Iceland is famous for its geothermal hot springs, volcanic landscapes, and dramatic scenery. While most visitors experience these natural wonders from the surface, Lake Kleifarvatn offers a completely different perspective. Here, you can snorkel above underwater geothermal springs and witness the forces that continue to shape Iceland beneath the water.

In this guide, you'll discover what makes Lake Kleifarvatn unique, plus what to expect while snorkeling in one of Iceland's most fascinating underwater environments.

Can You Snorkel Above Geothermal Springs in Iceland?

Yes. Lake Kleifarvatn is one of the few places where you can experience underwater hot spring snorkeling in Iceland. Instead of soaking in geothermal water, you'll float above active underwater hot springs. As bubbles rise from the vents below, you may even feel gentle vibrations beneath you. Many describe the sensation as swimming through a glass of champagne.

Why Lake Kleifarvatn Is One of Iceland's Most Unique Snorkeling Sites

Lake Kleifarvatn is the largest lake on the Reykjanes Peninsula, covering approximately 8 square kilometers (3 square miles). It’s also one of Iceland's deepest lakes, reaching a maximum depth of 97 meters (318 feet).

The lake lies within theKrýsuvík Geothermal Area. Specifically, on the fissure zone of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates continue to pull apart. This ongoing tectonic activity has shaped the surrounding volcanic landscape. It has created rugged lava fields, geothermal features, and the unique underwater environment that makes Lake Kleifarvatn so distinctive.

Underwater geothermal activity

Steam vents and bubbling mud pools are easy to spot elsewhere in Krýsuvík. At Lake Kleifarvatn, however, much of the geothermal activity happens beneath the surface. Warm water, gases, and minerals rise through cracks in the lakebed, creating underwater hot springs that continually reshape parts of the lake floor.

These geothermal processes make Lake Kleifarvatn unlike traditional snorkeling destinations. It's also one of the few places in Iceland where you can experience underwater hot spring snorkeling. Instead of coral reefs or marine life, the underwater landscape is defined by volcanic rock formations and bubbling geothermal vents.

What You'll See While Snorkeling at Lake Kleifarvatn

Once you enter the water, you'll begin to witness the geothermal activity hidden beneath the lake.

As you float across Lake Kleifarvatn, you may see:

Streams of gas bubbles rising from active geothermal vents beneath the lakebed
White and yellow sulfur deposits, similar to those found at the nearby Seltún Hot Springs
Dark volcanic rock formations shaped by thousands of years of geothermal and volcanic activity

Fun fact: Lake Kleifarvatn is also home to large brown trout and Arctic char. Keep an eye out; you might spot them during your snorkeling adventure.

Although Lake Kleifarvatn is cold, you may notice slightly warmer water in its southernmost part. That's where the underwater hot springs are located, creating subtle temperature changes beneath the surface.

Every tour is slightly different, as geothermal activity can change over time. Weather and water conditions may also influence visibility, making each visit to Lake Kleifarvatn a unique experience.

Is Snorkeling Above Geothermal Springs Safe in Iceland?

Yes. Snorkeling at Lake Kleifarvatn is a safe activity when you join a guided tour with experienced professionals. Dive.is is a PADI 5-Star Dive Center with decades of experience leading snorkeling and diving adventures in Iceland's cold waters.

No previous snorkeling experience is required. Many guests try cold-water snorkeling for the first time at Lake Kleifarvatn. With professional guidance and specialized equipment, beginners can enjoy the experience with confidence.

To participate, you should be comfortable in the water and meet the tour's age, height, weight, and health requirements. Be sure to review the tour requirements before booking to ensure the experience is suitable for you.

How the Lake Kleifarvatn Hot Spring Snorkeling Tour Works

From start to finish, the experience is designed to be straightforward and enjoyable. Here's what you can expect on the day of your tour with Dive.is:

Meet at Seltún: Begin your adventure at the Seltún Geothermal Area. Here, you'll meet your guide and explore the colorful geothermal landscape before continuing to Lake Kleifarvatn.
Get ready: Your guide will provide a short introduction to the tour before helping you into your dry suit and snorkeling equipment.
Enter the water: Once everyone is ready, you'll swim about 150 m (492 ft) from the shore with your guide. Then, begin snorkeling above the underwater hot springs.
Explore the geothermal landscape: Float at a relaxed pace as you observe bubbling vents, volcanic rock formations, and other geothermal features beneath the surface.
Wrap up the experience: After snorkeling, you'll return to shore, remove your equipment, and change into dry clothes before the tour concludes.

Bonus: Once you're back on shore, you'll be treated to bubbling refreshments, hot chocolate, and cookies. It's a cozy way to warm up and celebrate your unique underwater adventure in Iceland.

Tour requirements

To ensure a safe, enjoyable experience of hot spring snorkeling ordiving in Iceland, participants should meet the following requirements:

Age: At least 12 years old
Height: 150 to 200 cm (4’11 to 6’7)
Weight: 45 to 120 kg (99 to 265 lbs)

You also must:

Be able to communicate in English with your guide
Be comfortable in the water and able to swim
Be prepared to wear a snug-fitting dry suit
Be physically fit
Not be pregnant

Before the activity, you'll also need to:

Sign a liability release form at the start of the tour
Read and sign the online snorkeling medical statement
For ages 60 or older, provide a snorkeling medical form signed by a physician

If you're unsure whether you meet the requirements, contact us at Dive.is before booking. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and help you choose the right experience.

