Silfra Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates
About Silfra Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates
Silfra is a water-filled crack between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in Thingvellir National Park, with some of the clearest water in the world. This guided snorkeling tour has 5,169 reviews and a 4.9 rating.
The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, with prices from about $146 per person. You meet the guides on location at Thingvellir.
What’s included
- Heated changing van
- Live guide that is a PADI instructor
- Hot chocolate and cookies
- Entrance fee to Silfra (ISK 1,500)
- Guided snorkeling tour
- All necessary snorkeling equipment, drysuit and warm undersuit
Meeting point
After you have entered Thingvellir National Park, turn onto road #361. Stay on this road for a few minutes and take the 3rd right where you will see the Silfra car park with our company vans. Drive a little further to parking lot P5 to park and walk back to meet our guides.
What to expect on the day
After a briefing, you put on a drysuit over warm layers, which keeps you dry in water that stays around 2 to 4°C all year. A PADI instructor leads you as you float through the fissure, looking down into blue water with visibility of more than 100 meters. Hot chocolate and cookies warm you up afterward.
Prices and extra costs
- Included: A PADI instructor guide, the drysuit, undersuit and all snorkel gear, the Silfra entrance fee, a heated changing van, and hot chocolate and cookies.
- Not included: Transport to Thingvellir, photos and tips.
What to bring
- Long thermal underwear and thick wool socks to wear under the drysuit.
- A hat and gloves for after the snorkel.
Tips for a better day
- Finding it: Inside Thingvellir, take road 361 and the third right to the Silfra car park. Park at lot P5 and walk back to the guides.
- Send your details: The operator will ask for height, weight and age to bring the right drysuit, and everyone fills in a medical form.
- Combine it: Silfra is on the Golden Circle route, so you can see Geysir and Gullfoss the same day.
Who it’s best for
Best for: Confident swimmers looking for a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Consider another option if: You would rather stay dry. The Golden Circle tour visits Thingvellir on foot.
Restrictions
Minimum age 12. You must be able to swim and speak English. Height must be between 150 cm and 200 cm, and weight between 45 kg and 120 kg. Guests 60 and over need a doctor’s signed approval. Not suitable for pregnant women.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
FAQ about Silfra Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates
What is Silfra?
A fissure between the North American and Eurasian plates in Thingvellir National Park.
How long is the tour?
About 2.5 hours.
How cold is the water?
Around 2 to 4°C all year, so you wear a drysuit.
Do I need to be a certified diver?
No. Snorkeling is open to anyone who can swim.
Is transport included?
No. You meet the guides at Thingvellir.
Is the entrance fee included?
Yes.
What is the minimum age?
12.
Are there size limits?
Yes. Height 150 to 200 cm and weight 45 to 120 kg.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from about $146 per person.
What is the cancellation policy?
You get a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
