Silfra Fissure
Snorkel or dive between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in Silfra's unbelievably clear, frigid glacial waters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene experience
Silfra Fissure
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Snorkel or dive between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in Silfra's unbelievably clear, frigid glacial waters.
"It was AMAZING! SPECTACULAR!! Do it! You won’t regret it!"
Layer Up for Warmth! 🧤
Wear thermal base layers and thick wool socks under your dry suit. Hands and face can get cold!
Book with Reputable Operators 🎟️
Choose well-reviewed companies for a safe and enjoyable experience. Some recommend Troll.IS.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Snorkeling Between Continents
Silfra Fissure, Þingvellir National Park
Float between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in crystal-clear glacial water. A truly unique geological marvel.
Unparalleled Water Clarity
Silfra Fissure
Experience visibility up to 100 meters (330 ft) in water filtered through volcanic rock for centuries.
Vibrant Underwater Colors
Silfra Fissure
Marvel at the stunning blues and greens of the glacial water, with algae creating vibrant hues.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Chill: Dry Suit Essentials
Timing is Everything: Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Advice on diving the Silfra fissure in Iceland?
Layer Up for Warmth! 🧤
Wear thermal base layers and thick wool socks under your dry suit. Hands and face can get cold!
Book with Reputable Operators 🎟️
Choose well-reviewed companies for a safe and enjoyable experience. Some recommend Troll.IS.
silfra snorkeling
Mixed reviews of Silfra snorkeling
Consider Transport Options 🚌
If staying in Reykjavik, book tours that include transport to save hassle.
Don't Fear the Cold! 🥶
Dry suits are very effective; many visitors are surprised by how warm they stay.
Snorkeling in Silfra Fissure?
Tips
from all over the internet
Layer Up for Warmth! 🧤
Wear thermal base layers and thick wool socks under your dry suit. Hands and face can get cold!
Book with Reputable Operators 🎟️
Choose well-reviewed companies for a safe and enjoyable experience. Some recommend Troll.IS.
Consider Transport Options 🚌
If staying in Reykjavik, book tours that include transport to save hassle.
Don't Fear the Cold! 🥶
Dry suits are very effective; many visitors are surprised by how warm they stay.
Capture the Magic 📸
Waterproof cameras are a must! The clarity and colors are incredible.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Silfra Fissure is widely praised as an extraordinary and breathtaking experience, with many calling it a trip highlight. Visitors are amazed by the crystal-clear water and the unique sensation of floating between tectonic plates. While the water is frigid, the dry suits are effective, though hands and faces can still get cold. Some reviews question the 'continental divide' aspect and suggest certain tours might be overpriced for the short duration in the water.
"An interesting and novel experience. We went in Aug 2024. The guides were friendly, and the views were truly breathtaking. The water is absolutely frigid but the dry suits do a good job of keeping you bearably warm."
Riley Scott Jacob
"Some things are tourist traps and some things are amazing. This is definitely the later. 100% worth the money and the effort of getting ready to survive the cold water. Super friendly folks, absolutely amazing colours to be seen in the crystal clear waters. Took me three times coming to Iceland to do this and I'm so glad that I finally did!"
Jason Libby
"One of the privileges of diving on 4 continents and is to be able to recognize a Scam, and the over rating from social medias.
The good, yes the water is clear and super cold. Yes the crack/spot is in the rift area, now to say it is with one wall in Europe and the other in America is just part of the lie.....
The spot, as short as it is, is about a mile from the main active rift, thus not the actual continent separation.
The pictures are from a mid week ofF season and the place is jammed... Save your money or at least be smart about it and study the satellite picture from Gmap before you spend almost 400usd on a single, 100ft long five."
A . R
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most visitors book a tour from Reykjavik that includes transportation. This is often the most convenient option, as Silfra is located within Þingvellir National Park, about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive away. Some tours offer pick-up directly from your accommodation.
Public transport to Þingvellir National Park is limited and may not drop you directly at Silfra. Booking a guided tour with transport is highly recommended for ease of access.
The drive from Reykjavik to Silfra Fissure is approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) and takes about 45-60 minutes, depending on road conditions and traffic.
Yes, Þingvellir National Park has parking facilities, but it's often easier and more direct to arrive with a tour operator who handles all logistics.
