From Reykjavík: Golden Circle Tour and Silfra Snorkeling

Introduction: A Full-Day Iceland Adventure

This tour of Iceland’s Golden Circle, offered by TrollExpeditions, promises a full day of natural wonders, from geysers and waterfalls to snorkeling between continents. It’s designed for travelers who want a comprehensive look at Southern Iceland’s stunning landscapes without the hassle of planning every stop themselves. The tour includes a 2.5-hour snorkel in the Silfra fissure, which is often highlighted as one of the top diving sites in the world, and covers the major Golden Circle sights in about 10 hours.

Two things I really appreciate about this experience are how well it balances education and adventure — guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing fascinating facts along the way. Also, the opportunity to snorkel in the crystal-clear water between two tectonic plates is truly unforgettable. It’s a surreal experience that turns a simple water activity into a highlight of your Iceland trip.

One potential consideration is the physical requirements involved, especially for the snorkeling part. You’ll need to be comfortable in water, able to swim, and fit enough to wear a tight drysuit in cold water. Plus, the tour runs all day, so good weather and stamina are helpful. But if you’re prepared, this is a well-organized, value-packed day that brings together Iceland’s best natural sights with a unique adventure.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Stunning Natural Sites: You’ll visit Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and Geysir, each offering iconic Icelandic scenery and photo opportunities.
• Unique Snorkeling Experience: Floating between two continents in the Silfra fissure is often called a bucket-list activity, thanks to the incredible clarity and colors of the water.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Gummi and Anna are praised for their friendliness, safety focus, and storytelling, making the day both fun and informative.
• Good Value: At $294 per person for a full 10-hour experience, it includes transportation, snorkeling gear, a PADI-certified guide, and photos, making it a cost-effective way to see the highlights.
• Logistical Smoothness: The itinerary moves efficiently with well-timed stops, thoughtful safety briefings, and extra scenic detours when punctuality is maintained.
• Physical and Water Readiness: Expect cold water (around 37°F), drysuits that fit snugly, and a need for basic swimming ability — reviews emphasize the importance of wearing warm layers and following safety instructions.

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle and Silfra: A Deep Dive

Getting Started: From Reykjavík to Iceland’s Heart

You begin early, with a pickup around 8:00 AM from your central Reykjavík accommodation. The minibus, equipped with Wi-Fi and music, makes the roughly 70-minute drive to Þingvellir National Park feel quick and comfortable. This is where you’ll really get a sense of why Iceland is so special: the landscape here tells its story through rift valleys and rugged terrain.

What I find compelling is how guides like Bjorn and Gummi bring their local knowledge into every conversation. You’ll learn that Þingvellir is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also the place where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart visibly — a natural geological show that you can walk right between. Nicole, one reviewer, loved how their guide kept everyone informed and made the safety briefing straightforward, which is essential when snorkeling in such cold water.

The Thrill of Snorkeling in Silfra

Next, you’re taken to the world-famous Silfra Fissure, where the real adrenaline kicks in. As you gear up in drysuits, some reviews mention that the process takes time, but guides like Anna and Pablo are praised for making everyone feel safe and comfortable. The water is icy at 37°F, but the drysuit keeps you warm, and the clarity of the water is astonishing — visibility often exceeds 100 feet.

Holly described the experience as “fantastic,” noting that the guides do their best to keep everyone warm despite the cold temperatures outside. If you’re sensitive to cold, be aware it can be challenging, but most reviews agree the effort is worth it: floating between two tectonic plates, surrounded by stunning shades of blue and green, feels like a once-in-a-lifetime moment. Daniel pointed out that the group safety briefing and the guidance during the snorkeling made the experience manageable even for first-timers.

Þingvellir National Park: History and Scenic Views

After snorkeling, you have a brief 30-minute window to explore Þingvellir further. Many reviews mention that this is a good photo stop and a chance to stretch your legs. Guides often recommend using this time to take in the scenery and snap some pictures — the landscape here is dramatic and full of geological stories. Holly felt that a little more time would have been nice to explore more deeply, but overall, the stop is well-paced.

Geysir and the Eruption of Hot Springs

Next is the Geysir geothermal area, where you get about an hour of free time to walk around and watch hot springs erupt. The geyser Geysir is not as active as in the past, but nearby Strokkur reliably shoots boiling water into the air every 5–10 minutes, which is quite a spectacle. Many reviewers praise the guide’s explanations about geothermal activity, making the visit both educational and fun. Elizabeth appreciated the guide’s storytelling and the panoramic views, noting that the cold wind at Geysir can be quite biting, so layers are essential.

Gullfoss: Power and Beauty

The tour then takes you to Gullfoss, Iceland’s iconic waterfall. The 30-minute stop here offers stunning views of the cascading Hvítá river. Nicole loved standing beneath the falls and feeling the spray on her face — a powerful reminder of Iceland’s raw energy. You’ll have some time to take photos and soak in the scenery. Be prepared for wind and spray, especially in winter, and wear sturdy shoes for walking along the paths.

Flexibility and Extra Stops

One of the features reviewers consistently highlight is how punctuality and good communication by guides like Leo or Ronin can lead to spontaneous bonus stops. Daniel recounted that because their group was on time, the guide added in an extra waterfall visit, which made the day even more memorable.

Returning to Reykjavík

After a full day, you’ll board the bus again for the roughly 2-hour drive back to Reykjavík, often with some final stories from the guides. Many reviews mention the comfort and friendliness of the guides, plus the photos they upload afterward, which are a lovely souvenir of the trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who are physically fit, comfortable in water, and eager for a mix of scenery and adventure. The snorkeling requires wearing a snug drysuit, so being able to swim and tolerate the cold is essential. Kids over 12 and under 70 tend to be the ideal age range, and those with medical clearance are recommended if over 60.

If you’re after a balanced day of sightseeing, learning, and a unique water activity, this tour offers excellent value. It suits nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting a comprehensive introduction to Iceland’s natural wonders without the hassle of self-organizing.

Price and Value

At $294, you’re paying for transportation, guided snorkeling with certified guides, all necessary equipment including a drysuit, and photos. Considering the included activities and the quality of guides, many reviews feel this is a good value — especially given how much stunning scenery you see along the way. The tour’s inclusion of a safety briefing, photographic memories, and the seamless logistics make the price worthwhile for an all-in-one experience.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Dress warmly in layers; the bus ride is comfortable, but exposed outdoor stops can be windy and cold.
• Wear or bring thermal underwear and fleece layers, especially if you’re sensitive to cold.
• Expect to wear a tight drysuit, which might feel restrictive at first but is essential for keeping warm.
• Bring waterproof camera or smartphone cases if you want to take photos underwater or in the wind.
• Be punctual — guides value timeliness to keep the schedule smooth and allow for extra stops.
• Confirm your pickup details in advance, especially if you’re not staying centrally in Reykjavík.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

For travelers eager to see Iceland’s classic sights while also trying a once-in-a-lifetime activity, this tour hits the mark. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge make the day enjoyable, and the scenery is spectacular from start to finish. The snorkeling at Silfra alone is worth the price for many — it’s a surreal, clear-water experience that’s hard to find anywhere else.

It’s especially well-suited for those comfortable in water, with an interest in geology and photography, and who appreciate organized, well-paced excursions. If you’re on a tight schedule but want a rich, immersive taste of Iceland’s natural beauty, this tour offers a memorable, value-packed day.

However, keep in mind the physical demands and the cold, and make sure your clothing and equipment are prepared for winter weather. For most travelers, the combination of stunning landscapes, expert guides, and the thrill of snorkeling makes this a standout option.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The tour includes pickup from Reykjavík, transportation by minibus with Wi-Fi, guided snorkeling in Silfra with certified guides and all snorkeling gear, drysuits, photos from the tour, and hot drinks and chocolate bars.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be between 12 and 69 years old to participate. It’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those over 70.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothing, layers, and waterproof gear if you want to protect your camera or phone. Be prepared for cold water and wind during outdoor stops.

How long does the snorkeling last?
The snorkeling itself takes about 2.5 hours with the guide, and the entire tour lasts around 10 hours including stops and transportation.

What about the physical fitness required?
Participants need to be comfortable swimming, able to wear a drysuit, and physically fit enough for a full day of sightseeing and water activity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

This tour provides a fantastic way to see Iceland’s most famous sights with a touch of adventure, making it perfect for curious travelers eager to combine sightseeing with a memorable water activity.