Silfra Fissure

Silfra Fissure is one of the most extraordinary natural wonders in Iceland and a world-famous snorkeling and diving spot. Located within Þingvellir National Park, about 45 kilometers (28 miles) from Reykjavik, Silfra lies directly on the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This means visitors are literally swimming between two continents!

What makes Silfra even more remarkable is its crystal-clear water, which offers up to 100 meters of visibility – some of the clearest water on Earth. Formed by earthquakes and volcanic activity, Silfra is filled with cold, glacial meltwater that has been filtered through lava rock for decades before entering the fissure.

Snorkeling or diving in Silfra is a truly unique experience, attracting adventure seekers, photographers, and nature lovers from around the world.

How to Reach Silfra Fissure, Reykjavik

Silfra is located in Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, about 45 minutes by car from Reykjavik.

• By Car: Driving is the most convenient way to get to Silfra. You can rent a car and drive via Route 36 (Þingvallavegur), which takes you straight to the national park. Follow signs to the Silfra car park.
• By Tour: Many tour operators in Reykjavik offer guided snorkeling and diving tours to Silfra, including transportation.
• By Bus: There is limited public transport to Þingvellir, so it's recommended to drive or book a tour for easier access.

Weather at Silfra Fissure, Reykjavik

The weather around Silfra is typical of southern Iceland. Conditions can change quickly, so it's important to dress in layers and be prepared for rain, wind, or sunshine.

Despite the seasonal air temperature, the water in Silfra remains consistently cold all year round — around 2°C to 4°C (35°F to 39°F). Tour operators provide dry suits to keep you warm, but you’ll still feel the cold, especially on your hands and face.

Summer (June to August) brings milder temperatures and longer daylight, making it a popular time to visit. Winter (December to February) can be more challenging, but the experience of snorkeling in icy waters with snow-covered landscapes is unforgettable.

Timing of Silfra Fissure, Reykjavik

Silfra is open year-round, and tours usually operate daily, depending on weather conditions and visibility.

• Snorkeling & Diving Tour Times: Typically between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Exact times may vary by season and tour provider.
• Best Time to Visit: Summer offers the most comfortable conditions, but winter visits are magical with fewer crowds.

Why Famous for Silfra Fissure, Reykjavik?

Silfra is famous for being the only place in the world where you can dive or snorkel directly between two tectonic plates. The clarity of the water is unmatched due to the natural filtering process of glacial meltwater, giving you visibility of up to 100 meters.

Adventure seekers are drawn to Silfra because of its unique geological location, stunning underwater landscapes, and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim between continents. It has been ranked among the top ten diving sites in the world.

Entry and Visit Details about Silfra Fissure, Reykjavik

Visiting Silfra is a well-organized experience, especially if you book with a licensed tour company. Independent access to Silfra is restricted; diving and snorkeling require certified guides and permits.

• Entry Fee to Þingvellir Park: Entry to the park is free, but parking and snorkeling/diving tours cost extra.
• Parking Fee: Around ISK 750 (can vary).
• Snorkeling Tour Cost: Around ISK 17,000–20,000 per person, including equipment, dry suit, and guide.
• Diving Tour Cost: Similar pricing, but divers must show proof of dry suit certification or take a refresher course.

Advance booking is highly recommended as daily slots can fill up quickly. Participants must be at least 12 years old and able to swim comfortably.

History and Geology of Silfra Fissure

Silfra was formed in 1789 after an earthquake caused a crack in the Earth's crust in the Þingvellir region. This region is part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian plates slowly drift apart — about 2 cm per year.

As the plates drift, new fissures open up, and Silfra is one of the few filled with water. The meltwater from Langjökull Glacier travels underground through porous lava rock for 30–100 years before it reaches Silfra. This process filters the water naturally, making it incredibly pure and clear.

Things to Do at Silfra Fissure, Reykjavik

Here are some amazing activities to enjoy during your visit to Silfra and the surrounding Þingvellir area:

• Snorkeling: Float through the Silfra lagoon and see the vibrant underwater colors and rock formations.
• Diving: For certified divers, go deeper into the fissure’s chambers and narrow passages.
• Photography: Bring an underwater camera or rent one from your tour provider for unforgettable shots.
• Explore Þingvellir: After your water adventure, hike through the national park, visit the rift valley, and learn about Iceland's early parliament.

Facts about Silfra Fissure, Reykjavik

Here are some interesting and fun facts about Silfra:

• Silfra is one of the top 10 dive sites in the world.
• It is the only place on Earth where you can dive or snorkel between two continental plates.
• The water is so clean, you can drink it while snorkeling.
• Silfra means “Silver Lady” in Icelandic.
• The tectonic plates are moving apart about 2 cm every year, slowly changing the shape of Silfra.

Tips about Silfra Fissure, Reykjavik

Here are a few helpful tips to make the most of your visit:

• Dress warmly and wear thick socks under your dry suit, even in summer.
• Arrive early to allow time for check-in, changing, and safety briefing.
• Bring a waterproof action camera for great photos.
• Don’t worry if you’ve never snorkeled before—most tours are beginner-friendly and include full instruction.
• Combine your trip with a Golden Circle tour to see Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss in one day.

Silfra Fissure offers a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re snorkeling through vibrant blue waters or diving between continents, Silfra connects you with Iceland’s powerful natural beauty and unique geology in a way that very few places can.