Silfra: Snorkeling Tour Between Tectonic Plates

Capital Region of Iceland, Reykjavik



Experience the thrill of floating between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra Fissure, in Thingvellir National Park, on this guided snorkeling tour.

Silfra Fissure Snorkeling in Thingvellir National Park

Experience snorkeling in the clear waters of the Silfra Fissure in Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park, ideal for swimmers aged 12 and above.

Highlights

  • Snorkel in the crystal clear waters of the Silfra Fissure
  • Discover where two tectonic plates are drifting apart
  • Observe the colors of pure glacial meltwater
  • Explore the natural setting of Thingvellir National Park
  • Float between continents in Iceland’s underwater rift

Description

Join a snorkeling tour in Silfra Fissure, a UNESCO World Heritage Site along the Golden Circle route. Float between two tectonic plates in water with visibility up to 100 meters.

Groups of six participants are assigned one guide. You will wear a drysuit and thermal gear to stay warm in the cold water. After a safety briefing, you will spend about 45 minutes snorkeling.

Explore the Big Crack, the narrowest section where the plates nearly touch, then glide into Silfra Hall, offering views across to lake Thingvallavatn. Swim deeper into Silfra Cathedral at 23 meters depth, passing over boulders and glacial silt. The tour concludes at Silfra Lagoon with hot chocolate and cookies while you talk with your guide.

Includes

  • Certified PADI dive instructor
  • Snorkeling gear
  • Drysuit and warm undersuit
  • Heated van for changing clothes
  • Hot chocolate and cookies
  • Entrance fee to Silfra (ISK 1,500)

Excludes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Parking fees

Important Information

  • Wear thermal underwear, thick socks, and warm clothes
  • Bring contact lenses if you wear glasses
  • All participants must read and sign a medical statement
  • Participants aged 60 and over require a physician’s approval
  • No diving certification needed; suitable for anyone over 12 who is comfortable in water and can swim

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Book your tour in advance. Arrive prepared with warm clothing and swimwear under the drysuit. The best months for snorkeling are summer and early autumn when weather conditions are most stable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Silfra Fissure is a rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates located in Thingvellir National Park near Reykjavik.
The snorkeling tour takes place in the Silfra Fissure, inside Thingvellir National Park, accessible from Reykjavik.
Swimmers aged 12 and above can participate in the Silfra snorkeling tour.
The water is crystal clear, with visibility often exceeding 100 meters due to glacial melt filtering through porous lava rock.
You snorkel between two drifting tectonic plates in water that is some of the purest and clearest in the world.
Basic swimming skills are required, but no advanced snorkeling experience is necessary.
You will wear a drysuit provided by the tour operator to protect against the cold glacial water temperatures.
The snorkeling portion usually lasts around 30 to 45 minutes, with the entire tour lasting several hours including preparation.
Silfra snorkeling is available year-round, but conditions are generally best in the summer months; check the website for current availability.
Yes, tours depart from Reykjavik and include transportation to Thingvellir National Park where Silfra is located.

We Are Part of the My Guide Network!

My Guide Reykjavik is part of the global My Guide Network of Online & Mobile travel guides. We are now in 180+ Destinations and Growing.

Nearby Destinations

Add to your trip

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.