From Reykjavik: Silfra Snorkeling with Free Photos

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and craving something truly unique, snorkeling in Silfra should be at the top of your list. This tour, offered by Adventure Vikings, promises an unforgettable experience of gliding between the American and European tectonic plates in crystal-clear waters. With over 500 reviews averaging 4.8/5, it’s clear that many travelers find this a highlight of their Iceland trip.

What we love about this tour is how accessible and well-organized it is for most travelers—no certification needed, just a willingness to get a little chilly and a sense of adventure. Plus, the included professional photos mean you leave with lasting memories, not just stories. The one potential drawback? The water is cold—so being comfortable in water and prepared to wear a drysuit or wetsuit is a must. This tour is well-suited for adventure-seekers, nature lovers, and anyone eager for a new perspective on Iceland’s stunning landscapes.

Key Points

• Unparalleled clarity: Over 100 meters of underwater visibility.
• Guided experience: Expert guides ensure safety and fun.
• Photo package included: Capture your adventure without extra effort.
• All levels welcome: No diving certification required, just swimming ability.
• Flexible options: Choose between drysuit or wetsuit for warmth.
• Transport included: Round-trip transfers from Reykjavik simplify logistics.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Silfra Snorkeling Tour

What Makes Silfra Special?

Silfra is often called “the real Blue Lagoon,” but don’t mistake it for a thermal spa. This is a fissure in the Earth’s crust, created by the slow drifting apart of North America and Eurasia. The water here is so pure that it’s filtered through lava rock for decades, leading to extraordinarily high clarity. Travelers frequently mention seeing 100 meters of underwater scenery, making it one of the clearest natural waters you’ll ever snorkel in.

The Tour Itinerary: Step-by-Step

The experience begins with round-trip transportation from Reykjavik, which is thoughtfully included. Expect pickup from central bus stops, starting around 7:30-8:30 AM depending on the season. The drive takes you out to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its geological significance and rugged beauty.

Once there, you’ll get suited up with top-quality snorkeling gear, including a six-millimeter wetsuit or a drysuit. For those who opt for the drysuit, which keeps you dry and warm, the experience feels a bit more like floating in a personal bubble; wetsuits allow some water contact, which can be cooler but still comfortable, especially with the thermal layer.

Your guide will give a quick safety briefing and instructions, emphasizing that you do not need to be a certified diver—just comfortable swimming and communicating in English. Many reviews praise the guides, with comments like, “Gretar was so kind and made sure everyone felt safe and comfortable,” and “Edgar was very friendly, helpful, and reassuring.”

As you enter the fissure, you’ll marvel at the bright blue waters and stunning underwater rock formations. Many describe the view as almost surreal—like swimming in a postcard. Because of the current, you’ll experience a gentle drift, which adds to the feeling of floating freely.

The Highlights: Why This Tour Excels

Traveling between two continents—a geological milestone—is the experience’s crown jewel. It’s rare to stand in a place where you can say, “I swam between North America and Europe.” For many, the high underwater visibility, sometimes over 100 meters, enhances the scenery, revealing vivid rock textures and shimmering blue waters.

Once out of the water, you’ll warm up with hot chocolate, a thoughtful touch praised in reviews like, “The hot chocolate was a great touch after the cold water.” It adds a cozy finish to this outdoor adventure.

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What’s Included and What to Prepare

The tour covers all necessary snorkeling equipment, including wetsuits or drysuits, fins, masks, and thermal gloves if needed. The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, with the actual snorkeling lasting around 30-45 minutes, depending on the group. The total experience is well-paced, balancing adventure and comfort.

Photos are included—an excellent bonus—so you can relive your trip without having to worry about capturing every moment yourself. Participants recommend renting a waterproof camera or GoPro to get the best shots, especially since the water’s clarity makes for stunning photos, as several reviews mention.

