Diving in Silfra & Thingvellir

Explore 26 dive sites in Silfra & Thingvellir, Iceland. Ocean conditions, marine species, and dive centres.

Best Time to Dive in Silfra & Thingvellir

The warmest water temperatures in Silfra & Thingvellir occur in August, averaging 12.2°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 3.7°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 3.9°C
  • February: 3.7°C
  • March: 4.4°C
  • April: 5.9°C
  • May: 7.8°C
  • June: 10.1°C
  • July: 11.8°C
  • August: 12.2°C
  • September: 10.5°C
  • October: 8.0°C
  • November: 6.0°C
  • December: 4.6°C

Marine Life in Silfra & Thingvellir

Home to 30 recorded species including 8 seagrass & algae, 6 whales & dolphins, 6 reef fish, 3 clams & mussels, 3 sea snails & nudibranchs, 1 other.

Recommended Packing List for Silfra & Thingvellir

Based on average water temperature of 7.4°C, currents 4 cm/s.

  • Drysuit - water at 7°C demands a drysuit with thermal undergarments
  • Hood & Gloves (7mm+) - critical to prevent heat loss
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Marine Protected Areas in Silfra & Thingvellir

  • Surtsey - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category Ia)
  • Eldey - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category Ia)
  • Flatey - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category IV)
  • Melrakkaey - strandlína - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category VI)
  • Grótta - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category IV)
  • Dyrhólaey - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category IV)
  • Breiðafjörður - Conservation Area (IUCN Category V)
  • Grunnafjörður - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category IV)
  • Grunnafjördur - Wetland of International Importance (Ramsar Site) (IUCN Category IV)
  • Blautós og Innstavogsnes - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category IV)
  • Ströndin við Stapa og Hellna - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category IV)
  • Fossvogsbakkar - Natural Monument (IUCN Category III)
  • Kasthúsatjörn, fjara - Public Recreation Area or Country Park (IUCN Category V)
  • Hlið - Public Recreation Area or Country Park (IUCN Category V)
  • Gálgahraun - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category III)
  • Hleinar - Public Recreation Area or Country Park (IUCN Category V)
  • Hvaleyrarlón og Hvaleyrarhöfði - Public Recreation Area or Country Park (IUCN Category V)
  • Skerjafjörður innan Garðabæjar - Habitat protection (IUCN Category V)
  • Surtsey - World Heritage Site (natural or mixed) (IUCN Category Not Applicable)
  • Andakíll - Habitat protection (IUCN Category IV)
  • Skerjafjörður innan Kópavogs - Habitat protection (IUCN Category IV)
  • Eldey - Marine Protected Area (OSPAR) (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • Reynisdjup, coral reef - Marine Protected Area (OSPAR) (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • Surtsey - Marine Protected Area (OSPAR) (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • Andakill Protected Habitat Area - Wetland of International Importance (Ramsar Site) (IUCN Category Not Reported)
  • Akurey - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category IV)
  • Lundey í Kollafirði - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category IV)
  • Blikastaðakró-Leiruvogur - Nature Reserve (IUCN Category IV)
  • Andakíll, Hvanneyri - Wetland of International Importance (Ramsar Site) (IUCN Category VI)

Getting to Silfra & Thingvellir - Nearest Airports

  • Reykjavík Domestic Airport (RKV), Reykjavík - 30 km away, approx 48 min travel time
  • Keflavik International Airport (KEF), Reykjavík - 46 km away, approx 65 min travel time
  • Akureyri International Airport (AEY), Akureyri - 262 km away, approx 301 min travel time

Dive Sites

Dive Centres

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical water conditions, including temperature and visibility, for diving in Silfra?
Diving in Silfra offers exceptional water conditions, boasting over 100 metres of visibility, allowing for an incredibly clear view between the tectonic plates. The best water temperatures are typically experienced in summer and early autumn, with averages around 11.75°C in July, 12.19°C in August, and 10.47°C in September.
What kind of marine life or aquatic flora can divers expect to see in Silfra and Thingvellir?
The provided data does not specify the types of marine life or aquatic flora divers can expect to see in Silfra and Thingvellir. The primary draw of this unique sub-region is the geological experience of diving between tectonic plates. For general information on aquatic life, you can explore our wildlife database.
What are the distinct dive sites or sections within the Silfra fissure?
Based on the provided data, Silfra is listed as a single distinct dive site within the sub-region, characterized as a reef dive. The data does not detail specific named sections or areas within the Silfra fissure itself. For more information on this unique dive, visit the Silfra dive site page.
What are the required diving certifications and experience levels for diving in Silfra?
Diving in Silfra is categorized as an intermediate experience level. While specific certification requirements are not detailed in the provided data, divers should possess the necessary training and experience for intermediate-level cold-water diving, typically involving dry suit certification. We recommend checking with one of the 4 dive centres in the area for precise certification requirements.
Is Silfra a suitable dive site for less experienced or beginner dry suit divers?
Silfra is classified as an intermediate level dive site. Therefore, it may not be ideal for less experienced or beginner dry suit divers who are still developing their skills. Divers should have a comfortable level of experience with dry suit diving and cold-water conditions to fully enjoy this unique experience.
How do divers typically travel to Silfra and Thingvellir National Park?
The provided data does not include information on how divers typically travel to Silfra and Thingvellir National Park. However, as a popular destination in Iceland, it is generally accessible by road from Reykjavik. We recommend consulting local dive centres for specific transportation arrangements and logistics.
How do seasonal changes affect diving conditions and the overall experience in Silfra?
Seasonal changes primarily affect the water temperature in Silfra, with the warmest conditions occurring in summer and early autumn. The best months for water temperature are July (11.75°C), August (12.19°C), and September (10.47°C). While visibility remains consistently excellent at over 100 metres year-round, these months offer a slightly more comfortable thermal experience for divers. For more details on optimal diving times, visit our when to dive section.
Are there any other recommended dive sites in the Thingvellir area besides Silfra?
Yes, besides Silfra, the Silfra & Thingvellir sub-region offers 25 other dive sites to explore. These include other reef dives like Faxasker and Æðaklettar, as well as numerous wreck dives such as HMS Graph and VIKARTINDUR, all categorized as intermediate level. This diverse selection provides ample opportunities for further exploration in the area.