Top-Rated Snorkeling in Silfra & Whale Watching | Self-Drive from Reykjavik
Active
6h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Iceland's Thingvellir National Park and go whale watching on this memorable day trip from Reykjavik. Drive into the stunning park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit Silfra, a natural fissure on a lake where two of the world’s tectonic plates meet underwater. Swim over the tectonic join, and wonder at the extraordinary water clarity and colors. Afterward, drive back to Reykjavik and enjoy a 3-hour cruise to search for minke and humpback whales, porpoises and dolphins in the magnificent setting of Faxaflói Bay.
Available options
Whales & Snorkeling
Duration: 6 hours: This combo tour starts in Reykjavík at 09:00 and ends at around 15:00 in Þingvellir national park.<br/>Self-drive: Meet the whale watching team in Reykjavík and make your way to Silfra fissure for the snorkeling.
What's included
Hot chocolate and cookies after snorkeling
Experienced and professional guides
Use of snorkel equipment and dry suit
Use of coveralls on whale watching trip
Onboard Wi-Fi access on whale watching trip
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet the Elding team for your whale watching tour starting at 09:00 from the Old Harbour inn Reykjavík. In summer we can expect to see minke whales at their most abundant, along with white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises and even humpback whales. After exploring the wonders of the whales and seabirds Faxaflói offers you return to the harbour around 12:00. You can then start making your way to Þingvellir national park where your snorkeling trip takes place.
2
Stop 2
On site for the snorkelig tour startig at 14:00, the Dive.is team will help you get geared up and show the appropriate snorkeling methods. Once you are in the water the make sure to enjoy every moment. Snorkeling in the crystal clear glacial water in Silfra with over 100m view of its stunning surroundings is an amazing experience. Adding to that you are swimming between two continents and get an excellent view of the crack separating the European and American continental shells. The total time of snorkeling is approximately 30-40 minutes. After the snorkeling you will be offered a well deserved and very welcome hot coacoa and cookies before your travels back to Reykjavík.
What's not included
Food and drinks (unless specified)
Gratuities
Pick up / Drop off not available
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Important information
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For the snorkelling the passenger must:
Please bring suitable clothes for cold weather conditions: long underwear, thick socks etc
be at least 12 years of age
be at least 150 cm
be at least 45 kg
be comfortable in water and be able to swim
be physically fit
be ready to wear a sometimes tight and constricting dry suit
Meeting point
Note that this is a SELF DRIVE combo tour! Meet the snorkel team at Silfra parking lot in Thingvellir national park at least 20 min. before departure.
Important notes
You can show this voucher to a member of staff and they will confirm your booking. You may need a separate entry ticket for the whale watching, which you will get on arrival.
About Reykjavik
Reykjavik is the world's northernmost capital city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural surroundings, and unique Icelandic charm. It offers a blend of modern amenities and ancient geothermal wonders, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Top Attractions
Hallgrímskirkja
This iconic church is a landmark of Reykjavik, known for its distinctive architecture and towering spire. It offers panoramic views of the city from its tower.
Architecture/Religious
1-2 hours
Moderate (ISK 1000 for the tower)
Harpa Concert Hall
A stunning modern concert hall with a glass facade that reflects the surrounding landscape. It hosts a variety of performances and events.
Architecture/Entertainment
1-2 hours
Free to enter, performance tickets vary
Blue Lagoon
A geothermal spa known for its milky-blue waters rich in minerals. It's a popular spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Nature/Relaxation
Half a day
Expensive (ISK 49,900 and up)
Reykjavik Art Museum
A museum showcasing contemporary Icelandic and international art. It's housed in a striking building with a glass facade.
Museum
1-2 hours
Moderate (ISK 1400)
Perlan Museum
A unique museum located in a glass dome that offers a variety of exhibits, including a glacier exhibit and a planetarium.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate to Expensive (ISK 3,990 and up)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Plokkfiskur
A traditional Icelandic fish stew made with mashed potatoes, white fish, onions, and béchamel sauce.
Main Course
Contains fish and dairy
Hákarl
Fermented shark, a traditional Icelandic delicacy known for its strong smell and taste.
Snack
Contains fish
Skyr
A thick, creamy Icelandic yogurt-like dairy product, often served with berries or cream.
Dessert
Contains dairy
Rúgbrauð
A dense, dark rye bread traditionally baked underground using geothermal heat.
Bread
Vegan
Popular Activities
Glacier hiking and ice climbing
Whale watching
Snowmobiling on a glacier
Caving and lava tunnel exploration
Visiting geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon or Sky Lagoon
Enjoying a traditional Icelandic massage or spa treatment
Taking a leisurely walk around Tjörnin Lake in Reykjavik
Visiting museums and galleries
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the warmest time of the year with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with numerous festivals and events.
8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F)
46°F to 55°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Icelandic
- Widely spoken: English, Danish, German
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Icelandic Króna (ISK)
Time Zone
GMT+0
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Iceland is a very safe country with low crime rates. However, it's always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, and only use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas
- • Research tour operators and rental companies before booking to ensure they are reputable and legitimate
Getting there
By air
- Keflavík International Airport • 50 km (31 miles) from Reykjavik
By bus
BSÍ Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services and easy-to-use ticketing.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bustravel, Uber (limited availability)
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Reykjavik
Hlemmur
Vesturbær
Day trips
Golden Circle
230 km (143 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day
A popular day trip route that includes three of Iceland's most famous attractions: Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall.
South Coast
150-200 km (93-124 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight
A scenic drive along Iceland's south coast, offering a variety of attractions, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
240 km (149 miles) from Reykjavik • Full day or overnight
A scenic peninsula known as 'Iceland in Miniature' due to its diverse landscapes, including mountains, glaciers, lava fields, and beaches.
Festivals
Reykjavik Arts Festival • Late May to early June
Iceland Airwaves • Early November
Reykjavik Winter Lights Festival • Late January to early February
Pro tips
- Visit the Blue Lagoon or another geothermal spa for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience
- Explore Reykjavik's street art and murals, which can be found throughout the city
- Take a day trip to the Golden Circle or another nearby attraction for a taste of Iceland's natural wonders
- Try traditional Icelandic food, such as lamb soup, fish stew, and fermented shark
- Visit a local brewery or distillery and sample Icelandic craft beer or spirits
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