You’ll want to bring warm clothing, swimwear, and a towel. It’s advised to eat breakfast beforehand since the cold can be intense at first, and you’ll need energy.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This trip is perfect for adventurers of all swimming abilities, provided you’re comfortable in water. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or people over 120 kg (264 lbs). The minimum age is 12, with adult supervision for minors.

Reviewers highlight the guides’ professionalism and friendliness, making even nervous participants feel at ease. As one reviewer said, “Despite the weather being very cold, I stayed warm and dry throughout the swim.” The drysuits do a good job insulating, but expect to feel the cold air before and after.

Pricing and Value

At a price point that includes transport, top-grade gear, professional photos, and hot chocolate, the trip offers solid value. Many travelers remark that it’s a bucket-list activity worth every penny, especially given the exclusivity of the scenery and the expert guidance.

Logistics and Practical Tips

• Pick-up is 90 minutes before the scheduled start.
• Wear warm clothes and socks for before and after.
• Bring a waterproof camera if you want stellar photos.
• Make sure you’re comfortable swimming and can communicate in English.
• No glasses? No problem—contacts or prescription masks are recommended.
• Remember, you do not need to be certified for diving—just comfortable swimming and breathing in water.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews emphasize the guides’ friendliness and professionalism. Comments like, “Our guide Wilmar was great—reassuring, fun, and very attentive”—are common. Travelers also love the breathtaking scenery—“The views were insane, and the water so blue”—and appreciate the good organization from pickup to post-snorkel hot chocolate.

Some mention small group sizes (limited to six), which ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe. The overall consensus? It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that balances adventure with comfort.

Who Should Consider This?

This tour is ideal for those who want a memorable outdoor activity that’s accessible without diving certification. It suits nature lovers, geology enthusiasts, and adventure travelers eager for a unique perspective on Iceland’s landscape. If you’re comfortable in water and don’t mind the cold, you’ll find this offers stunning scenery and a story to tell for years.

However, if you’re pregnant, have mobility or heart issues, or dislike cold water, it’s best to consider other options. The experience is weather-dependent, with fewer cloudy days affecting visibility, but most reviews note that even on less perfect days, the scenery remains spectacular.

The Sum Up

Snorkeling in Silfra is a rare chance to see one of the clearest waters on the planet in a setting that feels like stepping into another world. Guided by experienced professionals, travelers can safely enjoy floating between two continents with minimal fuss. The inclusion of photos and hot chocolate adds value and a cozy finish to what many call a bucket-list activity.

This tour offers great value for money given the quality of guides, the unforgettable scenery, and all the included amenities. It’s best suited for adventurous, water-loving travelers who want to add a truly unique experience to their Iceland trip. Just prepare for the cold and bring your smile—this is an activity you’ll remember long after you’ve left Iceland behind.

FAQ

Do I need to be a certified diver?
No, you do not need any diving certification. Just be comfortable swimming and in good health.

Is the water cold?
Yes, the water is chilly, but the drysuits or wetsuits keep you warm enough to enjoy the experience comfortably.

How long does the snorkeling last?
The entire tour lasts about 4.5 hours, with around 30-45 minutes in the water.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, swimwear, a towel, a waterproof camera if possible, and socks. It’s also recommended to eat breakfast before the tour.

Can I rent a camera?
Yes, you can rent a GoPro or similar waterproof camera for 6900 ISK.

What is the minimum age?
Participants must be at least 12 years old, with adult supervision for minors.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from Reykjavik are provided and operate from designated bus stops in the city center.

What if I have glasses?
Glasses aren’t allowed during snorkeling. If you wear glasses, contact lenses or a prescription mask are recommended.

Will I get cold after the tour?
Likely, so bring warm clothes for after. Many travelers enjoy the hot chocolate provided to warm up.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for your Iceland itinerary.

If you’re seeking a truly memorable outdoor adventure that combines geological wonder, stunning visuals, and expert guidance, snorkeling in Silfra is hard to beat. It’s a distinctively Icelandic experience that’s perfect for those eager to see the country from a whole new angle—underwater between continents.

You can check availability for your dates here: