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Quick overview
Location: Silfra, within Thingvellir National Park
Distance from Reykjavík: Approx. 45–50 minutes by car
Water temperature: 2-4°C (35-39°F) year-round
Visibility: Often exceeds 100 meters, among the clearest waters in the world
Famous for: Snorkeling and diving directly between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in crystal-clear glacial water
Experience type: Guided snorkeling and scuba diving tours with small groups (max 6 per guide)
Best time to visit: Year-round; summer offers longer daylight hours, while winter adds dramatic icy landscapes
What makes it unique: Silfra is a rare geological rift where two continents drift apart. The water is glacial melt filtered through lava rock for decades, resulting in extraordinary clarity and vivid underwater colors.
What to expect on your Silfra diving tours
1/5
Dive into crystal-clear waters
Step into the crystal-clear waters of Silfra, where temperatures remain 2-4°C year-round. The drysuit keeps you insulated as you begin your float between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Snorkel or dive between two continents
Glide through narrow canyons and open underwater chambers with visibility often exceeding 100 meters. Your guide leads the small group (max 6 per guide), pointing out rock formations, deep crevices, and the vivid blue hues created by glacier-filtered water.
Pose for underwater photos clicked by your guide
On select tours, your guide captures complimentary underwater GoPro photos so you can focus fully on the experience. Throughout the swim, you’ll receive hands-on guidance to ensure safety, comfort, and confidence in the water.
End your experience with beverages and snacks after your dive
After 30 to40 mins in the water (depending on conditions and group pace), return to shore to change out of your suit. Enjoy hot chocolate, and in some tours, cookies or an Icelandic chocolate bar, while sharing highlights of your adventure.
Dive with full-safety and a professional local guide
Your guide walks you through safety procedures, hand signals, and drysuit or wetsuit use. All essential equipment is provided, including a mask, fins, a suit, and thermal layers (as applicable); adjusted for a secure, comfortable fit in the cold water.
Things to know before booking your tickets
Choose from pick-up included or self-drive: Silfra is not easily accessible by public transport but you can drive there or choose a tour with transfers from Reykjavik.
Snorkeling vs. diving upgrade: All tours offer guided snorkeling. Only the tour from Thingvellir allows you to upgrade to a certified scuba diving option, which requires valid PADI (or equivalent) and dry suit credentials.
Choose spa access with dive: The combo ticket, including the 7-step Skjól Ritual. All other tickets focus solely on the Silfra experience.
Free underwater photos: Underwater photos are included in the tour from Reykjavik, and the combo ticket.
Group size & guidance: All experiences are fully guided with small groups (maximum 6 participants per guide). No self-guided snorkeling is available at Silfra.
Age & fitness requirements: Snorkeling tours (from Reykjavik, and the combo) are for confident swimmers aged 12+. The Thingvellir diving option has a minimum age of 17 and stricter certification requirements.
Cold-water conditions: Water remains 2–4°C year-round. All tours provide dry suits or wetsuits, but you must bring thermal base layers and wool socks.
Best option if unsure: For maximum convenience, choose the tour from Reykjavik. For a full adventure + relaxation day, book the from Reykjavik, and the combo with Sky Lagoon.
Float directly in the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, a rare geological phenomenon found at Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park.
Plan your visit
Operating hours: Daily, 9am to 3pm; open all year
Weekday vs weekend: Weekdays (Monday–Thursday) are usually quieter, with smaller groups and easier parking at P5, while weekends fill up faster, especially in summer, so booking in advance is recommended. Early morning and late afternoon departures are typically the calmest.
Peak season vs low season: Peak season (June–August) offers long daylight hours and milder weather, but tours sell out quickly. Shoulder months (April–May and September–October) strike a great balance between good conditions and fewer crowds. In winter (November–March), you’ll enjoy a more serene setting and dramatic snowy landscapes, though road and weather conditions can be less predictable.
