The Silfra SnorkelingFrom Reykjavik: Silfra Snorkeling with Free Photos review
What the tour is like
The operator picks you up at your Reykjavík hotel or cruise port, drives you to Silfra, guides you through the snorkel, takes free underwater photos, and returns you to your hotel. Hannah noted the cold got tough on face and hands, but instructor Anil helped suit up (“not an easy feat”). Tashinga, a solo traveller, said “it’s warmer in the water.” Cynthia found the driver easy to meet at the port. Paige felt the suits uncomfortable on land but much better in the water. The result: zero logistics stress.
This is the only Silfra tour where someone else handles the driving and you get photos included. That convenience is what the higher price buys.
What works
- Hotel or port pickup — zero driving stress
- Free underwater photos included
- 4.5-hour total time is manageable
- Small groups
- Guides praised for care (Anil, others)
- 4.8 rating from 625 solid reviews
Worth knowing
- $213 is the premium price for convenience
- No rental car? This is more expensive than driving yourself
- Face and hands get cold (2–4°C water)
- Drysuit is tight on land
- 625 reviews is less than flagship photos tour (3,118)
Ask the operator to confirm pickup time when you book. Give your hotel address or port ship name clearly. Dress warmly for the drive and bring layers. The car ride is about 1 hour each way; bring water and a light snack.
Who it’s for
Cruise passengers and hotel guests without a rental car. People who want to avoid driving in Iceland. Couples who want convenience and photos. Solo travelers. If you have a rental car and want to save money, the photos tour ($143) or fissure tour ($127) are cheaper. If you want the full Golden Circle plus Silfra, see the golden circle combo ($295).
Other tours to consider
Best ratedSilfra: Fissure Snorkeling Tour with Underwater Photos
Cheapest snorkelReykjavík: Silfra Fissure Snorkeling between Two Continents
Golden Circle comboFrom Reykjavík: Golden Circle Tour and Silfra Snorkeling
Frequently asked questions
How much is transport?
It’s included in the $213 price. The operator drives you from your hotel or port to Silfra and back. No rental car needed.
What if my flight arrives early or I have a late departure?
Confirm pickup times when you book. Some operators offer flexible morning or evening slots. Ask when confirming.
Can I take my own photos?
Your phone won’t work in the water (drysuit gloves). The operator includes professional underwater photos. GoPro on a wrist mount is generally allowed — check with the operator.
Is the cold face really a problem?
Hannah noted face and hands got cold. Tashinga said “it’s warmer in the water,” so once submerged, the drysuit does its job. Expect coldness on your face and hands for the 30–40 min in water.