Silfra: Hot and Cold Snorkeling and Spa Tour – Self Drive

When considering a truly memorable Icelandic adventure, a tour that combines the thrill of snorkeling between two continents with the relaxation of enjoying warm geothermal waters sounds like a perfect match. This self-drive experience is tailored for travelers eager to explore Iceland’s astonishing natural contrasts at their own pace.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you get the opportunity to snorkel in Silfra, famed for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic tectonic fissures, complemented by a soothing dip in Laugarvatn Fontana’s geothermal pools. Second, we love the personalized element—driving yourself allows for flexibility and a more intimate connection with the landscape. The only possible downside? It’s a half-day commitment, so if you’re looking for a full-day or multi-activity extravaganza, this might feel brief.

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of activity and relaxation, value small-group interactions, and prefer a flexible schedule that a self-drive setup provides. Families, couples, or solo travelers who want to tick off a bucket list item with expert guidance and no crowds will find this perfect.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and safety.
• Self-drive format offers flexibility to explore at your own pace.
• Includes all necessary gear, providing comfort in icy waters.
• Combines unique experiences: snorkeling in Silfra and soaking in geothermal pools.
• Expert guidance enhances safety and knowledge of the area.
• Ideal for those comfortable with water and willing to wear a drysuit.

A Deep Dive Into the Tour Experience

Meeting and Gearing Up at DIVE.IS

Your adventure begins at the DIVE.IS meeting point in Thingvellir National Park, a site famously sitting on the dividing line of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This spot alone is worth the visit, offering dramatic scenery and geological significance. Here, your guides assemble your group—max six travelers—ensuring everyone gets personalized attention.

The team provides dry suits, warm undersuits, and snorkeling gear. We loved how the guides took their time to explain how to use all the equipment, making sure everyone felt prepared and comfortable. Changing in the heated van is a thoughtful touch, especially during Iceland’s brisk weather, and it helps keep you warm from the start.

The Briefing: Safety and Context

Before heading into the water, a detailed briefing covers safety protocols and some fascinating background about Thingvellir and the tectonic plates. You’ll learn about the geological marvels you’ll be witnessing, which adds layers of appreciation for the scenery and the experience. Several reviews appreciated guides like Sara, who checked in often and made everyone feel secure—”We felt safe and comfortable,” one reviewer noted.

Snorkeling in Silfra: The Icy Marvel

The walk to Silfra itself is short but scenic, just around five minutes from the meeting point. Once there, you’ll gear up and wade into the water, which is startlingly clear and cold. The 30 to 45-minute snorkel takes you through Silfra Hall and the Big Crack, where you can literally see the space between two continents.

Many reviewers remarked on how surreal this was. One called it a “bucket list moment,” emphasizing the stunning views under the water and the thrill of floating between North America and Eurasia. The water temperature, kept manageable by thick dry suits, allows you to enjoy the scenery without shivering, although the suits can feel quite snug—so comfortable clothing underneath is recommended.

Post-snorkel Comfort: Hot Chocolate and Cookies

After emerging from the icy waters, a warm welcome with hot chocolate and cookies helps restore warmth and energy. The reviews consistently mention this as a lovely, comforting touch after the cold experience—simple but memorable. The guided nature of the tour means you’re well looked after, and the small group size lets everyone share their excitement.

Relaxing at Laugarvatn Fontana: Geothermal Bliss

Next, the journey takes you to Laugarvatn Fontana, a geothermal spa offering natural hot pools, saunas, and steam rooms. Here, you’re free to relax as long as you like. Many travelers appreciate the luxury of soaking in naturally hot water, especially after the chilly snorkel, and the chance to unwind in a sauna or steam room.

The pools overlook beautiful surroundings, providing a peaceful contrast to the underwater adventure. Some reviews highlight how this part of the tour is the perfect way to cap off the experience, with comments like “the hot springs after the cold dip was life-changing” and “the hot spring was incredibly beautiful.”

Flexibility and Self-Driving Freedom

The self-drive format is a highlight, giving you the freedom to explore on your own schedule. You’re provided with a mobile ticket and detailed instructions, making navigation straightforward. This flexibility also means you can linger at Laugarvatn or take additional photos without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes all snorkeling gear, dry suit and warm undersuit, a guided snorkeling experience with a PADI instructor, and entry to Silfra. You also get hot chocolate and cookies afterward, plus access to Laugarvatn Fontana’s pools. It’s a well-rounded package that emphasizes comfort and safety.

Not included are souvenir photos, which you can purchase separately. Some might wish for more food options or additional stops, but the focus here is on the core experience.

Cost and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $206 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering all included gear, guidance, and the unique experiences. Compared to the cost of individual activities, the combination of snorkeling and geothermal soaking in a small group makes it quite reasonable. The reviews consistently mention how guides like Sara, Quim, and Anna enhance the experience with their professionalism and friendliness.

Why Travelers Love It

Multiple reviewers praise the knowledge of the guides, who keep everyone safe and well-informed. The stunning underwater views and the luxury of warm pools are recurring highlights. The small-group setup ensures personalized attention, making the activity accessible and enjoyable.

Possible Downsides

The main consideration is the physical requirement—participants need to be comfortable swimming, and over 60s need a doctor’s approval. The dry suits can feel constrictive, which might be uncomfortable for some. Plus, it’s weather-dependent—poor weather could lead to cancellations or delays, though the company offers rescheduling or refunds.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous spirits comfortable in water and willing to wear a dry suit. It’s perfect for those seeking a distinctive Icelandic experience—a combination of geological wonder and relaxation. Families with older children (12+) will appreciate the manageable group size and guided approach.

It appeals most to travelers who value authentic, small-group experiences over large, impersonal tours—and who want a flexible schedule that they can customize with their own driving.

The Sum Up

This self-drive tour of Silfra and Laugarvatn Fontana offers an incredible way to explore Iceland’s contrasting natural elements. The blend of icy snorkeling through crystal waters and relaxing in warm geothermal pools makes for a memorable, well-rounded adventure. The attention to safety, the knowledgeable guides, and the comfort of the included gear add significant value.

While it requires a basic level of swimming comfort and some physical resilience, the experience is truly unique and worth the effort. The small-group setting fosters a personal, intimate atmosphere, ideal for travelers who appreciate genuine connections and personalized service.

If you’re after a mix of thrill and relaxation in a stunning setting, this tour strikes a great balance. It’s particularly perfect for those wanting a flexible, guided experience that respects your pace and curiosity—making it a highlight of any Iceland trip.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
You should be comfortable in water and able to swim, as snorkeling in Silfra requires basic swimming ability.

What if I’m over 60 years old?
Participants over 60 need a doctor’s approval signed to participate, due to safety considerations.

Can I participate if I don’t like cold water?
The dry suits keep you warm during snorkeling, but the water is cold. If you’re very sensitive to cold, be sure to wear thermal underwear and wool socks underneath.

How long do I spend at Laugarvatn Fontana?
You’re free to relax there as long as you like, making it your personal spa experience after the snorkeling.

What’s included in the tour?
All snorkeling gear, dry suit and undersuit, guided instructor, entrance to Silfra, hot chocolate and cookies, and access to Laugarvatn Fontana pools.

Is this experience weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather can lead to cancellations, but the company offers possible rescheduling or refunds.

How is the guide’s role in this tour?
Guides like Sara or Quim are praised for their safety checks, explanations, and friendly demeanor, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

This tour offers a remarkable glimpse into Iceland’s contrasting environments, blending adventure with relaxation. Perfect for curious travelers eager to tick off a bucket list experience while enjoying the flexibility of self-driving and small-group intimacy.