Best Snorkeling Tours in Iceland
Discover the largest selection of snorkeling tours in Iceland. Swim between two tectonic plates in the pristine waters of Silfra ravine.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I snorkel between tectonic plates in Iceland?
Yes! You can snorkel in the Silfra fissure at Thingvellir National Park which is located between the massive Eurasian Plate and the North American Plate.
How deep is the Silfra fissure?
At its deepest, the Silfra fissure is 200 feet deep (60 meters); and on a snorkeling tour, you will float on the crystal clear water, being able to see deep into the fissure.
During a diving experience in Silfra, you would go up to 40 feet (12 meters) deep into the water.
During a diving experience in Silfra, you would go up to 40 feet (12 meters) deep into the water.
Do I need prior snorkeling experience to participate in a tour in Iceland?
While prior snorkeling experience can be helpful, it is not mandatory for most snorkeling tours in Silfra Fissure. Tour operators provide a safety briefing and basic snorkeling instructions before the tour. However, participants must be comfortable swimming and meet certain age, height, and weight requirements. Make sure to check the tour description for further details.
Can I meet the guides at the Silfra snorkeling location in Iceland?
Yes, though the specific meeting point will differ with each operator. Some may wish to meet you at the nearby visitor's center, others in Silfra car park. Make sure to read the tour description carefully to know the correct meeting point. You can also contact us at info@guidetoiceland.is if you need further information.
When is the best time to go snorkeling in Iceland?
Snorkeling tours at Silfra Fissure operate year-round, with water temperatures remaining fairly consistent between 35-37°F (2-3°C). However, the air temperature and weather conditions may be more favorable during summer. Keep in mind that Silfra can be busier during peak season, so booking in advance is recommended.
Can I take underwater photos during a snorkeling tour in Iceland?
Yes, you can take underwater photos during your snorkeling tour in Iceland. If you have a waterproof camera or a waterproof case for your phone, you are free to capture the stunning underwater scenery.
Some of the tours include underwater photography as part of the experience or rent out GoPro cameras to participants for an additional fee, such as this drysuit snorkeling tour with underwater photos.
Some of the tours include underwater photography as part of the experience or rent out GoPro cameras to participants for an additional fee, such as this drysuit snorkeling tour with underwater photos.
Do I need to know how to swim when snorkeling in Silfra?
Yes, all participants must know how to swim when snorkeling in Silfra. Even though the drysuits are very floatable, participants must be physically fit enough to navigate the water during the tour.
Is the water cold when snorkeling in Silfra?
The water in Silfra is a consistent 2-3°C (35-37°F), year-round. Because Silfra has a light current running through it, the fissure never freezes, not even during the winter.
Do you need to wear a drysuit when snorkeling in Silfra?
Most operators require you to wear a drysuit, although some will also let you snorkel in a wetsuit. There are no options to snorkel without protective equipment, however, as the water in Silfra is far too cold.
Are there any snorkeling tours in the ocean surrounding Iceland?
No, all snorkeling tours in Iceland take place in Silfra fissure at Thingvellir National Park.
Is the water drinkable in Silfra?
Yes, the water in Silfra is drinkable and delicious.
How long does my snorkeling tour at Silfra last?
The tour lasts at least two hours when snorkeling in Silfra fissure, with snorkeling time ranging between 30 and 45 minutes.
Is it possible to negotiate about the age limit for snorkeling in Silfra?
No, the tour operators need to adhere to Icelandic law, which states that you must be 12 years of age in order to take part in snorkeling in Iceland.
Is there fish in the Silfra fissure?
Compared to other snorkeling sites that are abundant with wildlife, the appeal of diving in Silfra is its crystal clear water, exploring geological formations, and the overall uniqueness of diving between tectonic plates. However, some small fish may reside there such as the diminutive Dwarf Char, but mostly they stay in the depth near the rocks so they are unlikely to be spotted by snorkelers.
What is the visibility like when snorkeling in Silfra Fissure?
Silfra fissure is known for its exceptional underwater visibility, which can exceed 328 feet (100 meters) on a clear day. The crystal-clear water is a result of the slow filtration of meltwater from the nearby Langjokull glacier through the porous volcanic rock, which can take over 100 years to reach the ravine.
What other equipment will I use when snorkeling in Silfra?
Alongside the drysuit, you will wear a pair of neoprene gloves, a neoprene hood, a pair of fins, and a snorkeling mask when snorkeling in Silfra.
Will my snorkeling tour in Silfra be cancelled if it's raining or snowing?
No, tours at Silfra will go ahead unless extremely strong winds warrant a cancellation. If you have any questions regarding this, please contact the tour operator directly or email our team at info@guidetoiceland.is.
What should I wear for a snorkeling tour in Iceland?
Due to the cold water temperatures, the tour operator provides participants with a dry suit or a thick wetsuit, gloves, a hood, and snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, and fins). It is essential to wear warm, thin layers of clothing, such as thermal or fleece, under the dry suit, and bring a change of clothes and a towel for after the snorkeling experience.
Can I participate in a snorkeling tour if I wear glasses or contact lenses?
If you wear glasses, switching to contact lenses for your snorkeling tour is recommended, as glasses cannot be worn with the provided snorkeling masks. If you wear contact lenses, you can use them without any issues during your snorkeling experience.
How do I get to the Silfra Fissure for a snorkeling tour?
Many tour operators offer pick-up services from Reykjavik, which is approximately a 45-minute drive from Thingvellir National Park. Alternatively, you can rent a car in Iceland and drive to the Silfra Fissure yourself, but make sure to allow ample time for parking and finding the meeting point.
Are there any health or medical restrictions for participating in a snorkeling tour in Iceland?
Due to the physical nature of snorkeling and the use of dry suits, participants must be in good health and able to swim. Certain medical conditions, such as heart or lung issues, may require clearance from a doctor, and pregnant women are not advised to participate in snorkeling tours.
Additionally, there are some age, height, and weight requirements that differ between tour operators, so be sure to read the tour description carefully before booking it.
Additionally, there are some age, height, and weight requirements that differ between tour operators, so be sure to read the tour description carefully before booking it.
Can I scuba dive instead of snorkeling in Iceland?
Yes, it is possible to go scuba diving in Silfra Fissure, but participants must hold a valid dry suit diving certification or have logged at least 10 dry suit dives within the last two years.
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