Geysir

The Geysir Geothermal Area is one of the most iconic natural sights in Iceland, handily located right in the heart of the famous Golden Circle. The dramatic geysers and the bubbling hot springs make this hotbed of geothermal activity an essential stop for anyone on an Iceland mission to explore the unique, otherworldly landscapes. If you are planning a trip and wondering what makes Geysir so special, you have come to the right place—let's get into the details.

Facts & figures about Geysir

The Geysir Geothermal Area, located in Iceland’s Haukadalur Valley, is one of the country’s most famous natural wonders. Although the Great Geysir is mostly dormant today, its neighboring geyser, Strokkur, erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, thrilling visitors with jets of water reaching up to 20 meters (65 feet).

This geothermal area has been active for over 10,000 years, with volcanic heat driving the eruptions of geysers and hot springs across its 3 square kilometers (1.2 square miles). Historically significant, Geysir was the first geyser to be documented, giving its name to all other geysers worldwide. In the past, Great Geysir could erupt up to 70 meters, though eruptions are now rare. It was first mentioned in writing in 1647 when an eruption of over 70 meters (230 feet) was recorded. Now, there are a few online sources that state that Geysir used to erupt with water shooting 170 meters in the air. However, no records have reported an eruption larger than the 70-80 meter limit and local sources often mention that during the geysers most active era water would reach the height of 70 meters. 

Seismic activity, particularly earthquakes, often affects the area, temporarily reactivating Geysir's eruptions, as seen after an earthquake in 2000. Today, the Geysir Geothermal Area is a major stop along the Golden Circle, attracting thousands of visitors each year to experience its natural beauty and geothermal wonders.

How often does Geysir erupt?

While the Great Geysir is, in fact, the one that named all geysers, it is now mostly inactive, and its eruptions are infrequent. Located just next door, though, is Strokkur, Geysir's sprightly neighbor, which erupts every 5 to 10 minutes. This makes it one of the most reliable and thrilling geothermal features to see.

When should I visit?

Geysir is accessible year-round, but the best time to visit does depend on what kind of experience one seeks. During summer-high season, starting from June up to August, the geothermal area is rather green and lush, while winter—from November to March—offers amazing contrast in the form of snow with steaming hot springs. Early mornings or late afternoons tend to be quiet, offering a more serene experience with fewer crowds.

At what height does the Strokkur geyser erupt?

Still, the real star of the Geysir Geothermal Area is Strokkur, which erupts with rather impressive regularity, with the column of water reaching a height of 15 to 20 meters, though in very strong eruptions it reaches as high as 40 meters.

What’s the water temperature in these geysers?

The water in the Geysir geothermal area is extremely hot, boiling at over 100° C in some of the geysers and hot springs. Needless to say, it's a good idea to stick to the pathways and ask for good views from a safe distance.

History of Geysir

The Great Geysir is not only one of the oldest but also one of the most known geysers; the evidence of its activity dates for approximately 10,000 years. It was noted down in written records as early as the 13th century. The very word "geyser" comes from the Icelandic word "geysa," which means "to gush." Geysir itself is less active today, but at best, it was known to reach 70 meters in the air during prime eruptions.

Strokkur Geyser

While Geysir may be the namesake of the area, Strokkur is definitely the showstopper. A very short walk from the dormant Great Geysir, this one erupts on a regular schedule and thus provides the main attraction for visitors to this geothermal area. It resembles a pool of water bubbling just before any eruption into the air as a towering column of steam and water.

Have your camera ready, but don't blink—it happens fast!

Location & how to get there

It’s located in the Haukadalur Valley of southwest Iceland, inside the famous Golden Circle, approximately 100 km (62 miles) from Reykjavík. It thus provides an easy day trip from Reykjavik. To get to there:

• Car: From Reykjavík drive out on highway nr 1 than take a turn on to highway nr 35 direction towards Geysir. Driving distance is about 1,5 hrs with good roads leading through out the year to the destination.
• By bus: Travel Reykjavík offers a number of guided Golden Circle tours from Reykjavík.

Parking at Geysir

Parking in Geysir is easy and not a hassle at all. There is a huge, well-structured car park just close to the entrance of the geothermal area and can hold a large number of cars. It is free, though during the summer months when tourism is so high, getting a spot might require some patience. From here, take a five-minute walk towards Strokkur and the other geothermal features.

What to see in Geysir area

While Strokkur is definitely the main attraction, there's quite a bit more to see and do around the Geysir geothermal area:

• The Great Geysir: It does not erupt as often as it once used to, but it is really worth visiting the site of this historic wonder of nature to understand its importance and the size of this geyser.
• Blesi Hot Springs: Two beautiful pools of bright blue color, Blesi is another geothermal attraction you will come across during exploration. The colors were brought about by the high mineral contents in the water, making pictures look great.
• Litli Geysir: This smaller active geyser, being close to Strokkur, is in a constant bubble and hiss—for a more personal experience of geothermal activity.
• The Geysir Visitor Center: If you’d like to have more information about the geothermal area, head over towards the Geysir Visitor Center, which can be found near the entrance and contains exhibitions, a café, and a gift shop.

Sources

1. Morgunblaðið. (2000, June 28). Geysir gaus af sjálfsdáðum í dag. Retrieved from https://www.mbl.is/frettir/innlent/2000/06/28/geysir_gaus_af_sjalfsdadum_i_dag/

2. Ísleifur Jónsson. (1997, July 22). Hvers vegna sefur Geysir? Morgunblaðið (26-27). Retrieved from https://timarit.is/page/1883527#page/n25/mode/2up

3. Helgi Torfason. (1984). Geysir vakinn upp. Náttúrufræðingurinn 53 (1-2), 5-6. Retrieved from https://timarit.is/page/4260639#page/n10/mode/2up

4. Vísindavefurinn. (2017). Hvað er vitað um gosvirkni í Geysi og hvenær gaus hann líklega fyrst? Retrieved from https://www.visindavefur.is/svar.php?id=72494