Silfra sits directly between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates about 50 km (31 miles) northeast of Reykjavík, making it one of the only places in the world where you can snorkel or dive between two continents.
By public transport: There is no direct public bus to Silfra Car Park (P5). Some seasonal buses run from Reykjavik to Thingvellir National Park, but you’ll need additional transport from the main stop to Silfra. There are no train or metro services in the area. If you’re not joining a tour with transfers, self-driving is the most practical option.
By car: Drive from Reykjavik via Route 36 (Þingvallavegur) toward Thingvellir National Park; the journey takes about 45–50 minutes. Follow signs for “Silfra” or “P5” once inside the park.
Parking: Park at Silfra Car Park (P5); paid parking applies. It’s about a 400-meter walk from the lot to the Silfra meeting point.
The meeting point is at Silfra Car Park (P5) inside Thingvellir National Park, clearly signposted from the main road.
Basic restroom facilities are available within the national park area near the parking zone.
Tours provide access to changing areas or outdoor changing facilities near the dive site.
Secure storage for small personal belongings is available on select tours, but large luggage is not permitted.
Complimentary hot chocolate is served after most snorkeling sessions, and some tours also include cookies or a chocolate bar.
All essential snorkeling gear is provided, including a dry suit or wetsuit, depending on the tour selected.
Dry suit tours include thermal undersuits to help insulate against the cold glacial water.
Masks, snorkels, fins, hoods, and gloves are included to ensure comfort and safety.
Certified diving tours include full scuba equipment, including tanks and regulators.
Undergarments for dry suit tours are included on select combo tours, but base layers may need to be brought separately.
All tours are led by certified, English-speaking guides trained in cold-water safety procedures.
A detailed safety briefing is conducted before entering the water, including instructions on body positioning and communication signals.
Group sizes are kept small, typically with a maximum of six participants per guide, to ensure close supervision.
Participants must be confident swimmers and physically fit, as the activity takes place in cold water (2–4°C year-round).
A signed medical statement and liability waiver are mandatory prior to participation.
Age, height, and weight restrictions apply to ensure proper dry suit fit and safety.
The experience is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and the nature of the activity.
Participants must be able to walk short distances from the parking area to the entry point.
The activity may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility or certain medical conditions.
Guests aged 60 and above may be required to provide a doctor’s approval form, depending on the tour.
Alcohol or drug consumption before or during the activity is strictly prohibited.
Regular eyeglasses cannot be worn under the snorkeling mask; contact lenses or prescription masks must be used instead.
Large suitcases, oversized bags, and bulky backpacks are not allowed at the site.
Guests who are pregnant or do not meet the specified age, height, or weight requirements cannot participate.
All participants must follow guide's instructions at all times while in and around the water.
Food and beverages are not included unless specifically mentioned in the selected tour option.
Visitor tips
Book early during peak season (June-September): Silfra tours have small group sizes and often sell out several days in advance, especially morning slots.
Choose early morning or late afternoon in summer: These time slots tend to be quieter and offer softer light for underwater photos.
Eat a light but filling meal beforehand: Snorkeling in cold water can be physically demanding, and you’ll feel more comfortable with some energy in your system.
Wear thermal base layers in winter: Even with a dry suit, proper layering makes a noticeable difference in comfort before and after your swim.
Avoid wearing jewelry: You’ll need to remove rings, watches, and necklaces before suiting up, so it’s best to leave valuables at your accommodation.
Arrive at least 15 minutes early: Check-in, paperwork, and gearing up take time, and late arrivals may miss their tour.
Bring contact lenses if needed: Standard glasses cannot be worn under the mask unless you’ve arranged a prescription mask.
Plan for self-drive unless you book transfers: Some tours include Reykjavik pickup, while others require you to make your own way to Silfra Car Park (P5).
Combine with nearby attractions: Since you’re already in Thingvellir National Park, consider exploring waterfalls, hiking trails, or viewpoints before or after your tour.
Stay for the full experience: If booking the Sky Lagoon combo, allow extra time to fully enjoy the seven-step Skjól Ritual rather than rushing through it.
Beyond Silfra
Blue Lagoon
Unwind in Blue Lagoon, Iceland’s world-famous geothermal spa, known for its milky-blue, mineral-rich waters surrounded by dramatic lava fields. Enjoy silica mud masks, in-water bars, and modern spa facilities just a short drive from Reykjavík and Keflavík Airport.
Whale Watching Iceland
Head out into Faxaflói Bay from Reykjavík’s Old Harbour for whale watching in Iceland and a chance to spot humpback whales, minke whales, white-beaked dolphins, and harbor porpoises. Guided tours run year-round, offering insights into Iceland’s rich marine life.
Perlan Museum Tickets
Discover Iceland’s natural wonders under one roof with interactive exhibits on glaciers, volcanoes, and the Northern Lights. Walk through a real indoor ice cave and enjoy panoramic city views from the observation deck.
Frequently asked questions about Silfra diving tours
The tour from Reykjavik offers round-trip transfers (if selected). The combo ticket is a self-drive experience.
All tours include a certified English-speaking guide, snorkeling equipment (dry suit or wetsuit as per option), Silfra/National Park entry fees, and a post-snorkel warm drink (hot chocolate; some tours also include cookies or a chocolate bar). Select tours include free underwater photos and optional Reykjavik transfers.
Free underwater photos are included in tours from Reykjavik, tectonic plates snorkeling, and the combo ticket.
Snorkeling tours are suitable for confident swimmers aged 12+ (age varies slightly by product). No prior snorkeling experience is required, but participants must be physically fit and comfortable in cold water.
Most snorkeling tours require participants to be at least 12 years old (17+ for some diving options), be between approx. 150–200 cm in height, weigh between approx. 50–120 kg and exact limits vary slightly by product, so check your selected ticket.
The tour combines snorkeling between tectonic plates with same-day access to Sky Lagoon, including the seven-step Skjól Ritual and geothermal lagoon entry, ideal if you want adventure followed by relaxation.
Some tours like the tour from Reykjavik include Reykjavik transfers. Self-drive tours require you to meet at Silfra car park (P5) in Thingvellir National Park at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time.
Regular glasses cannot be worn under the mask. You must bring contact lenses or a prescription mask if you require vision correction.
Silfra is located inside Thingvellir National Park, about a 45–60 minute drive from Reykjavík. If you prefer ease and convenience, choose a tour with round-trip transfers from Reykjavík to avoid the hassle of navigation and parking.
Yes, all Silfra snorkeling experiences include a certified English-speaking guide who leads your group, provides safety instruction, and ensures a secure, enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Typical snorkeling areas are 1–10 meters (3–33 ft) deep. Some deeper sections, like Silfra Cathedral, can reach up to 20–30 meters (66–98 ft), but snorkeling stays near the surface; deeper scuba dives require certification.
Silfra: Silfra Fissure Snorkeling between Two Continents with Photos
A comfort-enhanced Silfra tour with thoughtful extras, warm up with Icelandic treats, and capture high-quality GoPro memories.
Everything you get: Dive into the Silfra Fissure at Thingvellir National Park with all gear provided: drysuit, thermal undersuit, fins, and mask. Enjoy expert guidance from a certified snorkeling guide, secure storage for your belongings, complimentary GoPro underwater photos, and a sweet finish with Hraun chocolate and hot chocolate.
Why choose this: Experience one of the world’s clearest waters, float between tectonic plates, and take home unique underwater photos, all with expert guidance and thoughtful touches for comfort.
Upgrades: Choose round-trip transfers from Reykjavik and enjoy Wi-Fi on board the minibus for added convenience.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Free cancellation
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
Book now, pay later
3 hr - 6 hr
Guided tour
Pickup available
Snorkeling
Silfra: Snorkeling or scubadiving between two continents tour with photos
The most flexible Silfra option, choose snorkeling or upgrade to certified scuba diving for a deeper, more technical experience.
