Silfra Fissure is a world-renowned underwater rift located in Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iceland. It was formed by the divergence of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, a process that continuously widens the fissure by about 2 cm per year. The fissure was created by earthquakes along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, most notably in 1789, which caused cracks to open in the Earth’s crust, filling them with glacial meltwater from Langjökull Glacier.
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Diving and Snorkeling
What makes Silfra unique is its exceptional water clarity, with visibility exceeding 100 meters due to the natural filtration process of the glacier water through underground lava fields, which can take up to 100 years. The water remains crystal-clear and drinkable, maintaining a year-round temperature of 2–4°C (35–39°F).
Silfra is one of the only places in the world where you can snorkel or dive directly between two tectonic plates, making it a bucket-list destination for underwater adventurers. The fissure consists of four main sections: Big Crack (the narrowest part where divers can touch both continents), Silfra Hall (a wide-open area with dramatic rock formations), Silfra Cathedral (the deepest and most expansive section), and Silfra Lagoon (a shallow area with stunning blue hues).
Due to its fragile ecosystem and increasing visitor numbers, Silfra is protected by strict environmental regulations, including a requirement for certified dive guides, limitations on visitor capacity, and mandatory use of dry suits to protect both divers and the environment. It remains one of Iceland’s top natural attractions, drawing visitors from around the world for its geological significance, surreal beauty, and unmatched diving experience.
MORE ABOUT DIVING AND SNORKELING AT SILFRA FISSURE
