Silfra: Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates – meet on location

Discover the Unique Opportunity to Snorkel Between Continents in Iceland

The Silfra snorkeling tour in Iceland offers a rare chance to swim between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates at the heart of Thingvellir National Park. Priced at $119 per person, this 2.5-hour experience combines expert guidance, all necessary gear, and an unforgettable natural spectacle. The tour is highly recommended by 99% of visitors, with over 7,200 reviews praising its quality.

This adventure is suitable for those comfortable in water and able to swim, with a minimum age of 12. It’s especially appealing for travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience in crystal-clear glacier meltwater, with the added comfort of dry suits, warm undersuits, and post-snorkel hot chocolate and cookies. Keep in mind, the tour requires filling out a medical form and providing height, weight, and age details for proper gear fitting.

Key Points

• Price is $119, including gear, entrance fee, and warm drinks
• Duration is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, with about 30-45 minutes of snorkeling
• Group size is limited to 6 people, ensuring a personal experience
• All necessary snorkeling equipment and dry suits are provided, along with a heated changing van
• The tour covers highlights like Silfra Hall, Silfra Cathedral, and Silfra Lagoon
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour starts

Meeting at DIVE.IS in Thingvellir National Park

The tour begins at the DIVE.IS meeting point located at Thingvellir. Travelers arrive 15 minutes early for check-in where guides prepare gear and give a safety briefing. The heated changing van allows for comfortable gear fitting, and participants are advised to wear long thermal underwear and thick socks underneath their dry suits.

The guides are professional and friendly, taking about an hour to explain safety procedures, provide gear, and share insights about Thingvellir’s geology and the tectonic plates. The meeting process is well-organized, making it easy to transition into the water without stress. The small group size of up to 6 participants enhances the personal touch and safety.

The Stunning Underwater Landscapes of Silfra

Once geared up, there’s a short 5-minute walk to Silfra. The snorkeling itself lasts 30 to 45 minutes, during which you’ll visit notable spots like Silfra Hall, Silfra Cathedral, and Silfra Lagoon. The water is a strikingly crystal-clear glacier melt, with visibility often exceeding 100 feet, as confirmed in reviews praising the water’s transparency.

Guides provide expert commentary about each site, making the experience both visually stunning and educational. The underwater scenery features dramatic rock formations and vibrant colors, creating a surreal environment that feels like swimming through a natural aquarium.

How Guides Keep You Warm and Confident in Chilly Water

Despite the cold water temperature, the dry suits and warm undersuits keep snorkelers comfortable throughout the trip. Guides like Gabe, Lorenzo, and Boris are praised for their professionalism, patience, and sense of humor, helping even nervous participants feel at ease. The dry suits, worn over thermal clothing, can feel tight but are designed to trap heat effectively.

For those who worry about feeling constricted, reviews mention that the suits allow minimal effort to drift through the water, so the focus remains on the stunning views rather than discomfort. Guides are attentive to individual needs, especially when helping those prone to claustrophobia or initial nerves.

Post-Snorkel Warmth with Hot Chocolate and Cookies

After swimming through the icy water, the tour concludes with hot chocolate and cookies. This small but appreciated treat offers a chance to relax and chat with your guide while viewing photos taken during the snorkeling. It’s a cozy and friendly way to end the adventure, with many reviews highlighting the quality of the post-activity refreshments and the opportunity to reflect on the experience.

The Expertise of Guides and Personalized Attention

The guides at Dive.is are often singled out for their knowledge, professionalism, and friendly demeanor. Many reviews mention guides like Nikolas, Gabe, Henry, and Boris as being particularly helpful, patient, and enthusiastic about sharing information. They assist with gear, ensure safety, and make the activity engaging and fun.

Most guides are PADI instructors, adding an extra layer of confidence and expertise to the experience. Their ability to explain complex geological concepts like tectonic plate movement enhances the educational aspect of the tour.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Snorkeling Experience

Participants are advised to wear long underwear and thick socks underneath their dry suits. Filling out a medical form online is required before the tour, and providing accurate height, weight, and age ensures proper gear fitting. The minimum height is 4 ft 11 in (150 cm), and the maximum height is 6 ft 7 in (200 cm), with weight limits up to 264 lbs (120 kg).

Since the dry suits can feel tight, guests should be prepared for some initial resistance when donning the gear. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women, and all participants must be comfortable in water, able to swim, and communicate fluently in English. For those over 60, a doctor’s approval is necessary.

Accessibility and Group Size Advantages

The tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and safety. It’s accessible to most travelers who meet the physical requirements, and the near public transportation makes reaching the meeting point straightforward.

The tour is not suitable for individuals with certain health conditions or those uncomfortable with cold water or dry suits. The small group size, expert guides, and high safety standards make it an appealing option for many.

The Visual and Educational Highlights of Silfra

The underwater scenery in Silfra features dramatic rock formations and vibrant hues, visible thanks to its unparalleled water clarity. Guides emphasize safety and comfort while providing insights into Iceland’s tectonic activity and the geology of Thingvellir.

Photographs of the underwater landscape are highly praised and available for purchase, capturing the stunning beauty of this unique geological feature. Many reviews note that the visual clarity exceeds expectations, making for incredible photos and memories.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This snorkeling experience is perfect for adventure seekers, geology enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore Iceland’s geological wonders. The tour’s focus on safety, comfort, and education makes it suitable for those who can swim and are comfortable in chilly water.

Travelers who enjoy small-group activities and appreciate personalized guidance will find this tour particularly rewarding. It is an ideal choice for families with older children, couples, or friends looking for a special activity during their Iceland trip.

Final Thoughts on the Silfra Snorkeling Tour

The Silfra snorkeling tour offers an unmatched opportunity to swim between continents in Iceland. Its all-inclusive approach, with guides, quality gear, entrance fees, and post-snorkel treats, provides excellent value at $119. The small group size and highly praised guides ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience.

While the activity requires some physical readiness and comfort with cold water, the professional assistance and warm gear make it accessible for most travelers. This tour stands out for its spectacular underwater scenery, educational value, and personalized service. It’s a must-try activity for those visiting Iceland who seek an adventure that combines nature, geology, and thrill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this snorkel tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is suitable for beginners who are comfortable in water and can swim, with guides providing full gear and instructions to ensure a safe experience.

What should I wear underneath the dry suit?
It is recommended to wear long thermal underwear and thick wool socks to stay warm during the snorkeling.

How long does the entire experience take?
The total duration is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including check-in, gear fitting, safety briefing, walking, snorkeling, and post-activity refreshments.

Are there any health restrictions?
Participants over 60 years of age need a doctor’s approval, and all guests must fill out a medical form. The activity requires participants to be healthy, physically fit, and able to communicate in English.

What is included in the price?
The $119 fee covers the guided snorkeling tour, all snorkeling gear and dry suits, entrance fee to Silfra, heated changing van, and hot chocolate with cookies.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Are photos available after the tour?
Yes, photos taken during the snorkeling can be purchased afterward, but they are not included in the tour price.

How accessible is the meeting location?
The meeting point at DIVE.IS in Thingvellir is near public transportation, making it easy to reach for most travelers.

What sets this tour apart from others?
The combination of expert guides, small group size, all-inclusive gear and entrance fees, and the spectacular underwater scenery makes this tour a standout choice for exploring Iceland’s geological marvels.