Imagine gliding through crystal-clear waters, sandwiched between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. This is the Silfra Fissure – a once-in-a-lifetime snorkeling adventure in Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park. Guided by certified instructors, you’ll explore the underwater canyon’s vibrant aquamarine hues and mesmerizing geological formations, gaining a unique insight into the Earth’s dynamic forces. But to truly understand the breathtaking allure of this natural wonder, you’ll need to experience it for yourself.

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Key Points

Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park, Iceland, offers a unique opportunity to snorkel between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.
Snorkelers can observe the visible divide created by the gradual movement of the plates, which drift at a rate of 2 cm/year.
The snorkeling experience is characterized by crystal-clear glacial water and vibrant aquamarine hues, providing a serene environment for observing geological wonders.
Safety is a top priority, with all necessary equipment provided and expert guidance from certified PADI instructors.
Booking is flexible, with easy reservations, free cancellation, and specific height, weight, and medical requirements to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Silfra Fissure

The Silfra Fissure, located within Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique opportunity to snorkel between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

This underwater crevice is filled with crystal-clear glacial water, providing exceptional visibility for snorkelers. Floating in the fissure, adventurers can marvel at the striking blue hues and the dramatic geological features, such as the Big Crack and Silfra Hall.

Snorkeling through the divide between two continental plates is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, allowing participants to witness the slow drift of the Earth’s surface in real-time.

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Explore the Tectonic Divide

Floating between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, snorkelers in the Silfra Fissure can witness the slow drift of Earth’s surface in real-time. This geologic marvel offers a unique opportunity to observe the distinct plates as they gradually move apart, creating a visible divide. Snorkelers glide through the crystal-clear glacial water, marveling at the Big Crack and Silfra Hall, where the separation between the plates is most pronounced. This snorkeling adventure provides an unparalleled perspective on the dynamic forces that shape our planet’s surface.

| Tectonic Plate | Movement Rate |

|—————-|—————|

| Eurasian | 2 cm/year |

| North American | 2 cm/year |

| Direction of Drift | Magnitude | Timeframe |

|——————-|———–|———–|

| Westward | 2 cm | 1 year |

| Northward | 1 cm | 1 year |

Snorkeling in the Crystal-Clear Waters

As visitors don snorkeling gear and enter the crystal-clear glacial waters of the Silfra Fissure, they’re greeted by a truly breathtaking sight.

The fissure, formed by the gradual drifting apart of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, offers an otherworldly underwater landscape.

Snorkelers float effortlessly, gazing at the vibrant aquamarine hues and mesmerizing rock formations.

Snorkelers float effortlessly, gazing at the vibrant aquamarine hues and mesmerizing rock formations.

The calm, serene environment provides a unique opportunity to observe the geological wonder up close.

With expert guidance, snorkelers learn about the fissure’s history and ecosystem, seeing a one-of-a-kind adventure between two continental plates.

Safety and Equipment Considerations

While safety is paramount, participants can rest assured that the tour operators prioritize it throughout the experience.

The certified PADI dive instructors provide a thorough safety briefing, ensuring everyone understands the proper snorkeling techniques and emergency procedures. All necessary equipment, including a drysuit, is provided and inspected for proper fit.

Plus, the group size is limited to six to maintain a safe and personalized experience. Participants must meet specific height, weight, and medical requirements to participate.

With these measures in place, adventurers can confidently explore the otherworldly beauty of the Silfra fissure.

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Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a number of essential provisions to ensure a comfortable and worry-free experience for participants.

Snorkelers will be equipped with a certified PADI dive instructor, high-quality snorkeling gear, and a drysuit to keep them warm. Plus, a heated van is provided for changing clothes, and hot chocolate and cookies are served after the snorkeling adventure.

The tour also covers the entrance fee to Silfra (ISK 1,500).

However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or individuals outside of specific height and weight ranges.

Participant Requirements and Restrictions

All participants must read and sign a medical statement before joining the Silfra snorkeling tour.

The tour is suitable for ages 12 and up, though participants over 60 need physician approval. Guests must weigh between 99 and 264 lbs and be between 3’9" and 6’6" tall.

Contact lenses are recommended for glasses wearers. Alcohol and drugs are prohibited.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those outside the height and weight limits. Proper warm clothing and thick socks are essential.

With these requirements met, adventurers can safely explore the stunning Silfra fissure.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Customers can reserve their spot on the Silfra snorkeling tour and pay nothing today. The booking process is easy and flexible:

Reserve now and pay later – simply book your place and you won’t be charged until the day of the tour.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund – no penalties for last-minute changes.
Optional hotel pickup is available, but you’ll need to be at the pickup location 30 minutes before departure.

Streamlined booking and cancellation policies make it simple to secure your spot on this unique tour between tectonic plates.

Highlights of the Snorkeling Experience

During the guided snorkeling experience, participants float effortlessly between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, marveling at the breathtaking views of the Silfra fissure and Silfra Hall.

As they drift peacefully through the crystal-clear glacial water, they’ll witness the natural wonder of the "Big Crack" – a dramatic crevice that reveals the division between the two continental plates.

After the snorkeling, participants can warm up with hot chocolate and cookies, reflecting on the unique opportunity to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site and experience the thrill of swimming between two of the earth’s tectonic boundaries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Snorkeling Suitable for Non-Swimmers?

The snorkeling tour is not suitable for non-swimmers. All participants must be able to swim, as the tour involves floating between tectonic plates in the Silfra fissure. Strict safety requirements ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for those with the necessary swimming skills.

Can We Take Underwater Photos/Videos During the Tour?

Participants can take underwater photos and videos during the guided snorkeling portion of the tour. The tour provides snorkeling gear, including a waterproof camera case, allowing guests to capture the unique experience between the tectonic plates.

Is There an Option to Extend the Snorkeling Duration?

The tour offers a standard 45-minute snorkeling session. While there’s no option to extend the duration, participants can enjoy additional free time after the guided tour to take in the stunning scenery and views.

Are Lockers Available for Personal Belongings?

The tour provides lockers for participants to store their personal belongings during the snorkeling activity. Guests can securely store their items while they enjoy the unique experience of floating between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

Can I Wear My Own Wetsuit Instead of the Provided Drysuit?

No, participants cannot wear their own wetsuit. The tour provider requires all participants to use the provided drysuit to ensure proper insulation and buoyancy in the cold Silfra waters.

The Sum Up

Snorkeling the Silfra Fissure is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the incredible geological forces that shape our planet. Glide between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, immersed in crystal-clear waters and surrounded by vibrant aquamarine hues. This safe, guided tour provides all necessary equipment, ensuring an unforgettable exploration of Earth’s dramatic landscapes.