Silfra: Wetsuit Snorkeling Tour & Underwater Photos Pickup

Summary

Snorkel Silfra fissure in wetsuit with Reykjavik pickup small group

You’ll slip into a wetsuit and snorkel between tectonic plates at Silfra fissure with a small group and local guide from Reykjavik. Expect glacially clear water, surreal underwater views, laughter over hot chocolate after you dry off — plus downloadable underwater photos to remember it by.

What’s the experience like?

“If you get thirsty down there, just drink the water — it’s probably cleaner than your tap at home,” our guide Einar grinned as he handed me a wetsuit that looked like it belonged to a superhero. I tried not to think about how cold Icelandic glacier water could actually feel. The drive out from Reykjavik was quiet, except for Einar pointing out where the tectonic plates meet — “That’s America on your left, Europe on your right.” It was raining lightly when we arrived at Silfra, but honestly, I barely noticed with all the nerves and excitement.

The wetsuit felt snug in a way that made me laugh — my friend needed help zipping up and we both looked ridiculous but somehow brave. Einar gave us a safety talk (I zoned out for a second watching steam rise off the mossy rocks), then we shuffled down to the fissure. The first shock of cold water hit my face and I almost gasped through my snorkel, but after a minute it was just… clear. Like floating in liquid glass between two continents. You can see forever down there — blue and green shifting with every ripple. At one point I tasted the water like Einar suggested, and yeah, it really is weirdly sweet.

I kept drifting behind the group because I couldn’t stop staring at the light flickering over lava rocks below. There’s this hush underwater — just your own bubbles and maybe someone laughing through their snorkel nearby. Einar snapped photos of us looking half-terrified, half-thrilled (he promised we’d get them later). When we finally climbed out, hands numb but grinning like fools, someone passed around hot chocolate that tasted better than any fancy café in Reykjavik. I still think about that view under the surface.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling tour at Silfra fissure

• Depart from Reykjavík accommodation
• Drive 45 minutes to Silfra
• Meet certified guide and get briefing
• Gear up and listen to safety overview
• Snorkel in Silfra fissure for 30–40 minutes
• Exit water and walk back 5 minutes
• Warm up with hot chocolate
• Receive underwater photos for download

Top questions

How long does the Silfra snorkeling tour take from Reykjavik?

The whole trip takes about 4–5 hours including 45 minutes each way for transport from Reykjavik to Silfra fissure.

Is hotel pickup included for this Silfra snorkeling tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik are included with your booking.

Do I need prior snorkeling experience for Silfra?

No previous snorkeling or diving experience is required but being comfortable in water is important.

What should I wear under the wetsuit for Silfra?

You should wear your swimsuit underneath and bring thick wool socks to help keep your feet warm while snorkeling.

Are underwater photos included in this tour?

Yes, underwater photos will be taken during your snorkeling session and shared with you free of charge afterward.

How cold is the water at Silfra fissure?

The glacial water temperature stays around 2–4°C (35–39°F) year-round.

Can members of my group choose different suit options?

Yes, some can book wetsuits while others choose drysuits for the same time slot; you’ll still be together as a group.

Is hot chocolate provided after snorkeling?

Yes, hot chocolate is served after you finish snorkeling at Silfra.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Reykjavik, all necessary snorkeling equipment (wetsuit option), guidance from a certified instructor or Divemaster throughout your time at Silfra fissure, free downloadable underwater photos taken during your swim between tectonic plates, plus hot chocolate to warm up before heading back to town.