Silfra Fissure

The Basics

Many visitors see the Silfra fissure during trips to Thingvellir National Park. To truly appreciate the fissure, it’s best to go diving or snorkeling in the transparent water, which is lined with volcanic rocks.

Only PADI-qualified divers with dry-suit certification can dive in the fissure, but snorkeling is available to all travelers, even those with no prior experience. Guided snorkeling tours of the fissure typically depart from Reykjavik. Some organized tours include other activities, such as spelunking in Gjábakkahellir or Leiðarendi lava caves. Other tours make stops along the Golden Circle at sights including Haukadalur, a geothermal valley home to Gullfoss waterfall and the great geyser and nearby Strokkur.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Silfra fissure is a must for adventurous travelers.

• The water temperature in the fissure hovers around 37.5°F (3°C). Tour operators provide dry suits to keep participants warm.

• Participants must be able to swim and be in good health.

How to Get There

The Silfra fissure is located within Thingvellir National Park, the UNESCO World Heritage Site where the world’s first parliament met in the 10th century. Driving from Reykjavik to the fissure takes around an hour.

When to Get There

Because the water that feeds Silfra travels underground, it maintains a constant temperature and doesn’t freeze over. For this reason, snorkeling and diving tours are available year-round. Silfra is busier in summer; get there early in the day when crowds are thinner.

The Underwater World at Silfra

The Silfra fissure isn’t home to a multitude of marine life—most fish prefer the warmer waters of Thingvellir lake—but it is a breeding ground for many different types of algae. It also boasts some of the clearest waters in the world, with the natural purification process ensuring divers enjoy visibility exceeding 328 feet (100 meters).

Ways to explore

You can hike to Silfra while visiting Thingvellir National Park, but to truly appreciate its transparent water—and for the unique experience of swimming between two continents—see it on a snorkeling tour. Only experienced divers with dry suit certification can join scuba tours of the fissure, while snorkeling is available to most travelers.

Half-day Silfra snorkeling tours show you the fissure’s most impressive rock formations and underwater-photography spots, and they often include transportation from Reykjavik. Longer tours include other activities, such as spelunking in the Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel or exploring the Gullfoss waterfall and other stops along the Golden Circle.

Accessibility

Tours of the Silfra Fissure are generally not wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

Silfra snorkeling and scuba tours often have a minimum age requirement of 12 years old, and participants over 60 may need prior approval from a doctor.

What to pack

Many tours provide snorkeling gear and wet suits or dry suits, but read the description carefully to confirm what’s included. Bring your own water, snacks, and dry suit certification (if applicable).

What to wear

It’s best to wear long thermal underwear and thick wool socks under a dry suit—but bring a change of warm, waterproof clothes suitable for Iceland’s chilly weather to put on after your dive.

Not allowed

Rules vary by tour, but most don’t allow pets, alcohol, or smoking.

Amenities

Thingvellir National Park has restrooms, a visitor center, a café, and paid parking.

Address

The Silfra Fissure is located within Thingvellir National Park, a short walk from the visitor center and parking area. Driving from Reykjavik to the park takes about an hour, or you can join a guided tour with round-trip transportation included.

Driving

From Reykjavik, drive about 31 miles (50 kilometers) northeast on Route 36 toward Vallarvegur. You’ll find paid parking at the visitor center, from where you can walk to the Silfra entry point.

Public transportation

There’s no direct public bus route from Reykjavik to Thingvellir National Park. While you could take the 15 bus to Varmárskóli, followed by a pricey taxi to the park, it’s most convenient to join a guided tour departing from Reykjavik.

Best times to visit

Silfra snorkeling tours often start before 12pm, leaving you with enough time to hike, fish, and explore other parts of Thingvellir National Park on a day trip from Reykjavik.

Best days to visit

Thingvellir National Park is open every day, but weekend crowds can be heavy. Aim to visit Silfra on a weekday morning for the most tranquil experience.

Best months to visit

The water temperature in the Silfra Fissure remains constant year-round, so you can snorkel any time. To see more of Thingvellir National Park, go in the summer, when most trails are open.