Geysir Geothermal Area
Witness the raw power of nature at the Geysir Geothermal Area, home to the erupting Strokkur geyser and bubbling hot springs.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Strokkur's eruption schedule
Geysir Geothermal Area
Best Time
Strokkur's eruption schedule

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the raw power of nature at the Geysir Geothermal Area, home to the erupting Strokkur geyser and bubbling hot springs.
"How amazing is our nature? This place is proof of our extraordinary planet!"
🎯 Stay on the Boardwalks!
Always stick to marked paths. Geothermal areas are dangerous with boiling water and unstable ground.
👃 Embrace the Smell
The sulfur smell is strong but part of the authentic geothermal experience. Don't let it deter you!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Strokkur Geyser
Haukadalur Valley
Witness the mighty Strokkur erupting boiling water up to 30 meters high every 6-7 minutes. A truly spectacular display of geothermal power!

The Great Geysir
Haukadalur Valley
Though mostly dormant, the original Geysir is the namesake of all geysers. Its historical significance adds to the allure of the area.
Geothermal Pools and Vents
Haukadalur Valley
Explore bubbling mud pots and steaming vents, showcasing the raw, untamed energy beneath Iceland's surface.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Strokkur
Embrace the Geothermal Aroma
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Stay on the Boardwalks!
Always stick to marked paths. Geothermal areas are dangerous with boiling water and unstable ground.
👃 Embrace the Smell
The sulfur smell is strong but part of the authentic geothermal experience. Don't let it deter you!
📸 First Eruption: Just Watch!
For your first Strokkur eruption, put down your phone and just enjoy the moment. Film the second time!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking around the geothermal area. Comfortable footwear is a must.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Stay on the Boardwalks!
Always stick to marked paths. Geothermal areas are dangerous with boiling water and unstable ground.
👃 Embrace the Smell
The sulfur smell is strong but part of the authentic geothermal experience. Don't let it deter you!
📸 First Eruption: Just Watch!
For your first Strokkur eruption, put down your phone and just enjoy the moment. Film the second time!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking around the geothermal area. Comfortable footwear is a must.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Geysir Geothermal Area a unique and awe-inspiring stop, particularly the reliable eruptions of Strokkur. While the sulfur smell is noticeable, it's considered part of the authentic experience. Some find it less spectacular than other geothermal sites, but the natural wonder is undeniable.
"The hot springs are great but smaller in scale and Strokkur didn’t erupt while we waited for 30 mins. Of all the things in Iceland this was most disappointing, especially given I have experienced these in Yellowstone where it’s spectacular."
Ram Ramakrishnan
"Really cool stop on the Golden Circle! As expected it smells bad but it’s a part of the experience :)
The first time you get to Geysir I’d recommend not filming and just watching to get surprised by it. It goes off every 6ish minutes so you can take a video the second time!"
Ayca H
"How amazing is our nature? This place is proof of our extraordinary planet which is unfortunately being ruined by humans."
Ezio Accaputo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Geysir Geothermal Area is located in the Haukadalur valley and is a popular stop on Iceland's famous Golden Circle route. It's easily accessible by car from Reykjavik, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Many Golden Circle tours also include this as a primary destination.
Absolutely! Renting a car is a popular option for independent travelers, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Public transportation options are limited, so a car or a guided tour is generally recommended.
If you're short on time, prioritize the Geysir Geothermal Area as part of a Golden Circle tour. This route efficiently covers several major attractions in a single day, making it ideal for day-trippers.
Yes, there is a large parking area available at the Geysir Geothermal Area, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car. It's usually free to park.
Definitely! Geysir is part of the Golden Circle, which typically includes Þingvellir National Park and Gullfoss waterfall. Many visitors also extend their trip to the south coast, though some suggest skipping Geysir for longer stays elsewhere.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Geysir Geothermal Area itself is free to enter and explore. You can witness the eruptions of Strokkur and explore the surrounding geothermal features without any admission cost.
The Geysir Geothermal Area is open 24/7, year-round. However, the visitor center and facilities will have specific operating hours. It's best to visit during daylight for the most optimal viewing experience.
Since there is no entrance fee, no advance booking is required for the Geysir Geothermal Area. You can visit spontaneously.
