Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Snorkeling and Lava Caving Tour

Travelers looking for a genuinely unique Icelandic adventure will find this combined lava caving and Silfra snorkeling tour offers a bit of everything—sprawling underground tunnels, volcanic rock formations, and the surreal experience of floating between tectonic plates. It’s a full-day escapade that promises to stretch your sense of adventure while giving you plenty of opportunities to take in breathtaking scenery.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how well it balances geological exploration with adventure activities. The lava caves give you a tangible sense of Iceland’s fiery past, while snorkeling in Silfra makes you feel like you’ve entered another world. And with free underwater photos and knowledgeable guides, you’ll leave with vivid memories and plenty of handy insights.

One potential downside? The whole experience is quite structured, and you’ll need to be comfortable in cold water and able to swim—so it’s not ideal if you’re a nervous swimmer or dealing with mobility issues. Still, for those capable and eager to explore, this tour is a fantastic way to spend a day in Iceland.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love geology, are comfortable in water, and want a full-day adventure that offers both underground exploration and underwater marvels. If you’re after an authentic, active experience with top-notch guides, this tour checks every box.

Key Points

• Geological curiosity: Lava caves and fissures offer a close-up look at Iceland’s volcanic activity.
• Crystal-clear waters: Snorkel in Silfra’s unparalleled visibility—some of the clearest water on Earth.
• Expert guides: Guides are highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and safety focus.
• All gear provided: No need to rent or buy special equipment; suits, masks, and snorkels are included.
• Photo souvenirs: Underwater photos are free, adding a visual keepsake to your adventure.
• Balanced experience: Suitable for active travelers who don’t mind the cold and can swim.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

How the Day Unfolds

The tour begins early, starting with a visit to the Raufarholshellir Lava Tunnel. Here, you’ll don your caving gear and explore a colorful, twisting underground world shaped by volcanic activity. As you move through the lava tube, your guide will explain how Iceland’s volcanic landscape was formed. From the glowing “rainbows” of mineral deposits to the natural formations carved by ancient lava flows, this part of the trip feels like stepping into a natural art gallery.

Based on reviews, guides excel at making the lava cave both informative and fun. One traveler noted, “Our guide was very experienced and told us everything about the lava cave’s history.” Others appreciated the opportunity to explore at their own pace after the guided portion, which adds a personal touch to the experience.

After approximately 1.5 to 2 hours underground, you’ll be taken to a local bakery, where you can grab a quick snack or coffee—an excellent way to warm up and refuel before the next adventure. This break also gives you a chance to share impressions with fellow travelers or simply relax before the snorkeling.

The Highlight: Snorkeling in Silfra

By mid-afternoon, you’ll head to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its geological significance. Once there, the guides help you change into dry suits and organize the gear for the snorkeling experience in Silfra. This fissure, formed by the separation of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, offers a view that’s truly out of this world.

Snorkeling in Silfra is often described as surreal—floating in water with a clarity that makes you feel like you’re suspended in a liquid sky. The water averages just 2°C (35.6°F), but the dry suits and thermal gear keep you comfortable. Several reviewers comment on how surprisingly warm they felt thanks to the equipment, with one saying, “The water wasn’t even as cold as I thought it would be.”

Your guide, often praised for their patience and attentiveness, will ensure everyone is safe and comfortable. One reviewer shared, “Nebo was the best snorkel guide. Thank you!!!” The gentle current means most people float effortlessly, and the views of the vibrant blues and textured rock formations make the entire experience feel like gliding through a dream.

Underwater Photos and Warming Up

Your guide will also take free underwater photos—a part of the tour that travelers consistently appreciate, as it captures moments they might not be able to recreate. After snorkeling, a warm cup of hot cocoa and biscuits provides a cozy ending, allowing you to recount your experience while warming up.

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Practical Details

The tour is organized by Arctic Adventures, known for professionalism and safety. The full day lasts between 5 and 9 hours, depending on the group size and weather conditions. You can choose options that include hotel pickup or meet at designated locations. The meeting points are clearly marked, with ample parking at Thingvellir.

Participants are advised to bring warm clothing, a change of clothes, and a towel. Since the water is icy, layering with a thermal shirt or leggings for the snorkeling is recommended, and you should be comfortable swimming (no non-swimmers or pregnant women allowed). The tour is not suitable for children under 12 or people with certain medical conditions, including mobility issues or claustrophobia.

The Value for the Price

At $202 per person, this tour offers excellent value given the inclusions: all gear, guides, park entry fees, and free photos. The fact that guides are highly praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and safety awareness makes it clear you’re paying for quality instruction and memorable moments. Reviewers repeatedly highlight the professionalism and enthusiasm of guides like Weronika, John, or Nebo, which significantly enhances the experience.

What Travelers Are Saying

From glowing reviews, it’s clear that this tour feels like a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Many mention the stunning scenery, helpful guides, and the sense of achievement after navigating lava tunnels or floating in Silfra’s clear waters.

One traveler shared, “The lava caving was beautiful and really interesting, but Silfra snorkeling was just unbelievable.” Others emphasized the personalized attention, with guides checking in on everyone’s comfort and safety, making even nervous swimmers feel confident.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re an active traveler with a curious mind and a sense of adventure, this tour is a great pick. It suits those interested in geography, geology, or just looking to do something memorable and different. The small group size and professional guides help ensure a safe, friendly environment.

However, it’s important to be comfortable in water and with cold temperatures, as the entire experience involves wet gear and chilly conditions. If you’re pregnant, have mobility issues, or are not comfortable swimming, you’ll want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

This combined lava caving and Silfra snorkeling tour from Reykjavik offers an exceptional blend of underground exploration and aquatic marvels. It’s a well-organized, value-packed experience that delivers authentic Icelandic adventures with expert guides leading the way.

Travelers who love geology, enjoy physical activities, or simply want to see some of the most surreal landscapes Iceland has to offer will find this tour hard to beat. From the mesmerizing lava tunnels to the crystal-clear waters of Silfra, each moment is designed to leave lasting memories.

The tour’s success lies not just in the scenery but in the professionalism of guides and the care taken to make every participant feel safe and cared for. Whether you’re marveling at volcanic formations or floating weightlessly in a pristine fissure, this experience stands out as a true highlight of Iceland’s natural wonders.

If you’re prepared for a full day of activity, and you’re eager to get off the beaten track, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking adventure, education, and a dash of the extraordinary—all wrapped up in one unforgettable day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available if you select that option, making the day more convenient.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total experience runs between 5 and 9 hours, depending on timings and group size. Check the schedule for your preferred start time.

What should I wear?
Bring warm clothing, a change of clothes, and a towel. Layers are best, especially for the snorkeling part where you’ll wear a dry suit.

Can anyone participate in snorkeling?
Participants need to be comfortable in water, be able to swim, and not have medical conditions that disqualify them. Pregnant women and non-swimmers are not allowed.

Is the water really cold?
Yes, the water averages about 2°C, but the dry suits provided help keep you warm and comfortable during the snorkel.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, children under 12 are not suitable for this activity.

What do I do if I have health issues?
You’ll need medical approval from a doctor to participate, especially if you have heart problems, respiratory issues, or mobility concerns.

This tour from Arctic Adventures makes for a genuinely memorable Icelandic experience—perfect for those eager to explore the volcanic underground and feel the thrill of floating in one of the clearest waters on Earth.

You can check availability for your dates here: