one of the world’s clearest waters. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or simply want a story that’s guaranteed to impress friends, this tour delivers a genuine, memorable Icelandic experience.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation from Reykjavík, with pickup at a specified location and a drive back afterward.

Do I need special experience or skills?
Basic swimming ability is required, but no prior snorkeling experience is necessary. Guides will provide instructions and gear.

What should I wear underneath the dry suit?
You’re advised to wear comfortable, thin thermal clothes to stay warm. The dry suit is designed to keep you dry and insulated.

Are photos included?
Yes, underwater GoPro photos are part of the package, allowing you to capture your experience at no extra charge.

What medical requirements are there?
Participants must sign a medical statement and meet certain health criteria. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with heart or back problems, or travelers over 70.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience, including pickup, travel, snorkeling, and return, lasts about 6 hours.

Can children join?
Children under 12 are not permitted, and there are age restrictions up to 69 years old.

If you’re after a genuinely Icelandic adventure that combines geology, adventure, and expert support, this Silfra snorkeling tour is hard to beat. Just remember to check the medical requirements, prepare your thermal gear, and get ready to float between continents.

You can check availability for your dates here: