Description
Few experiences show Iceland’s geology from such dramatically different angles. Raufarhólshellir reveals the frozen interior of an ancient lava flow, while Silfra opens a luminous underwater passage through the tectonic rift at Þingvellir.
The cave’s mineral colours, skylights and sculpted formations lead into an afternoon of clear glacial water, extraordinary visibility and the remarkable sensation of floating between the North American and Eurasian plates.
With specialist equipment, expert guidance, warm refreshments and underwater photographs included, the day is designed as a complete geological adventure rather than two disconnected activities.
Itinerary
Reykjavík pickup
Morning departure
Meet at the confirmed city pickup point and travel east through lava-covered countryside towards the first of two extraordinary geological environments. Your guide adds local context while the surrounding scenery gives the stop its own memorable character.
Raufarhólshellir
The black volcanic world
Enter a huge lava tunnel formed about 5,200 years ago and follow illuminated passages through colours, chambers and formations created by a flowing eruption. Your guide adds local context while the surrounding scenery gives the stop its own memorable character.
Return interval
Lunch and activity connection
Return briefly towards Reykjavík with time to arrange lunch or a snack before continuing to Þingvellir for the afternoon snorkeling experience. The changing colours, textures and wide horizons make this one of the route’s strongest visual moments.
Þingvellir National Park
Historic tectonic rift
Arrive in a UNESCO World Heritage landscape where Iceland’s parliament began and the separation of two continental plates shapes cliffs, valleys and clear fissures. The changing colours, textures and wide horizons make this one of the route’s strongest visual moments.
Silfra preparation
Drysuit fitting and briefing
Meet the specialist water guide, receive the necessary thermal and safety equipment and prepare carefully for the remarkably clear glacial water. Your guide adds local context while the surrounding scenery gives the stop its own memorable character.
Silfra snorkeling
Float between continents
Drift through blue water with visibility that can reach around 100–150 metres while the fissure walls reveal the underwater edge of two tectonic plates. Your guide adds local context while the surrounding scenery gives the stop its own memorable character.
Hot chocolate and return
Warm finish in Reykjavík
Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies after the water, receive the included underwater photographs and return to the city with two unforgettable perspectives on Iceland. There is time to enjoy the view before the journey continues through another striking part of Iceland.
What is included
- Reykjavík pickup and drop-off
- Expert lava-tunnel guide
- Certified Silfra water guide
- All caving, snorkeling and safety equipment
- Þingvellir admission fee
- Hot chocolate and cookies
- Underwater photographs
What do I need to bring
- Warm waterproof outdoor clothing
- Warm long underwear and socks
- Gloves
- Change of clothing
- Lunch or snacks
Good to know
Pick-up: Use the exact pickup point and departure time shown on your voucher.
- Participants must be confident swimmers, understand English and meet the current health, height and weight requirements shown during booking.
- The experience is not suitable during pregnancy.
- Read and complete the required medical statement before departure.
Highlights
- Raufarhólshellir lava tunnel
- Silfra fissure
- Snorkeling between tectonic plates
- Þingvellir National Park
- Free underwater photographs
Black & Blue Lava Tunnel and Silfra Tour from Reykjavík – Frequently Asked Questions
No previous snorkeling experience is required, but you must be comfortable in water, able to swim and able to communicate in English.
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