Silfra: Fissure Snorkeling Tour with Underwater Photos

Thrilling Tectonic Plate Snorkeling in Þingvellir National Park for $169

The Silfra: Fissure Snorkeling Tour with Underwater Photos offers a unique chance to swim between two tectonic plates in Iceland. Priced at $169 per person and lasting around 3 hours, this experience takes place in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Þingvellir National Park. The tour is perfect for those interested in geology, crystal-clear waters, and unforgettable visuals, though it requires participants to be comfortable in water and physically fit.

This tour is led by certified PADI guides, ensuring safety and expert knowledge throughout the activity. It includes a dry suit to keep you warm, snorkeling equipment, hot drinks, cookies, and GoPro photos capturing your underwater adventure. While the activity is suitable for most, it excludes children under 12, pregnant women, and people over 70, based on medical and physical requirements.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Explore the tectonic plates of North America and Europe while snorkeling in Silfra.
• High-quality dry suits keep participants warm in the cold waters.
• Includes professional guide, snorkeling gear, hot drinks, cookies, and free underwater photos.
• Small group size limited to 6 participants for personalized attention.
• Start and end at Troll Expeditions parking lot in Þingvellir National Park.
• Duration of about 3 hours, with multiple stops and guided instruction.

Discovering the Silfra Fissure in Þingvellir National Park

The Silfra Fissure is a highlight in Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This geological marvel is famous for its position between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, which are continuously drifting apart. The tour begins at Troll Expeditions‘ designated parking lot, where participants meet the guides and receive their snorkeling gear.

The guides provide a safety briefing lasting about 30 minutes, during which they explain how to navigate the dry suits and underwater environment. This preparation helps everyone feel confident before entering the water. The start of the tour is quiet, with fewer participants, often making for a more intimate experience.

Putting on Your Gear and Getting Ready for the Snorkel

Once suited up, the tour guides assist in fitting the dry suits, which are designed to keep water out and warmth in despite the cold Icelandic conditions. The suits can feel tight and constricting, especially around the neck, but are crucial for comfort during the 50-minute guided snorkeling segment.

Participants are then led on a 30-minute walk to reach the designated snorkeling spot. This short walk through scenic parts of Þingvellir National Park offers a chance to appreciate the natural surroundings before entering the crystalline waters. The guides ensure everyone feels comfortable and help with any gear adjustments needed.

Swimming Between Continents in Crystal-Clear Waters

The main event takes place in the Silfra Fissure, where snorkelers glide through water so transparent it feels like floating in air. The glacier meltwater is filtered and stunningly blue, with vibrant hues that make the experience visually striking. The water temperature remains cold, but the dry suits effectively maintain warmth.

Swimmers are led by guides who point out local marine life, such as dwarf char, and notable plant species. The experience is often described as surreal, with some noting that they can see far down the fissure’s depth. The 40-50 minutes in the water fly by quickly as you marvel at the depths below and the tectonic rift stretching beneath.

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Post-Snorkeling Relaxation with Hot Drinks and Photos

After emerging from the waters, there is a break time of approximately 30 minutes. This allows participants to dry off, enjoy hot drinks and cookies, and review the photos taken on a GoPro during the snorkel. The photos serve as a lasting souvenir of the vibrant underwater scenery and fun moments captured in action.

Many find the inclusion of free underwater photos a standout feature, making this tour not only memorable but also easy to share or relive later. Guides often take multiple shots, ensuring everyone gets plenty of pictures, some capturing the playful or awe-struck moments of the group.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour commences at the parking lot at Silfra in Þingvellir, specifically at the P5 parking lot, where visitors park their cars and walk to the Tröll Snorkel Meeting Point. The activity concludes at the same location, making it convenient for self-driving visitors.

The small group size, limited to 6 participants, guarantees attentive guidance and personalized assistance. This intimacy enhances safety and allows guides to adapt instructions based on individual comfort levels and experience.

Safety and Physical Requirements for Snorkelers

Participants must be comfortable in water, able to swim, and physically fit. The tour explicitly states that pregnant women are not permitted, and participants over 70 years need medical clearance. The required height range is between 145 centimeters (4 ft 8 in) and 200 centimeters (6 ft 6 in), with weight limits from 45 to 120 kilograms.

Due to the tight fit of the dry suits, some individuals may find the gear constrictive, especially around the neck. The guides are trained to assist and reassure, but comfort in the suit is a key consideration for participation.

Unique Aspects of This Tour in Iceland

What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to snorkel between two continents in crystal-clear waters. The geological significance, combined with the spectacular visual environment, makes it a truly distinctive activity. The expert guides, known for their friendliness and knowledge, help make the experience accessible and enjoyable for all.

The tour’s inclusive photos and hot drinks afterward add to its appeal, providing a well-rounded, comfortable experience in a remote natural setting. The fact that this activity often attracts smaller groups means you can enjoy a peaceful and personal adventure without the crowds.

Limitations and Considerations

While the experience is highly praised, potential participants should consider the physical demands and the tight dry suit around the neck, which can cause discomfort for some. The cold water temperature requires participants to be prepared with appropriate clothing underneath and to adhere to health requirements.

The tour does not include parking fees or hotel transfers, so travelers need to plan their transportation. Booking in advance is recommended, as the tour can fill quickly, especially during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts on the Silfra Snorkeling Tour

The Silfra Fissure snorkeling experience offers an incredible blend of geological wonder, vivid waters, and expert guidance for $169. It is an ideal choice for those who appreciate nature, science, and memorable visual moments. The small group size and inclusive photos add value, making it a worthwhile addition to any Iceland itinerary.

While the dry suits may feel tight, the warmth and clarity of the water, combined with the knowledgeable guides, make this tour a trusted choice for a safe and awe-inspiring adventure. It’s suitable for confident swimmers who meet the age and health requirements and seek a genuinely unique experience in Iceland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior snorkeling experience necessary?
No, guides provide thorough instructions and assistance, making it accessible for beginners who are comfortable in water.

How cold is the water in Silfra?
The water temperature is cold but manageable with the provided dry suits. Participants often find it less uncomfortable than expected.

Are photos included in the tour?
Yes, professional GoPro photos are included, capturing moments during your snorkel in Silfra.

What should I bring?
Participants need to bring warm clothing and medical clearance if required. No mention is made of additional gear, as suits and equipment are provided.

Can children participate?
No, children under 12 years are not permitted.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are not allowed to participate.

What are the group size limits?
The activity is limited to 6 participants to ensure personalized guidance.

What if I am over 70 years old?
A medical clearance is required, and participation is not permitted without it.

How do I get to the meeting point?
Participants meet at the P5 parking lot at Þingvellir National Park and walk to the Tröll Snorkel Meeting Point.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its focus on snorkeling between two tectonic plates, the crystal-clear waters, and the professional guidance make it a truly distinctive experience in Iceland.

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