Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Snorkeling between Two Continents

Imagine floating in crystal-clear waters, with the surreal sensation of drifting between two massive landmasses—this is precisely what you get with the Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour in Iceland. While we haven’t personally done it, this experience consistently draws rave reviews and stands among the top-rated activities in the country. It’s a chance to see the world beneath the surface in a way that’s both awe-inspiring and educational.

What excites many travelers about this tour? First, the remarkable visibility—up to 150 meters in some spots—which makes the underwater scenery feel almost otherworldly. Second, the thrill of floating between two tectonic plates, the boundary where the North American and Eurasian continents are slowly drifting apart. It’s a rare experience that combines natural beauty with a touch of geological wonder.

Of course, there are some considerations. The water is quite cold, so you’ll need appropriate gear and some patience getting into your dry suit. Also, this tour isn’t suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with certain health conditions. But if you’re physically able and ready for a chilly adventure, it’s perfect for those craving a one-of-a-kind outdoor activity.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy active, memorable experiences and want a close-up look at Iceland’s unique landscape. It’s especially suited for those curious about geology, adventure seekers, or anyone who’s always dreamed of swimming between continents.

Key Points

• World-class snorkeling in one of the top-10 dive sites globally, with excellent underwater visibility.
• Unique geological experience: drifting between the North American and Eurasian plates.
• All equipment included, from thermal undersuits to dry suits, making cold-water snorkeling more manageable.
• Guided by certified professionals, ensuring safety and enhancing your understanding of the site.
• Small group size (limited to 6 participants) for a more personalized experience.
• Flexible options for pickup and meeting at the park, accommodating different travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Experience

The Silfra Fissure tour offers an incredible peek into Iceland’s geological activity, all while floating in some of the clearest waters you’ll ever see. The trip combines transportation from Reykjavík with a visit to Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Iceland’s most iconic landscapes.

We love how this tour integrates education with adventure. Your guides are PADI-certified professionals who know the site intimately, and their job is to keep you safe while making sure you don’t miss the awe-inspiring views underwater. You’ll be in a small group, which means more individual attention and a calmer atmosphere—perfect for those who prefer a personal touch.

The journey begins with a scenic drive from Reykjavík toward the park, giving you a chance to admire Iceland’s stunning volcanic scenery. Once at the site, you’ll change into thermal layers and a dry suit. Yes, getting suited up can be a bit chilly and tricky—many reviews mention the challenge of putting on the dry suit, especially in winter—but guides are patient and helpful, ensuring everyone gets sealed up properly.

After gearing up, you’ll wade into the water with your guide, embarking on a 45-minute snorkeling session in silence and awe. The water’s clarity allows you to see the underwater world and the fissure’s walls in sharp detail, creating a surreal experience. As one reviewer put it, “Swimming between tectonic plates is a surreal experience,” and many describe it as a “bucket list moment” that’s hard to forget.

Following the snorkel, you’ll warm up with hot cocoa and cookies, a well-deserved treat after braving the cold. Some reviews also mention the inclusion of underwater photos, which serve as fantastic mementos of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The Itinerary: Step-by-Step

Meeting Point and Transportation
The tour begins at the Silfra car park in Thingvellir National Park, with options for pickup from Reykjavík (though not from city center hotels or Airbnbs). You’ll meet your guide 15 minutes early, at the designated parking area, where all the snorkel and dive vans are waiting.

Transfer from Reykjavík
The scenic drive to Thingvellir is a highlight in itself. Expect around 45 minutes to an hour of travel, during which guides often share insights about Iceland’s geology and history. The journey sets the stage for the awe to come.

Getting Ready
Once at the site, you’ll change into thermal base layers, and then into the dry suit. Putting on the dry suit is the trickiest part—many reviews mention how cold and stiff it can feel, especially in winter, but guides are patient and make this process as smooth as possible. You’ll also be fitted with gloves, boots, and a mask, with plenty of assistance available.

Snorkeling in Silfra
After gearing up, your guide leads you into the fissure for a 45-minute snorkel. The water temperature is around 2-4°C—refreshingly cold but well-managed with the supplied thermal gear. The water’s extraordinary clarity allows you to see the fissure’s walls and underwater formations in crisp detail, creating a sense of floating in space rather than submerged in water.

Post-Adventure Warm-Up
Back on land, you can relax with hot cocoa and cookies, as many reviewers have raved about the thoughtful touch. Some also mention the underwater photos included in the tour, which you can download later—an appreciated keepsake.

Return to Reykjavík
The tour concludes with a return trip, dropping you off at your original pickup point or near your accommodation if arranged.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who make the experience safe and engaging. One reviewer praised Dominika, who “made sure everyone was comfortable and enjoyed safely,” emphasizing how professional guides elevate the experience. Others mention guides like John, Lily, and Fede, who go above and beyond to ensure everyone is enjoying and feeling secure in the chilly waters.

Many mention the stunning underwater views. One traveler called it “spectacular,” while another said, “The clarity of the water was unreal.” The visual experience underwater is truly one-of-a-kind, with the opportunity to see the fissure walls and underwater geology in extraordinary detail.

The photos taken during the snorkel are another big hit. Multiple reviews appreciated the inclusion of underwater photos that help relive the magic later, often noting the photos’ quality and the ease of downloading them afterward.

The hot cocoa and cookies at the end also get consistent praise as a cozy, warming finish to an activity that, despite the cold water, is mostly manageable thanks to the dry suits.

Price and Value: Is it Worth It?

At $142 per person, this tour offers excellent value for an experience that combines adventure, education, and stunning natural beauty. The included gear (dry suits, masks, gloves), guided expertise, park admission, and photos add up to a comprehensive package.

Keep in mind, the experience is about much more than just snorkeling—it’s about seeing a unique geological site, feeling the thrill of floating between continents, and creating memories in a setting few get to witness. The small group size and professional guides further enhance the value, ensuring safety and personalized attention.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers with a basic level of physical fitness, as getting into and out of the dry suit can be demanding. It’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with certain health conditions, especially respiratory issues, heart problems, or mobility impairments.

If you’re open to the cold and eager for a surreal, once-in-a-lifetime adventure, it’s a perfect fit. It also appeals to geology enthusiasts, travel lovers looking for a memorable story, or anyone wanting to tick off a major bucket list item in Iceland.

The Sum Up

Snorkeling between two tectonic plates at Silfra is more than just an activity; it’s a sensory experience fused with natural history and geological marvels. Your guides’ professionalism and the breathtaking clarity of the water make this tour stand out as a must-do activity in Iceland for those seeking adventure and authenticity.

While the cold can be a challenge, the warmth of good company, expert guidance, and stunning scenery makes it worthwhile. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a curious traveler, this experience offers a rare glimpse into the Earth’s dynamic forces—literally beneath your nose.

If you’re comfortable in the water and eager for something truly different, this tour delivers an unforgettable story to tell for years to come.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Pickup from Reykjavík is available if you choose the optional transfer. However, hotel pickups within the city center are not possible; you’ll meet at the designated park parking lot.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts between 3 and 5.5 hours, depending on the schedule. The snorkeling itself is about 45 minutes, with additional time for transfer and preparation.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing and a change of clothes are recommended. Since the water is cold, thermal layers are provided, but bringing extra warm socks or thermal underwear can help.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12 years old, due to the physical and thermal demands of snorkeling in cold water.

Can I do this tour if I have health issues?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women, or those with mobility, respiratory, or heart problems. Always check with your doctor if unsure.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation (if chosen), guided instruction from PADI-certified guides, all snorkeling gear, park admission, and underwater photos.

How cold is the water?
The water temperature is typically 2-4°C, but the thermal gear keeps you warm enough to enjoy the experience comfortably.

Is this experience very crowded?
No, groups are limited to six participants, which creates a more intimate and less crowded atmosphere.

Can I buy photos afterward?
Yes, underwater photos are included in the tour package and are available for download afterwards.

In all, this snorkeling tour at Silfra Fissure offers a rare chance to see Iceland’s natural wonders firsthand. If you’re ready for a chilly but unforgettable adventure, it’s well worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: