Snorkeling in Silfra Fissure – Self-Drive Experience in Þingvellir
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Description
Silfra is a glacial fissure located in Þingvellir National Park, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates slowly drift apart. Fed by meltwater from Langjökull glacier and filtered through lava rock for decades, Silfra offers some of the clearest freshwater on Earth, with visibility often exceeding 100 meters.
On this self-drive snorkeling tour, you meet your guide directly at Silfra and gear up for an unforgettable experience floating through the fissure in a dry suit. The route takes you through Silfra Hall, Silfra Cathedral, and Silfra Lagoon, each section revealing striking blue colors and unique underwater formations.
This option is perfect for travelers already driving the Golden Circle, allowing you to combine snorkeling in Silfra with nearby highlights such as Þingvellir National Park, Geysir, and Gullfoss at your own pace.
No previous snorkeling or diving experience is required. Certified guides provide full instruction and accompany you throughout the tour to ensure safety and comfort in the cold, pristine glacial water.
Alternative option: If you are staying in Reykjavík without a car, this experience is also available as a guided Silfra snorkeling tour with pick-up from Reykjavík.
What is included
- Guided snorkeling tour in Silfra fissure
- Dry suit, hood, gloves, fins, and mask
- Snorkel and all required safety equipment
- Certified snorkeling guide
- Hot chocolate after the tour
- Silfra entrance fee
What do I need to bring
- Warm thermal base layers
- Thick wool socks
- Warm clothes for before and after the tour
- Change of clothes (recommended)
- Contact lenses if you wear glasses
Good to know
- Participants must be comfortable in water and able to swim
- Water temperature is 2–4°C (35–39°F) year-round
- Minimum age is 12 years
- Height and weight restrictions apply for dry suits
- This is a self-drive tour; transportation is not included
- Parking fees at Þingvellir National Park are not included
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Highlights
- Snorkel between two tectonic plates in Þingvellir National Park
- Crystal-clear glacial water with exceptional visibility
- Explore Silfra Hall, Cathedral, and Lagoon
- Perfect stop on a Golden Circle self-drive itinerary
- Professional guides and top-quality equipment included
Silfra Snorkeling – Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Silfra located in Iceland?
Silfra is located in Þingvellir National Park in southwest Iceland, along the famous Golden Circle route.
Is Silfra inside Þingvellir National Park?
Yes, the Silfra fissure lies entirely within Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Can you snorkel in Silfra on a self-drive tour?
Yes, this tour is a self-drive experience where you meet your guide directly at Silfra in Þingvellir.
Do I need a car to snorkel in Silfra?
Yes, this is a meet-on-location tour and requires that you drive yourself to Silfra in Þingvellir National Park.
Is Silfra part of the Golden Circle?
Yes, Silfra is one of the main natural attractions along the Golden Circle, together with Geysir and Gullfoss.
How cold is the water in Silfra?
The water temperature in Silfra stays between 2–4°C year-round due to constant glacial filtration.
Will I get wet while snorkeling in Silfra?
You snorkel in a dry suit, which keeps your body dry and insulated, though small leaks can occasionally occur.
Is snorkeling in Silfra safe?
Yes, snorkeling in Silfra is safe when done with certified guides who provide full instruction and safety equipment.
Do I need snorkeling or diving experience?
No prior experience is required, but all participants must be comfortable in water and able to swim.
Can non-swimmers snorkel in Silfra?
No, participants must be confident swimmers in order to take part in snorkeling tours in Silfra.
What is the difference between snorkeling and diving in Silfra?
Snorkeling is done at the surface in a dry suit, while diving requires certification and allows you to go deeper.
Is snorkeling or diving better in Silfra?
Snorkeling is the most popular option, offering a relaxed experience with incredible visibility and no certification required.
How long does the snorkeling part of the tour last?
The time spent in the water is typically around 30–40 minutes, depending on group size and conditions.
How much time should I plan in total at Silfra?
You should plan approximately 2.5–3 hours in total, including preparation, briefing, snorkeling, and changing.
Is parking available at Silfra?
Yes, parking is available at Þingvellir National Park, though parking fees are not included in the tour.
Is Silfra open year-round?
Yes, Silfra can be snorkeled all year, including winter, as the fissure never freezes.
Can you snorkel in Silfra in winter?
Yes, winter snorkeling is possible and offers a unique experience with fewer visitors and dramatic surroundings.