Silfra Snorkeling: Swim Between Continents in Thingvellir National Park
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Should be comfortable with basic swimming and able to walk short uneven terrain; good mobility for gearing up and a brief hike.
Overview
Float between continents in the crystalline fissure of Silfra at Þingvellir National Park. This guided drysuit snorkeling trip combines geologic spectacle, strict conservation, and an intimate 30–45 minute underwater drift.
Silfra Snorkeling: Swim Between Continents in Thingvellir National Park
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You stand at the lip of a crack in the earth and the water below seems like liquid glass — so clear it feels like a window into the planet. The guides unzip the heated van and hand you a drysuit; the air smells of cold stone and hot cocoa. In a short walk your feet will meet the brink of Silfra, the fissure where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart, and the Atlantic’s filtered meltwater will dare you to float between them.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Dress in layers for thermal comfort
Wear long thermal underwear and wool socks under the provided drysuit to stay warm in 2–4°C water; changing vans are heated but base layers matter.
Bring an extra set of dry clothes
A waterproof bag and a warm dry change of clothes will make the post-snorkel hot cocoa infinitely more enjoyable.
Arrive 15 minutes early to check in
The briefing and gear fitting take about an hour; arriving early keeps the schedule smooth and gives time to save offline map locations in case of poor reception.
Avoid lotions and sunscreen before the dive
Any topical products can contaminate the fissure’s clear water and are not permitted — apply them afterwards if needed.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Arctic char in Þingvallavatn (visible from shore)
- Migratory waterfowl and ducks around the lake
History
Þingvellir was the site of Iceland’s Alþingi, established in 930 AD, where chieftains met on the exposed rock ledges; the rift itself marks the divergent boundary between two continental plates.
Conservation
Silfra’s clarity depends on decades of natural filtration; park rules limit groups, ban sunscreens and touching underwater life — follow guides and stay on designated paths to protect the fragile ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in Reykjavik
Recommended Gear
Thermal base layers (wool or synthetic)
Keeps you warm under the drysuit during the 30–45 minute swim in near-freezing water.
Thick wool socks
Worn under the drysuit boots to add insulation and comfort.
Waterproof bag or dry sack
Protects your clothes and electronics while you’re in the water and during the short hike to the fissure.
Action camera with housing
Captures underwater clarity and rift formations — confirm housing specs with the operator beforehand.