Dive the Silfra Fissure: Exploring Iceland’s Rift Between Continents
Dive between two continents in Silfra Fissure, Iceland’s glacier-fed underwater canyon renowned for its unparalleled water clarity and unique geology. This 4-hour expert dry-suit dive challenges even seasoned divers and rewards with a surreal experience in one of the world’s clearest waters.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dry-suit Certification Required
Bring proof of at least 10 dry-suit dives in the last 2 years to participate in this challenging dive.
Dress in Warm Base Layers
Wear fleece or wool undergarments and thick socks to stay warm before and after the dive.
Arrive Early for Gear Setup
Plan to arrive 15 minutes early to complete equipment checks and logistical briefings.
No Glasses Under Mask
Contact lenses are recommended since glasses cannot be worn under the diving mask.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Hike the nearby Almannagjá fault for dramatic geological views
- •Visit Öxarárfoss waterfall within Thingvellir National Park for a serene break
Wildlife
- •Arctic foxes occasionally roam the area
- •Golden plover birds can be spotted during summer
Conservation Note
Strict dive regulations help preserve Silfra’s pristine water quality and fragile fissure environment, minimizing human impact.
Thingvellir was the site of the world's first parliament, Alþingi, established in 930 AD on the rift between continents.
Photographer's Notes
- • Silfra fissure bridge area
- • Öxarárfoss waterfall
- • Almannagjá fault overlook
What to Bring
Dry suitEssential
Protects from icy water temperatures, enabling extended underwater exploration.
Thermal UndersuitEssential
Provides vital insulation beneath the dry suit in 2–4°C water.
Warm socksEssential
Keeps feet warm before and after the dive.
Change of dry clothingEssential
Needed post-dive to stay warm and dry after removing diving gear.
Common Questions
Do I need to be a certified diver to join this tour?
Yes, all participants must be certified divers with dry-suit experience, having completed at least 10 dry-suit dives in the past two years.
What is the water temperature during the dive?
Water temperatures range from 2 to 4 degrees Celsius year-round, requiring a dry suit and thermal protection.
Can I wear glasses under the diving mask?
No, glasses are not permitted under the mask; contact lenses must be used if vision correction is needed.
How physically demanding is the dive?
It’s challenging due to cold water, heavy gear, and managing two buoyancy systems, so good physical condition is essential.
Is there a maximum depth limit?
Yes, dives are limited to a maximum depth of 18 meters per Thingvellir National Park regulations.
What happens if the weather is too cold?
If temperatures drop below -0°C, the dive may be shortened to a single dive for safety reasons.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Thingvellir, Þingvellir
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
High physical fitness is required to carry heavy diving gear and manage buoyancy in cold water.
Ready to Explore Thingvellir?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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