Viator Rating : 5 (4992 reviews)
Reykjavik
Silfra Snorkeling: Swim Between Continents in Iceland
150
Overview
Silfra: Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Iceland's Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This tour lets people float between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in the crystal-clear Silfra fissure. The water is so clear, it has over 100 meters of visibility, showing off amazing underwater colors.
This snorkeling tour is perfect for anyone who loves water and can swim. Kids ages 12 and up can join in on this family-friendly activity. You'll wear a dry suit that keeps you warm and dry while you swim in the cold, clear water. Before diving in, a guide will provide the drysuit, warm undersuit, and snorkeling gear while briefing the group (limited to 6 people) on how to use the gear and stay comfortable. The guide will also share facts about Silfra, Thingvellir National Park, the tectonic plates, and the continents. This briefing, plus the time it takes to change, is about an hour.
The adventure starts with a short 5-minute walk to Silfra, where you'll enjoy a 30–45 minute snorkeling experience through Silfra Hall, Silfra Cathedral, and Silfra Lagoon. Afterwards, warm up with hot chocolate and cookies while chatting with the guide and viewing photos from the tour. With PADI-certified instructors and top-notch service, this snorkeling tour has been recognized as a world-class experience. The tour includes a live PADI guide, hot chocolate and cookies, the Silfra entrance fee (ISK 1,500), a heated changing van, all necessary snorkeling equipment, a drysuit, and a warm undersuit. 
Highlights
Snorkel in Silfra Fissure: Swim between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Crystal-Clear Water: Experience water with over 100 meters of visibility.
Stay Warm and Dry: Use a dry suit to keep comfortable in the cold water.
Expert Guidance: Learn from a PADI-certified snorkeling instructor.
Heated Changing Van: Prepare for your snorkel adventure in warmth and comfort
Hot Cocoa and Cookies: Warm up with a delicious treat after your snorkel
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the clear water and amazing views.
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Many say the guides were helpful and friendly.
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People felt safe and well-taken care of during the tour.
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Guests enjoyed the hot chocolate and cookies after snorkeling.
Some people found the water very cold, even with the dry suit.
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A few guests mentioned that changing into the gear took a long time.
The Journey
Silfra Fissure
Silfra is a fissure formed in the divergent tectonic boundary between the North American and Eurasian plates. It is located in Thingvellir National Park in Iceland. Silfra is renowned for its exceptionally clear glacial water, allowing for visibility of over 100 meters, making it a popular site for snorkeling and diving.
Thingvellir National Park
Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iceland, known for its historical significance and unique geological features. It's where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, creating dramatic landscapes. The park is also the site of Iceland's first parliament, adding to its cultural importance.
Silfra Hall
Silfra Hall is one of the sections of the Silfra fissure, characterized by its impressive width and depth. Snorkelers and divers are able to experience the unique geological formations and the stunning clarity of the water in this area.
Silfra Cathedral
Silfra Cathedral is a particularly wide and open area within the Silfra fissure, resembling a cathedral due to its spaciousness and light penetration. It is a highlight of the snorkeling tour, offering breathtaking views of the underwater landscape.
Silfra Lagoon
Silfra Lagoon is the final, shallow part of the Silfra fissure tour. It is known for its serene, clear waters and provides a relaxing end to the snorkeling experience, allowing participants to take in the beauty of the surroundings.
Know Before You Go
This snorkeling experience includes a live PADI instructor, hot chocolate and cookies, the entrance fee to Silfra (ISK 1,500), a heated changing van, a guided snorkeling tour, and all necessary snorkeling equipment, including a drysuit and warm undersuit. Souvenir photos of the snorkeling tour are available for purchase separately. Gratuities are not included. The meeting point is at Silfra in Thingvellir National Park.
Hot Tip
It is recommended to wear warm, long underwear and thick socks under the dry suit for extra insulation against the cold water.
Review Summary
People usually say that Silfra snorkeling is a once-in-a-lifetime experience with breathtaking crystal-clear visibility and an awe-inspiring opportunity to swim between tectonic plates, with most praising the professional and attentive PADI-certified guides who prioritize safety and comfort. Positive feedback highlights the quality of included equipment (especially the dry suits), the surreal beauty of the underwater landscape, and the thoughtful inclusion of hot chocolate and free photos. However, some travelers have reported occasional equipment issues (such as malfunctioning snorkels), and a few note that the experience can feel rushed or crowded in larger groups, while others mention that the cold water and physical demands require good swimming ability despite marketing claims of beginner-friendliness.
Frequently Asked Questions
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