This chilly place on the Earth allows you to snorkel between two tectonic plates

In a world full of spectacular travel experiences, only a few can rival the excitement and thrill of scuba diving between two continents. Imagine swimming through crystal-clear waters and traversing a submerged canyon where two tectonic plates slowly drift apart. The fissure is a very integral part of one of the coldest countries on Earth. Besides floating in some of the purest water in the world, here lies a place where you see the mighty forces that shape the earth for millions of years. Touching two continents simultaneously, in vivid underwater scenarios, this once in a lifetime experience promises to be as educational as it is exciting during an adventure.



Among these fabulous natural treasures, there stands a spot in Iceland that is an ultimate adventure and a stunning geological wonder. The Silfra Fissure lies within the Þingvellir National Park , allowing humans to snorkel or dive between two tectonic plates, that is, the Eurasian and North American ones. One gets a chance to touch both the continents simultaneously. This, without a doubt, forms a treat for the daredevil adventurers as well as for the enthusiasts of nature.


Iceland is the country, placed on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge and shaped by tremendous tectonic forces active during more than 150 million years. The Silfra Fissure is their direct consequence, since these two, Eurasian and North American plates, slowly drift away from each other at about 2 cm per year. Despite this gradual tearing apart, Iceland remains as one piece due to periodic volcanic eruptions that infill the widening gap with new magma, keeping its landscape looking so beautiful.

Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site is one of those few places on Earth where you can see the result of tectonic movement both above and below the ground. The unique geological features along with historical and cultural value make it an attractive destination for tourists all around the world. Silfra Fissure is more popular for its clear water and extraordinary underwater view up to 100 meters.

Diving or snorkeling in Silfra is an experience like none other. The adventure begins with a thorough briefing from experienced guides who ensure participants are well-prepared for the icy waters, which remain around 2-4°C year-round. Equipped with dry suits to protect against the cold, divers, and snorkelers are ready to explore the fissure’s stunning underwater landscape.


The Silfra Fissure is divided into four main sections: Silfra Big Crack, Silfra Hall, Silfra Cathedral, and Silfra Lagoon. Each offers a unique underwater experience, from navigating narrow corridors to floating in vast, cathedral-like spaces. The clarity of the water, which has been filtered through porous lava rock for decades, creates an otherworldly feeling of weightlessness and freedom.

One of the most fantastic experiences in diving at Silfra is touching both Eurasian and North American plates at the same time. This is a very physical connection to the dynamic Earth's crust, which happens rarely and is humbling in its magnitude, since it speaks of enormous geological forces working beneath our feet.

While the primary attraction of Silfra is its geological importance, the fissure offers a lot of aquatic life. The bright green algae are called "Troll Hair," that contribute to the bright color found underwater. Occasionally other freshwater fish, like arctic char, are also seen. This is probably why Silfra stands out exceptionally as a destination for any diver.