Reykjavík: Silfra Fissure Snorkeling between Two Continents

Highlands of Iceland, Reykjavik



Snorkel the Silfra Fissure with PADI-certified guides and drift between the tectonic plates in remarkably clear glacial water. Embark on this tour from Reykjavík and admire Thingvellir National Park.

Snorkeling at Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park

Experience snorkeling between the American and European continental plates at Silfra Fissure, located in Thingvellir National Park, Iceland. This activity suits swimmers comfortable in cold water with moderate fitness.

Highlights

  • Snorkel in one of the world's top-10 dive sites, Silfra Fissure
  • Swim over the divide between the American and European continental plates
  • Enjoy up to 150 meters of underwater visibility in crystal-clear Thingvellir Lake
  • Learn about the history, culture, and geology of one of Iceland’s most sacred sites
  • Optional transfer from Reykjavik, or meet at Thingvellir National Park

Description

Snorkel in the glacier-fed waters of Silfra Fissure, a unique crack between two tectonic plates drifting apart by 2 centimeters annually. The water comes from Langjökull glacier, filtered through lava fields, and offers clear, ethereal blue underwater views with visibility up to 150 meters.

Enjoy a 45-minute guided snorkeling session in Thingvellir Lake within this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After snorkeling, warm up with hot cocoa and cookies before returning to Reykjavik. Choose the meet-on-location option if you prefer to arrive independently at Thingvellir.

Includes

  • Snorkeling gear: dry suit, thermal undersuit, mask, fins, snorkel, gloves, boots
  • Hot cocoa and cookies after snorkeling
  • Complimentary underwater photos taken by your guide
  • Thingvellir National Park admission fee
  • Certified guide
  • Pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik (optional)

Important Information

  • Participants must:
    • Be able to swim and comfortable in water
    • Understand and communicate in English
    • Have moderate fitness
    • Fit safety gear size parameters:
      • Height: 150 cm to 200 cm (4’11’’ to 6’7’’)
      • Weight: 45 to 120 kg (99 to 265 lbs)
  • Guests with the following conditions cannot be accommodated for safety:
    • Heart or blood vessel disease, stroke, heart attack
    • Lung disease (except asthma with doctor’s approval)
    • Recent surgeries (within 6 months)
    • Pregnancy
    • Pneumothorax, chest diseases or surgery
    • Epilepsy, seizures, convulsions or related medication
  • Physician approval is required for asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart conditions, and other health issues affecting safety
  • Glasses cannot be worn under the snorkel; bring contact lenses if needed

Easy Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund.

Booking Tips

Wear comfortable clothing under the dry suit and bring a change of clothes. Morning tours offer calmer waters and smaller group sizes. Book in advance during peak seasons to secure your spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Silfra Fissure snorkeling is an activity where you snorkel in the crystal-clear waters between the American and European continental plates at Thingvellir National Park near Reykjavik.
Silfra Fissure is located in Thingvellir National Park, approximately 45 minutes from Reykjavik, Iceland.
This activity is suitable for swimmers with moderate fitness who are comfortable in cold water conditions.
The water in Silfra Fissure offers up to 150 meters of visibility due to its pure glacial filtration.
While prior snorkeling experience is helpful, it is not mandatory as guides provide instructions and support.
Participants wear dry suits provided by the tour operator to stay warm in the cold water during Silfra snorkeling.
Snorkeling gear including dry suits and masks are usually provided, but check the operator’s details before booking.
Silfra snorkeling is available year-round near Reykjavik; check the website for current seasonal availability and hours.
No, participants must be competent swimmers to safely snorkel in the Silfra Fissure cold water environment.
Silfra Fissure offers the rare chance to snorkel directly between two continental plates with exceptional underwater visibility close to Reykjavik.

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