The Geysir geothermal area in Haukadalur valley is the second stop on the Golden Circle route — the site that gave every geyser in the world its name. The original Great Geysir (which once erupted to 170 metres) has been mostly dormant since 1916, but its neighbour Strokkur erupts reliably every 5-10 minutes to heights of 15-30 metres, making it one of the most predictable large geysers in the world.
The geothermal area includes dozens of bubbling mud pots, hot springs, and fumaroles that create a sulphurous, steam-filled landscape with colours ranging from turquoise to orange depending on mineral content. The viewing area is free, and the adjacent Geysir Center has restaurants and a small museum. The site is 95 kilometres from Reykjavik on Route 35; combine with Þingvellir and Gullfoss for the classic Golden Circle day trip.
Verified Facts
The original Great Geysir once erupted to 170 metres
Strokkur erupts every 5-10 minutes to 15-30 metres
The word 'geyser' derives from Icelandic 'Geysir'
The site is 95 kilometres from Reykjavik
Get walking directions
Haukadalur, Bláskógabyggð, Iceland