Top Hot Springs Snorkeling Tours at Lake Kleifarvatn

Traveling solo, with family, or as part of a group? Dive.is offers several ways to experience the unique underwater geothermal activity at Lake Kleifarvatn.

All tours are available from 1 May to 30 September and are limited to a maximum of eight snorkelers per guide. This small group size allows for a more personalized experience and ensures your guide can provide support throughout the adventure.

Depending on your travel style and group size, you can choose from these guided tours:

Snorkeling above hot springs tour: Join a scheduled group tour and snorkel above the underwater geothermal springs of Lake Kleifarvatn. It's a great option for solo travelers, couples, and small groups looking to share the experience with other adventurers.
Private hot springs snorkeling tour: Enjoy a more exclusive experience with a private guide for your group of up to eight participants. This option offers a flexible pace and is ideal for families, friends, photographers, or anyone seeking a more personalized adventure.
Hot springs group snorkeling tour: Designed for larger groups, this tour offers the same unique snorkeling experience with professional guidance. It's well-suited for school groups, corporate outings, travel groups, and other organized excursions.

No matter which tour you choose, our experienced guides will be with you every step of the way. With safety as our top priority, we’ll ensure you feel comfortable and confident throughout the experience.

Best Time to Snorkel Above Geothermal Springs in Iceland

Summer is the best time to snorkel at Kleifarvatn Lake, with tours operating from May through September. During these months, the lake is free of ice, and conditions are ideal for exploring the underwater hot springs. The long daylight hours also leave plenty of time to enjoy the experience and other attractions on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

As with any outdoor activity in Iceland, the weather can change quickly. Check the forecast before your trip (via vedur.is) and dress appropriately for the conditions.

What to Wear and Bring for Hot Spring Snorkeling in Iceland

Preparing for your hot spring snorkeling adventure in Iceland is simple, as all specialized equipment is provided. Still, wearing the right clothing underneath your dry suit will help you stay comfortable throughout the experience.

Pack these must-have essentials:

-Thick wool socks to help keep your feet warm
-Long underwear or thermal base layers made from wool or synthetic materials
-If you normally wear glasses, bring contact lenses, unless you have your own personalized prescription mask

It'll also be helpful to bring:

-A change of clothes for after the tour
-Warm outerwear for before and after snorkeling
-Water and snacks, if you're continuing your trip around the Reykjanes Peninsula
-A waterproof camera (your guides will also take group photos during the tour)

Note: Avoid wearing cotton base layers, as they retain moisture and provide less insulation than wool or synthetic fabrics.

More Things to Do Near Lake Kleifarvatn

A snorkeling tour at Lake Kleifarvatn is just one of the top things to do on the Reykjanes Peninsula. If you're planning a complete day trip, consider adding these nearby attractions to your itinerary:

Seltún Hot Springs: Walk along boardwalks past steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and colorful mineral deposits in one of Iceland's most active geothermal areas.
Grænavatn: Visit this striking volcanic crater lake, known for its vivid green water and dramatic volcanic surroundings.
Fagradalsfjall Volcano: Hike through young lava fields created by the peninsula's recent volcanic eruptions and witness Iceland's ever-changing landscape.
Gunnuhver Hot Springs: Explore Iceland's largest mud pool and powerful steam vents at this active geothermal area steeped in local folklore.
Brimketill Lava Rock Pool: Stop at this naturally formed lava pool, where crashing Atlantic waves create dramatic coastal scenery.
Bridge Between Continents: Walk across a footbridge spanning the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Blue Lagoon: End your day with a relaxing soak in one of Iceland's most famous geothermal spas.

You can explore these attractions on a self-drive adventure or on a guided tour. Either option pairs perfectly with a snorkeling experience at Lake Kleifarvatn.

Other Unique Snorkeling Experiences Nearby

If you're looking to explore more of Iceland's underwater world, consider these other snorkeling experiences:

-Silfra snorkeling tour: Experience the world's only snorkeling site between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Located inÞingvellir National Park, Silfra is famous for its crystal-clear glacial water and exceptional underwater visibility.
-Lava and Bjarnagjá wreck dive adventure: Journey through the recent lava fields of Fagradalsfjall, then snorkel in Bjarnagjá, where clear groundwater, a submerged shipwreck, and the nearby ocean create a one-of-a-kind underwater environment

Whether you choose Lake Kleifarvatn, Silfra, or Bjarnagjá, you'll be guided by the expert team at Dive.is. Every adventure is designed to be safe, enjoyable, and memorable.

Experience Iceland's Geothermal Wonders From Below the Surface

Lake Kleifarvatn offers a rare opportunity to see Iceland's geothermal activity from beneath the surface. As you float above bubbling underwater hot springs, you'll witness the natural forces that continue to shape the Reykjanes Peninsula. It's a perspective few visitors ever get.

Whether you're an experienced snorkeler or trying it for the first time, a guided tour makes this unique adventure accessible. Pair it with nearby attractions like Seltún and Gunnuhver for a memorable day exploring one of Iceland's most geologically fascinating regions.