Húsavík: Bubbling Sands Snorkeling Tour

Imagine snorkeling in geothermal waters that feel like a warm bath, yet revealing a surreal underwater landscape of dancing sands and vibrant algae. That’s exactly what the Bubbling Sands Snorkeling Tour offers in Húsavík, Iceland’s whale-watching capital. This experience combines the thrill of exploring an otherworldly lagoon with the comfort of warm water—about 20°C—thanks to nearby geothermal activity. It’s a chance to see a totally different side of Iceland’s rugged nature, and for many, a highlight of a trip to the north.

We love that this tour provides a rare underwater view of Iceland’s geothermal marvels, and that you get to enjoy it comfortably in just a couple of hours. The chance to float alongside majestic brown trout and a multitude of sticklebacks, all within a vibrant, bubbling landscape, sounds quite enchanting. On the flip side, it’s not suited for everyone—especially those who aren’t comfortable in water or who prefer a land-based adventure. This trip best suits travelers eager for a unique, relaxing, and visually stunning experience away from typical Icelandic sights.

Key Points

• Unique geothermal snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Brunnar lagoon.
• Bubbling Sands and green algae create a mesmerizing, almost alien landscape beneath the surface.
• Wildlife sightings include brown trout, sticklebacks, and occasionally other salmonids.
• Small group size (limited to 8 per guide) ensures a personalized experience.
• Post-snorkel river float offers relaxing views of surrounding nature.
• Includes hot chocolate and cookies for a cozy finish after your underwater adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to Iceland’s Geothermal Wonder

We’ve all heard about Iceland’s impressive landscapes — glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls. But beneath this rugged surface lies a hidden aquatic world that’s equally captivating. The Bubbling Sands Snorkeling Tour offers a chance to experience this, in a way that’s unlike any other. Located just south of the Arctic Circle, near Húsavík, the Brunnar lagoon is a true Icelandic anomaly: warm, geothermal water in the midst of a cold climate, teeming with unique features.

What’s especially appealing about this experience is how it combines comfort with spectacle. Unlike the cold, icy waters Iceland is famous for, this lagoon maintains a cozy 20°C, making it accessible even for those new to snorkeling. Plus, the surreal underwater landscape of dancing sands and green algae adds a visual element that sets this tour apart from standard snorkel trips.

The Highlights of the Tour

The tour’s main draw—exploring the bubbling sands—is a sight to behold. Underwater, the sands seem to dance and erupt, resembling mini-volcanic vents or underwater beaches, thanks to the cold water that causes these formations. These natural “eruptions” create a stunning visual, reminiscent of a different planet.

Alongside the sands, you’ll find fields of green algae and multicolored sediments that add to the otherworldly scenery. The presence of snails and a multitude of sticklebacks darting around the shallow edges offers a glimpse of the lagoon’s vibrant ecosystem. If luck is on your side, you might catch a glimpse of brown trout—a majestic fish that preys on sticklebacks—and sometimes even Arctic char or salmon, especially near the river where the lagoon water flows into Litlaá.

The river float at the end of the snorkeling adds a relaxing element, offering spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness and an opportunity to spot bigger fish, including brown and sea trout. This natural ending provides a peaceful contrast to the underwater exploration and leaves you with memorable scenery and a sense of tranquility.

What to Expect During the Tour

The adventure starts at the designated meeting point near Keldunes, where your guide will brief you on safety and give you all the necessary snorkeling gear. The small group size (up to 8 participants) promises a more intimate experience, and the instructor’s English-speaking guidance ensures clear instructions for novices and seasoned snorkelers alike.

Once suited up, you’ll head to the lagoon, which is conveniently close by. The water is heated by geothermal sources, allowing for a comfortable 20°C environment. As you glide through the water, you’ll marvel at the dancing sands—some erupt like underwater geysers, others appear as multicolored ripples on the lake bottom. The green algae fields are also eye-catching, adding vibrant splashes of color beneath the surface.

