Silfra Wetsuit Snorkeling: Exploring Iceland’s Underwater Rift in Crystal Clear Waters
Dive into Iceland’s Silfra fissure in a wetsuit and discover some of the clearest water on the planet. This unique snorkeling tour combines breathtaking visibility with striking geology just an hour from Reykjavík.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early and Park at P5
Park at Thingvellir’s designated P5 lot and arrive 15 minutes ahead to meet your guide; parking near Silfra is unavailable.
Dress in Thermal Layers
Wear thermal underwear and thick wool socks under your wetsuit or drysuit to stay warm in near-freezing water.
Bring Swimwear and Towel
A swimsuit is needed under your wetsuit, along with a towel for drying off post-snorkel.
Avoid Shortcuts in Winter
Follow main roads to Silfra during winter to avoid unsafe conditions; shortcuts can be hazardous when icy.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Explore lesser-known Silfra windows such as Silfra Hall for extraordinary underwater rock formations.
- •Visit the nearby Öxarárfoss waterfall inside Thingvellir for a quieter, atmospheric spot.
Wildlife
- •Arctic Char, a small freshwater fish often spotted underwater.
- •Golden Plovers, frequently seen birdlife on the park’s surface.
Conservation Note
Strict guidelines protect Silfra’s delicate ecosystem, including limits on group size and mandatory use of eco-friendly gear to minimize human impact.
Thingvellir National Park is the site of Iceland’s first parliament established around 930 AD and sits on a major tectonic plate boundary.
Photographer's Notes
- • Entrance area to Silfra
- • Öxarárfoss waterfall
- • Almannagjá gorge rim
What to Bring
Wetsuit (Provided)Essential
Protects against cold water temperatures near freezing, essential for safe snorkeling in Silfra.
Thick Wool SocksEssential
Keeps feet warm inside wetsuit booties during long exposure to cold water.
SwimsuitEssential
Worn under the wetsuit for comfort and hygiene during the snorkel.
TowelEssential
Important to dry off quickly after exiting the water to prevent chill.
Common Questions
Is previous snorkeling experience required?
No, but participants must be comfortable in water and know how to swim well enough to snorkel safely.
How cold is the water?
Water temperature stays around 2 to 4 degrees Celsius (36 to 39 degrees Fahrenheit), necessitating thermal protection.
What should I wear on the tour day?
Dress in layers suitable for outdoor weather, bring swimwear and towel, and wear shoes suitable for walking on rocky terrain.
Can anyone join the tour?
Participants must be at least 12 years old, in good health, and able to communicate in English; some medical restrictions apply.
Are photos included?
Yes, guides take and provide free underwater photos from the tour, usually delivered a few days after the experience.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Due to terrain and water entry, this tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Thingvellir, Þingvellir
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable swimming and able to handle cold water immersion; basic swimming skills required.
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