Planning to explore Icelandic geysers? The most famous geothermal area is waiting for you! Find out what’s so special about the legendary Geysir in Iceland, discover the country’s most active geyser, and experience all the wonders of the vibrant hot spring area.
What Is a Geyser and How Do Geysers Work?
If you’ve ever looked into Iceland, you’ve probably heard about hot springs and geysers. But what exactly is a geyser?
Geysers are rare natural phenomena found in only a few locations worldwide. They are a type of hot spring (a natural pool of water heated by geothermal activity) characterized by turbulent, intermittent discharges of boiling water and steam.
The bubbling magma beneath the earth’s surface heats the water, which becomes highly pressurized and forced toward the surface. Some geysers can shoot water up to 91 m (300 ft)!
Where Is Geysir Located?
Iceland’s most famous geyser, the Great Geysir, is situated in Haukadalur valley, on the southwestern side of Iceland, 99.2 km (61.6 mi) from Reykjavík. The Geysir hot spring area is part of the legendary Golden Circle route.
How to Get to the Geysir Geothermal Area?
You can easily reach the famous geysers by car. When driving from the capital, there are two routes you can choose. The more common route follows road number 36, then switches to Road 365 and continues on Road 37 without any turns.
The second route goes through road number 1, which takes you to Lake Laugarvatn and then switches to Road 35 for the rest of the way. Alternatively, you can join a guided Golden Circle tour and see other legendary attractions. If you are still full of energy, you can cap your day off with an exciting snowmobile ride from the Geysir area.
You can easily reach the famous geysers by car. When driving from the capital, there are two routes you can choose. The more common route follows road number 36, then switches to Road 365 and continues on Road 37 without any turns.
What’s Special About the Great Geysir?
The Great Geysir is considered the most famous geyser in Iceland.
Why? Since The Great Geysir is one of the oldest geysers in history, it actually gave the name to all the other erupting springs in the world. His name, in turn, comes from the Icelandic word “geysa” (“to gush”).
History of Geysir
Despite being in its inactive phase at the moment, Geysir is very powerful. In 1845, its eruptions reached a height of 170 meters (557.7 ft). Recent investigations have revealed that it has been active for at least 10,000 years.
The first time Geysir was mentioned in literature was in 1294. It is believed to have started erupting after a big earthquake. Throughout its existence, Geysir has experienced numerous active and dormant periods, with the active periods being mainly provoked by earthquakes. Nowadays, it is rare for Geysir to erupt, but it can awaken again at any time. Maybe you’ll be the lucky one to witness it?
Interesting Facts About Geysir
- Geysir’s eruptions were as regular as every 3 hours during his active times.
- The last eruption of the Great Geysir was in 2016.
- Attempts were made to stimulate Geysir by adding soap on special occasions. However, this method was rejected due to environmental concerns.
- Geysir, when not erupting, is a circular pool. This pool is 1.2 m (4 ft) deep and 18 m (60 ft) in diameter.
Strokkur Geyser
Although Geysir is Iceland’s most famous geyser, his baby brother Strokkur is the most active one. Strokkur erupts naturally every 4-10 minutes and blasts hot water fountains up to 20 meters (65.6 ft). It is the most visited active geyser in Iceland, and it is located just a hop from the Geysir.
The Science Behind the Mighty Strokkur
There are only a few active geysers in the world since many conditions must be met for this phenomenon to form.
First of all, the magma must be close enough to the earth’s surface to heat the rocks that boil the water in the natural pool. This condition is, in fact, met almost throughout the country, as Iceland is the region where two tectonic plates move apart.
Secondly, there must be a source of flowing underground water, which, in the case of Strokkur, comes from one of the largest glaciers in Iceland, Langjökull. The water sinks into the lava rock and travels in all directions.
Finally, there needs to be a plumbing system that allows the water to flow and a reservoir where it can gather.
In conclusion, the Strokkur geyser is a truly unique natural phenomenon that satisfies many specific conditions, and as a result, we can witness its magical performance.
History of Strokkur
The earliest eruption of the Strokkur geyser dates back to 1294. However, it wasn’t mentioned in any written sources until 1789.
In the 20th century, an earthquake blocked the water channels, and the geyser was asleep until it was manually unblocked in 1963 by the local government. Since then, it has proudly displayed its power to visitors every day.