Everything you get: Enjoy a guided adventure in Thingvellir National Park, where you’ll explore the Silfra fissure, famed for its over 100 metres of underwater visibility and glacial spring water. All necessary equipment is provided, plus hot chocolate and cookies to warm up after your tour.
Why choose this: Swim or dive between the North American and Eurasian plates in some of the world’s clearest water, an experience unique to Iceland!
Upgrades: Upgrade to a guided scuba diving tour with all diving equipment and Silfra entrance fee included, or choose a transfer from select locations in Reykjavik for a hassle-free trip to the meeting point.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Free cancellation
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
Book now, pay later
2 hr 30 min - 5 hr 5 min
Guided tour
Transfers available
Pickup available
Snorkeling
From Reykjavik: Silfra Snorkeling with Free Photos
Hassle-free Silfra adventure with Reykjavík hotel pick-up, perfect for travelers who want zero hassle and maximum underwater time.
Everything you get: Dive into the world’s clearest waters at Silfra fissure, where you’ll snorkel between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Enjoy all snorkeling equipment, an English-speaking guide, national park entry, hot chocolate to warm up, pick-up transfer from Reykjavik, and free underwater photos to relive your adventure.
Why choose this: Experience the thrill of swimming between continents in visibility over 100 meters, with expert guidance and complimentary photos, hotel pick-up from Reykjavik, perfect for adventure seekers and memory makers.
Two of Iceland’s most iconic water experiences in one seamless day, adrenaline in glacial rift waters, followed by a structured 7-step oceanfront spa ritual.
Everything you get at Silfra Snorkeling: Enjoy a guided Silfra snorkeling tour in Thingvellir National Park with all equipment and thermal layers included. Swim between tectonic plates in crystal-clear glacial water, receive free underwater photos, and warm up after with hot chocolate.
Everything you get at Sky Lagoon: Relax at Sky Lagoon with Saman Pass entry, access to the seven-step Skjól Ritual, and geothermal lagoon admission. Unwind in oceanfront hot pools, use public changing facilities, and enjoy a towel included with your visit.
Why choose this combo: Experience the thrill of snorkeling in glacial waters between tectonic plates, followed by the soothing warmth of Iceland’s newest geothermal lagoon, all in one seamless adventure.
You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Free cancellation
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
Book now, pay later
7 hr
Guided tour
A comfort-enhanced Silfra tour with thoughtful extras, warm up with Icelandic treats, and capture high-quality GoPro memories.
Everything you get: Dive into the Silfra Fissure at Thingvellir National Park with all gear provided: drysuit, thermal undersuit, fins, and mask. Enjoy expert guidance from a certified snorkeling guide, secure storage for your belongings, complimentary GoPro underwater photos, and a sweet finish with Hraun chocolate and hot chocolate.
Why choose this: Experience one of the world’s clearest waters, float between tectonic plates, and take home unique underwater photos, all with expert guidance and thoughtful touches for comfort.
Upgrades: Choose round-trip transfers from Reykjavik and enjoy Wi-Fi on board the minibus for added convenience.
Inclusions
#
Certified snorkeling guide
Snorkel equipments
GoPro underwater photos
Secure storage for personal belongings
Hraun chocolate bar
Hot chocolate
Pickup and dropoff from Reykjavik (as per the option selected)
Wi-Fi on board minibus (as per the option selected)
Exclusions
#
Food and beverages (other than provided)
Tips/gratuities
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
The most flexible Silfra option, choose snorkeling or upgrade to certified scuba diving for a deeper, more technical experience.
Everything you get: Enjoy a guided adventure in Thingvellir National Park, where you’ll explore the Silfra fissure, famed for its over 100 metres of underwater visibility and glacial spring water. All necessary equipment is provided, plus hot chocolate and cookies to warm up after your tour.
Why choose this: Swim or dive between the North American and Eurasian plates in some of the world’s clearest water, an experience unique to Iceland!
Upgrades: Upgrade to a guided scuba diving tour with all diving equipment and Silfra entrance fee included, or choose a transfer from select locations in Reykjavik for a hassle-free trip to the meeting point.
Inclusions
#
Hot chocolate and cookies
Silfra entrance fee
Round-trip transfer from select locations in Reykjavik (as per option selected)
Guided snorkeling trip (as per option selected)
All snorkeling equipment (as per option selected)
Guided diving trip (as per option selected)
All diving equipment (as per option selected)
Exclusions
#
Food and drinks
Parking fees
What to bring
Wear thermal base layers and thick warm socks under the dry suit.
Dress appropriately for the day’s weather conditions.
If you wear glasses, bring contact lenses or a prescription mask.
Carry your diving certification card and proof of dry suit experience (if required).
Keep a valid photo ID handy for verification.
What’s not allowed
Guests under 17 years old are not permitted.
Participants who do not fit the dry suit size requirements cannot join.
Entry is not allowed without signing the medical declaration and liability waiver.
Alcohol, drugs, or intoxication are strictly prohibited before and during the activity.
Pets are not allowed on this experience.
Accessibility
This activity is not suitable for wheelchair users.
Participants should be able to walk short distances and handle uneven terrain.
Additional information
All guests must read, sign, and follow the medical and liability forms before the tour.
Certified divers must present PADI Open Water (or equivalent) plus dry suit certification, or proof of 10 logged dry suit dives in the past 2 years.
Participants aged 60+ require medical approval on the diving form.
Height must be between 150 cm and 200 cm, within dry suit sizing limits.
Undergarments are not provided; bring your own warm layers.
Arrive at the Silfra meeting point at least 15 minutes early for check-in.
Food, drinks (except post-tour snacks), parking, and transfers are not included.
Water temperatures remain 2–4°C year-round, so dress warmly.
The tour is conducted in English.
If you’ve selected a round-trip transfer, choose the closest pick-up point in Reykjavik when confirming your booking.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Hassle-free Silfra adventure with Reykjavík hotel pick-up, perfect for travelers who want zero hassle and maximum underwater time.
Everything you get: Dive into the world’s clearest waters at Silfra fissure, where you’ll snorkel between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Enjoy all snorkeling equipment, an English-speaking guide, national park entry, hot chocolate to warm up, pick-up transfer from Reykjavik, and free underwater photos to relive your adventure.
Why choose this: Experience the thrill of swimming between continents in visibility over 100 meters, with expert guidance and complimentary photos, hotel pick-up from Reykjavik, perfect for adventure seekers and memory makers.
Inclusions
#
Free underwater photos
Hot chocolate
All snorkeling equipment
English-speaking guide
National park fee
Hotel pick-up from Reykjavik
Exclusions
#
Food and drinks (other than hot chocolate)
Personal swimwear and towel
What to bring
Wear warm clothing before and after your time in the water.
Bring swimwear and a towel for use during the tour.
Pack two pairs of thick wool socks to wear under your suit.
Dress appropriately for the weather conditions; high heels are not suitable.
If you require vision correction, bring a prescription mask, as standard glasses cannot be worn during the activity.
Have a proper meal beforehand, as the activity can be physically demanding.
What's not allowed
Glasses cannot be worn in the water; only approved prescription masks are allowed.
Pregnant individuals are not permitted to take part.
Participation is restricted to guests aged 12 and above, between 150 cm (4'9") and 200 cm (6'7") in height, and weighing between 50 kg (110 lbs) and 120 kg (264 lbs).
Guests must be confident swimmers and comfortable in the water.
Alcohol or drug use before or during the activity is strictly prohibited.
Accessibility
This activity is not suitable for wheelchair users.
