Snorkel Between Continents: Silfra Drysuit Experience from Reykjavík
Float between tectonic plates in water so clear it feels like flying. This drysuit snorkeling trip to Silfra in Þingvellir National Park combines geology, history and unparalleled visibility—plus guided photos to take home.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer well under the drysuit
Bring long thermal base layers and thick wool socks—dry suits block water but you still need insulation for cold feet and core warmth.
Arrive prepared for pick-up
Be ready 90 minutes before the scheduled tour start; transfers from Reykjavík can take up to an hour to the park.
Provide accurate body measurements
Operators require height, weight and age in advance to fit suits properly—missing info can delay or cancel participation.
Skip glasses in the water
Do not wear regular glasses; bring contact lenses or your own prescription mask to avoid fogging and discomfort.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the Almannagjá gorge trail for dramatic rift-line views without the crowds
- •Stop at Öxarárfoss waterfall nearby for a compact, photogenic cascade framed by tectonic walls
Wildlife
- •Whooper swan (on Þingvallavatn)
- •Arctic fox (rare; more likely to spot birdlife than mammals)
Conservation Note
Silfra and Þingvellir are protected; operators limit group sizes and follow strict rules—do not touch the water bed or disturb moss and shoreline to preserve the fragile ecosystem.
Þingvellir hosted Iceland's Alþingi from 930 AD, making the area both a geological rift and the country’s political birthplace.
Photographer's Notes
- • Entry platform and shoreline for framed shots of snorkelers
- • Along Almannagjá gorge to capture rift cliffs and the park
- • Öxarárfoss waterfall for contrasting water textures
What to Bring
Thermal base layers (top and bottom)Essential
Keeps you warm under the drysuit and prevents heat loss while stationary in cold air or water.
Thick wool socksEssential
Wool retains insulating properties when damp and protects feet inside booties.
Prescription snorkel mask or contact lenses
If you wear glasses, a prescription mask or contacts lets you see the surreal underwater features clearly.
Waterproof daypack and quick-change towelEssential
Useful for transporting thermal layers and drying off after the snorkel, especially in cold weather.
Common Questions
How cold is the water in Silfra?
Water is near glacial temperatures year-round (about 2–4°C / 35–39°F), which is why drysuits are recommended for comfort and safety.
Do I need snorkeling experience?
No prior snorkeling experience is required, but participants must be comfortable in open water and able to swim.
Are photos included?
Yes—guides take 40–100 underwater photos depending on group size; images are available to download a few days after the tour.
What are the age and health restrictions?
Minimum age is 12; participants over 65 need physician approval. The tour is not recommended for pregnant people or those with serious heart or spinal conditions.
What should I wear to the meeting point?
Dress for Icelandic weather: warm, windproof outer layers and sturdy shoes. Bring a hat and gloves even in summer—the air near the lake is cold.
Can the tour be canceled for weather?
Yes. Tours may be canceled for safety reasons, insufficient participants, or extreme weather—full refunds are offered if canceled 24 hours prior.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Thingvellir, Capital Region
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable swimming and able to stand and walk on uneven, wet ground; average fitness is sufficient.
Topics
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