10
Amazing!
Noah Hellaby
Review of Free Diving and Snorkeling Tour in Silfra With a Wetsuit
It was super fun. To be able to dive down and have a new world open in front of you is amazing. So much better than snorkeling. I totally recommend this!
Best Diving Tours in Iceland
Dive between continents with the largest selection of diving tours at the lowest prices guaranteed!
Best Diving Tours in Iceland — Largest Selection & Cheapest Prices Guaranteed
Choose an underwater adventure with Iceland's largest selection of diving tours. Explore the depths of Silfra and swim between tectonic plates by booking these amazing diving tours in Iceland.
Find a unique experience
Select starting location
Select dates
Starting dateFinal date
Add travelers
1 traveler
Diving Tours
Refine the results by using the filters
Sort by: Popular
We offer so much more
Explore an unequalled wealth of tours and packages
Verified customer reviews
Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world
Diving in Iceland: All you need to know
Diving in Iceland is an unforgettable experience, offering some of the clearest waters in the world. Unlike tropical dive sites, Iceland’s underwater landscapes are shaped by glacial meltwater and tectonic activity. The most famous dive site is Silfra fissure, located in Thingvellir National Park, where divers can explore the rift between two continents in pristine, crystal-clear water.
Silfra fissure is one of the most unique dive sites in the world. It’s the only place where you can dive between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, experiencing underwater visibility of over 328 feet (100 meters). Diving here offers an unparalleled experience, with divers gliding through the crystal-clear water and exploring the colorful and dramatic rock formations that line the rift.
With Silfra water temperatures ranging from 35–39°F (2–4°C) year-round, the experience is both exhilarating and refreshing. It's a must-do for avid divers, no matter the season!
What to Know About Diving in Silfra Fissure in Iceland
The Silfra fissure is located within Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's known for its geological significance where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet, as well as its rich history as the founding site of Iceland’s parliament, the oldest parliament in the world.
With its stunning landscapes of lava fields, crystal-clear lakes, and scenic vistas, Thingvellir National Park is an integral stop on Golden Circle tours, alongside the Geysir geothermal area and Gullfoss waterfall. Diving in Silfra adds a unique adventure to this iconic route.
To dive in Silfra fissure, you'll need a SCUBA certification (PADI Open Water or equivalent). Diving in Iceland can be physically demanding due to the cold water conditions, so all divers must sign a medical statement before their tour. If you have any underlying health conditions, such as neurological, circulatory, or respiratory issues, you may need a doctor's approval note.
Additionally, divers over 45 who smoke, have high cholesterol, or a family history of heart problems, as well as those over 60, will need medical clearance to participate. Tour operators provide all the necessary gear to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
If you’re not diving certified or prefer a more accessible option, snorkeling tours in Silfra are a great alternative. For those looking to gain the necessary certification, you can take this PADI Dry Suit Diver Course to get certified and prepare for cold-water diving in Silfra.
Best Iceland Diving Tours
Several guided diving tours allow you to explore the Silfra fissure in Iceland. Whether you're interested in drysuit diving, free diving, or even night diving, these tours offer a variety of ways to experience Iceland’s unique underwater world.
- Free Diving and Snorkeling Tour in Silfra With a Wetsuit: For those looking for an immersive experience, this tour allows you to free dive in Silfra with a wetsuit, giving you direct contact with the pristine glacial water.
- Diving Tour in Silfra With Drysuit and Hot Drinks: A guided drysuit diving tour in Silfra, ideal for certified divers looking to explore the world-famous fissure. Your experienced guide will lead you through the best sections of the fissure, and afterward, you can warm up with hot drinks.
- 1-Hour Drysuit Diving Tour in Silfra with Hot Drinks with Transfer from Reykjavik: This tour includes round-trip transportation from Reykjavik, making it a great option for travelers who don’t have their own rental car. Enjoy a hassle-free experience as you dive in Silfra with expert guides and all necessary equipment provided.
- 4-Hour Nighttime Free Dive at the Silfra Fissure with Experienced Guides & Hot Drinks: A unique way to experience Silfra, this nighttime free dive takes place under the glow of the midnight sun in summer or moon and stars in winter. You’ll witness a completely different atmosphere!
- 8-Hour Diving Tour at Silfra and Davidsgja Fissures with Transfer from Reykjavik: This full-day tour is perfect for divers looking for more exploration. In addition to diving in Silfra, you’ll visit Davidsgja, another stunning fissure within Thingvellir National Park. This lesser-known dive site offers a wider passage and a slightly deeper experience, making for an exciting second dive.
Other Diving Locations in Iceland
While the Silfra fissure is the most famous diving and snorkeling location in Iceland, there are several other unique spots worth exploring for diving lovers.
