From Reykjavik: Silfra Snorkeling With Underwater Photos

Exploring the Silfra Fissure in Iceland is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Situated between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers remarkable snorkeling and stunning underwater photography. Departing from Reykjavik, adventurers can glide through crystal-clear glacial waters, capturing the unique geology and vibrant blue hues. With expert guidance, you will discover the thrill of straddling two continents in this breathtaking natural wonder. To ensure an unforgettable experience, it’s essential to understand the requirements and prepare accordingly.

Key Points

• Silfra Fissure is located in Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where visitors can snorkel between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
• The crystal-clear glacial waters of Silfra provide exceptional water clarity, often exceeding 100 meters, making it a popular destination for underwater photography.
• Snorkeling between the drifting tectonic plates offers a unique geological experience and the opportunity to capture stunning underwater moments.
• Roundtrip transportation from Reykjavik to the Silfra fissure is provided, with specific pickup times varying by season.
• Participants must meet certain weight, height, and age requirements, and be able to swim and communicate in English to take part in the Silfra snorkeling adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Silfra Fissure

Situated within the UNESCO World Heritage site of Thingvellir National Park, the Silfra fissure is a breathtaking natural wonder where visitors can snorkel between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.

This underwater canyon is renowned for its exceptional water clarity, consistently over 100 meters. Snorkelers are immersed in a surreal aquatic world, with crystal-clear glacial waters flowing between the slowly drifting continental plates.

The fissure’s unique geology and rich ecosystem make it a popular destination for adventurous travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.

Snorkeling Silfra offers a chance to witness this remarkable geological feature firsthand.

Snorkel Between Tectonic Plates

What makes the Silfra fissure such a unique snorkeling destination?

Located within Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park, the Silfra fissure is the only place on Earth where you can snorkel between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Separated by just a few meters, these two continental plates are slowly drifting apart at a rate of 2 cm per year.

The crystal-clear glacial waters provide exceptional visibility, often exceeding 100 meters. Snorkelers can enjoy this remarkable landscape, surrounded by the otherworldly geological formations and vibrant aquatic life.

The crystal-clear glacial waters offer exceptional visibility, allowing snorkelers to enjoy the remarkable, otherworldly landscape and vibrant aquatic life.

It’s a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Capturing Stunning Underwater Moments

Along With the unparalleled geological wonder of the Silfra fissure, this snorkeling experience offers a unique opportunity for capturing stunning underwater photography.

The crystal-clear visibility, vibrant hues, and otherworldly landscape make for breathtaking photos and videos. Guests can:

• Capture the dramatic contrast between the vivid blue water and rugged gray rock formations

• Document their adventure straddling the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates

• Freeze frame moments of pure tranquility and serenity beneath the surface

With expert photographic guidance from the tour’s knowledgeable guides, even novice photographers can create professional-quality images to commemorate their Silfra snorkeling journey.

Preparing for the Silfra Adventure

Although the Silfra snorkeling experience offers breathtaking scenery, it’s crucial for participants to adequately prepare for the adventure.

Guests must ensure they meet the weight, height, and age requirements. They’ll receive cold-weather gear, but should also bring warm, thermal base layers. Proper hydration and light snacks are recommended.

Participants must be able to swim and communicate in English. The activity isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or heart problems.

With careful preparation, guests can fully enjoy the unique opportunity to snorkel between the American and European continental plates in Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park.

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Transportation and Pickup Details

The tour operator provides roundtrip transportation from Reykjavik to the Silfra fissure in Thingvellir National Park.

Pickup times vary by season:

• Summer tours depart at 9:00 AM, with pickups between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM.

• Winter tours offer two departure times – 9:30 AM and 12:30 PM, with pickups between 8:00 AM and 8:30 AM, and 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM, respectively.

Look for a minivan with the provider’s logo to identify your transportation.

The journey takes approximately 90 minutes, allowing ample time to reach the stunning Silfra fissure for your snorkeling adventure.

Participant Requirements and Restrictions

To participate in the Silfra snorkeling experience, individuals must be able to swim and communicate in English. The activity has some age, weight, and height restrictions to ensure safety and comfort. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and the age limit is 12 years and up. Participants must weigh between 50 kg (99 lbs) and 120 kg (264 lbs) and be between 150 cm (4’9) and 200 cm (6’7) in height. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility impairments, heart problems, wheelchair users, or those outside the weight and height limits.

| Requirements | Limits |

| — | — |

| Age | Minimum 12 years |

| Weight | 50 kg (99 lbs) – 120 kg (264 lbs) |

| Height | 150 cm (4’9) – 200 cm (6’7) |

| Mobility | Not suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users |

| Health | Not suitable for those with heart problems |

Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Silfra fissure in Thingvellir National Park offers a unique and breathtaking snorkeling experience.

Snorkelers float between the tectonic plates of North America and Europe, marveling at the crystal-clear visibility that can exceed 100 meters.

Snorkelers drift between the tectonic plates of two continents, marveling at the astounding clarity that extends beyond 100 meters.

The Silfra fissure is often referred to as the "real Blue Lagoon" due to its stunning blue-green hues.

Highlights of the experience include:

• Drifting through the rift valley between two continents

• Witnessing the serene, otherworldly underwater landscapes

• Capturing awe-inspiring photos and videos to remember the adventure

Positive Guest Experiences and Reviews

Guests have consistently praised the Silfra snorkeling experience, with an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 481 reviews.

Guides are lauded for their friendliness and expertise, helping participants feel comfortable even in challenging weather. The stunning underwater scenery, with visibility over 100 meters, leaves a lasting impression.

Guests appreciate the inclusion of hot chocolate after the chilly dip between the continental plates.

Though the activity has some restrictions, those who meet the requirements rave about the unique opportunity to snorkel in the "real blue lagoon" of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

No, participants can’t bring their own snorkeling gear. The tour provider includes high-quality snorkeling equipment, and using their gear is required for safety and to ensure a seamless experience.

Is There a Minimum Swimming Ability Required?

Yes, participants must be able to swim to join the Silfra snorkeling tour. The activity isn’t suitable for non-swimmers or those with mobility impairments. Basic swimming skills are required to safely navigate the fissure and enjoy the experience.

Can I Opt for a Shorter or Longer Tour Duration?

The tour duration is fixed at 4.5 hours and can’t be shortened or extended. The provider offers only one tour option, so participants must commit to the full experience duration.

Are Photos/Videos Taken by the Guide Included?

Yes, expert photos taken by the guide during the snorkeling tour are included in the tour package. Participants receive these photos as part of the tour experience.

Can I Request a Private or Smaller Group Tour?

Yes, participants can request a private or smaller group tour. The activity is limited to 6 participants, so smaller groups can be arranged subject to availability and additional fees.

The Sum Up

Snorkeling the Silfra Fissure offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the divide between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. With exceptional visibility and stunning underwater scenery, this UNESCO World Heritage site promises an unforgettable experience. Proper preparation and meeting participant requirements are essential for an adventure you’ll cherish for years to come.

You can check availability for your dates here: