Riding And Silfra Snorkel Combo

Reykjavik Combo: Horse Riding & Snorkeling in Silfra Fissure runs through Arctic Adventures. Rated 4.6 across 35 reviews. Runs 8 hours. From $307.

Overview

This eight-hour combo from Arctic Adventures pairs two of Iceland's signature activities in one day: a snorkel through the Silfra fissure in Thingvellir National Park and a horseback trek at Laxnes Horse Farm, with round-trip transport from Reykjavik included in the price. It suits travellers who want to try both without arranging separate bookings, and the riding side welcomes beginners as well as experienced riders.

The day starts with pickup in Reykjavik and a drive out to Thingvellir, where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates pull apart. Snorkellers float in the fissure's glacial meltwater, which filters naturally through lava fields from Langjokull glacier and is known for visibility that can reach up to 150 meters. Guides take underwater photos for free, and hot cocoa and biscuits follow the snorkel.

From there the group heads to Laxnes Horse Farm for a trek on purebred Icelandic horses. One reviewer mentioned that a horse at the farm had even appeared on Game of Thrones, and the horses are described in feedback as a highlight of the day. The tour runs in English, and the operator states that participants need moderate fitness, comfort in water, and the ability to swim.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Reykjavik pickupThe operator collects participants from Reykjavik; transport to and from the city is included.
2. Drive to ThingvellirThe group travels to Thingvellir National Park, where the Silfra fissure sits in the rift between the Eurasian and American tectonic plates.
3. Silfra snorkelSnorkel the fissure's clear glacial water with all necessary gear provided. Guides take underwater photos, free of charge, and hot cocoa and biscuits are served afterwards.
4. Transfer to LaxnesThe group drives on to Laxnes Horse Farm.
5. Horseback trekRide a purebred Icelandic horse through the surrounding landscape. Horses are suited to beginners and experienced riders alike.
6. Return to ReykjavikDrop-off back in Reykjavik is included. Food and drinks are not provided, so plan accordingly.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points from the listing and from past travellers will help the day run smoothly.

• Bring food. Meals are not included and, as one reviewer pointed out, there is nowhere to buy food between activities. Packing something to eat for the gap is a sensible precaution.
• Dress warm. The Silfra water is very cold, and reviewers recommend extra socks, leggings and a snug dry-tech shirt. Warm clothing, a change of clothes, a towel and spare socks are on the operator's bring list.
• Photos handled. Guides take underwater photos during the snorkel at no extra cost. One reviewer said this meant there was no need to bring a phone along.
• Hair gets wet. One reviewer pointed out hair gets wet during the snorkel, so bring a hair towel or hair ties. The same reviewer suggested leggings, socks and a snug dry-tech shirt under the provided gear.
• All abilities. The listing states the ride suits beginners through experts, and one reviewer described being matched with a horse based on experience and comfort level.
• Read the handbook. All participants must read the operator's Snorkeling Handbook before the tour. It covers what to bring, medical conditions and safety requirements.

Common issues. The water is very cold and the tour needs moderate fitness, comfort in water and the ability to swim. Participants must be at least 12 years old, and the weight limit for horse riding is 110kg (242 lbs). One reviewer reported a pickup running over an hour late on a cold, wet day, along with unclear communication about what to bring and when to eat; bringing food and a full change of clothes is a sensible buffer. Meals and gratuities are not included.

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