- Strytan (Eyjafjordur fjord, North Iceland) - This diving spot features hydrothermal chimneys that release warm freshwater into the fjord, with water temperatures ranging from 41–50°F (5–10°C).
- Kleifarvatn lake (Reykjanes peninsula) - Divers can see geothermal activity firsthand, with bubbles and warm water rising from the lakebed, offering a dynamic underwater landscape.
- Gardur (Reykjanes peninsula) - Known for its kelp forests, rocky reefs, and marine life, Gardur is a good spot for underwater photography.
- Litlaa river (North Iceland) - Litlaa offers a comfortable snorkeling experience with water temperatures between 57–64°F (14–18°C), featuring vibrant plant life and warm currents.
- El Grillo "The Cricket" Wreck (Seydisfjordur, East Iceland) - The wreck of this sunken British oil tanker from the Second World War offers a glimpse into wartime history but is currently inaccessible due to a recent oil spill.
Experience a True Underwater Adventure in Iceland
Diving in Silfra fissure is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering the unique opportunity to explore the rift between two tectonic plates in some of the clearest water on Earth. With its unparalleled visibility, crystal-clear glacial water, and the chance to dive between the North American and Eurasian continents, Silfra is a must-visit for any diving enthusiast.
Whether you’re a certified diver or prefer snorkeling, Silfra’s stunning underwater landscapes and rich geological history make it a truly unforgettable destination. Explore the selection of diving tours in Iceland for an underwater adventure.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best dive tours in Iceland?
Diving in Iceland offers the chance to explore a magical underwater world, and these are the best diving tours to choose from.
1. Free Diving and Snorkeling Tour in Silfra With a Wetsuit: Experience the Silfra fissure up close while free diving in its crystal-clear waters.
2. Diving Tour in Silfra With Drysuit and Hot Drinks: This popular drysuit diving tour takes you through the stunning Silfra fissure, followed by hot drinks to warm up afterward.
3. Guided 1 Hour Drysuit Diving Tour in Silfra with Hot Drinks with Transfer from Reykjavik: This tour offers a one-hour drysuit dive in Silfra and the chance to enjoy hot drinks afterward, with a convenient transfer from Reykjavik.
1. Free Diving and Snorkeling Tour in Silfra With a Wetsuit: Experience the Silfra fissure up close while free diving in its crystal-clear waters.
2. Diving Tour in Silfra With Drysuit and Hot Drinks: This popular drysuit diving tour takes you through the stunning Silfra fissure, followed by hot drinks to warm up afterward.
3. Guided 1 Hour Drysuit Diving Tour in Silfra with Hot Drinks with Transfer from Reykjavik: This tour offers a one-hour drysuit dive in Silfra and the chance to enjoy hot drinks afterward, with a convenient transfer from Reykjavik.
What are the cheapest dive tours in Iceland?
Silfra diving prices don't have to break the bank. These are the most affordable diving tours in Iceland.
1. Free Diving and Snorkeling Tour in Silfra With a Wetsuit: Experience Silfra fissure while free diving in its crystal-clear waters, with the added bonus of a wetsuit for comfort.
2. Extreme 4-Hour Silfra Diving Tour at Thingvellir National Park: This 4-hour diving tour offers an in-depth exploration of Silfra with a guide.
3. Unforgettable 4-Hour Nighttime Free Dive at the Silfra Fissure with Experienced Guides & Hot Drinks: A unique nighttime dive through Silfra, with expert guides and the chance to warm up with hot drinks after an unforgettable experience.
1. Free Diving and Snorkeling Tour in Silfra With a Wetsuit: Experience Silfra fissure while free diving in its crystal-clear waters, with the added bonus of a wetsuit for comfort.
2. Extreme 4-Hour Silfra Diving Tour at Thingvellir National Park: This 4-hour diving tour offers an in-depth exploration of Silfra with a guide.
3. Unforgettable 4-Hour Nighttime Free Dive at the Silfra Fissure with Experienced Guides & Hot Drinks: A unique nighttime dive through Silfra, with expert guides and the chance to warm up with hot drinks after an unforgettable experience.
Is it worth it to go diving in Iceland?
Yes, diving in Iceland is a must for adventure seekers! The Silfra fissure, located in Thingvellir National Park, offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to dive between two tectonic plates (North American and Eurasian) in some of the clearest water in the world. With visibility up to 328 feet (100 meters), you’ll see breathtaking rock formations and unique underwater landscapes, making it a memorable experience for certified divers.
Snorkeling tours are an incredible alternative if you don't have a diving certification.
Snorkeling tours are an incredible alternative if you don't have a diving certification.
Am I physically fit to dive in Iceland? What requirements are there?
Diving in Silfra requires a good level of physical fitness due to the cold water conditions. All participants must complete a medical statement before the tour, and certain health conditions—such as neurological, circulatory, or respiratory issues—may require a doctor's approval. If you are over 45 and smoke, have high cholesterol, or have a family history of heart disease, you’ll also need medical clearance. Additionally, all divers over 60 must provide a doctor’s approval to participate.
To join a diving tour, you must have a SCUBA certification (PADI Open Water or equivalent) along with a drysuit certification or proof of recent drysuit diving experience. If you’re not certified, snorkeling in Silfra is a great alternative, or you can complete a PADI Dry Suit Diver Course to qualify for cold-water diving in Iceland.
To join a diving tour, you must have a SCUBA certification (PADI Open Water or equivalent) along with a drysuit certification or proof of recent drysuit diving experience. If you’re not certified, snorkeling in Silfra is a great alternative, or you can complete a PADI Dry Suit Diver Course to qualify for cold-water diving in Iceland.
Is a diving certification required for participating in dive tours in Iceland?
Yes, a diving certification is required for participating in most dive tours in Iceland. Divers typically need to present a valid PADI Open Water certificate or its equivalent.
Do I need to have drysuit experience to dive in Iceland?
Yes, you must be able to provide evidence of previous dry suit experience within the last two years to dive in Iceland.
However, those with time can take this PADI drysuit diver course and become certified during their stay in Iceland. Always check the details of your individual dive tour and contact us at info@guidetoiceland.is with any questions.
However, those with time can take this PADI drysuit diver course and become certified during their stay in Iceland. Always check the details of your individual dive tour and contact us at info@guidetoiceland.is with any questions.
What is the difference between scuba diving and free diving?
Scuba diving and free diving are two very different ways of exploring underwater. Scuba diving uses a tank of compressed air, allowing divers to stay underwater for extended periods while breathing through a regulator. It requires certification, specialized equipment, and training to ensure safety, especially in cold-water environments like Silfra.
Free diving, on the other hand, relies on holding your breath rather than using an air tank. It requires strong breath control and good swimming skills but does not require heavy equipment. Free divers typically wear wetsuits for insulation and use weight belts to help with buoyancy. While free diving allows for more freedom of movement, it also has depth and time limitations compared to scuba diving.
Free diving, on the other hand, relies on holding your breath rather than using an air tank. It requires strong breath control and good swimming skills but does not require heavy equipment. Free divers typically wear wetsuits for insulation and use weight belts to help with buoyancy. While free diving allows for more freedom of movement, it also has depth and time limitations compared to scuba diving.
What is the difference between a wetsuit and a drysuit?
Wetsuits and drysuits are both used to keep divers warm, but they work in different ways. Wetsuits are made of neoprene and allow a thin layer of water to enter, which the body then warms up to provide insulation. They are best for milder water temperatures and provide more flexibility for activities like free diving.
Drysuits, on the other hand, are fully waterproof and keep the diver completely dry by sealing out water. They require additional layers underneath for insulation and are great for diving in cold environments like Silfra, where water temperatures stay between 2–4°C (36–39°F) year-round. Since drysuits require different buoyancy control techniques, divers need certification or documented experience to use them on guided tours in Iceland.
Drysuits, on the other hand, are fully waterproof and keep the diver completely dry by sealing out water. They require additional layers underneath for insulation and are great for diving in cold environments like Silfra, where water temperatures stay between 2–4°C (36–39°F) year-round. Since drysuits require different buoyancy control techniques, divers need certification or documented experience to use them on guided tours in Iceland.
How long will my diving tour in Silfra last?
The dive can last from half an hour to an hour in the water. However, there is a wide variety of diving tours to choose from that offer different experiences.
This extraordinary wetsuit free-dive trip in Silfra lasts about four hours, while this drysuit dive lasts three hours and includes a hot drink to warm you up afterward.
This extraordinary wetsuit free-dive trip in Silfra lasts about four hours, while this drysuit dive lasts three hours and includes a hot drink to warm you up afterward.
Can you scuba dive in Silfra during winter time?
Yes, Iceland scuba diving tours in Silfra operate year-round.
What is the water temperature in Silfra?
Silfra fissure in Iceland has a relatively constant temperature of 36-39°F (2-4°C) all year round, so you can dive there in summer and winter.
What is the water visibility in Silfra?
The water in Iceland's Silfra gorge is among the clearest in the world, with water visibility between 262 and 328 feet (80 and 100 meters).
Are there any other dive sites in Iceland except Silfra?
Yes, Iceland has several other dive sites besides Silfra. However, most other dive sites do not have organized tours as they require extensive scuba diving experience. If you are an experienced diver looking for adventure, you can learn more with this guide to scuba diving and snorkeling in Iceland.
If you want to earn your PADI dry suit diver certification on your vacation, Iceland is the perfect place to learn from experienced divers and explore magical underwater worlds.
