Silfra Fissure Snorkeling From Reykjavík – Free Underwater Photos

Snorkeling in Iceland? Yes, you read that right. The Silfra Fissure tour offers a chance to float between two tectonic plates—Europe and North America—at one of the world’s most extraordinary UNESCO-listed sites. It’s a unique experience that sounds almost surreal, and from the feedback we’ve seen, it pretty much lives up to the hype.

What really draws us in? First, the guides are highly trained—all certified PADI professionals who prioritize safety and personal attention. Second, the underwater photos are complimentary and capture those unforgettable moments beneath the surface. On the flip side, one thing to consider is the waiting time — the process of gearing up and preparing can take a while, especially in winter, and the group sizes are intentionally small, which can mean some patience is needed.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who are adventurous, comfortable in the cold, and seeking a truly one-of-a-kind experience. If you’re a confident swimmer and don’t mind a bit of preparation, it’ll likely be one of the most memorable parts of your Iceland trip.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: PADI-certified guides ensure safety and a personalized experience.
• Breathtaking Views: Float between two continents and marvel at the crystal-clear waters and rugged rocky fissures.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: Dry suits, snorkeling gear, and underwater photos are provided, making it accessible for most.
• Time Considerations: Expect a longer day with waiting and prep time, especially in winter.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 6 participants, this tour offers a more tailored, relaxed experience.
• Age & Fitness: Minimum age is 12; swimming ability is necessary and weight/height restrictions apply.

When we talk about Iceland, the first images that come to mind are often waterfalls, geysers, and glaciers. Snorkeling? Not so much. But the Silfra Fissure offers a swimming experience unlike anything else—floating in pristine, icy waters that carve through the Earth’s crust, providing a literal chance to swim between two tectonic plates. It’s such a genuinely remarkable setting that many describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting from Reykjavik, the tour includes hotel pickup in a comfortable minivan. The journey out to Thingvellir National Park takes around 45 minutes to an hour, giving you time to settle in and soak up the scenery. This UNESCO World Heritage site is not just pretty—it’s vital geologically. Your guide will introduce you to the mysteries of the Silfra fissure, explaining how the rift formed and how the plates are gradually drifting apart.

The Drive and Introduction

We’ve seen reviews praising guides like Nick and Francesca, who are described as friendly, professional, and very helpful. They take the time to explain what you’re about to see and do, which is especially helpful if it’s your first time snorkeling in such cold, clear waters. The minibus ride offers scenic views and helps build anticipation for what’s ahead.

Gear Up and Safety Briefing

Once you arrive, the real prep begins. You’ll be fitted with a dry suit, snorkel, mask, and fins. The dry suits are designed to keep you warm despite the icy waters—most travelers find them quite effective, with recent reviews mentioning how “not as cold as expected.” However, some participants noted that fitting into the suits can be tricky, especially for those on the shorter or smaller side, given the size restrictions and the bulkiness of the equipment.

The safety briefing is comprehensive, emphasizing how to move, breathe, and stay safe during your underwater adventure. Guides like Marcin and Linn are praised for their professionalism and passion, which helps ease nerves, especially for first-timers.

The Snorkeling Itself

Here’s where the magic happens—you’ll descend into the crystalline depths of Silfra, gazing at jagged rocks and gaping voids that lead to the planet’s molten core. Floating effortlessly, some reviewers describe the experience as “incredible,” “magical,” and “breathtaking.” The water stays at a comfortable 2-3°C (36°F), but thanks to the dry suit, many say it feels surprisingly warm.

Most participants are in the water for about 20-30 minutes, and the underwater visibility is often described as spectacular—some say they could see up to 100 meters deep. The scenery beneath the surface is mesmerizing, with clear blue waters contrasting against dark fissures and rocky formations.

The Small Group Advantage

With only 6 people per guide, this tour offers a more personalized experience. Guides like Bar and Marjean’s guide are noted for their kindness and attentiveness, making nervous swimmers feel comfortable and secure. This small-group setup also means more individual attention, which is a big plus when dealing with equipment and safety concerns.

Photos and Warm-up

A highlight for many is the free underwater photos taken during the tour. These shots are a great keepsake, capturing the moment between two continents. After exiting the water, the tour concludes with hot chocolate and cookies, a perfect way to warm up and reflect on the experience.

The Logistics: How the Day Shapes Up

The entire experience spans about 5.5 hours, including transportation, gear-up, the snorkeling itself, and a bit of downtime. Reviews consistently mention that waiting time—for gear, safety briefings, and dressing—is the main part that can feel a bit long, especially in winter when the weather is colder and the wind can be fierce.

Participants have expressed that the longer time commitment is worth it, but it’s something to keep in mind if you prefer shorter excursions or are prone to impatience.

Value for Money

Pricing sits at around $220 per person. For what’s included—hotel pickup and drop-off, expert guides, all necessary gear and dry suits, underwater photos, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience—most reviews agree it offers good value. Several mention that they appreciated the high level of organization and safety, which makes the cost feel justified.

However, some reviewers pointed out that waiting around could be improved, and a few felt that the photo quality could be better. Still, these are minor complaints in an overall positive picture.

Who’s This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who are comfortable in cold environments and physically capable of swimming and handling gear. If you’re a confident swimmer and eager to see something truly unique, you’ll likely love it. It’s less suitable for pregnant women or anyone with medical issues that prevent exposure to cold water, as safety and comfort are priorities.

While families with teenagers aged 12 and above might enjoy it, younger children may find the cold or gear handling challenging. The tour’s small group size and detailed safety instructions also make it better suited for those who appreciate personalized attention.

Final Thoughts

The Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour from Reykjavík offers an experience that’s as visually stunning as it is scientifically fascinating. Floating between two continents in crystal-clear waters at a UNESCO site is something you’ll remember long after the photos fade. The guides are knowledgeable and caring, and the included underwater photos provide a lovely souvenir of your adventure.

If you’re prepared for some waiting and dressing in bulky gear, and if you love the idea of standing between two tectonic plates in icy but surprisingly warm water, this trip is well worth considering. It’s a perfect choice for those craving a combination of natural beauty, adventure, and a good story to tell.

FAQ

Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes, swimming ability is required to participate in this tour. The experience involves being in the water for about 20-30 minutes, and you should feel comfortable swimming.

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

Are the dry suits effective at keeping me warm?
Most travelers find that the dry suits work well, with reviews mentioning they felt “not as cold as expected.” Nonetheless, layering with warm clothing underneath is recommended.

Is the tour suitable in winter?
Yes, many reviews highlight winter snorkeling as a worthwhile experience, especially since the dry suits help maintain warmth. Just be prepared for potentially longer wait times and colder outdoor temperatures during gear-up.

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

How long does the entire experience take?
Expect about 5.5 hours from pickup to drop-off, including transportation, gear-up, safety briefing, snorkeling, and warming up afterward.

Can I get underwater photos?
Yes, complimentary underwater photos are included, and many reviewers cherish these images as a highlight.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothing, warm undergarments, and possibly a packed lunch. A towel is recommended if you get wet or soak in the dry suit.

If you’re after an adventure that combines geology, stunning scenery, and a bit of adrenaline, the Silfra Fissure snorkeling tour is a fantastic choice. Just go prepared, keep an open mind, and you’ll come away with stories you’ll be telling for years.