Silfra Snorkeling Pond

"Snorkeling at Silfra in Iceland is a unique and exhilarating experience that attracts adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts from around the world. Silfra is a fissure located in Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site situated about 45 minutes from Reykjavík. Here's what you need to know about snorkeling at Silfra: Crystal Clear Waters: Silfra is renowned for its exceptionally clear glacial waters, offering visibility of up to 100 meters (328 feet). The water in Silfra is sourced from Langjökull, Iceland's second-largest glacier, and is filtered through volcanic rocks for decades before reaching the fissure. This clarity provides an otherworldly experience, allowing snorkelers to see the mesmerizing underwater landscape with incredible detail. Continental Divide: Silfra is situated between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, which are drifting apart at a rate of approximately 2 centimeters per year. This unique geological feature gives snorkelers the opportunity to swim between two continents, making it one of the only places in the world where you can snorkel or dive directly in a rift between tectonic plates. Challenging Conditions: Snorkeling at Silfra is considered a cold-water activity, with water temperatures ranging between 2 to 4 degrees Celsius (35 to 39 degrees Fahrenheit) year-round. It is essential to wear a drysuit, which provides insulation and keeps you dry during the dive. Snorkelers are provided with all the necessary equipment, including drysuits, hoods, gloves, and fins, to ensure a safe and comfortable experience. Geological Wonders: The underwater landscape at Silfra is awe-inspiring, with its dramatic rock formations, narrow passages, and vibrant colors. Snorkelers will encounter various geological features, such as the Silfra Hall, Silfra Cathedral, and Silfra Lagoon. The visibility allows you to appreciate the geological formations and the mesmerizing shades of blue that are created by the sunlight filtering through the water. Guided Tours: Snorkeling at Silfra is typically done through guided tours led by experienced and certified instructors. The guides will provide you with safety instructions, help you with the equipment, and lead you through the snorkeling route, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Most tours require participants to be comfortable swimmers and have a minimum age requirement, typically around 12 years old. Snorkeling at Silfra offers a truly unforgettable experience to explore the remarkable underwater world of Iceland's tectonic plate boundary. It's a chance to immerse yourself in pristine glacial waters and witness the geological wonders found only in this part of the world."

"If you’re looking for an adventure that will take your breath away, then snorkeling the gap between the continental plates in Iceland is a must-do. Here, you get to experience something few people have ever had the chance to – plunging into a body of water and discovering two continents splitting. It's like traveling through time and space, with nature constantly reminding us of its untamed power on both sides of this divide. Not only do you get an adrenaline rush while exploring these crystal-clear waters, but it's also incredibly beautiful and serene - perfect for capturing some amazing photos!"

"One of the coolest and coldest experiences of our trip! Silfra diving is permitted in two submerged rifts in the Thingvellir National Park between Silfra and Davidsgja. Silfra is one of the best spots for diving in Iceland and many people find the rift unique on an international scale as it sits between Europe's and North America's tectonic plates. The reason for its fame is the astounding visibility in the clear, cold ground water, the ability to drink the water while snorkeling, and the magnificent surroundings."