Silfra: Hot and Cold Snorkeling and Spa Tour – Self Drive

Discover the Unique Combo of Cold and Hot Water Experiences in Iceland

The Silfra: Hot and Cold Snorkeling and Spa Tour offers a distinctive chance to explore Iceland’s contrasting waters in one seamless experience. Priced at $206 per person and lasting approximately 5 hours, this tour combines the thrill of snorkeling in Silfra, a crystal-clear fissure between two continents, with ultimate relaxation at the Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Pool. It’s ideal for those seeking adventure and relaxation in one day, especially given the small group size capped at 6 guests for a personalized experience.

What truly sets this tour apart is the self-drive format. Travelers are responsible for their own transport between stops, making it flexible and convenient for independent-minded visitors. The tour includes all necessary gear, a guided snorkeling session, and access to hot springs, saunas, and steam rooms. While the dry suits ensure warmth during the icy snorkel, the hot springs provide a welcome warm-up afterwards, making this tour suitable for a wide range of guests, provided they meet the physical requirements.

The Meeting Point at DIVE.IS in Thingvellir National Park

The adventure begins at the DIVE.IS meeting point in Thingvellir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This easy-to-find location serves as the starting point for the tour, where the small group setup means each guest receives personalized attention. The guide helps with gear fitting and safety briefings in a heated changing van, creating a comfortable start to the day.

From this point, the guide explains the significance of Thingvellir’s geology, including the tectonic plates and the formation of Silfra. The briefing, which lasts about an hour, covers safety instructions and provides background information about the park’s natural history. This setup ensures everyone feels confident before heading into the water.

Gearing Up for the Cold Water Snorkeling in Silfra

Once briefed, the group walks just five minutes to the snorkel site. The dry suits and warm undersuits are provided, and the guide demonstrates how to use the equipment properly. The suits are worn over your clothing, which should include thermal underwear and wool socks for added comfort.

Guides are attentive, ensuring each person is properly fitted and comfortable before entering the water. The snorkeling experience in Silfra lasts around 30 to 45 minutes, during which you’ll glide through the Big Crack, Silfra Hall, and Silfra Cathedral. The water’s exceptional clarity makes it a visually stunning experience, and the silence of the fissure adds to the uniqueness.

Exploring Silfra: Between Two Continents

Silfra’s crystal-clear waters are a highlight for any visitor. The visibility often exceeds 100 feet, revealing the stunning underwater landscape and the tectonic boundary between North America and Eurasia. The water temperature hovers just above freezing, but the dry suits keep everyone warm and dry during the snorkel.

The guide’s safety briefing and tips ensure participants feel secure, even if they are new to snorkeling. The experience is manageable for most, provided they are comfortable in water and capable of swimming. The small group size helps maintain a calm pace, allowing everyone to savor the breathtaking scenery.

Post-Snorkel Treat: Hot Chocolate, Cookies, and Warmth

After the snorkeling, guests return to the heated van and are offered hot chocolate and cookies, a simple yet appreciated touch. The warmth of the beverage and snack contrast beautifully with the cold water experience and prepare everyone for the next relaxation stop: the Laugarvatn Fontana Geothermal Pool.

This geothermal spa provides various options for unwinding. Theres some good saunas, steam rooms, or take a soak in the natural geothermal lake. There’s no limit on how long you can relax here, making it an ideal way to unwind after the chilly underwater adventure.

The Thermal Pools and Spa Facilities at Laugarvatn Fontana

The Laugarvatn Fontana offers an authentic Icelandic spa experience. The hot pools are naturally heated by geothermal energy, providing a soothing environment after the cold snorkel. The saunas and steam rooms complement the pools, allowing guests to relax muscles and enjoy the thermal waters at their own pace.

The tour’s inclusion of unlimited access to these facilities means you can linger as long as you wish, soaking up the warmth and tranquility. This stop is particularly appreciated by those seeking genuine relaxation and a break from the cold outdoor air.

Practical Details: Self-Drive, Small Group, and Gear Included

This tour operates on a self-drive basis, so travelers must have their own vehicle or rent one. The small-group format with a maximum of 6 guests ensures personalized attention, especially during gear fitting and safety briefings.

