Snorkeling in Silfra is one of those rare experiences that truly lives up to the hype. Floating between two continents in crystal‑clear, glacial water with visibility often over 100 meters is something you’ll remember for the rest of your life. With a bit of preparation and the right base for your trip, you can make the most of this unique adventure in Iceland.
Silfra is located in Þingvellir National Park, about an hour’s drive from Reykjavík. The water comes from Langjökull glacier and is naturally filtered through porous lava rock for decades before it reaches the fissure. That’s why it’s so clear—and so cold, usually around 2–4°C year‑round. Most tours provide a drysuit, but there are still a few things you should know before you go.
First, book your Silfra snorkeling tour in advance. It’s one of the most popular activities in Iceland and daily spots are limited to protect the fragile environment. When you choose a time, think about the rest of your itinerary: a morning tour works well if you’re staying nearby, while an afternoon slot can be ideal if you’re driving from the west of Iceland.
Second, dress smartly. Even with a drysuit, your body will lose heat in the water. Wear warm, moisture‑wicking base layers (no cotton), thick wool socks, and bring a hat and gloves for before and after the tour. Contact lenses are usually fine, but glasses won’t fit under the mask, so consider prescription lenses if you need them. Most operators require that you feel comfortable in the water and can swim, even though you’ll be wearing a buoyant drysuit.
Third, plan your driving and accommodation so you’re not rushing. Many travelers combine Silfra with a road trip through West Iceland and the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, using comfortable local inns as a base. That’s where Ourhotels.is comes in.
If you’re approaching Silfra from the west, Hvítá Inn in Borgarfjörður (near Borgarnes) is a convenient and cozy place to stay. From there, you can explore the hot springs and lava fields of Borgarfjörður, then drive to Þingvellir the next day for your snorkeling tour. Waking up close by means you can enjoy a relaxed breakfast, check your gear, and arrive at Silfra on time and stress‑free.
Many visitors also like to combine Silfra with a longer journey around West Iceland and the Westfjords. After your snorkeling adventure, you can head north and base yourself at Stykkishólmur Inn on the beautiful Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It’s a perfect spot for unwinding after a cold‑water experience: stroll the harbor, take in views of Breiðafjörður Bay, and explore nearby attractions like Kirkjufell and Snæfellsjökull National Park. The contrast between the underwater world of Silfra and the dramatic coastal scenery of Snæfellsnes makes for a memorable trip.
If you’re continuing even farther north, Ísafjörður Inn in the Westfjords offers a comfortable base in one of Iceland’s most scenic regions. After the intensity of snorkeling in Silfra’s icy water, the quiet fjords, steep mountains, and small‑town charm of Ísafjörður feel wonderfully peaceful. You can spend your days hiking, kayaking, or simply enjoying the views, knowing you’ve already ticked off one of Iceland’s most iconic adventures.
A few more tips for Silfra itself: listen carefully to your guide’s safety briefing, move slowly in the water to stay warm and avoid stirring up sediment, and take your time to look around rather than focusing only on photos. The colors of the rocks, the play of light, and the feeling of floating between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are what make Silfra special.
By planning ahead, dressing properly, and choosing comfortable places to stay like Hvítá Inn, Stykkishólmur Inn, and Ísafjörður Inn through Ourhotels.is, you can turn a single snorkeling tour into a well‑rounded Icelandic journey. Silfra will likely be the highlight—but the landscapes, small towns, and warm beds waiting for you at the end of each day are what make the whole experience unforgettable.
