Exploring the stunning natural wonders of Iceland just got more adventurous. The Silfra: Leidarendi Lava Caving & Snorkeling Tour promises to take thrill-seekers on an unforgettable journey through crystal-clear waters and captivating underground landscapes. From snorkeling between tectonic plates to navigating basalt columns in a volcanic cave, this tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the country’s extraordinary geological features up close. With expert guidance and top-notch gear, participants can embark on an adventure that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- The tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Iceland’s lava fields both on foot and underwater through snorkeling in the Silfra fissure.
- Participants can venture into the 900-meter-long Leiðarendi cave to witness captivating geological formations created by ancient volcanic eruptions.
- No diving experience is required for the snorkeling activity, which takes place at the surface of the crystal-clear, freshwater Silfra fissure.
- High-quality thermal protection suits, snorkeling equipment, and safety gear are provided to ensure a comfortable and secure tour experience.
- Specific participant requirements, such as swimming ability, age, and weight/height range, must be met to ensure a safe and enjoyable tour.
Tour Highlights
This tour offers several captivating highlights.
Explore Iceland’s lava fields on foot and underwater, venturing into the 900-meter-long Leiðarendi cave to see its unique formations.
Then, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra fissure, a rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra fissure, a rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
No diving experience is required, as the snorkeling takes place at the surface.
Equipped with wetsuits, participants can immerse themselves freely in this 60-63-meter-deep freshwater wonder.
With an expert guide, adventurers will enjoy an unforgettable experience exploring Iceland’s volcanic landscapes above and below the surface.
Into underwater exploring? These other snorkeling spots in Reykjavik might work for you
Snorkeling in Silfra
Snorkeling in Silfra is the highlight of this tour. The freshwater fissure, 60-63 meters deep, boasts crystal-clear visibility, allowing you to see for hundreds of meters.
As you glide through the water, you’ll be mesmerized by:
-
The stunning aquamarine hues that seem to glow from within.
-
The unique geological formations of the rift, created by the drifting of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
-
The diverse array of fish and aquatic life that thrive in this pristine environment.
No diving experience is required – just a sense of adventure and the ability to swim comfortably at the surface.
Exploring Leiðarendi Cave
After exploring the crystal-clear waters of Silfra, guests venture into the remarkable Leiðarendi cave, a 900-meter-long lava tube with captivating geological formations.
Guided by knowledgeable experts, visitors witness the cave’s unique basalt columns, volcanic lava, and subterranean landscapes carved by ancient eruptions.
Knowledgeable experts guide visitors through the cave’s unique basalt columns, volcanic lava, and subterranean landscapes carved by ancient eruptions.
Navigating through narrow passageways, guests marvel at the cave’s ethereal beauty and learn about its geological history.
This underground adventure offers a complementary experience to the surface snorkeling, providing a comprehensive understanding of Iceland’s diverse volcanic terrain.
Gear and Equipment
Guests are provided with all the necessary equipment for both the snorkeling and caving activities. The gear includes:
-
High-quality thermal protection suits to ensure comfort in the cool Icelandic waters
-
Snorkeling masks, snorkels, and fins that allow for effortless movement and clear vision underwater
-
Sturdy helmets, headlamps, and knee/elbow pads to navigate the rugged lava cave terrain safely.
All equipment is meticulously maintained and sanitized between uses, prioritizing safety and hygiene.
The guide ensures a proper fit and provides thorough instructions on the proper use of the gear, allowing participants to fully enjoy the unique Silfra and Leiðarendi experiences.
More Great Tours NearbyTour Duration and Schedule
The Silfra: Leidarendi Lava Caving & Snorkeling Tour is a full-day excursion that immerses participants in the unique geological features of Iceland. The tour lasts 7 hours from start to finish, with ample time allocated for both the lava caving and snorkeling activities.
| Schedule | Time |
| — | — |
| Hotel Pickup | 8:00 AM |
| Leiðarendi Lava Cave Exploration | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM |
| Silfra Snorkeling | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM |
| Return to Reykjavík | 3:00 PM |
With a small group size limited to 6 participants, the tour ensures a personalized and intimate experience. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time explorer, this guided tour offers a memorable journey through Iceland’s extraordinary natural wonders.
Want to capture more memories? Check out these other photo experiences we've covered in Reykjavik
- Enchanted Northern Lights: Hot Chocolate & Photos – Small Group!
- #1 Northern Lights Tour in Iceland From Reykjavik With PRO Photos
- Northern Lights Minibus Tour With Hot Cocoa, Blankets & Photos
- Private Aurora Hunt With Photos in Super Defender
- Northern Lights Guided Tour With Professional Photos
- Glacier Hike W. Photos, South Coast Waterfalls & Black Sand Beach
Participant Requirements
To participate in the Silfra: Leidarendi Lava Caving & Snorkeling Tour, guests must meet certain requirements. This tour isn’t suitable for everyone.
