Silfra: Diving Between Tectonic Plates and Pick Up from Reykjavik

Snorkeling in the Silfra fissure offers a truly remarkable adventure in Iceland. This small-group tour, capped at just three participants, provides an intimate experience with PADI-certified guides. For $307 per person, the five-hour outing includes all necessary gear, a dry suit, and hotel pickup from Reykjavik, making it an excellent choice for those seeking convenience and personalized attention.

The highlight of this tour is the chance to swim between the Eurasian and American tectonic plates within Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The water’s remarkable clarity, with visibility up to 330 feet (100 meters), promises a visually stunning experience. After the dive, warm hot chocolate and cookies await, providing a cozy end to an adventurous day.

While this tour is ideal for certified dry suit divers with at least 10 logged dives within the past two years or dry suit certification, it’s essential to meet specific physical and safety requirements. The small group size, detailed briefing, and professional guidance ensure a safe and memorable exploration of one of Iceland’s most stunning natural wonders.

Key Points

• Small-group experience limited to three participants ensures personalized guidance.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik for hassle-free logistics.
• All diving gear and dry suit are provided, along with a heated changing van.
• The tour visits the Silfra fissure within Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Visibility of up to 330 feet makes it one of the clearest waters for snorkeling and diving worldwide.
• Participants must meet specific certification and physical fitness requirements.

Silfra Fissure: What Makes It a Unique Diving Spot

The Silfra fissure draws divers and snorkelers from around the world because of its extraordinary water clarity and geological significance. The UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park provides a stunning backdrop with its rugged volcanic landscapes and the vast rift between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.

This tour makes exploring Silfra accessible, with all logistics handled by the operator. The guided experience emphasizes safety and comfort, with clear instructions and professional equipment provided. The dry suit is worn over thermal underwear and thick socks, ensuring warmth in the icy waters.

Meeting Point and Transport from Reykjavik

The tour starts at the DIVE.IS Meeting Point in Reykjavik, from where you are driven for approximately 45 minutes to Thingvellir National Park. The heated changing van allows participants to change comfortably before entering the water, which is especially helpful given the cold climate.

Pickup and drop-off from central Reykjavik hotels or hostels are included, streamlining the logistics and eliminating the need for self-arranged transport. If preferred, you can also meet directly at the BSI Bus Terminal.

The Guided Snorkeling and Diving Experience

Once at the site, your PADI-certified guide supplies the diving gear and dry suit, explaining how to operate it for maximum warmth and safety. The guide also provides a thorough safety briefing and shares insights into the geological and cultural history of Thingvellir.

The small group size ensures personalized support, with guides assessing skill levels and assisting with equipment. Participants can expect a 45-minute drive from Reykjavik, followed by preparation and a guided exploration of the spectacular underwater landscape.

Equipment and Safety Measures

All necessary diving equipment, including drysuits and warm undersuits, are provided. The dry suits are worn over regular clothes—long underwear and wool socks are recommended as base layers. The operator emphasizes that dry suits can feel tight and can be constricting, so proper fitting is crucial.

Participants must be at least 17 years old, with specific certifications or logged dives required. The tour also has height and weight restrictions (minimum 4ft 11in and 100 lbs; maximum 6ft 7in and 264 lbs) to ensure proper fit and safety.

Physical Fitness and Medical Requirements

The tour demands a good level of physical fitness, with participants needing to be comfortable in water, able to swim, and in overall good health. A medical form must be completed beforehand, and over-60s require a doctor’s approval.

Because the dry suits can be tight and constrictive, physically fit individuals are recommended. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with certain health issues, emphasizing the importance of full disclosure during booking.

The Experience of Swimming Between Tectonic Plates

Swimmers are guided to the dividing line between the Eurasian and North American plates, which creates a surreal environment of crystal-clear waters and rugged rock formations. The visibility enhances the illusion of floating in an otherworldly space, while the temperature remains manageable thanks to the dry suit.

The experience not only showcases geological marvels but also allows participants to appreciate the natural beauty of Iceland’s unique landscape. Guides provide explanations about the geological processes and cultural significance of the area, enriching the adventure.

Post-Dive Warm-up and Refreshments

After exiting the water, hot chocolate and cookies await, offering comfort after the cold immersion. The heated changing van ensures a warm and comfortable dressing process, making the overall experience more enjoyable.

This relaxing end to the activity helps participants unwind and reflect on their extraordinary underwater journey. The tour’s emphasis on warmth and comfort is a notable feature that enhances the overall value.

Practical Tips and Considerations

It’s advisable to wear thermal underwear and thick socks under the dry suit for extra warmth. Bringing a change of clothes and warm undergarments is recommended since the dry suits are worn over your own clothing.

Since the tour is limited to three people, booking well in advance—on average 81 days ahead—is recommended to secure a spot. The $307 price includes the Silfra entrance fee of 1,500 ISK, the guided tour, gear, and transportation, offering good value for such a unique experience.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The small-group setting ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience. The professional guides from DIVE.IS are commended for their knowledge, helpfulness, and safety-conscious approach. The all-inclusive package, including hotel pickup, gear, and warm post-dive treats, makes this tour particularly convenient.

The emphasis on certified dry suit diving and strict safety standards ensures a controlled and safe environment for participants. The extra comfort of the heated changing van and hot chocolate post-dive adds a cozy touch that enhances the overall experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour is perfect for certified dry suit divers who want to explore one of Iceland’s most iconic natural sites. It’s best suited for those comfortable in water, physically fit, and eager for a personalized, small-group adventure.

Because of the strict certification requirements, this experience may not appeal to complete beginners or less confident swimmers. However, adventurous snorkelers and divers with the proper qualifications will find it a deeply rewarding outing.

Final Thoughts on the Silfra Snorkeling Tour

The Silfra fissure tour offers a unique opportunity to see geological marvels firsthand in a setting that few other places can match. The professional guidance, inclusive gear, and convenient transport make it accessible for certified divers looking for a comfortable yet adventurous experience.

While the price point reflects the premium nature of the experience, the small group size and personalized service justify the expense. To fully enjoy this tour, ensure you meet the physical, certification, and safety requirements.

This experience is ideal for anyone eager to combine adventure, geology, and natural beauty in a safe, well-organized setting. It’s a memorable highlight for those exploring Iceland’s landscapes, especially for certified dry suit divers seeking a true underwater spectacle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need certification to join this tour?
Yes, participants must be minimum PADI Open Water and Drysuit certified or have equivalent certification. They should also have logged dry suit dives within the past two years or hold dry suit certification.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off from central Reykjavik are included. You can also choose to meet directly at the BSI Bus Terminal if preferred.

What should I wear under the dry suit?
It is recommended to wear long thermal underwear and thick wool socks as a base layer. Bring a change of clothes and warm undergarments for after the dive.

How many people are in each group?
The tour operates with a maximum of three travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience with your guide.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or those over 60?
No, it is not suitable for pregnant women and participants over 60 must have medical approval to participate.

This Silfra snorkeling tour blends adventure, education, and comfort in one memorable outing. If you meet the certification and fitness requirements, it offers an unrivaled chance to explore one of Iceland’s most striking natural phenomena.