Snorkel Between Continents at Silfra: Thingvellir's Crystal Fissure Experience
Float between continental plates in the crystalline waters of Silfra at Thingvellir National Park. This guided snorkeling tour pairs a PADI divemaster and thermal drysuit with GoPro photos, delivering an otherworldly small-group experience just outside Reykjavík.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early and Check Roads
This is a self-drive meeting point at P5 Thingvellir; check roads.is (especially in winter) and arrive 20 minutes early to sign waivers.
Dress in Layers
Even with a drysuit you’ll want warm base layers and a windproof outer layer for before and after the water.
Expect Very Cold Water
Water temperature is about 2–4°C; the drysuit is mandatory and you should be comfortable wearing a snug suit and hood.
Book Off-Peak Times
Silfra is busiest in summer — early-morning or late-afternoon departures mean fewer people and better light for photos.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the short trail to Öxarárfoss waterfall nearby for great birdwatching and fewer crowds
- •Visit the visitor centre’s archaeological exhibits to learn about the Alþingi meeting sites
Wildlife
- •Arctic char in clear streams
- •Passerine birds like meadow pipits and wagtails
Conservation Note
Silfra’s clarity is fragile; the site is regulated to limit impact — follow guide instructions, don’t apply sunscreen before entering, and pack out all waste.
Thingvellir hosted the Alþingi from 930 AD and remains a core site of Icelandic national heritage where law and landscape intersect.
Photographer's Notes
- • Entry ramp where rock meets water — for suit-up portraits
- • From the shoreline looking down the fissure to capture the color gradient
What to Bring
Warm base layersEssential
Wool or synthetic layers keep you warm before and after the snorkel.
Waterproof jacketEssential
A windproof shell is handy for the cold open plain and changing areas.
Sturdy shoesEssential
Gravel and rock require closed, grippy footwear when walking to the entry point.
Small dry bag
Protects phone, keys, and spare layers while you’re in the water.
Common Questions
Do I need to know how to dive to snorkel Silfra?
No scuba skills required; snorkeling is surface-only but you must be comfortable floating and able to swim.
What is the water temperature and will I be warm?
Silfra stays around 2–4°C year-round; drysuits, thermal undersuits, hoods and gloves are provided to keep you insulated.
How long is the tour and how long am I in the water?
The total booking is about three hours, with roughly 30–45 minutes of actual time in the fissure.
Is transport provided?
This is a self-drive tour; there are no public buses to the meeting point, so you must drive your own vehicle.
Are photos included?
Yes — guides provide GoPro underwater and surface photos and will email them after the tour.
Who cannot participate?
Not suitable for pregnant people, those with serious cardiovascular or certain medical conditions, or anyone over 69 without a doctor’s note; all participants must complete a medical form.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours (total), 30–45 minutes in water
Location
Thingvellir, Southwest
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness, be able to swim, and comfortable in cold water; some mobility on uneven ground required
Ready to Explore Thingvellir?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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