The Geysir Geothermal Area is one of Iceland's most famous natural attractions, and for good reason. This bubbling, steaming wonderland has been fascinating visitors for centuries. Located in the Haukadalur valley in southwestern Iceland, Geysir is home to hot springs, mud pots, and shooting geysers that remind you just how alive our planet really is.
In this guide, I'll walk you through everything you need to know about visiting this incredible place, from what to expect when you arrive to the best ways to experience it.
What Makes the Geysir Geothermal Area So Special
The Geysir area sits right on top of one of Iceland's most active geothermal zones. Underground, magma heats water to extreme temperatures, creating the spectacular displays you see at the surface. The area has been active for roughly 10,000 years, making it one of the world's oldest known geothermal sites.
The word "geyser" comes from the Icelandic verb "geysa," which means "to gush." The Great Geysir, which gives the area its name, was the first geyser described in printed sources and introduced this geological phenomenon to Europeans. While Geysir doesn't erupt regularly anymore, its neighbor Strokkur picks up the slack beautifully.
Walking through the Geysir area feels like stepping onto another planet. Steam rises from cracks in the earth, pools of bright blue water bubble gently, and every few minutes, Strokkur launches a column of boiling water 15 to 40 meters into the air. The smell of sulfur hangs in the air, the ground feels warm beneath your feet, and you can hear the earth rumbling and hissing around you.
How to Get to the Geysir Geothermal Area From Reykjavik
Geysir is located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Reykjavik, roughly a 90-minute drive along Route 1 and then Route 35. The roads are well-maintained and clearly marked, making it easy to reach by car.
If you're driving yourself, just follow Route 1 (the Ring Road) heading east from Reykjavik. After about 60 kilometers, you'll turn onto Route 35 toward Geysir. There's plenty of parking available at the site, and it's free.
Many visitors choose to experience Geysir as part of the famous Golden Circle route, which also includes Þingvellir National Park and Gullfoss waterfall. This makes for a perfect day trip from Reykjavik. You can drive the route yourself or join one of the many Golden Circle tours that depart daily from the capital. These tours typically include transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and stops at all three major attractions, making it hassle-free to see Iceland's most popular sights in one day.
What You'll See at the Geysir Geothermal Area
Strokkur Geyser
Strokkur is the star of the show here. This reliable geyser erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 40 meters high. The best part? You can watch it build up to an eruption. First, you'll see the water in the pool start to bubble. Then a blue dome forms on the surface, growing larger and larger until suddenly – whoosh! – it explodes upward in a spectacular column of water and steam.
My advice? Don't leave after seeing just one eruption. Watch it a few times. Each eruption is slightly different, and you'll get better photos once you understand the timing.
The Great Geysir
The original Geysir sits nearby, a larger pool that rarely erupts anymore. It can shoot water up to 70 meters high when it does erupt, but these days it mostly stays quiet. You can still see the beautiful blue pool and the silica deposits that have built up around it over thousands of years.
Throughout history, Geysir has gone through active and dormant periods. Sometimes earthquakes wake it up temporarily, but for the most part, it's been sleeping since the early 2000s.
Hot Springs and Mud Pots
Beyond the famous geysers, the area contains dozens of hot springs in various colors. Some are crystal clear and bright blue. Others are milky white or even rusty orange due to different minerals in the water. The colors change depending on the minerals present, the depth of the pool, and even the weather.
You'll also find several mud pots, where steam bubbles up through thick, gray mud, making plopping and burping sounds that are oddly satisfying to watch.
Colorful Mineral Deposits
The landscape around the geysers is painted in stunning colors. You'll see yellows, oranges, whites, and greens created by different minerals deposited as the water cools. The area around each hot spring is crusted with silica deposits called geyserite, which builds up over time as the mineral-rich water evaporates.
What to Bring and What to Wear When Visiting Geysir
Iceland's weather changes quickly, so layering is key. Here's what I recommend bringing:
Clothing:
- Waterproof jacket with a hood (essential!)
- Warm layers like fleece or wool sweaters
- Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots with good grip
- Warm hat and gloves, even in summer
- Scarf or neck warmer in winter
Other items:
- Camera or smartphone (you'll want photos!)
- Sunglasses (the reflection off the water and steam can be bright)
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Sunscreen (yes, even on cloudy days)
The paths can be wet and slippery from spray, so good footwear is important. When Strokkur erupts, you might get sprayed with mist if you're standing downwind, so that waterproof jacket will come in handy.
How Long to Spend at the Geysir Area
Most visitors spend 30 to 60 minutes at the Geysir area, which is enough time to see Strokkur erupt a few times and walk around the main hot springs. If you want to explore more thoroughly, read the information signs, visit the small exhibition, and have a meal, plan for 1.5 to 2 hours.
The walking paths around the geothermal area are easy and suitable for all fitness levels. The main path around Strokkur and the Great Geysir is partially paved and takes about 15-20 minutes to complete.
Walking Routes and Trails Around the Geothermal Features
The main geothermal area is compact and easy to explore on a well-maintained loop trail. The entire loop takes about 30 to 45 minutes at a leisurely pace, though most people spend an hour or more watching multiple eruptions and exploring the different features.
