From Reykjavík: Golden Circle Tour with Silfra Snorkeling

Exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle and Silfra Snorkeling: A Practical Review

This tour offers a full day of iconic Icelandic sights combined with a truly unique experience—snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure. Starting from Reykjavík, you’ll visit the legendary Geysir geothermal area, marvel at Gullfoss waterfall, and walk between the tectonic plates at Þingvellir National Park. Then, as a highlight, you’ll float in some of the clearest waters on Earth, between two continents.

Two things I particularly like about this experience: First, the guides’ knowledge and patience—reviewers rave about guides like Weronika, Tereza, and Johan, who make sure everyone feels safe and informed. Second, the stunning scenery at each stop—from erupting geysers to roaring waterfalls—you’re constantly surrounded by nature’s raw power.

One potential consideration is the cold weather and water temperature. The water in Silfra is about 3°C, so you’ll need to be prepared with dry suits and thermal layers. Some reviews mention gloves that don’t quite keep hands warm enough, so packing extra layers might be wise.

This tour balances adventure and sightseeing beautifully, making it a standout for those eager to combine Iceland’s natural wonders with a once-in-a-lifetime underwater experience.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Unique snorkeling experience floating between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates in crystal-clear waters.
• Expert guides like Weronika, Tereza, and Tomasz are praised for their patience and knowledge.
• Stunning scenery at Geysir, Gullfoss, and Þingvellir, with excellent photo opportunities.
• All necessary gear provided, including dry suits, thermal undersuits, and underwater photos.
• The tour’s length is about 10 hours, with pick-up and drop-off in Reykjavík, making it a full but manageable day.
• Limited suitability for children under 12, pregnant women, and those with certain health issues—important to consider for safety.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

This tour packs a lot into one day, which means you’ll see Iceland’s most famous sights with the bonus of snorkeling in Silfra—an experience that reviewers call “breathtaking” and “unforgettable.” Starting early, usually with a pickup around 8:30 AM, you’ll head out in a small group, which helps keep things personal and engaging.

Þingvellir National Park: Walking Between Continents and History

Your first stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll walk between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates—a geological rarity—and explore the historic site where Icelandic Vikings founded their first parliament. One reviewer, Heatherlee, loved how “you can walk on the fissures that separate the continents,” and mentioned how guides share stories and myths that add a special touch.

Geysir Geothermal Area: Witnessing Earth’s Power

Next, you’ll visit Geysir, the original geyser that all others are named after. You’ll watch Strokkur erupting with boiling water up to 30 meters high, which is simply spellbinding. Austin, another traveler, said, “The geyser steam and eruptions are a reminder of Iceland’s volcanic energy.” The geothermal area is teeming with steam vents and bubbling mud pools—great for photos and understanding Iceland’s volcanic landscape.

Gullfoss Waterfall: The Queen of Waterfalls

After Geysir, you’ll stop at Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls. As you stand near the roaring cascade, you’ll feel the mist on your face, a visceral reminder of nature’s force. Nuray appreciated how “the cascades of Gullfoss showcase the power and beauty of Iceland’s glaciers and lava fields.”

Silfra Snorkeling: Drifting Between Continents

The highlight for many is snorkeling in Silfra, a fissure filled with incredibly clear glacial water. Thanks to dry suits and thermal layers, you’ll stay warm while floating in water with visibility up to 150 meters. You’ll drift between the North American and Eurasian plates, a surreal experience. Fans like Heatherlee say it’s “unforgettable,” and others mention how guides like Vasco expertly assist with dry suits. Be prepared for the water to feel cold but manageable with the right gear.

Post-Snorkel Relaxation and Photos

After snorkeling, you’re treated to hot cocoa and cookies, which are perfect for warming up. Your guide will also provide free underwater photos, so you can remember the experience with stunning images.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $236 per person, the overall value is solid considering it combines multiple iconic sites with a distinctive adventure. The inclusion of all gear, park admission, photos, and snacks means less hassle and more enjoyment. The small-group approach ensures personalized attention, which many reviewers highlight as a key benefit.

The expert guides are a standout, making sure safety is prioritized without sacrificing fun. This personalized approach often translates into better understanding of each site’s significance, along with humorous stories and local tips.

The tour’s duration, roughly 10 hours, is long but feels packed with variety—perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience appeals most to adventurous travelers eager for a blend of sightseeing and adrenaline. If you’re comfortable with cold water and physical activity, snorkeling in Silfra will be a highlight. It’s also ideal for those interested in geology, nature, and photography, given the stunning vistas and opportunities for memorable photos.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or anyone with certain health conditions or mobility issues. The physical demands of donning dry suits and enduring cold water mean you should be in good health and prepared for a full day.

Travelers who appreciate guides who are patient, knowledgeable, and engaging—like those praised in reviews—will find this tour particularly rewarding. If you’re looking for an authentic Iceland experience that combines natural beauty with a dash of adventure, this trip fits the bill.

Price and Logistics: Is it Worth It?

At $236, the tour strikes a decent balance between cost and the comprehensive experience offered. All gear, park fees, and photos are included, reducing extra expenses. The pick-up and drop-off make logistics straightforward, and the small-group size ensures a more personalized, less crowded atmosphere.

The duration may be long, but you’re visiting a handful of top attractions in one day, making it a smart choice for travelers wanting to maximize their time. Be aware of the weather, especially in winter, and pack appropriately—layers, towels, and a change of clothes are recommended.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re after a well-organized, authentic taste of Iceland with a dash of adventure, this tour offers excellent value. The combination of renowned sights and the extraordinary snorkeling experience makes it a full, memorable day. The guides’ professionalism and the stunning scenery keep it engaging from start to finish.

It’s perfect for curious travelers who enjoy learning about geology and history while having a bit of fun with water and cold weather. If you’re prepared for the weather and physical activity, it’s an experience that’s unlikely to be forgotten.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
All necessary snorkeling gear, dry suits, thermal undersuits, park admission fees, and free underwater photos are included. Hot cocoa and cookies are also provided after snorkeling.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 10 hours, starting around 8:30 AM with pickup in Reykjavík.

Is it suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, this experience is not recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues or mobility impairments.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes and a towel. Pack extra layers if you tend to feel cold.

Are there any restrictions or warnings?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for people with back problems, claustrophobia, heart issues, epilepsy, or recent surgeries. Also, maximum weight is 264 lbs (120 kg).

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What makes this tour worth the price?
The combination of Iceland’s iconic sites and the immersive snorkeling experience, guided by knowledgeable and patient guides, makes it a solid value for a full day of adventure.

Is the snorkeling really cold?
Yes, the water is about 3°C, but dry suits and thermal layers keep you warm enough to enjoy it comfortably.

Do I need to be a good swimmer?
While swimming skills help, it’s more important to be comfortable floating and wearing a dry suit. Guides provide comprehensive safety instructions.

What are the best times of year to do this tour?
While available year-round, winter might offer the most dramatic scenery, with snow and Northern Lights, but you should be prepared for cold temperatures.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic Iceland adventure that’s perfect for those seeking a mix of nature, history, and adrenaline. With knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas, it’s a day you’ll likely remember for a lifetime.