Snorkeling Tours
Float Through Crystal-Clear Waters Between Continents
Snorkeling in Iceland is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that takes you beyond the ordinary. At Silfra fissure, located in Thingvellir National Park, you’ll swim between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in water so clear that it feels like floating through air! With visibility exceeding 100 meters (328 feet), Silfra has unmatched underwater sights. The vibrant blue hues and striking rock formations create an underwater experience unlike anything else on Earth.
We’ve selected the top guided tours led by PADI-certified divemasters to ensure a safe and seamless experience. Your tour experts will also share this unique location's fascinating geology and history. Equipped with high-quality gear, you’ll stay dry and comfortable while exploring one of the most extraordinary snorkeling spots in the world.
Ready to glide between continents in the clearest water on Earth? Choose your Silfra tour!
Feeling inspired?
of 04
Let's Talk Adventure
Questions, ideas, or just a need for adventure inspiration? We’ve got you covered. Let’s chat and get you on your way to something incredible.
Find out what to expect and how to prepare for snorkeling in Silfra.
Why Snorkel in Iceland?
Snorkeling in Iceland is unlike anywhere else in the world. Instead of the usual tropical reefs, you’ll explore the crystal-clear waters of Silfra, a stunning fissure in Thingvellir National Park. Unlike diving, snorkeling in Iceland doesn’t require a license, but having a guide is mandatory for your safety. All you need is to book a tour with one of our trusted partners and prepare for your Silfra snorkeling adventure!
Formed in 1789 after an earthquake, Silfra cuts into a spring fed by the Langjökull glacier. The meltwater takes 30 to 100 years to filter through underground lava rock, emerging with visibility exceeding 100 meters (328 feet). Its constant temperature of 2–4°C (35–39°F) keeps the water pristine and bacteria-free, offering a clarity unmatched anywhere else.
Once you dip into Silfra’s waters, you’re greeted by an underwater world of vibrant blues and greens. The unique “troll’s hair” algae and cathedral-like rock formations create a stunning landscape. The water is so pure you can even drink it while exploring! Exploring Silfra is like witnessing a natural masterpiece shaped by glaciers and time.
Silfra also stands alone as the only place to try snorkeling between tectonic plates in Iceland. This rare opportunity lets you glide right between the North American and Eurasian plates, slowly drifting apart by about 2 centimeters (0.79 inches) each year. Some parts of the fissure are narrow enough to touch both continents simultaneously—a mind-blowing experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Preparing for Your Snorkeling Tour
To make the most of your tour, start by focusing on your clothing—it’s key to staying warm during the Silfra snorkeling tour. Wear thermal layers under the dry suit—wool or synthetic materials work best as they dry quickly and keep you warm. Avoid cotton, as it absorbs moisture and can make you feel cold. Don’t forget a towel and a change of clothes, just in case you get damp during the tour.
Arriving on time, well-rested, and having eaten a light meal is just as important. Avoid heavy meals or alcohol beforehand, and make sure to carefully read the tour details before exploring Silfra Fissure. It includes essential information on medical requirements and gear sizing to ensure everything fits and you’re fully prepared. By following these simple tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy Silfra’s crystal-clear waters and one-of-a-kind underwater scenery.
Is Snorkeling in Silfra for You?
Snorkeling in Silfra is perfect for anyone looking for a truly unique adventure—no diving experience is needed. First-timers are welcome, and our tour providers have expert guides who provide all the briefing and supervision you need to feel confident. However, you must know how to swim independently and feel at ease in the water.
Tours are open to guests aged 12 and up, but height and weight requirements apply to ensure the dry suits fit properly. You can find these specifics in the tour descriptions and the Snorkeling Handbook—a must-read before booking. With safety as a top priority, guides are always nearby to assist if needed, but guests need to be in good health to join. Silfra’s crystal-clear waters and incredible underwater landscapes make this an adventure you’ll never forget!
Don’t Miss Iceland’s Most Unique Adventure
Book Now!
What to Expect on a Snorkeling Tour
Your Silfra snorkeling adventure begins in Thingvellir National Park, where your guide will welcome you and provide a thorough safety briefing. You’ll learn about Silfra’s geology, what to expect during the tour, and tips to make your experience as enjoyable as possible. After the briefing, guides will help you put on your dry suit, neoprene gloves, a hood, and other essentials to keep you dry in the glacial waters. Once fully suited, you’ll take a short 5-minute walk to the fissure itself.
When you’re ready, you’ll step into Silfra’s crystal-clear waters and begin your journey. Your snorkeling session lasts 30–45 minutes, and while most of the route is effortless, you may encounter a gentle current in some parts. You’ll float through four sections of the fissure: the narrow Big Crack, the expansive Hall, the majestic Cathedral, and the vibrant Lagoon. After exiting the water, you’ll return to the base to warm up, change clothes, and enjoy a post-tour chat with your guide.
FAQ