The main restriction is to always stay on the marked paths and boardwalks for your safety, as the ground can be unstable and hot. Do not touch any geothermal features.
While Strokkur erupts frequently, the area can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon, outside of midday tour bus times, might offer a slightly less crowded experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Strokkur is very active and erupts reliably every 6 to 7 minutes, making it a highlight for most visitors. You won't have to wait long to see it in action!
The area is known for its strong sulfur smell, a natural characteristic of geothermal activity. Most visitors find it manageable and part of the unique experience.
Yes, there is a visitor center with restrooms, a restaurant, and a gift shop. You can grab a bite to eat or use facilities there.
Have your camera ready a minute or two before an expected eruption. Many recommend enjoying the first eruption without filming to truly experience it, then capturing subsequent ones.
It is safe as long as you strictly adhere to the marked paths and boardwalks. The ground around the geothermal features can be unstable and extremely hot.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant located at the visitor center that offers a range of meals, from traditional Icelandic dishes to lighter fare. It's a convenient spot to refuel.
The restaurant typically serves Icelandic specialties, soups, sandwiches, and salads. It's a good place to try local flavors while taking a break from exploring.
While the onsite restaurant is convenient, options for budget-friendly food are limited directly at the Geysir site. Packing snacks or a picnic lunch to enjoy in the area is a good strategy for saving money.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. There are often picnic areas available, allowing you to enjoy a meal amidst the unique landscape.
It depends on your itinerary. If you're on a tight schedule, eating at the Geysir visitor center is efficient. Otherwise, you might find more diverse or budget-friendly options in nearby towns or back in Reykjavik.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most dramatic lighting for capturing the geothermal landscape and Strokkur's eruptions. However, midday can also be good for capturing the steam against a blue sky.
Use a fast shutter speed to freeze the motion of the water spray. A higher ISO might be necessary in lower light conditions, but be mindful of noise. A tripod can be helpful for stability, especially in windy conditions.
The main viewing area around Strokkur offers excellent vantage points. For wider shots of the geothermal field, explore the designated paths, always staying within safe boundaries.
Include people in your shots to give a sense of scale. Wide-angle lenses can capture the entire eruption column and the surrounding landscape.
Be mindful of the steam, which can fog up your lens. Protect your equipment from moisture and the elements. Also, remember to stay on the marked paths for safety.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's crucial to emphasize safety rules to kids: always stay on the boardwalks and never touch the hot springs or vents. The visitor center offers amenities like restrooms and a cafe, making it comfortable for families. Consider packing snacks and drinks to keep little ones happy between stops.
🚗 Independent Travelers
Utilize navigation apps and be aware of road conditions, especially outside of summer. Parking is readily available at Geysir, and the site is easily navigable on foot via the designated paths.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with shutter speeds to freeze the water's motion or create a silky effect. Be mindful of the steam, which can fog up your lens, and always protect your gear from the elements. Remember to stay on the marked paths for safety while seeking the perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Geothermal Activity
While the Great Geysir is largely dormant today, Strokkur erupts reliably every 6 to 7 minutes, shooting water up to 30 meters into the air. This predictable cycle makes it a must-see attraction. The geothermal features here are a constant reminder of the powerful forces shaping Iceland's unique landscape. Visitors are advised to stay on marked paths due to the extreme heat and unstable ground.
The distinct sulfurous smell is a tell-tale sign of the hydrogen sulfide gas released from the Earth's interior. While it can be strong, it's an integral part of the geothermal experience and a testament to the raw, natural processes at play.
The Golden Circle Experience
Typically, the Golden Circle includes three main stops: Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are pulling apart; Gullfoss, a magnificent two-tiered waterfall; and the Geysir Geothermal Area itself. Many tours and self-drive itineraries also incorporate other nearby attractions, such as the Kerið crater lake or the Secret Lagoon.
While the Geysir area is a highlight, some travelers suggest that for longer trips, focusing on other regions might be more rewarding, especially if you've experienced similar geothermal activity elsewhere. However, for a first-time visitor or those on a shorter itinerary, the Golden Circle, with Geysir as a key stop, provides an unforgettable introduction to Iceland's geological marvels.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit