What is the Geysir Geothermal Area in the Golden Circle
Geysir, also known as The Great Geysir, is a famous geyser in south Iceland. Geysers erupt here because of the interaction between groundwater and hot rock, which builds up pressure until the water explodes. A visit to Geysir Iceland is a must see for its geology and history. The Geysir hot spring area is a very active geothermal field with many geysers and boiling mud pits. The word Geysir comes from the Icelandic verb “geysa” which is an Old Norse verb. The English word geyser comes from the Icelandic word geysir. It was the first geyser to be written about and the first to be seen by modern Europeans.
The Geysir Center is located near the geothermal area and offers dining and exhibitions. It has free restrooms, is close to parking and has presentations about the geothermal features of the area.
What is Geysir?
Geysir is a geothermal area in south Iceland famous for its hot springs and geysers. The word geyser comes from the Icelandic word “geysir” which means “to gush”. Geysers erupt when water is suddenly blown out of the ground, a beautiful display of geothermal activity. The Geysir area is a proof of the forces that are at work beneath the earth’s surface, so a must see for anyone interested in the natural wonders of Iceland.
Geography and Geology of the Geysir Geothermal Area
Located in the Haukadalur Valley in south Iceland, the Geysir geothermal area is 100 km from Reykjavik. This area is known for its colours, fumaroles and hot springs, all caused by intense geothermal activity. The geothermal field is about 3 km² (1.1 sq mi) and the hot springs are aligned along a 100 m (328 ft) wide strip of land. This strip runs parallel to the tectonic lines in the area, 500 m (1,640 ft) long and ends near the old seat of the lords of Haukadalur. The geology of this area is fascinating for geologists and tourists.
History of Geysir
The Geysir area has a long history, geothermal activity has been present for at least 10,000 years. The first written mention of Geysir was in 1294 after a series of earthquakes in south Iceland that changed the geothermal landscape and created new hot springs. Over the centuries Geysir has been a powerful and impressive sight, in the 19th century it was said to erupt up to 170 meters high. Geysir’s activity has varied over time but its history and changes are fascinating to study and a popular tourist attraction.
Why do so many people visit this area?
Strokkur & Geysir: The Most Active Geyser
This geothermal area in the south of the country is called the Geysir Geothermal Area, many fissures and geysirs but only one erupting. Geysir and Strokkur are both in the Geysir Geothermal Area. Geysir is a stop on the Golden Circle and known for its geothermal attractions. When you visit Geysir, check the best time of day and year to visit.
This small geyser is called Strokkur. It erupts with a spray of hot water that showers the people standing by. You can see the eruption from driving into the geothermal area. Strokkur is the most active geyser in Iceland and erupts every 4-10 minutes, usually up to 15-20 meters (49-65,6 ft) high. In history books you can find accounts of it going up to 40 meters (131 ft) high. The geological conditions for this to happen are hot rocks that heat the groundwater and create the conditions for geysers to occur.
Strokkur and Geysir are of the same age. But since Geysir was considered the more magnificent Strokkur it wasn’t mentioned in any written books until 1789.
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Eruption frequency of the Great Geysir
The Great Geysir was once famous for its big eruptions but is now mostly dormant. Its last big eruption was in 2016 and the one before that was in 2000. Geysir itself doesn’t erupt as often as it used to but the hot springs in the Geysir geothermal area are still active. Strokkur, the most active geyser in the area, erupts every 5-10 minutes but the size of the eruptions can vary. Despite Geysir being dormant the geothermal area still has plenty to see.
What makes a geyser erupt?
A geyser eruption is a natural wonder caused by the expansion of boiling hot water which leads to a steam explosion, that’s how geysers erupt. For a geyser to form several conditions need to be met: an underground reservoir of hot water, a conduit or pipe connecting the reservoir to the surface, a vent or opening in the ground and a buildup of pressure in the reservoir. In the Haukadalur Valley the groundwater meets the hot bedrock and heats up and builds pressure. When the water reaches a critical temperature and pressure it is forced out of the geyser and creates the spectacular eruptions that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Increased geothermal activity
There has been an unusual increase in geothermal activity in the Geysir area since October 19th 2024. The Icelandic Met Office reported that Strokkur and several smaller hot springs have been erupting more frequently and more powerfully with steam columns up to 30 meters high. Geysir itself hasn’t changed but Strokkur has been the main attraction for many visitors. Authorities are monitoring the situation and visitors are advised to be cautious and follow the safety guidelines of the local authorities.
Geysir
Accommodation and services
Visiting Geysir is a once in a lifetime experience and there are many accommodation and services to make your trip even better. The Geysir geothermal area is located in South Iceland about 100 km from Reykjavik and has many options for visitors.
Hotels and Guesthouses
Whether you want luxury or budget options the Geysir area has something for everyone. If you want comfort and convenience Hotel Geysir is a great choice. Located near the geothermal area this hotel has nice rooms and a restaurant serving traditional Icelandic food so it’s a perfect base to explore the hot springs and geysers.
For budget travelers Geysir Guesthouse is a nice and affordable option. With private rooms and a shared kitchen it has a homey feel without breaking the bank. Another great option is Hotel Gullfoss located near the famous Gullfoss waterfall. This hotel has nice rooms and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Camping and RV Parks
If you want to be closer to nature camping is a great option. Geysir Camping Ground is a popular choice with basic facilities and views of the geothermal area. For RV travelers Geysir RV Park has full hookups and amenities so you can have a comfortable stay while you explore the wonders of the Geysir geothermal area.
Restaurants and Cafes
No visit to the Geysir area would be complete without trying the local food. Geysir Restaurant in the Geysir Center serves traditional Icelandic cuisine, fish stews and lamb dishes. For a more casual dining Strokkur Cafe is located near Strokkur geyser and serves coffee, pastries and light meals.
For a special dining experience Friðheimar Restaurant is a must see. Located in a greenhouse this restaurant serves dishes made from locally grown ingredients so you get a fresh taste of Iceland.
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Other services
The Geysir area has everything you need. Geysir Center is a information hub with exhibitions about the geothermal area, a shop and a restaurant. For golfers Geysir Golf Course has a 9 hole course with great views of the surrounding landscape.
For nature lovers several hiking trails in the Geysir area offer the possibility to explore the geothermal features and the natural beauty of South Iceland. Whether you want a short and easy walk or a more challenging hike there’s something for everyone.
In summary visiting Geysir is a once in a lifetime experience and with the many accommodation and services available you will have a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Whether you want luxury or budget options the Geysir area has something for everyone.
What not to do in this Geothermal Area?
Follow the rules! The water is very hot and the lines are because of accidents. Follow the rules they are there for a reason.
Go there without visiting Gullfoss, the waterfall is only 7 min drive away. You can’t visit the area and skip Gullfoss.
Litter! The area is greatly kept and it's important that we do what we can to help to keep it that way.
