The Geysir geothermal area is one of Iceland’s most striking natural wonders, famous for its steaming vents and the Strokkur geyser erupting every few minutes. It’s a popular stop for travelers who want a close-up look at Iceland’s geothermal power.
Reaching Geysir isn’t hard, but some options are faster, safer, or more enjoyable than others. Choosing the right one makes all the difference.
Where Is Geysir Located?
Geysir sits in the Haukadalur Valley, about 100 kilometers from Reykjavik. That’s roughly a 1.5 to 2-hour drive.
It’s part of the Golden Circle, along with Þingvellir and Gullfoss. You won’t miss it—the ground hisses, bubbles, and erupts like clockwork.
Top Ways to Get from Reykjavik to Geysir Geothermal Area
Self-Drive
Driving from Reykjavik to the Geysir geothermal area gives you full control over your day. You can stop for photos, take detours, and spend as much time as you want at each location.
The main roads are paved, well-marked, and easy to follow using Google Maps. Still, Iceland’s weather can change quickly, especially in winter, with icy roads and sudden whiteouts creating dangerous conditions.
If you're not comfortable driving in snow or on remote roads, it might be better to skip renting a car. But if you’re confident behind the wheel, a Self-Drive Tour – Westfjords & the West Coast in 7 Days – 4x4 Campervan or an Electric Car Rental offers the freedom to explore Geysir and beyond at your own pace.
Join a Golden Circle Tour
Joining a Golden Circle tour is the easiest and most hassle-free way to visit the Geysir geothermal area. There’s no need to plan routes, worry about weather, or navigate unfamiliar roads and book your spot, hop on the bus, and enjoy the scenery.
Most tours cover Geysir, Gullfoss, and Þingvellir, making it easy to experience the best Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik: Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir all in one day. You’ll also get local stories and insights that you’d likely miss on your own.
For a smooth, reliable experience, we recommend Golden Circle Day Tours—they handle everything from pickup to timing and safety.
Public Bus
Taking a public bus from Reykjavik to the Geysir geothermal area is technically possible, but it’s far from convenient. There’s no direct route, so the journey requires several transfers, often with long waiting times in between.
Bus schedules are limited, especially during winter or on weekends, which makes planning difficult and risky. If you miss a connection or the return bus, you could be stranded in a remote area with no backup option.
While this is the cheapest option upfront, the time lost and uncertainty involved make it a poor choice for most travelers. For a smoother and more reliable experience, a guided tour or a 4x4 campervan is a much safer bet.
Best Time to Visit Geysir Geothermal Area
The Geysir geothermal area is open year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Summer brings long daylight hours, easier driving, and lush scenery, but also larger crowds.
Winter is quieter and more dramatic with snow and steam, though roads and paths can be icy. For fewer people and better photos, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Other Attractions Near Geysir Geothermal Area
Geysir sits in the middle of a scenic loop packed with highlights. These six stops are close, convenient, and worth adding to your route.
1. Gullfoss Waterfall
Gullfoss Waterfall is just a 10-minute drive from the Geysir geothermal area. This powerful two-tiered cascade plunges into a rugged canyon, throwing up constant mist and rainbows on sunny days.
There are multiple viewpoints that offer different angles of the falls, including one right above the drop. Gullfoss is a signature stop on every Golden Circle route and should not be missed.
2. Þingvellir National Park
Þingvellir National Park lies between Reykjavik and Geysir and is often the first major stop on Golden Circle tours. It’s home to Iceland’s first parliament and sits directly on the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
Visitors can walk through Almannagjá gorge, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Silfra, or simply enjoy the dramatic views. Þingvellir offers both cultural history and raw natural beauty in one location.
3. Friðheimar Tomato Farm
Friðheimar Tomato Farm is just a short detour from the main Golden Circle route. It's known for its unique greenhouse dining experience, where you can enjoy freshly made tomato soup surrounded by growing plants.
The restaurant also serves tomato-based cocktails and desserts, and you can buy locally made products to take home. Friðheimar offers a cozy, warm break in contrast to the wind and steam of nearby Geysir.
4. Laugarvatn Fontana
Laugarvatn Fontana is a geothermal spa located by the lake in the small town of Laugarvatn. It's about 30 minutes from Geysir and offers steam rooms, hot pools, and lake dips for the brave.
You can watch bubbling hot springs beside the baths and even book a geothermal bakery tour to see rye bread baked underground. Laugarvatn Fontana is an ideal place to relax your muscles after exploring the Geysir area.
5. Kerið Crater
Kerið Crater is a vivid red volcanic caldera filled with bright blue water. It's located along the Golden Circle route and takes less than 20 minutes to explore on foot.
The contrast of red slopes, green moss, and deep blue lake makes it a favorite for photographers. Kerið is a quick but visually striking stop, and it's easy to fit into a trip from Reykjavik to Geysir.
6. Faxi Waterfall
Faxi Waterfall is a wide, gentle waterfall just a short drive from Geysir, often overlooked by tourists heading straight to Gullfoss. It has a quieter charm and is surrounded by open farmland.
There’s a small picnic area and a viewing platform that offers a calm, scenic break. Faxi is perfect for those who want a peaceful stop without the crowds.
Start Your Geysir Journey Now!
Getting from Reykjavik to the Geysir geothermal area is simple once you choose the right option. You can go by 4x4 campervan, book a tour, or take the bus—though the last one isn’t ideal.
A guided tour is the most relaxing way to see everything without stress. It’s the best choice if you want to enjoy the trip without worrying about maps, road conditions, or parking.
Want a smooth, hassle-free ride from Reykjavik to Geysir? Book with Golden Circle Day Tours now and let the experts handle the planning, driving, and timing while you enjoy Iceland’s top sights.