All necessary snorkeling equipment, drysuits, and warm undersuits are provided, and the guides are experienced in helping guests stay comfortable. The tour also covers entrance fees for Silfra and Laugarvatn Fontana, so no hidden costs are involved. Guests should be aware that participants over 60 require a doctor’s approval, and the activity is not suitable for pregnant women.

Physical Requirements and Suitability

Participants must be at least 12 years old, stand at least 4ft 11in (150cm), and weigh between 100 lbs (45kg) and 264 lbs (120kg). Comfort in water, good physical health, and swimming ability are necessary. The dry suits can feel tight and constrictive, so wearing thermal underwear and wool socks helps improve comfort.

All participants need to be comfortable communicating in English. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, and those over 60 require medical approval. The gear and activities are designed to be accessible for most physically fit individuals, but the tour’s structure ensures safety and comfort for all.

The Experience’s Praise and Realistic Limitations

Reviews highlight the expertise and attentiveness of guides like Sara, Quim, and Konrad, who check on guests regularly and help make the activities enjoyable. The stunning underwater scenery and hot springs afterward receive frequent praise as highlights of the trip.

One limitation noted is the need for good weather, as poor conditions could lead to cancellations with a full refund or rescheduling. Plus, dry suits can feel tight and constrictive, which might affect comfort for some participants. Being aware of these factors ensures a smooth experience.

Why This Tour Is a Good Fit for Adventurers and Relaxation Seekers

This self-drive tour appeals to those comfortable with independent travel and looking for a combination of adventure and relaxation. The small group size fosters intimacy, making it suitable for travelers who appreciate personalized guidance. It suits adventurous spirits who want to snorkel in Silfra’s icy waters and enjoy authentic Icelandic thermal spa experiences afterward.

While the activity requires a degree of physical fitness and water comfort, most reasonably healthy people over 12 can participate. The reasonable price point and the inclusion of gear, guide, and entrance fees make this tour a practical choice for travelers wanting both a memorable experience and good value.

Final Thoughts on the Silfra Hot and Cold Snorkeling and Spa Tour

This tour offers a unique blend of natural contrasts that epitomize Iceland’s rugged beauty. The crystal-clear waters of Silfra provide a surreal snorkeling experience, and the opportunity to relax in geothermal pools and saunas adds a restorative element.

The small group size, professional guides, and inclusion of all necessary equipment make this a trusted, enjoyable option. It’s especially rewarding for those who want to experience Iceland’s extraordinary landscapes in a hands-on way, from the tectonic fissures to the thermal spas.

While it requires good weather and some physical fitness, the well-organized setup and positive reviews suggest most will find it a worthwhile adventure. Whether you seek an active water experience or just a chance to unwind in thermal waters, this tour covers both with authenticity and care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Participants must be at least 12 years old and meet specific height and weight requirements. It’s ideal for those comfortable in water and physically fit.

Do I need my own vehicle to join this tour?
Yes, since it is a self-drive experience, you need a vehicle or rental car to travel between the meeting point, Silfra, and Laugarvatn Fontana.

Are the snorkeling suits provided?
Yes, dry suits and warm undersuits are included, fitted by guides to ensure comfort and warmth during the snorkel.

How long does the snorkeling last?
The snorkeling in Silfra lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the group and conditions.

Can I customize the time spent at the hot springs?
Guests are welcome to relax as long as they wish at Laugarvatn Fontana, making it a flexible and relaxing end to the day.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsuitable, the activity can be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund if canceled due to weather.

Is this tour good for people who don’t like cold water?
The dry suits keep you dry and insulated during the snorkel, making it manageable even for those sensitive to cold, provided they are comfortable in water.

Will I get photos of my experience?
Photos are not included but can be purchased separately after the tour.

Are there any health restrictions?
Participants over 60 years old need a doctor’s approval. All guests should be healthy, comfortable swimming, and able to communicate in English.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is straightforward through the provider’s platform, with most bookings made 47 days in advance. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity.

This Silfra Hot and Cold Snorkeling and Spa Tour combines Iceland’s most striking natural water features with the comfort of thermal relaxation, making it an enriching experience for those eager to see the extraordinary and unwind afterward.