While snorkeling, you’ll witness the lively fish—sticklebacks traveling in large groups, and perhaps catch sight of the Brown Trout hunting for prey. The lagoon’s floor is full of interesting sediments and plants, creating a lively, textured underwater landscape.

After about an hour of exploring, your guide will lead you on a short float down the river, where you’ll drift past scenic natural views and perhaps spot larger fish in the water’s mouth. The tour wraps up back at the starting point, where hot chocolate and cookies await—a perfect way to warm up and reflect on your underwater adventure.

The Practical Side: Details & Value

This tour lasts about 2.5 hours, with the snorkeling itself taking roughly an hour, leaving plenty of time for preparation, briefing, and the river float. The price includes all snorkeling equipment and guidance, ensuring that even first-timers can enjoy the experience safely. The small group size not only guarantees more personalized attention but also enhances safety and comfort.

Pricing should be considered in the context of what you get: a guided, all-inclusive experience in a unique Icelandic setting. Compared with other activities in Húsavík, which often focus on whale watching or land-based excursions, this offers an offbeat, intimate encounter with the geothermal landscape—an experience that’s both fun and educational.

Since the tour operates only during July and August, it’s perfectly timed for the summer months when the weather is mild and daylight is long. The maximum of 8 snorkelers per guide ensures that everyone’s safety and comfort are prioritized, and the small group dynamic fosters a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Transportation is not included, so travelers should plan their own journey to the meeting point, which is just a few meters past Keldunes Guesthouse. It’s a straightforward short drive or walk from central Húsavík, making it convenient for most travelers.

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Authentic Experiences & Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the stunning visuals of the bubbling sands and algae fields, describing it as a “completely different world.” Many mention the warm water as a huge plus, especially compared to Iceland’s often chilly reputation. One said, “The dancing sands are mesmerizing, almost like a scene from a sci-fi film,” capturing the surreal quality of the landscape. Others appreciated the small group setting, noting how it made the experience more personal and less rushed.

Some mention the importance of bringing warm clothing for after the tour and the snorkeling gear, which is provided. The inclusion of hot chocolate and cookies at the end adds a cozy touch, making the whole experience feel well-rounded and thoughtful.

A few reviews highlight that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or anyone with back or heart problems, which should be carefully considered. But for those in good health and comfortable in water, this snorkeling adventure offers a rare glimpse beneath Iceland’s surface that’s both fun and educational.

Final Thoughts

This tour is an excellent choice for travelers seeking something different from Iceland’s typical landscapes. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy gentle water activities and are curious about geothermal phenomena. The stunning underwater scenery, combined with the chance to see native fish and relax on a river float, creates a well-balanced, memorable outing.

While it’s a relatively short experience, the quality of the environment and the uniqueness of the landscape make it excellent value. It’s perfect for families, adventurous couples, or solo travelers eager for a peaceful yet awe-inspiring encounter with Iceland’s geothermal treasures.

In a country famous for its natural surprises, this tour stands out as a peaceful, colorful, and surprisingly warm adventure beneath the cold northern skies.

FAQ

Is the snorkeling in warm water?
Yes. Thanks to nearby geothermal activity, the lagoon’s water stays around 20°C, making it comfortable even for beginners.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing for after the activity and your swimwear. The tour provides all snorkeling gear.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 2.5 hours, with approximately an hour spent snorkeling.

Is it suitable for non-swimmers?
It’s not recommended for non-swimmers, as comfort in water is necessary, and safety guidance is part of the experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is limited to those comfortable in water, and pregnant women, people with back or heart problems are advised against participating.

When does the tour operate?
It runs during July and August, aligning with Iceland’s warmest months and longest daylight hours.

For those looking to add a truly unique and peaceful activity to their Iceland trip, the Bubbling Sands Snorkeling Tour in Húsavík offers a rare peek at the geothermal and aquatic marvels of the north. It’s a chance to see Iceland’s landscape from an entirely different perspective—underwater, colorful, and surprisingly warm.

You can check availability for your dates here: