Diving is permitted in two submerged rifts in the National Park;
- Silfra is one of the best spots for diving in Iceland and many people find the rift unique on an international scale. The reason for its fame is the astounding visibility in the clear, cold mineral water and the magnificent surroundings.
- Davíðsgjá is in the north-eastern part of Lake Þingvallavatn. The rift is in the lake itself and to reach it you have to swim some distance. It is quite shallow nearest to the bank, but deepens and widens further out.
Divers and snorkelers have to fulfil all regulations and conditions regarding qualification and equipment for diving. They must abide by all rules concerning diving and agree to respect the National Park regulations.
Here‘s an English summary of the main rules and regulations. General rules:
· You must always dive or snorkel with a buddy, it is prohibited to enter Silfra alone.
· You must stay in open areas, it is prohibited to enter caves or other overhead environments while diving.
· You can dive up to 18 meters max, diving deeper is prohibited.
· Divers are required to have a diving license equivalent to an Autonomous Diver (e.g. Open Diver) and a dry suit certificate. Instead of a dry suit certificate, a proof of 10 registered dry suit dives in the last two years is also accepted. The proof must be a written confirmation by an instructor affiliated with an internationally recognized diving organization.
· Divers and snorkelers need to be equipped with full equipment suitable for cold water (2-4 on Celcius) diving or snorkeling. Divers are required to have a dry suit. Snorkelers may also use a suitable fitting and thick wetsuit. Full exposure protection includes hood, gloves, neoprene shoes/socks in addition to the suit.
· Dive operators will require a medical screening form (and a doctor‘s approval if applicable) for their guests. Visitors diving or snorkeling on their own need to confirm to be in full mental and physical health for the experience, and prepared for the outdoor and inwater conditions, when booking the diving/snorkeling permit.
· Diving and snorkeling is entirely at the visitors‘ own responsibility and risk.