If you want to earn your PADI dry suit diver certification on your vacation, Iceland is the perfect place to learn from experienced divers and explore magical underwater worlds.
What are the group sizes for diving tours in Iceland?
Group sizes for diving tours in Iceland are typically small, often limited to six to eight divers per guide to ensure safety and a more personalized experience. Smaller groups also allow for better interaction with the guide and easier navigation of unique dive sites like Silfra.
What type of diving gear is provided on Icelandic dive tours, and what should I bring?
Icelandic dive tours usually provide essential gear such as dry suits, regulators, masks, fins, and weights. Divers should bring their certification card, long underwear under a drysuit or swimwear under a wetsuit, and a towel. Make sure to check the tour description for specific gear requirements or recommendations.
Are there any age restrictions for diving tours in Iceland?
Yes, most diving tours in Iceland have age restrictions, typically requiring divers to be 18 years or older. However, some operators may allow divers as young as 12 with parental consent and appropriate certification.
How do I prepare for a dive tour in Iceland's cold water conditions?
To prepare for a dive in Iceland's cold waters, ensure you are comfortable using a drysuit or receive drysuit training beforehand. Acclimatizing to cold water and staying well-hydrated is also essential. It's advisable to have good physical fitness and familiarity with cold-water diving techniques.
What marine life can I expect to see while diving in Iceland?
While diving in Iceland, you may not encounter much marine life due to the cold water conditions. However, divers can see fascinating underwater formations, algae, and small fish species. The unique underwater landscapes are the main attraction rather than the marine life.
Are there dive tours available for both beginners and experienced divers in Iceland?
Dive tours in Iceland cater to a range of experience levels, from beginners to advanced divers. However, due to the challenging conditions, even beginner tours often require participants to have some prior diving experience or certification.
Snorkeling tours may be better suited to those with little-to-no experience, such as this best-rated Silfra snorkeling tour from Reykjavik.
Snorkeling tours may be better suited to those with little-to-no experience, such as this best-rated Silfra snorkeling tour from Reykjavik.
What is the best time of year to go diving in Iceland?
Diving in Iceland can be done year-round, but the best visibility and conditions are typically found in the summer, from June to August. Winter diving is also popular for the clarity of the water, though it requires a higher tolerance for cold conditions.
How can I ensure environmental responsibility while diving in Iceland?
To dive responsibly in Iceland, follow the principles of 'leave no trace.' Avoid disturbing marine life and habitats, don't remove anything from dive sites, and be mindful of your environmental impact. Adhering to guidelines set by your dive operator is also crucial for conserving Iceland's delicate underwater ecosystems.
Is insurance required for diving tours in Iceland?
While insurance is not always mandatory for diving tours in Iceland, it is highly recommended to have travel or dive insurance that covers activities like cold-water diving. This provides protection in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as cancellations, accidents, or medical emergencies during the tour.
Are there dive tours that explore Iceland's volcanic underwater landscapes?
Yes, Iceland's dive tours explore unique volcanic underwater landscapes. These include diving in fissures between tectonic plates, like the famous Silfra fissure, where divers can experience the clear waters and unusual rock formations created by volcanic activity.
What safety procedures are in place for diving tours in Iceland?
Safety on diving tours in Iceland is paramount. Dive operators typically provide a thorough safety briefing, ensure divers are correctly certified, and check equipment meticulously. Guided tours ensure divers are accompanied by experienced professionals familiar with the local diving conditions and emergency procedures.
How does the weather affect diving conditions in Iceland?
Iceland’s weather can impact diving conditions, especially during winter, when strong winds, snow, or ice may limit access to dive sites or make conditions challenging. However, sites like Silfra are generally well-sheltered, ensuring consistent visibility and safe diving experiences year-round, regardless of weather fluctuations.
How experienced are the guides for Icelandic diving tours?
Guides for Icelandic diving tours are highly experienced and certified, often with extensive training in cold-water diving and dry suit use. They are knowledgeable about local dive sites, safety protocols, and the unique geology and marine life of Iceland, ensuring a safe and enriching experience.
How do I get from Reykjavik to Silfra?
Silfra is located in Thingvellir National Park, about 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik. The drive takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour, depending on road and weather conditions.
The easiest way to go to Silfra is by renting a car and following Route 1 (Ring Road) east before turning onto Route 36 toward Thingvellir National Park.
If you prefer not to drive, many guided diving and snorkeling tours offer pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik. These tours provide convenient transportation, allowing you to relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about navigation or parking.
The easiest way to go to Silfra is by renting a car and following Route 1 (Ring Road) east before turning onto Route 36 toward Thingvellir National Park.
If you prefer not to drive, many guided diving and snorkeling tours offer pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik. These tours provide convenient transportation, allowing you to relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about navigation or parking.
Install Iceland’s biggest travel app
Download Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Iceland’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.
