Dive the Divide: Scuba Between Continents at Silfra Fissure, Iceland
Float between the North American and Eurasian plates in Silfra, one of the world’s clearest dive sites. This guided dry‑suit scuba tour from Reykjavík takes you through narrow cracks, vaulted chambers and the deep Silfra Cathedral—an intense cold‑water experience that rewards careful preparation.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring thermal undergarments
The water is near freezing; bring wool or fleece undergarments to wear under the dry suit to retain body heat before and after the dive.
Show your dry‑suit credentials
You must present a dry‑suit certification or logbook with at least 10 dry‑suit dives; your most recent dive should be within two years.
Wear contacts or bring prescription mask
Glasses can’t be worn under a dive mask—use contact lenses or a prescription mask to see clearly underwater.
Plan for a short walk with gear
There’s a roughly 300‑meter (984‑foot) walk from the exit platform to the car park; be ready to carry or have help with weights and fins.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Öxarárfoss waterfall—an easy walk inside Þingvellir with framed views of the rift
- •Almannagjá ridge—dramatic exposed faultline viewpoints away from the main visitor paths
Wildlife
- •Whooper swan
- •Arctic fox (occasionally spotted)
Conservation Note
Silfra’s clarity relies on unpolluted glacial melt and strict rules—stay on marked paths, don’t use sunscreen before diving, and avoid touching submerged formations.
Þingvellir hosted Iceland’s Alþingi from 930 AD, where law and governance were conducted in the rift-floor assembly site.
Photographer's Notes
- • Silfra viewing platform above the entrance
- • Shoreline of Þingvallavatn looking toward the rift
- • Almannagjá gorge rim for faultline perspectives
What to Bring
Warm base layers (wool/fleece)Essential
Critical for insulation under the dry suit and for staying warm after the dive.
Contact lenses or prescription dive maskEssential
Necessary if you require vision correction; glasses will not fit under a dive mask.
Waterproof dry bag and spare clothesEssential
Keeps wet items contained and provides warm clothing immediately after diving.
Sturdy waterproof boots or sneakers
Useful for the 300‑meter walk from the exit platform and for icy or muddy paths around the park.
Common Questions
Do I need previous dry‑suit experience to join this dive?
Yes. Participants must show a dry‑suit certification card or a logbook with at least 10 dry‑suit dives; the most recent dive must be within two years.
How cold is the water and what suit will I use?
Water temperatures are around 2–4°C year‑round; the operator provides dry suits, but you must bring thermal undergarments.
Is pickup from Reykjavik included?
Yes—Reykjavik pickup and drop‑off at specified points are included; you must select an approved pickup location when booking.
How deep is the dive and is it suitable for beginners?
The dive reaches about 22 meters (72 feet) at the Silfra Cathedral and is not suitable for beginners; it’s rated challenging and requires prior dry‑suit dives.
Can I fly the same day after diving?
No. It’s strongly advised to wait at least 24 hours after diving before flying to reduce the risk of decompression sickness.
Are cameras allowed underwater?
Underwater photography is possible with appropriate housings, but check with guides—some groups restrict camera use to prioritize safety and streamline the dive.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Thingvellir / Reykjavik access, Capital Region
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
Should be in strong aerobic condition and comfortable carrying moderate loads and working in cold environments; able to walk short distances with gear.
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