Silfra: Leidarendi Lava Caving & Snorkeling Tour with Photos

Explore Lava Caves and Snorkel in Crystal-Clear Fissures with Adventure Vikings

The Silfra: Leidarendi Lava Caving & Snorkeling Tour by Adventure Vikings is a captivating 7-hour adventure in Iceland’s Capital Region. For $295 per person, this tour offers a unique combination: exploring a lava tube called Leiðarendi and snorkeling in Silfra, a world-famous freshwater fissure. With a rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 24 reviews, it clearly appeals to those seeking an active and immersive experience of Iceland’s volcanic landscape.

Open to anyone comfortable in water, this tour features small group sizes of up to 6 participants, ensuring personalized guidance. The tour departs from Reykjavik with hotel pick-up and drop-off included, making it convenient for travelers staying in the city. It combines on-foot exploration of lava caves with snorkeling over UNESCO World Heritage site Silfra, with gear provided and photos included. The experience is engaging, scenic, and suitable for a wide range of adventure enthusiasts.

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Key Points

• Includes both lava caving and snorkeling: two of Iceland’s most striking natural features.
• Led by experienced local guides: knowledgeable and attentive to safety.
• No diving certification needed: snorkeling is at the surface, making it accessible.
• All necessary gear provided, including wetsuits and drysuits, with an option to rent a GoPro camera.
• Small group sizes ensure more personal instruction and attention.
• Tour duration of 7 hours, with flexible start times depending on season.

Discovering Leiðarendi Lava Cave in Iceland’s Lava Fields

The Leiðarendi lava tube stretches 900 meters underground, offering a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic activity more than 2000 years old. Participants walk through rock formations like stalactites and shelves, with light crawling sometimes required, but access remains relatively easy for most. This cave reveals the rugged beauty of Icelandic lava fields and is a highlight for those curious about volcanic landscapes.

The guides, who are local experts, share insights about the formation of the lava above the cave and the geological processes that created this underground world. The cave’s rock formations fascinate with their natural shapes, and guests appreciate the safety and clarity provided by guides throughout the exploration.

Snorkeling at Silfra: A Clear Water Experience

Snorkeling in Silfra is a core part of this tour, offering an otherworldly experience in an incredible freshwater fissure located within Þingvellir National Park. With a maximum depth of about 60-63 meters, Silfra is famous for its exceptional water clarity, allowing snorkelers to see end to end with ease. It’s regarded as one of the best diving sites globally, although no diving experience is required because snorkeling occurs at the surface.

Participants will wear wetsuits or drysuits, depending on preferences, and will float over the fissure’s rocky bottom, surrounded by crystal-clear water. The tour emphasizes safety, and all equipment is included, making it accessible even for less experienced swimmers. Adventure Vikings is the only provider offering wetsuit snorkeling, which is highly recommended for more freedom and comfort.

Convenient Logistics and Small Group Experience

This tour starts with hotel pickup in Reykjavik, with pickup times starting at 7:30-8:30 AM depending on the season. The small group size of six guarantees more personalized guidance and a relaxed pace. Participants are advised to bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a medical statement, and socks.

The duration of 7 hours allows ample time for both activities and includes hot chocolate and free photos of your adventure. The guides lead the group through each step, explaining the geological significance of the sites and ensuring everyone feels confident in water and cave exploration.

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What’s Included and What to Prepare

Included in the tour are snorkeling and caving equipment, a professional English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, hot chocolate, and snorkeling photos. Travelers should bring a bathing suit, warm clothes, and a towel for after the activities.

While no diving certification is needed, participants must be able to swim and feel comfortable in water. The weight range is between 50 kg (99 lbs) and 120 kg (264 lbs), and height must be between 150 cm (4 ft 9 in) and 200 cm (6 ft 6 in). The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, children under 12, people with mobility impairments, or non-swimmers.

Safety and Physical Requirements

Guests should wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing for the start of the day. They need to communicate in English to follow instructions effectively. Participants are advised to eat breakfast before the tour, as activities can be physically demanding.

The tours strictly prohibit alcohol and drugs to ensure safety. For those who want to capture their experience, GoPro rentals are available for 6900 ISK. It’s important to be prepared to get wet and to follow guide instructions during both caving and snorkeling.

Seasonality and Pickup Details

The tour operates year-round, with summer departures at 9:00 AM (pickup between 7:30-8:00 AM) and winter departures at 9:30 AM (pickup between 8:00-8:30 AM). Pickup is from bus stops in Reykjavik’s city center, and advance booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours is available, adding flexibility to your plans.

Reviews Highlight the Tour’s Strengths

The high rating of 4.9 out of 5 reflects consistent praise for the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Reviewers describe their guides as experienced and helpful, with personalized attention that enhances the experience. Many appreciate the safety measures and extra tips provided by guides, which make the activities easier and more enjoyable.

Guests often mention how stunning the sights are, with clear water at Silfra and unique rock formations in the lava cave. The tour’s small group size helps create a more intimate and engaging atmosphere.

Comparing with Similar Iceland Tours

While there are other options for Silfra snorkeling or lava caves, this tour’s combination of both activities makes it stand out. The inclusion of wetsuit snorkeling offered exclusively by Adventure Vikings offers more freedom and comfort compared to standard drysuit options in other tours. Plus, the 7-hour duration provides a comprehensive experience, allowing for a relaxed pace without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts on the Silfra & Lava Caving Adventure

This tour from Adventure Vikings offers a robust introduction to Iceland’s volcanic landscape, blending underground lava exploration with floating in one of the clearest waters on Earth. The professional guides, small group size, and all-inclusive gear contribute to a safe and enjoyable experience.

While it demands a basic level of water comfort and some physical activity, it remains accessible to most non-divers. The experience provides a great balance of adventure, education, and scenic beauty, making it a worthy choice for travelers looking to explore Iceland’s geological wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12 years old. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Do I need to have diving certification?
No certification is required; snorkeling occurs on the surface, and the tour is designed for all who are comfortable in water.

What should I bring for this activity?
Guests should bring comfortable shoes, warm clothes, a towel, and a medical statement. A bathing suit is recommended for after activities.

Can I rent a camera during the tour?
Yes, a GoPro camera can be rented for 6900 ISK.

What is included in the price?
The price covers snorkeling and caving equipment, an English-speaking guide, hotel transportation, hot chocolate, and free photos.

Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, the tour runs through all seasons, with adjusted pickup times.

What physical limitations prevent participation?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, non-swimmers, or people outside the weight and height limits.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its combination of lava caving and snorkeling in Silfra, the exclusive wetsuit snorkeling, and small group setting make it a standout.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is 7 hours, including transportation and activities.

Is safety a concern?
Guides are experienced and focused on safety, and all participants must follow instructions for a secure experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Silfra: Leidarendi Lava Caving & Snorkeling Tour offers a dynamic way to see Iceland’s volcanic heart through adventure, education, and scenic beauty. It’s a well-rounded experience for those eager to explore both land and underwater marvels with expert guidance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby