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    Explore Geysir geothermal area | Iceland’s legendary Strokkur geyser & bubbling pools

    Golden Circle ToursGeysir Geothermal Area

    Things to note before booking tickets to the Geysir geothermal area

    • The Geysir geothermal area is included in nearly all Golden Circle itineraries, often paired with other must-visit destinations like the Thingvellir National Park and Gullfoss Waterfall. 
    • All Great Geysir and Golden Circle tours come with convenient transfers from Reykjavik, making it easy to commute back and forth. Some tours, especially those with stops at Kerid Crater or the Secret Lagoon, even offer pick-up and drop-off directly from your accommodation for added convenience.
    • Depending on your preferences, you can combine your Golden Circle day tour with other exciting experiences. For a relaxing experience, treat yourself to a soothing soak in the Blue Lagoon. If you are up for some adventure, consider including a visit to the Kerid Crater or a thrilling snowmobile ride on Langjokull Glacier.
    • For those who want to enjoy some well-deserved downtime, the Blue Lagoon premium tour is a great choice. The group size is limited to only 19 guests, ensuring you can enjoy a relaxing soak without bumping elbows with others. 
    • If you are visiting during the winter months, between late August and mid-April, don’t miss the chance to pair your Geysir visit with a small-group Northern Lights chase. The crisp winter air and Iceland’s clear, dark skies create the perfect backdrop for spotting the Aurora Borealis. It’s the best way to experience two of Iceland’s most iconic natural wonders in one day!
    • The main paths and viewing areas near Strokkur, the active geyser, are generally flat and accessible, although the surface may be uneven in places due to the natural terrain. We recommend bringing along a friend or caregiver to help make navigation easier.
    • Golden Circle tours that include Geysir typically last between 8.5 and 15 hours, depending on add-ons like Kerid Crater, Blue Lagoon, or Northern Lights chases. Many tours include a designated lunch stop at Geysir, where you can grab food and explore the area.
    • Standard Golden Circle tours are a better choice for families, as they are usually suitable for children aged 5 and above, with only short walks and moderate travel involved. For tours that include Northern Lights chases, the minimum age is often 8 years because they run late into the night and involve colder conditions.

    Frequently asked questions about the Geysir geothermal area

    What’s special about the Geysir geothermal area in Iceland?

    The Geysir geothermal area is one of Iceland's most famous natural wonders, known for its steaming hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and erupting geysers. It’s the home of the Great Geysir, which gave all geysers their name, and the highly active Strokkur, which erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, shooting water up to 30 meters into the air.

    Is Geysir still active?

    The Great Geysir, after which the area is named, is mostly dormant today, with eruptions occurring infrequently. However, its neighbor Strokkur remains highly active and erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, offering visitors a spectacular and reliable show.

    How far is Geysir from Reykjavik?

    Geysir is around 100km from Reykjavik, roughly a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. It’s located in southwest Iceland and is a key stop on the Golden Circle route.

    Is Geysir a part of the Golden Circle route?

    Yes, Geysir is one of the main showstoppers along the Golden Circle route, along with Thingvellir National Park, and Gullfoss Waterfall. Most Golden Circle tours also offer additional stops like the Blue Lagoon and the Kerid Crater, offering a more diverse and unforgettable Icelandic adventure.

    What is the best way to reach the Geysir area?

    The best way to get to the Geysir geothermal park is to book a Golden Circle day tour, including convenient, round-trip transfers from Reykjavik. If you want to drive by yourself, take Route 36 from Reykjavik, pass along the edge of Thingvallavatn Lake, and switch to Route 37. Finally, turn onto Route 35, which leads directly to Geysir.

    When is the best time to see the geysers erupt?

    Strokkur erupts consistently every 5 to 10 minutes, so any time of day or year is good for witnessing this natural phenomenon. Early mornings or late evenings tend to be less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience.

    Can I walk around the geysers?

    There are marked paths and viewing areas around the geothermal field. You can get close to the geysers, but it’s important to stay on the paths to protect the delicate ground and keep yourself safe from the scalding hot water.

    Is the Geysir geothermal area accessible to visitors in wheelchairs?

    Some parts of the Geysir geothermal springs, including the main paths and key viewing spots are accessible to visitors in wheelchairs. However, the natural terrain in some sections is uneven, which can make it difficult to navigate without assistance. The accessible pathways around the geysers can get slippery in winter as the mist often freezes, so take extra care while exploring.

    What should I bring with me when visiting?

    Wear sturdy shoes and bring warm, waterproof clothing, as the area can be windy and wet. A camera is a must to capture the eruptions, and packing water and snacks can be helpful, especially if you plan to explore for a while.

    Can I swim in the hot springs in the Geysir geothermal area?

    Absolutely not! You cannot swim in the Geysir hot springs. These waters can reach temperatures of 82–100°C, which is dangerously hot and can cause severe burns. Iceland offers other geothermal pools, like the Blue Lagoon and its less crowded alternative, the Secret Lagoon, where the water is safe and perfect for bathing.