Overview of Silfra Fissure

The Silfra Fissure, located in Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park, is a unique dive site renowned worldwide for its crystal-clear waters and geological significance. Nestled between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, Silfra offers divers an unparalleled experience of underwater visibility that extends up to 100 meters. This clarity results from ice-cold glacial meltwater, filtered through volcanic rock over decades, entering the fissure. The fissure itself, a rift formed by the divergent movements of the tectonic plates, provides a mesmerizing underwater landscape, making it a must-visit destination for diving enthusiasts seeking a blend of natural beauty and scientific curiosity.

Key Attractions

Silfra Fissure’s primary allure lies in its extraordinary underwater clarity, allowing divers to seemingly float in a void of transparency. Key attractions include:

• Unmatched Visibility: Arguably the best underwater visibility in the world, up to 100 meters, allowing divers to appreciate the aquamarine beauty and intricate rock formations.
• Unique Geological Features: Dive between two continental plates, an experience exclusive to Silfra, offering breathtaking underwater topography.
• Four Distinct Zones: The Silfra Fissure can be divided into four main sections: Silfra Big Crack, Silfra Hall, Silfra Cathedral, and Silfra Lagoon, each offering distinct underwater scenery and diving experiences.
• Year-Round Diving: The temperature in Silfra remains steady between 2-4°C year-round, making it accessible at any time, though divers must be prepared for cold water conditions.

Location and Accessibility

Geographic Details

The Silfra Fissure is an extraordinary diving location situated in Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park, approximately 50 kilometers northeast of the capital, Reykjavik. It lies on the divergent boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, making it one of the only places in the world where divers can swim between two continental plates. The fissure is filled with glacial water from Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier, which has been filtered through underground lava fields for decades, resulting in crystal-clear visibility that can exceed 100 meters.

How to Get There

Reaching Silfra Fissure is relatively straightforward:

• By Air: Visitors typically fly into Keflavík International Airport (KEF), which is well-served by international airlines. The airport is about 50 kilometers from Reykjavik.
• By Car: From Reykjavik, travelers can rent a car and drive to Thingvellir National Park. The drive is about 45 to 60 minutes along Route 1 (the Ring Road) and then Route 36. The roads are well-maintained, and the drive offers scenic views of Iceland’s unique landscapes.
• By Tour: Several tour operators in Reykjavik offer guided trips to Silfra Fissure, including transportation. This is a convenient option for those who prefer not to drive on their own.

Once at Thingvellir National Park, visitors should follow signs to the Silfra parking area. From the parking lot, there is a short walk to the dive site.

Logistical Tips:

• Dress warmly, even in the summer, as Iceland’s weather can be quite unpredictable.
• Consider booking a guided dive or snorkeling tour in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure availability.
• Check local weather and road conditions before traveling, particularly in winter months, as snow and ice can make driving more challenging.

Marine Life

Species Diversity

Silfra Fissure, located in the Thingvellir National Park in Iceland, offers a unique experience for divers not necessarily due to a high diversity of marine life but because of its crystal-clear waters and geological significance. The fissure, formed by the drifting apart of the North American and Eurasian plates, boasts visibility up to 100 meters, giving divers an unparalleled underwater experience.

Although the range of species in Silfra is more limited compared to tropical reefs, divers can encounter a variety of cold-water fauna. Arctic char, a native fish species, is commonly seen swimming through the fissure’s channels. In addition to fish, divers also observe small invertebrates such as Gammarus, a type of freshwater amphipod. The unique underwater flora includes filamentous algae and diatoms that add to the colorful underwater landscape.

Conservation Efforts

Silfra Fissure is part of the Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is subject to strict conservation regulations. To protect the delicate underwater environment, several measures are in place:

• Mandatory Guide: Diving or snorkeling in Silfra requires the presence of a certified guide to ensure compliance with conservation practices.
• Equipment Regulations: Divers and snorkelers must thoroughly decontaminate their equipment to avoid introducing non-native species or contaminants.
• Limited Access: The number of daily visitors is regulated to reduce environmental impact.

These efforts ensure that Silfra remains a pristine environment for future generations of divers and snorkelers.

Safety and Regulations

Safety Tips

Diving in Silfra Fissure presents unique safety challenges due to its cold water conditions and geographical structure. Here are some important safety tips:

• Cold Water Protection: With water temperatures ranging from 2-4°C (35-39°F), wearing a dry suit with adequate thermal protection is crucial to avoid hypothermia.
• Maintain Buoyancy: The fissure has both vertical and horizontal narrow passages, so precise buoyancy control is essential to avoid damaging the delicate rock formations.
• Follow the Guide: Always follow your guide’s instructions and stay within designated areas to ensure your safety.

It’s also advisable to conduct a thorough equipment check before entering the water and to monitor your air supply vigilantly.

Local Regulations

Silfra Fissure is governed by strict local regulations to protect its unique environment and to ensure diver safety:

• PADI or Equivalent Certification: Divers must hold at least an Open Water Diver certification from PADI or another recognized agency.
• Age Restrictions: The minimum age for diving in Silfra is 18 years old.
• Mandatory Briefing: Before any dive, participants must attend a safety briefing conducted by the guiding company.
• Environmental Respect: Divers are required to follow a strict ‘leave no trace’ policy, ensuring no waste or materials are left behind.

Adherence to these regulations is crucial not only for personal safety but also for the ongoing preservation of this extraordinary dive site.

Non-Diving Activities

Local Attractions

Silfra Fissure is located in the Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. For those interested in exploring above the surface, the park offers a plethora of activities:

• Thingvellir National Park Hiking Trails: Discover scenic hiking routes that traverse stunning geological formations and historical sites. Trails offer varying levels of difficulty, catering to both casual walkers and experienced hikers.
• Thingvellir Church and Almannagjá Gorge: Visit the historical Thingvellir Church and the dramatic Almannagjá Gorge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.
• Oxararfoss Waterfall: A picturesque waterfall situated within the park, ideal for photography and nature lovers.
• Lake Thingvallavatn: Engage in kayaking or fishing in Iceland’s largest natural lake, which offers serene views and abundant wildlife.

Cultural Experiences

Beyond the park’s natural beauty, there are several cultural experiences awaiting visitors:

• Geysir Geothermal Area: Just a short drive from Silfra, this geothermal hotspot features the famous erupting geyser, Strokkur, alongside hot springs and boiling mud pits.
• Golden Circle Tours: Many guided tours combine a visit to Silfra with other Icelandic highlights such as the Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the Kerid volcanic crater.
• Local Cuisine: Savor authentic Icelandic dishes such as lamb stew, fresh fish, and the famed Skyr yogurt. Local restaurants often feature traditional menus that highlight the rich culinary heritage of the region.
• Reykjavik Day Trip: The capital city of Reykjavik is less than an hour’s drive from Silfra. Explore its vibrant arts scene, museums, and historical landmarks, or indulge in shopping and fine dining.
• Thermal Baths and Spas: Unwind in one of Iceland’s renowned hot springs or spas. The Blue Lagoon and Secret Lagoon are popular choices, offering relaxing geothermal waters amidst stunning landscapes.

In summary, the Silfra Fissure provides an extraordinary diving experience unlike any other. Its stunning geological appeal, crystal-clear waters, and unique marine life make it an essential destination for divers. The opportunity to explore the underwater landscape while literally touching two continental plates is an adventure that few places in the world can offer.

If the allure of diving between continents has captured your interest, now is the time to plan your visit. Reach out to local dive centers to book your dive adventure at Silfra Fissure and prepare yourself for an unforgettable underwater journey.