Reykjavik: Silfra Drysuit Snorkeling Tour with Free Photos

Summary

Float between continents in crystal water, free photos included

You’ll float between tectonic plates in Silfra’s glacial fissure near Reykjavik, guided by locals who know every trick to keep you warm(ish) and smiling. Expect crystal-clear water, free underwater photos to download later, plus hot chocolate when you climb out — all with hotel pickup included. It’s cold but unforgettable in that way only Iceland can be.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I almost bailed on the Silfra drysuit snorkeling tour when I realized how tight that suit felt around my neck. Our guide, Marta, grinned and said everyone makes that face the first time. She showed me how to wiggle my fingers to check for leaks (which made me laugh because I looked like a penguin), and somehow her Icelandic calm made it all feel less weird. The drive from Reykjavik was quiet, just fog and mossy lava fields sliding by the window. I kept thinking, “Is this really where people go swimming?”

Thingvellir is wild — you can actually see where the earth splits open. Standing at the edge of Silfra fissure, I could smell wet stone and glacial water, sharp in my nose. When we finally slipped into the water (after a lot of awkward hopping in those boots), it hit me how clear everything was. Like floating through glass. Marta pointed out tiny bubbles trapped under rock ledges — she called them “elf pearls,” which cracked me up but also kind of fit. The cold seeped into my cheeks even with the drysuit, but it wasn’t as bad as I’d feared.

I tried sipping the water because someone said you could — honestly? It tasted cleaner than anything back home. My friend Li attempted to say “thank you” in Icelandic to another guide and got a full-on giggle fit in response (I still don’t know what she actually said). We drifted along for about half an hour, just slow-motion flying between continents. The silence underwater was strange but peaceful — you hear your own breath echoing in your mask. Afterward, hot chocolate never tasted so good, even if my hands were shaking a bit pouring it.

The free photos came a few days later; some are hilarious (my face is pure shock at first dip), others look almost unreal with that blue light under the surface. Not sure any souvenir could beat that. If you’re thinking about a day trip from Reykjavik that’s actually different — not just another waterfall or geyser — this is it. Just bring thick socks and maybe practice your awkward suit dance ahead of time.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Silfra snorkeling and national park visit

• Depart from Reykjavík accommodation
• Drive 45 minutes to Silfra
• Meet certified guide and gear up
• Listen to safety overview
• Snorkel in Silfra fissure for 30–40 minutes
• Walk back for 5 minutes
• Enjoy hot chocolate to warm up
• View Thingvellir National Park scenery during drive

Top questions

How long does the Silfra snorkeling tour take from Reykjavik?

The drive from Reykjavik takes about 45 minutes each way; expect around 30–40 minutes in the water plus prep time.

Is hotel pickup included for the Silfra drysuit snorkeling tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off at your Reykjavik accommodation are included.

Do I need to bring anything special for Silfra snorkeling?

You should bring your own thermal base layer and thick wool socks for warmth under the drysuit; contact lenses or prescription mask if needed.

How cold is the water at Silfra fissure?

The glacial water is very cold year-round but drysuits help keep most of your body warm; your face will feel it though!

Are underwater photos included on this tour?

Yes, free underwater photos are taken during the tour and available to download a few days later.

Can people choose wetsuit or drysuit options on this tour?

Yes, this company offers both wetsuit and drysuit options so groups can mix choices but still snorkel together.

What’s special about snorkeling at Silfra?

You snorkel between two tectonic plates in some of the clearest water on earth—visibility is often over 100 meters.

Is lunch included on this day trip from Reykjavik?

No lunch is provided but hot chocolate is served after snorkeling; eat breakfast before coming.

Are there age or health restrictions for Silfra snorkeling?

The minimum age is 12; participants over 65 need physician approval; certain health conditions may prevent participation.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Reykjavik, all necessary snorkeling equipment (drysuit or wetsuit), guiding by certified instructors, free downloadable underwater photos taken during your swim through Silfra fissure, plus hot chocolate waiting when you get out of the glacial water before heading back to town.