There are only a few places in the world, where people can see the Mid-Atlantic Ridge above the ocean and the largest part of it is located in Iceland. The Ridge is the longest chain of mountains on the globe. It is around 65,000 km long, but 90% of it is located underwater.
In summer the clear waters are warmer, so the combination of a nice weather with snorkelling between Eurasian and American continent can become one of the best memories.
The best place to see the Mid-Atlantic Ridge is Thingvellir National Park in the southwest Iceland. It is a place of historical and geological importance as well as a constant tourists’ attraction. Guided trips along the ridge are provided on land and underwater.
The Silfra fissure is a part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and a very popular diving and snorkelling spot. This is a place, where you can dive between two continents, namely between two tectonic plates of Europe and America. Around 100 metres of visibility in crystal clear waters gives you a chance to fully enjoy your snorkelling or diving adventure.
Practical info
What is the recommended time of year to experience Icelandic snorkeling or diving?
Icelandic summer, between June and August, is an ideal time for diving or snorkeling in Iceland. Because of the warmer and clearer waters, the experience is more comfortable and pleasant. Additionally, during summer, Iceland has long daylight hours, which offers more time to discover the wonders of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, making it a prime time for tourists to visit the country. Show more
Which national park houses the Silfra fissure?
The Silfra fissure is situated in the southwest of Iceland, in the Thingvellir National Park. This fantastic diving spot is part of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and marks the confluence of the two world’s tectonic plates. For many tourists, Silfra is a major attraction in Thingvellir National Park, and they visit the park specifically to explore this popular diving spot. Show more
What qualities does Thingvellir National Park possess to make it an exceptional destination for snorkeling?
At Thingvellir National Park, visitors can make unique snorkeling and diving experiences due to the excellent geological features of the area. Specifically, people can explore the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the spot where the earth’s two largest tectonic plates meet, offering an extraordinary opportunity to snorkel between two continents. Additionally, the park boasts crystal clear waters with impressive visibility of up to one hundred meters, providing an unmatched adventure to tourists. Show more
Can non-expert swimmers participate in tours along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge?
Yes, anyone, regardless of experience, can participate in guided tours along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Several tourism operators offer diving and snorkeling excursions that fit all proficiency levels. Visitors are advised to utilize the services of reliable excursion operators who provide adequate training and gear to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants. These operators provide guidance and instructions to make sure that even non-expert swimmers have a safe, enjoyable experience. Show more
In addition to snorkeling, what other activities can tourists participate in at Thingvellir National Park?
Thingvellir National Park offers tourists a wide selection of activities besides snorkeling and diving. Visitors can embark on hiking expeditions through scenic park trails, fishing, or participating in horseback riding tours. The park embraces extensive history, featuring historical locations such as Althingi, one of Iceland's historic parliamentary sites dating back to 930 AD. Therefore, Thingvellir National Park remains an ideal destination for families and adventure enthusiasts who want to experience nature and history in one place. Show more
