Silfra Wetsuit Snorkeling – Meet on location | Free Photos

If you’re eyeing Iceland’s natural attractions, snorkeling in the Silfra fissure might not be the first thing that springs to mind. Yet, this underwater adventure consistently earns glowing reviews, and for good reason. We’ve looked into what makes this experience so popular and whether it’s worth the $152 you’ll spend.

Two things stand out for us: first, the unmatched clarity of the water—sometimes over 100 meters visibility—and second, the knowledgeable guides who make you feel safe and well-informed. On the flip side, a significant consideration is that the experience requires wearing a snug wetsuit or drysuit, which can be uncomfortable for some, especially if you’re not used to tight gear.

Still, if you’re comfortable in water and eager to see one of Iceland’s most extraordinary natural features, this trip is a solid pick. It’s especially suited for adventure seekers who want a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines stunning scenery with a touch of thrill.

Key Points

• Unbeatable visibility: Water clarity often exceeds 100 meters, making for a mesmerizing underwater view.
• Expert guidance: PADI-certified guides help ensure safety and share detailed info about Silfra’s geology.
• All gear provided: Wetsuits or drysuits and photos are included, so you don’t need to bring much besides a swimsuit and towel.
• Limited group size: Small groups of six maximize personal attention and reduce crowding.
• Experience suited for swimmers: Participants should know how to swim comfortably and be able to communicate in English.
• Weather dependent: The tour is weather-sensitive; poor conditions may lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

What the Tour Looks Like Step by Step

Meeting Up and Preparing

Once you arrive at the designated meeting point at Silfra (the Viking7V4M+HG8 address in Thingvellir), you’ll be greeted by your guide—likely a PADI-certified expert. This initial meet-and-greet is about sharing what you can expect and ensuring everyone is comfortable with the process. The group size maxes out at six, which means personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

You’ll then get fitted with all your gear—snorkeling equipment, wetsuit or drysuit, and thermal socks to keep your feet warm. Many reviewers highlight the importance of thick socks, as feet tend to get cold quickly. After this, safety briefings are brief but thorough, emphasizing how to navigate the water and what to do if you need assistance.

Entering the Water: What to Expect

Once suited up, you’ll wade into Silfra’s famously icy but crystal-clear waters. The water’s clarity is largely due to meltwater from nearby glaciers filtering underground for about 50 km before reaching the fissure. This underground journey results in visibility that can make you feel like you’re floating in a giant aquarium.

During the roughly 30-40 minutes in the water, you’ll see down to astonishing depths—often 42 meters—making it feel like floating in space. You might feel a bit cold initially, but the dry suit or wetsuit, plus thermal socks, do a good job of insulating you. Several reviews mention that the dry suits keep you dry up to 95%, and that the experience isn’t as cold as you might think.

Your guide will take photos throughout—typically 40-100 shots—and doesn’t charge extra for this service. Many reviewers mention how these photos help encapsulate the trip, and you get to download them after a few days, which turns out to be a lovely bonus.

Post-snorkel Warm-up and Reflection

After your snorkel, you’ll return to the meeting point and be treated to a well-earned hot chocolate. It’s a relaxing way to warm up and reflect on the experience, especially after being in chilly water. The combination of stunning visuals underwater and a warm drink makes for a satisfying finish.

Dive Into the Details: Why This Tour Works

The Unparalleled Beauty of Silfra

The main selling point of this tour is easily the extraordinary water clarity. With visibility often beyond 100 meters, you’ll be able to see the underwater landscape in astonishing detail. The water’s purity stems from the meltwater from glaciers melting and traveling underground, filling the fissure slowly over time.

One reviewer likened snorkeling here to “seeing down 42 meters” and called it “wonderful” to watch friends float around in the water. The experience of floating between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates adds a geological marvel to the visual spectacle.

Expert Guides and Safety

Your guides aren’t just there to help you with gear—they’re trained professionals who know the area inside out. Multiple reviews praise their helpfulness, knowledge, and friendly demeanor, which makes even nervous first-timers feel at ease. One reviewer mentions, “Jane made it worth it!” highlighting how a calm, reassuring guide can change an experience from intimidating to incredible.

Equipment and Comfort

All necessary equipment is included, and the choice between wetsuit and drysuit caters to comfort preferences and weather conditions. The drysuits are highly recommended—many reviews state they keep you dry and comfortable, making the cold waters more manageable.