Interesting Facts About Strokkur
- The Strokkur geyser squirts extremely hot water from below the earth’s surface at approximately 60 km (37 mi) per hour.
- On the other hand, the volume of the expelled water is approximately 2.5 liters (2.6 qt) per second – much less than the other geysers around the world.
- It’s the speed, rather than the volume, that creates the illusion of Strokkur’s strength.
Other Attractions in Geothermal Area
Just a few minutes walk north of the famous geyser, there is a wealth of steamy fumaroles. They emit hot gasses into the cool Icelandic air. Aside from the hypnotic pillars of steam, you can observe the yellow stains along the fumaroles. The pigment results from the earth’s minerals crystallizing around the rock bed.
You can also find various bubbling mud pods in the area. These are actually a type of acidic hot spring or fumarole. They usually have the appearance of a bubbling mud pool as a result of gas pushing through the mud.
The Best Time to Visit Strokkur & Geysir
Famous geysers are fascinating in any season, and you can visit them all year round.
In summer, warmer temperatures and longer days allow for longer visiting hours. You can even try visiting the hot springs area at night and witness the magic of Strokkur’s dramatic eruptions.
In winter, the landscape changes and becomes covered in snow and ice. The one thing that doesn’t change is Strokkur’s mighty eruptions. The best time to take pictures is in the morning when the sun comes up and makes the lighting tranquil and muted. Driving, however, becomes more challenging in winter. Many visitors choose to participate in guided tours and trust the experienced guides to take care of the driving part. You can take your guided tour experience to another level by trying out a Glacier snowmobiling and ice cave tour from the Geysir area.
Where to Stay Near Strokkur & Geysir?
Finding accommodation near the Geysir area shouldn’t be a problem. There are many hotels, guesthouses, and cabins nearby.
Hotels
- Litli Geysir Hotel
- Hotel Geysir
- Mengi Kjarnholt
Hostel
- Skjól
Guesthouses & Farmstays
- Jaðar The Old House
- Efstidalur II
Cabins & Cottages
- Geysir Hestar
- Sacred Seed
- Geysir Cottage
- Úthlíð Cottages
- Eyjasol Cottages
You can also try camping near the Geysir hot spring area. There are many well-equipped campgrounds nearby that you can choose from:
- Geysir Camping Ground
- Skjól Camping Ground
- Faxi Camping Ground
- Úthlíð Camping Ground
Most campgrounds have WCs, showers, electricity, and washing machines. Some also have restaurants, playgrounds, swimming pools, and golf courses. However, some are open not all year round, so make sure to check before arrival.
Nearby Attractions
There is a lot more to see after you explore Geysir and Strokkur. You can join a Golden Circle tour and visit the two other major Golden Circle attractions:
Þingvellir national park: Located approximately 55 km (34.2 mi) from Geysir, this park is exceptional due to its geological and historical importance.
Gullfoss Waterfall: The distance between Geysir and Gullfoss is only 10 km (6.2 mi). This two-tiered waterfall is one of the most magically looking falls in Iceland.
Make The Geysir Geothermal Area Your Next Destination
The Geysir hot springs area is a truly unique place in Iceland. See the legendary Geysir and witness frequent eruptions of the active Strokkur. Explore the steaming vents, bubbling mud pots, and colorful fumaroles that make this area so special. The combination of dramatic geyser eruptions and serene hot springs offers a fascinating glimpse into the raw power and stunning beauty of Iceland’s geothermal activity. Drive yourself or join a guided tour to the famous geothermal area in Haukadalur valley.
Strokkur & Geysir FAQs
How Often Does the Geysir Erupt in Iceland?
In recent years, the famous Geysir has stopped erupting. Luckily, his brother Strokkur continues to perform every 4-10 minutes.
Is It Free to See the Geysir in Iceland?
There is no admission fee for visiting Geysir. The parking area is also free of charge.
Are Geysir and Strokkur the Same?
Geysir and Strokkur are two main attractions in the Geysir hot springs area. They are two separate geysers, each with its own unique history.
How Much Time Do You Need at Strokkur Geyser?
It is recommended that you spend at least one hour at the Geysir geothermal area. This is enough time to watch Strokkur erupt and check out other geothermal activities on the site, like fumaroles and mud pools.
Is Strokkur Geyser Free?
Visiting Strokkur geyser and watching its eruptions, as well as the other activities in the area, is completely free.