Additional information
All participants must be in good physical health and able to swim independently.
Before the tour begins, you are required to review and sign the Silfra Snorkelling Medical Statement and liability waiver.
Please arrive at the Silfra car park in Þingvellir National Park at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. If driving, park at “Þingvellir P5” and walk approximately 400 meters to the meeting location.
Snorkelling equipment and hot chocolate are included.
Meals (aside from the post-tour hot chocolate) are not provided.
The minimum age requirement is 12 years.
The water temperature remains between 2–4°C year-round. Wetsuits are provided, but do not eliminate exposure to cold.
Group size is limited to a maximum of six participants per guide.
You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Two of Iceland’s most iconic water experiences in one seamless day, adrenaline in glacial rift waters, followed by a structured 7-step oceanfront spa ritual.
Everything you get at Silfra Snorkeling: Enjoy a guided Silfra snorkeling tour in Thingvellir National Park with all equipment and thermal layers included. Swim between tectonic plates in crystal-clear glacial water, receive free underwater photos, and warm up after with hot chocolate.
Everything you get at Sky Lagoon: Relax at Sky Lagoon with Saman Pass entry, access to the seven-step Skjól Ritual, and geothermal lagoon admission. Unwind in oceanfront hot pools, use public changing facilities, and enjoy a towel included with your visit.
Why choose this combo: Experience the thrill of snorkeling in glacial waters between tectonic plates, followed by the soothing warmth of Iceland’s newest geothermal lagoon, all in one seamless adventure.
Inclusions
#
Saman Pass to Sky Lagoon
Seven-step Skjól Ritual access
Public changing facilities at Sky Lagoon
Towel at Sky Lagoon
Hot chocolate for snorkeling
All snorkeling equipment
Undergarments for dry suit
Underwater snorkeling photos
National park Silfra entry fee
English-speaking guide
Exclusions
#
Transport to/from meeting points
Food and drinks (other than hot chocolate)
Swimwear for Sky Lagoon
What to bring
Wear warm layers before and after your snorkeling session.
Pack two pairs of thick wool socks, one to wear inside the suit and one for afterward.
Bring swimwear for Sky Lagoon (towels are included there).
If selecting wetsuit snorkeling, bring swimwear and a towel; for dry suit snorkeling, wear thermal base layers underneath.
Carry a valid photo ID that matches your booking details if requested at check-in.
If you need vision correction, bring contact lenses or a prescription mask, as regular glasses cannot be worn under the snorkeling mask.
What’s not allowed
Regular glasses cannot be used with the snorkeling mask; only contact lenses or prescription masks are permitted.
Oversized luggage, large backpacks, and suitcases are not allowed at the snorkeling site or Sky Lagoon.
Alcohol, drugs, or arriving under the influence are strictly prohibited.
Pets are not allowed, except for certified service animals.
The experience is not suitable for pregnant guests, children under 12, individuals shorter than 150cm or taller than 200cm, or those weighing under 50kg or over 120kg.
Guests must be physically fit, confident swimmers, and comfortable in the water.
Accessibility
This activity is not wheelchair accessible and may not be appropriate for guests with limited mobility.
Additional information
This is a self-drive experience; transportation to and from the meeting points is not included.
Please arrive at Silfra car park (P5) in Þingvellir at least 15 minutes before your scheduled start time.
All snorkeling gear, dry suit underlayers, and post-snorkel hot chocolate are included.
Participants must review and sign the Silfra Snorkeling Medical Statement and liability waiver before joining.
Be sure to check road and weather conditions in advance, particularly during the winter months.
Sky Lagoon entry can be rescheduled with a minimum of 24 hours’ notice.
Food and beverages are not included, aside from the complimentary hot chocolate after snorkeling.
A minimum of two participants is required for the tour, with a maximum of six guests per guide.
You may spend as much time as you like at Sky Lagoon within its operating hours.
You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