Silfra is located within Þingvellir National Park, which is a key stop on the popular Golden Circle route. Many tours combine these attractions, but ensure your chosen tour specifically includes snorkeling or diving at Silfra.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices vary by tour operator, but expect to pay around $150-$200 USD for snorkeling tours. Diving tours are typically more expensive. Some reviews mention prices around $400 USD for a short experience, so research is key.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your Silfra snorkeling or diving tour in advance, especially during peak season, as tours can fill up quickly.
Most tours include the dry suit, mask, snorkel, fins, and a guide. Some also provide thermal layers, a hood, and gloves. Transport from Reykjavik is often an optional add-on.
Typically, participants must be at least 12 years old for snorkeling and able to swim. Certain medical conditions may preclude participation; check with your tour operator.
Tours operate year-round, with departures typically in the morning and afternoon. It's best to check specific tour operator schedules for exact times.
🎫 🤿 Onsite Experience
The water temperature at Silfra is consistently between 2-4°C (35-39°F) year-round due to its glacial origin.
The actual time spent in the water is usually around 30-40 minutes. The entire experience, including gearing up and briefing, can take 2-3 hours.
Yes, many tours allow you to bring waterproof cameras. Some operators offer photo packages for an additional fee.
While you are in the fissure between the tectonic plates, the actual continental rift is a bit further away. The experience is more about floating between the plates.
It's essential to wear warm, non-cotton layers underneath your dry suit, such as thermal underwear and thick wool socks.
📸 📸 Photography
Bring a waterproof camera or a GoPro. Ensure it's securely attached to prevent loss. Many guides are happy to take photos for you if you don't have your own equipment.
Some tour operators offer camera rentals or photo packages. It's advisable to inquire about this when booking your tour.
Focus on the incredible visibility, the vibrant blue and green hues of the water, and the unique rock formations within the fissure. The contrast of the dry suit against the clear water is also striking.
It can be a bit challenging due to the bulky suit and cold hands, but with practice and a stable camera, you can capture stunning shots.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness. Consider shooting in RAW for better post-processing, especially to enhance the water's colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Choose tour operators that are experienced with younger participants and ensure they have good quality dry suits. The short duration in the water (around 30-40 minutes) is manageable for most kids. The sheer novelty of floating between continents and the incredible visibility can be a captivating experience for curious young minds.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for off-season deals or mid-week tours, which might be slightly cheaper. While some reviews suggest the experience is '100% worth the money,' it's also wise to research thoroughly and compare prices between operators. Consider if the unique geological aspect justifies the cost for your travel style.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Many guides are happy to take photos for you, but having your own camera allows for more creative control. Experiment with wide-angle shots to capture the vastness of the fissure and the surrounding landscape. The vibrant blue and green hues of the water are a photographer's dream, so focus on capturing that ethereal glow.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology of Silfra: A Tectonic Wonder
The water in Silfra is sourced from glacial meltwater from Langjökull glacier, which travels underground for decades through porous lava rock. This natural filtration process results in exceptionally pure and clear water, offering unparalleled visibility. The water is so clean that it's safe to drink directly from the fissure, a rare and remarkable experience. The constant flow and filtration contribute to the stable, frigid temperature of 2-4°C (35-39°F) year-round.
While the popular snorkeling and diving spots are within the fissure, it's important to note that the actual continental separation is a broader geological phenomenon. The fissure offers a tangible, albeit localized, experience of being between two continents. The vibrant blues and greens are enhanced by the sunlight filtering through the water and the algae that grow on the rocks, creating a surreal and breathtaking underwater environment.
Preparing for the Cold: Dry Suit Diving and Snorkeling
Crucially, wearing the right undergarments is key to comfort. Tour operators typically provide a thermal suit or 'pajamas' to wear beneath the dry suit, along with thick wool socks. Visitors are strongly advised to wear their own thermal base layers (long johns and a long-sleeved top) and warm, non-cotton socks. Avoid cotton, as it loses its insulating properties when wet and can make you feel colder.
Despite the cold, many visitors are pleasantly surprised by how warm they remain. The dry suit is highly effective, and the adrenaline of the unique experience often helps. However, extremities like hands and face can still feel the chill. Wearing warm gloves and a hood (usually provided) is essential. The sensation of floating in crystal-clear, icy water while remaining mostly dry is a truly unforgettable aspect of visiting Silfra.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit