Silfra Fissure

Silfra Fissure is a geological wonder within Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park that offers an unparalleled underwater experience. This fissure is a direct result of the tectonic activity between the North American and Eurasian plates, which are slowly drifting apart at a rate of about 2 centimeters per year. Over thousands of years, this movement has created a rift filled with glacial meltwater from the nearby Langjökull glacier.

The water in Silfra is incredibly pure and clear, having been naturally filtered through the porous volcanic rock for over 30 to 100 years before it enters the fissure. This results in water that is so clear that visibility extends up to 100 meters, making it one of the clearest bodies of water on the planet. This clarity allows snorkelers and divers to experience a surreal underwater world where they can see the intricate details of the rock formations and even the vibrant green algae that thrive in the cold water.

Silfra is divided into four main sections: the Big Crack, the narrowest part where the tectonic plates are closest; Silfra Hall, a wider area with impressive rock walls; Silfra Cathedral, known for its vast underwater canyon; and Silfra Lagoon, where the visibility is at its peak, offering a tranquil end to the dive.

The temperature of Silfra’s water remains consistently cold, around 2-4°C, but with the right drysuit, this becomes part of the unique experience rather than a deterrent. The cold water also means that aquatic life is sparse, but the experience isn’t about marine creatures but the extraordinary environment itself.