Silfra Fissure Iceland: Facts, History & Tours Guide
Silfra Fissure Iceland: Facts, History & Tours Guide
Stepping into the Silfra Fissure is like entering one of Iceland’s most extraordinary natural wonders. With a Silfra snorkeling tour, you’ll float through crystal-clear glacial waters between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, inside Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is not just a snorkeling experience: it’s a rare encounter with the powerful forces that continue to shape our planet.
Every guided visit offers a unique journey through a living geological rift, where visibility stretches deep into the fissure and colors shift with the light. From towering underwater rock walls to the stillness of the water itself, each section of Silfra tells a story millions of years in the making.
What Is Silfra Fissure?
Silfra Fissure is a freshwater crack in the lava fields of Þingvellir National Park, one of Iceland’s most important protected areas. What makes Silfra truly unique is its location on the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Here, you can see and swim through a geological rift that is still slowly expanding today.
Silfra is often described as “snorkeling between two continents,” but it’s more than a catchy phrase. The fissure is part of a larger system of fractures created by plate movement, and Silfra is the most accessible and famous section because of its visibility, calm conditions, and protected setting.
Silfra Fissure Facts
Location: Þingvellir National Park, Iceland, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Geological setting: Rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates
• Type of water: Fresh glacial meltwater
• Water source: Langjökull glacier
• Water temperature: Around 2–4°C (35–39°F) year-round
• Visibility: Often over 100 meters, among the clearest in the world
• Maximum depth: Approximately 18 meters (59 feet)
• Average snorkeling depth: Shallow sections suitable for beginners
• Main sections: Silfra Big Crack, Silfra Hall, Silfra Cathedral, Silfra Lagoon
• Typical in-water time: 30–45 minutes
• Total tour duration: Around 2.5–3 hours including preparation and briefing
• Access rules: Guided tours only, with licensed operators
• Protection status: Strictly regulated to preserve the fragile environment
• Best known for: Snorkeling and diving between two continental plates
How Was Silfra Fissure Formed?
Silfra was created by tectonic activity. Iceland is located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where two massive plates pull apart. Over time, this movement cracked and shifted the lava fields in Þingvellir, opening deep fissures. These fractures continue to change gradually, which is why Silfra feels like a “living” landscape rather than a static landmark.
What you see underwater is the result of:
• plate movement stretching the land
• volcanic rock forming porous lava fields• water carving and filling the fissure system over time
Why Is Silfra’s Water So Clear?
Silfra’s clarity comes from natural filtration. The water is glacial meltwater that travels underground through porous lava rock before it reaches the fissure. This slow journey filters out particles, creating exceptionally clear freshwater.
This is why Silfra is famous for:
• crystal-clear visibility
• vibrant underwater colors (especially on sunny days)• an almost weightless floating feeling in calm water
Where Does Silfra’s Water Come From?
Silfra’s water originates from Langjökull glacier. After melting, it seeps into the ground and moves through lava fields for decades before emerging in Þingvellir. Because the route underground is long and filtering is natural, the water arrives remarkably pure and clear.
Silfra Fissure and Þingvellir’s History
Þingvellir is not only a geological landmark but also one of Iceland’s most significant historical sites. It was the location of Iceland’s first parliament, established in 930. For centuries, people gathered here to make laws, settle disputes, and shape the country’s future.
That means a Silfra visit is unusual in the best way:
you’re exploring a world-class natural wonder inside a place that also holds a major chapter of Icelandic identity.
What Makes Silfra Snorkeling So Special?
Silfra snorkeling is not about marine life or warm tropical water. It’s about clarity, geology, and the feeling of being inside a rare natural phenomenon.
Most people love Silfra because:
• you float through a real tectonic rift
• visibility is often among the best in the world
• the environment feels surreal and quiet
• it’s close to Reykjavik and easy to combine with other stops
Silfra Fissure Snorkeling Tours
Explore below our curated selection of top-rated Silfra Fissure Snorkeling Tours:
Silfra: Fissure Snorkeling Tour with Underwater Photos
2.6K+ Reviews
€126
GetYourGuide
“Abby was great! She explained everything very well and ensured all were comfortable and safe. Would absolutely recommend her to anyone interested in doing this tour!” Carter, Jan. 2026, Germany [Source: GetYourGuide]
Silfra: Half-Day Snorkeling Day Trip with Underwater Photos
1.1K+ Reviews
€119
GetYourGuide
“The BEST activity. Would highly recommend to everyone. The scenery and set up was amazing. Cannot fault it. Our instructor Arnold was incredible. He was very enthusiastic, helpful and made our experience top notch!” Taya, Dec. 2025, Australia [Source: GetYourGuide]
Popular Products related to Silfra Fissure Snorkeling Tours
Lava Tunnel Tour Including Transfers from Reykjavik
341+ Reviews
€110.62
Viator
“It is magical and a must do if visiting Iceland. It is perfect for families, kids, and everyone in between.” Elizabeth, Jan. 2026 [Source: Viator]
Reykjavik: Sky Lagoon Entrance Pass With 7-Step Spa Ritual
5.8K+ Reviews
€116
GetYourGuide
“Great experience great facilities and great value. Check in was efficient and you can stay as long as you like. Private locker room felt worth the few extra bucks as you get private shower and room with a hair dryer and toiletries.” Alissa, Jan. 2026, USA [Source: GetYourGuide]
Reykjavik: Northern Lights Tour with Hot Chocolate & Photos
13.3K+ Reviews
€63
GetYourGuide
“Svava was a brilliant guide and gave us some really good facts about the northern lights. We waited over an hour at a location until the aurora finally appeared The hot chocolate was lovely and good to warm my hands from taking pics” Emily, Jan. 2025 [Source: GetYourGuide]
From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Tour – Geysir, Gullfoss & Rift
23.9K+ Reviews
€63
GetYourGuide
“Our tour guide Barbara was fantastic! She is very knowledgeable and passionate about her work. The tour was perfectly paced and we had enough time at each spot. We were given enough time to have lunch at one of the stops too” Samantha, Jan. 2026, UK [Source: GetYourGuide]
Silfra: Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates – meet on location
This highly-rated DIVE.IS Silfra snorkeling tour offers a guided 30-45 minute adventure through crystal-clear fissures between tectonic plates, complete with professional gear and post-snorkel refreshments.
Its really not that cold ! The tourguide James was amazing and a really cool person. Its a lot of money but really worth it 😀 5* Roxy_V; Mar, 2025 – Viator
Silfra Snorkeling Between Continents Photos Included- Self Drive
Dive into the breathtaking divide between continents in Iceland, capturing epic GoPro footage and warming up with treats after your unforgettable snorkeling adventure.
Was an amazing experience. I almost cancelled because getting into cold water in winter sounds awful but it wasn’t. .. 5* Kelsey_B, Mar 2025, Viator
Silfra: Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates Pick Up from Reykjavik
Embark on a thrilling 5-hour Silfra snorkeling adventure, with effortless Reykjavik pickup and drop-off, immersing yourself in crystal-clear glacial waters and warming up with hot chocolate and cookies.
Loved this experience, it’s truly unique and the guides were knowledgeable. Dress warm in layers! Hot chocolate was good! 5*Heidi_T, Feb 2025, Viator
Silfra: Fissure Snorkeling Tour with Underwater Photos
Experience the rare thrill of snorkeling between two continents in the crystal-clear waters of the Silfra Fissure, located in UNESCO-listed Þingvellir National Park.
“Abby was great! She explained everything very well and ensured all were comfortable and safe. Would absolutely recommend her to anyone interested in doing this tour!” Carter, Jan. 2026, Germany [Source: GetYourGuide]
From Reykjavík: Golden Circle Tour and Silfra Snorkeling
Experience Iceland’s ultimate adventure: a 10-hour Golden Circle tour culminating in a breathtaking Silfra snorkel, complete with free photos, hot drinks, and Icelandic music-filled transport from Reykjavik.
The snorkelling was fantastic and the team did their best to keep us warm despite the fact it was -8 degrees and windy outside!. 5* Holly, Nov 2024, GetYourGuide
Silfra: Half-Day Snorkeling Day Trip with Underwater Photos
Enjoy a truly otherworldly experience with a drysuit snorkeling adventure in the Silfra Rift, located in UNESCO-listed Þingvellir National Park.
“The BEST activity. Would highly recommend to everyone. The scenery and set up was amazing. Cannot fault it. Our instructor Arnold was incredible. He was very enthusiastic, helpful and made our experience top notch!” Taya, Dec. 2025, Australia [Source: GetYourGuide]
Popular Products related to Silfra Fissure Snorkeling Tours
Lava Tunnel Tour Including Transfers from Reykjavik
Explore an Icelandic natural wonder only accessible on a guided tour, and learn how powerful volcanic processes shaped this extraordinary site thousands of years ago.
“It is magical and a must do if visiting Iceland. It is perfect for families, kids, and everyone in between.” Elizabeth, Jan. 2026 [Source: Viator]
Reykjavik: Sky Lagoon Entrance Pass With 7-Step Spa Ritual
Secure your Sky Lagoon pass and relax in an oceanside geothermal lagoon, with sweeping views of the dramatic North Atlantic Ocean.
“Great experience great facilities and great value. Check in was efficient and you can stay as long as you like. Private locker room felt worth the few extra bucks as you get private shower and room with a hair dryer and toiletries.” Alissa, Jan. 2026, USA [Source: GetYourGuide]
Reykjavik: Northern Lights Tour with Hot Chocolate & Photos
Set out on an evening tour in search of the Aurora Borealis, guided by experts who share fascinating insights as you chase the lights across the night sky.
“Svava was a brilliant guide and gave us some really good facts about the northern lights. We waited over an hour at a location until the aurora finally appeared The hot chocolate was lovely and good to warm my hands from taking pics” Emily, Jan. 2025 [Source: GetYourGuide]
From Reykjavik: Golden Circle Tour – Geysir, Gullfoss & Rift
Discover the highlights of southwest Iceland on an 8-hour Golden Circle bus tour departing from Reykjavik.
“Our tour guide Barbara was fantastic! She is very knowledgeable and passionate about her work. The tour was perfectly paced and we had enough time at each spot. We were given enough time to have lunch at one of the stops too” Samantha, Jan. 2026, UK [Source: GetYourGuide]
Blue Lagoon Admission Tickets
Relax in the Blue Lagoon’s warm geothermal waters and enjoy mineral masks, saunas, terraces, and refreshing drinks in one unforgettable setting.
“Beautiful surroundings friendly staff. Clean” Mark, Dec. 2025 [Source: Headout]
>> Read more about Silfra snorkeling tours, requirements, and what to expect on our dedicated Silfra Snorkeling page.
>> Read more answers to common questions about safety, water temperature, and tour conditions in our Silfra Snorkeling FAQ section.