While the drysuit can feel tight and sometimes uncomfortable around the neck and wrists, many agree it’s worth the trade-off for warmth and dryness. One tip from experienced snorkelers: bring thick socks to keep your toes warm, as feet are often the first to get cold.

Small Groups for a Personal Touch

Limiting groups to just six participants means everyone gets tailored attention. With fewer people, you don’t feel rushed or crowded, which enhances the overall enjoyment. This small-group setup is a big plus for those who prefer a more intimate experience.

Photos and Memories

The inclusive nature of photo-taking is a big deal for many. Instead of paying extra, you’ll receive a generous collection of photos taken during the tour. It’s lovely to have these visual memories—many reviewers use words like “wonderful” and “amazing” to describe their photos.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This snorkeling tour is a natural fit for water lovers, adventure junkies, and anyone curious about Iceland’s geological quirks. You’ll enjoy it most if you’re comfortable swimming and don’t mind wearing tight gear. It’s not ideal for those who have trouble in water or dislike cold environments, but the dry suits do a good job of insulating.

While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the minimum age is 12, making it accessible for older kids who can handle the cold and noise of water. People over 65 should check with the company, as a medical approval might be needed.

If you’re looking for a unique, visually stunning experience that combines nature, geology, and adventure, this snorkel in Silfra is worth considering.

Practicalities and Value

Duration and Timing

The whole activity lasts around 3 hours, including briefing, gear-up, snorkeling, and warming up. The timing is well-paced, giving plenty of time to enjoy the water without feeling rushed.

Cost and What You Get

At $152 per person, the tour is fairly priced given what’s included—gear, photos, expert guidance, and hot chocolate. The high praise from reviews about the value for money is backed up by the quality of the experience, the professionalism of guides, and the unique access to one of Iceland’s most extraordinary sights.

Booking in Advance

Most travelers plan about a month in advance, highlighting the tour’s popularity. It’s best to book early, especially if you have specific dates in mind.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, which offers some flexibility if weather turns bad or plans change.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Silfra snorkeling tour offers an exceptional blend of stunning scenery, expert guidance, and memorable photos—making it a solid choice for travelers looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure. While the gear might feel tight and the water cold, many find that the incredible clarity and surreal landscape make the discomfort worthwhile.

If you’re someone who enjoys a bit of water-based exploration, appreciates geological marvels, and wants a memorable story to tell, this tour could be a highlight of your Iceland trip. It’s best suited for active, water-confident travelers who are ready to suit up and embrace the cold, knowing they’ll be rewarded with unforgettable sights.

Those with specific health concerns or difficulty swimming should reach out to the activity provider for guidance. But for most, this snorkel promises a fascinating glimpse into the natural wonders that make Iceland so special.

FAQs

Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes, all participants should know how to swim and be comfortable in water, as that’s a requirement for this snorkeling experience.

What should I bring?
Bring a swimsuit, towel, and warm clothes for afterward. You might also want to wear thick socks to keep your feet warm, especially if choosing the wetsuit option. No glasses—contact lenses or a prescription mask are recommended.

Is this suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12, so it’s mainly for teenagers and adults. Over 65s should get medical approval beforehand.

Will I be cold?
Many say the dry suits or wetsuits keep you comfortable, and the water isn’t as cold as it looks thanks to the gear. Still, dress warmly for the start and end of the tour.

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

How long is the snorkeling part?
Expect around 30-40 minutes in the water, which is enough to marvel at the visibility and the underwater landscape.

Are photos included?
Yes, the guides take 40-100 photos free of charge, downloadable after a few days.

Can I choose between wetsuit and drysuit?
Yes, your guides recommend the drysuit for more comfort, especially in colder water.

How far in advance should I book?
Most people book about 38 days ahead, so plan early if you want to secure your spot.

What makes Silfra special?
The incredible water clarity, the chance to see between two tectonic plates, and the scenic setting of Thingvellir National Park make it a truly unique experience.

If you’re after a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime activity that combines natural beauty with a good dose of adventure, this snorkeling tour at Silfra is definitely worth considering. Just remember to dress warmly, listen carefully to your guides, and enjoy the surreal underwater world Iceland has to offer.