Participants must:
-
Be able to swim and feel comfortable in water
-
Be between the ages of 12 and 120, with children under 18 accompanied by an adult
-
Fall within a specific weight range of 99-264 lbs (45-120 kg) and height range of 4’9" to 6’7" (150-200 cm)
Pregnant women, those with mobility issues, non-swimmers, and individuals exceeding the size limits aren’t permitted to join this adventure.
Meeting these criteria ensures guests can safely and comfortably experience the tour.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
According to the information provided, the Silfra: Leidarendi Lava Caving & Snorkeling Tour has an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 24 customer reviews.
Reviewers praise the expertise and personal experiences of the guides, creating a friendly atmosphere. They highlight the excellent safety measures and memorable experiences.
Common themes include the knowledgeable guides, impressive geological formations, and the crystal-clear waters of Silfra.
Customers who’ve participated in this adventure tour seem highly satisfied, offering positive feedback on the unique combination of lava caving and snorkeling in Iceland’s stunning natural landscapes.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Customers can book the Silfra: Leidarendi Lava Caving & Snorkeling Tour directly through the Adventure Vikings website or by contacting their customer service team.
Adventure Vikings offers direct booking for the Silfra: Leidarendi Lava Caving & Snorkeling Tour on their website or through their customer service.
The tour is available at a price of $283.51 per person and lasts 7 hours.
-
Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
-
Participants must meet specific weight, height, and age requirements.
-
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, non-swimmers, or individuals exceeding the size limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?
No, participants cannot bring their own snorkeling gear. The tour provider supplies all the necessary equipment, including wetsuits, for the snorkeling experience. This ensures the proper fit and safety of the gear for the activity.
Is the Water Temperature Suitable for Children?
The water temperature at Silfra is 2-4°C (36-39°F), which may be too cold for children. Adventure Vikings provides specialized wetsuits to keep participants warm, but the tour’s minimum age is 12 years old.
Are Photographs and Videos Allowed During the Tour?
The tour includes free snorkeling photos, so participants are allowed to take photos and videos during the snorkeling portion of the tour. However, photography may be restricted in the lava cave for safety reasons.
How Is the Terrain Difficulty Level for the Cave Exploration?
The terrain difficulty for the cave exploration is moderate. The tour includes a 900-meter-long lava tube with unique formations, but the activity is suitable for participants as long as they can walk comfortably and feel at ease in the water.
Can I Opt-Out of the Caving and Only Do the Snorkeling?
Yes, you can opt-out of the caving portion and only do the snorkeling. The tour offers the flexibility to participate in just the snorkeling activity if you prefer not to explore the lava cave.
The Sum Up
The Silfra: Leiðarendi Lava Caving & Snorkeling Tour offers an unparalleled adventure, immersing visitors in Iceland’s captivating underwater and subterranean landscapes. From snorkeling the crystal-clear Silfra fissure to exploring the enchanting Leiðarendi cave, this tour promises incredible photo opportunities and an unforgettable experience of the country’s extraordinary natural wonders. Whether a seasoned adventurer or a curious traveler, this tour caters to all, ensuring an unforgettable journey through Iceland’s breathtaking geological marvels.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Hiking & Trekking Tours in Reykjavik
- Reykjavik: Thrihnukagigur Volcano Guided Hiking Day Trip
- Reykjavik Combo: South Coast, Glacier Hike & Northern Lights
- Private Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon 2 Day Tour & Glacier Hike
- Hike to Mount Keilir
- 2-Day Ice Cave & South Coast: Glacier Hike and Glacier Lagoon
- Volcano Eruption Site Hike & Reykjanes Tour from Reykjavik
More Tour Reviews in Reykjavik
- The Glacial Gems Private Tour: South Coast & Diamond Beach
- Private South Coast & Jokulsarlon Tour in Multiple Languages
- Aurora Explorer 4×4 Northern Lights Adventure from Reykjavík
- Hveragerdi: The Siggi Horse Riding Tour
- The Silver Circle: Private Borgarfjörður Day Tour from Reyk.
- Magical Christmas Private Tour in Beautiful Reykjavik
Still browsing? Here are more Reykjavik experiences we've covered recently
- Reykjavik: Reykjanes Peninsula Private Tour with Blue Lagoon
- From Reykjavik: Snaefellsnes – Small Group, Lunch Included
- The Glacial Gems Private Tour: South Coast & Diamond Beach
- Private South Coast & Jokulsarlon Tour in Multiple Languages
- Aurora Explorer 4×4 Northern Lights Adventure from Reykjavík
- Hveragerdi: The Siggi Horse Riding Tour
- The Silver Circle: Private Borgarfjörður Day Tour from Reyk.
- Magical Christmas Private Tour in Beautiful Reykjavik
- Reykjavik: Beer and Booze Tour
- Reykjavik: Evening Lava Tunnel and Northern Lights Hunt
- Landmannalaugar & Hekla: colors, craters and hot springs
- Private Golden Circle Tour from Reykjavik Cruise Terminal