The path is mostly boardwalks and gravel trails, making it accessible for most fitness levels. There are some gentle hills and steps, but nothing too challenging. The trail is partially wheelchair accessible, though some areas may be difficult due to the terrain.
The loop takes you past Strokkur, the Great Geysir, and numerous smaller hot springs and bubbling pools. There are viewing platforms at the best spots, and informational signs explain what you're seeing.
Stay on the marked paths at all times. The ground can be dangerously hot, and the crust around hot springs can be thin. People have been seriously burned by stepping off the path or getting too close to the water.
Visitor Facilities and Services at Geysir
The Geysir area has good facilities for visitors. There's a modern visitor center with clean restrooms, a restaurant, a café, and a gift shop. The restaurant, Geysir Bistro, serves traditional Icelandic food as well as international dishes. It's a good spot for lunch, though it can get busy during peak hours.
The gift shop offers souvenirs, warm clothing if you forgot something, and local products. You'll also find a small exhibition about geothermal energy and the history of the area.
Parking is free and plentiful. The geothermal area itself is free to enter, which is wonderful considering how spectacular it is.
There's free Wi-Fi at the visitor center, and the facilities are open during regular business hours (roughly 9 AM to 6 PM, though hours vary by season). The geothermal area itself is accessible 24/7.
Where to Stay Near Geysir Geothermal Area
If you want to stay near Geysir, several options are available. The Geysir Hotel (also called Hotel Geysir) is right at the site, offering convenient access for early morning or late evening visits when crowds are minimal. The nearby village of Reykholt has guesthouses and farm stays. Selfoss, about 30 minutes away, offers more hotel options and restaurants.
Staying overnight near Geysir is particularly nice if you want to photograph the area in the best light or if you're splitting your Golden Circle journey over two days at a more relaxed pace.
Combining Geysir With Other Golden Circle Attractions
Most visitors experience Geysir as part of the Golden Circle, one of Iceland's most popular tourist routes. This approximately 300-kilometer loop from Reykjavik includes three major stops:
Þingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can walk between two tectonic plates and see where Iceland's parliament was founded in 930 AD. It's about a 50-minute drive from Reykjavik and should be your first stop if you're driving the route clockwise.
Geysir Geothermal Area is the second stop, about 45 minutes from Þingvellir. Plan to spend 1 to 2 hours here watching eruptions and exploring the hot springs.
Gullfoss Waterfall is just 10 minutes from Geysir and makes a spectacular final stop. This powerful waterfall drops 32 meters in two stages into a rugged canyon.
The entire Golden Circle can easily be done in one day. Many people do it as a self-drive trip, but there are also numerous guided tours available. Some Golden Circle tours include additional stops like the Kerið crater lake, Faxi waterfall, or local farms. There are also specialized tours that combine the Golden Circle with activities like snorkeling in Silfra, snowmobiling, or horseback riding.
If you're interested in photography or simply want more time at each location, consider spending two days on the Golden Circle or booking a private tour that can move at your pace.
Photography Tips for Capturing Strokkur's Eruptions
Photographing Strokkur can be tricky, but it's so rewarding when you nail it. Here are my best tips:
- Timing: Watch for the blue dome forming in the water. When you see it start to bulge upward, get your camera ready. You'll have just a second or two before the eruption.
- Camera settings: Use a fast shutter speed (at least 1/500s) to freeze the water in mid-air. Burst mode is your friend here – take multiple shots in quick succession and choose the best one later.
- Position: Walk around to find the best angle. The light changes throughout the day, so consider where the sun is. Morning light from the east or afternoon light from the west can create beautiful backlighting effects.
- Video: Consider shooting video and extracting stills later. This way you won't miss the moment.
- Foreground interest: Include some of the colorful mineral deposits or other hot springs in your foreground to add depth to your photos.
- People for scale: Including a person in your shot helps show just how high the eruption goes.
Remember to protect your camera from the spray. A lens hood helps, and you might want to bring a microfiber cloth to wipe off any droplets.
Other Geothermal Areas and Natural Wonders to Visit Nearby
If you're fascinated by geothermal features, Iceland has plenty more to offer beyond Geysir.
The Secret Lagoon is located in the village of Flúðir, just 20 minutes from Geysir. This natural hot spring pool is one of Iceland's oldest swimming spots, offering a more authentic and less crowded alternative to the Blue Lagoon. The water stays at a comfortable 38-40°C year-round, and there's even a small geyser that erupts every few minutes nearby.
Kerið Crater Lake is about 30 minutes from Geysir. This volcanic crater contains a striking blue-green lake and offers a nice short walk around the rim.
Skálholt is a historic site about 20 minutes from Geysir where Iceland's first bishop's seat was established. The modern church is beautiful and the site has significant historical importance.
For those interested in exploring more of Iceland's geothermal wonders, the South Coast is home to black sand beaches, glaciers, and more waterfalls. Some South Coast tours depart from Reykjavik and can be combined with a Golden Circle visit over multiple days.
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called "Iceland in miniature," offers diverse landscapes including geothermal areas, lava fields, and coastal cliffs. While it's a longer trip from Geysir, it's worth considering for those with more time.
