Snorkel the Silfra Fissure-Meet on Location (Free Photos & Cocoa)

Traveling to Iceland and craving a truly unique adventure? The Snorkel the Silfra Fissure tour offers an extraordinary opportunity to swim between two continents while exploring one of the country’s most iconic natural wonders. This small-group experience, led by certified guides, promises crystal-clear waters, stunning landscapes, and memories that will last a lifetime—at a reasonable price around $145.

We love how this tour combines adventure with comfort—dry suits keep you warm, and the personalized attention from guides ensures safety and fun. The convenience of multiple daily departures makes it flexible for different schedules, and the inclusion of photos and hot cocoa adds a nice touch.

One consideration is that transportation to the site isn’t included, so travelers need to arrange their own way there. This experience is perfect for those who are comfortable swimming and want a guided, safe, yet exhilarating experience. It appeals most to adventurous travelers, nature lovers, and anyone curious about Earth’s geological marvels.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and safety.
• All necessary equipment including dry suits and snorkeling gear is provided.
• Swim between tectonic plates in a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a once-in-a-lifetime view.
• Multiple daily departures allow flexibility to suit your schedule.
• Photos and hot chocolate are included, making the experience more memorable.
• Transportation is not included, so plan accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Silfra Fissure Snorkeling Tour

The Setting: Why Silfra is a Must-See

The Silfra Fissure is an extraordinary crack in the earth’s crust located within Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly drifting apart, creating an 82-foot deep ravine filled with incredibly clear, icy water. The visibility here can reach over 100 feet, making it one of the clearest waters you’ll ever snorkel in.

Travelers who have been on the tour often mention how surreal it is to float between two continents, feeling the massive geological forces at play beneath you. Watching the bottom of the fissure stretch out beneath your fins, with the plates slowly diverging on either side, is a kind of visual spectacle that’s hard to find anywhere else.

What to Expect on the Tour

Once you arrive at Thingvellir National Park, you’ll check in at the information office, where your guide will prepare you for the adventure. The small group size—limited to 10 or 12 people—means you’ll receive attentive, personalized guidance, which is especially appreciated in potentially chilly waters.

Before jumping in, you’ll receive a thorough safety briefing and be fitted with all the necessary gear, including a dry suit designed to keep you warm in the cold water, along with a snorkel, goggles, fins, hood, and shoes. The gear quality, as some reviews suggest, can vary, but guides typically assist in getting everyone suited up comfortably.

Once suited up, you’ll wade into the water, feeling the thrill of being in a natural wonder. The water is cold but manageable thanks to the dry suits, and many reviewers mention that it’s surprisingly comfortable. One reviewer noted, “The water wasn’t even very cold with the dry suits on,” which speaks to the effectiveness of the equipment.

The Experience: Floating Between Continents

As you begin snorkeling, you’ll gaze into the water to see the bottom of the fissure, about 24 meters down, and marvel at the crystal-clear visibility. Guides often point out the geological features and explain how the plates are gradually pulling apart—a slow but powerful reminder of Earth’s geological activity.

Multiple reviewers highlight how calm and encouraging guides like Christian, Dimitri, and Nebo make the experience accessible, especially for first-timers. You’ll receive a safety briefing before the dip, and guides are available to assist if you panic or feel uncomfortable.

The Underwater Wonderland

The underwater scenery is hauntingly beautiful—vivid turquoise waters, rugged rock formations, and a sense of floating in a natural aquarium. Many travelers mention how the current gently pushes you along, making it feel like you’re weightless while you take in the sights.

One reviewer, Linda, described a guide named Dimitri as “calm and helpful when I panicked,” which reassures that safety and comfort are priorities. The water’s clarity means you can often see all the way to the bottom, with some lucky snorkelers noting the plates seem close enough to touch.

The Small Group Advantage

The small group size means more time with your guide, personalized tips, and a chance to ask questions. This is noteworthy because some reviews mention that larger groups could feel rushed or less attentive. Guides are well-trained, friendly, and often share interesting facts about the area’s geology and history.

Additional Perks: Photos and Hot Cocoa

A highlight for many is the inclusion of underwater photos—these are available for a small fee and provide a fantastic way to relive your experience. Many reviewers rave about how good the photos turned out, capturing the moment’s magic.

After the snorkel, you’re treated to hot chocolate and cookies, a cozy way to warm up after your chilly underwater adventure. This thoughtful addition helps make the experience complete and social.

Practical Details: Pricing, Duration, and Logistics

For around $145 per person, this tour offers significant value given the uniqueness of the activity. The 3-hour duration includes check-in, gear fitting, the actual snorkeling, and warm-up time, making it a well-paced experience without feeling rushed.

Transportation to the site isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to Thingvellir National Park. This might be an inconvenience for some, especially since some reviews mention the distance from Reykjavik—about an hour and a half drive. It’s worth planning ahead to ensure you arrive on time.

What the Reviews Say

Most reviews are glowing, with a 4.5-star average out of over 300 reviews. Many praise the knowledgeable guides like Christian, Nebo, and Ivo, who make the experience fun and safe. The visual spectacle of floating between two continents is repeatedly lauded as a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity.

However, there are some less positive comments. Some mention tired, worn-out gear, which could affect comfort but usually doesn’t detract from the overall experience. Others highlight logistical issues like late arrivals or miscommunication about the booking—so punctuality and confirming your details are crucial.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This snorkeling adventure is best suited for adventurous travelers who can swim comfortably. The fact that participants under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult and that a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended means it’s not for everyone.

If you enjoy geological wonders, outdoor activities, and guided experiences, this is a fantastic choice. The small group size and inclusion of photos make it especially appealing for families, couples, or groups of friends wanting a personalized experience.

Final Thoughts

The Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour offers a rare blend of natural beauty, geological marvel, and guided safety. It’s a great way to tick off a bucket-list item that combines adventure with education. You’ll love the crystal-clear waters, friendly guides, and the thrill of floating between two continents.

While transportation logistics and some gear quality issues are worth considering, the overall value and uniqueness of this experience outweigh these minor inconveniences. It’s an activity that will leave you with unforgettable stories and photos to cherish.

This tour is ideal for those seeking an exciting yet manageable outdoor adventure, especially if you’re comfortable swimming and eager to see one of Iceland’s most extraordinary landscapes up close.

FAQs

Is prior swimming experience necessary?
You need to be able to swim to participate, but guides will provide safety instructions. If you’re comfortable swimming and following directions, you’ll be fine.

Are dry suits provided?
Yes, all necessary snorkeling gear, including dry suits, hoods, shoes, and fins, are included to keep you warm in the cold water.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, which allows for personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.

Can I purchase photos of my snorkel adventure?
Yes, underwater photos are available for a small fee, allowing you to capture this special moment.

What should I bring?
Warm base layers (fleece or wool, not cotton), wool socks, a towel, and an extra set of clothes are recommended. Guides will assist in gear fitting.

Is transportation to Thingvellir included?
No, you are responsible for your own transport to the meeting point at Arctic Adventures in Thingvellir National Park.

What is the minimum age for participants?
The minimum age is 12 years old. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, but if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This snorkeling tour manages to balance adventure, safety, and authenticity—making it a fantastic choice for those craving a genuine Icelandic experience. Prepare to be amazed by the clear waters, guided by knowledgeable professionals, and surrounded by one of Earth’s most remarkable landscapes.