Geysir Hot Springs and Geothermal Area: Haukadalur Valley in Iceland

Haukadalur Valley, also known as the Geysir Hot Springs Area, is one of the most visited locations in the country and the best place to see geysers in Iceland. It’s often visited as an attraction site on the Golden Circle, a popular tourist route. Here, you will find Geysir, the most famous geyser in the world, known for its historical importance. Nearby is Strokkur, Iceland’s most active geyser, which amazes visitors with its regular and lively eruptions every few minutes.

What makes Haukadalur Geothermal Field special is its easy access and the exciting experience of watching these boiling water explosions up close. Discover the Earth’s energy as you explore the fascinating springs and steam vents of this area.

The Haukadalur Geothermal Valley first entered the historical record in 1294, marked by powerful earthquakes that reshaped the land, giving rise to new natural geysers and altering existing ones. By the 18th century, this geyser park became a landmark, drawing countless visitors to Iceland, with the Great Geysir becoming one of the nation's symbols.

Located in the southwest region, just 62 miles (100 km) northeast of Reykjavík, Haukadalur field is easily accessible year-round. On the way to the valley, you’ll pass the shallow lake Laugarvatn with its Fontana Geothermal Spa and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall.

Upon arrival in the fields, you’ll be greeted by a mesmerizing geothermal activity. Over 40 interesting features, such as steam vents, bubbling mud pots, and vibrant hot springs, are framed by colorful hills. The geyser names are carved on nearby stones, guiding you through this unique landscape. 

You will undoubtedly visit this valley as one of the stops on the Golden Circle tours. It is a perfect site for seeing geyser springs with different levels of activity.

As soon as you enter the steamy area of Haukadalur, you will be swept away by an epic show of the highly active Iceland geyser Strokkur. It’s always a much-anticipated attraction on the Golden Circle, as travelers from all over the world come to see its eruptions, which occur every 4-10 minutes. The shooting pillars of hot water reach up to 49-65,6 feet (15-20 m), over half the height of the Statue of Liberty!

Strokkur geyser temperature near the surface reaches up to 203°F (95°C), so while you can get a close view, be careful and stay within the marked safety areas. You'll be able to see the pool boil vigorously, and when it starts to sway, that’s your cue—the eruption is coming! As the water pulls back, get ready to capture the spectacular moment ahead.

Today, Strokkur erupts almost constantly, but this wasn’t always the case. This geyser was first mentioned in literature in 1789. Over time, its activity fluctuated, and then it fell completely dormant during the 20th century due to sediment buildup after earthquakes.

The situation changed in 1963, when the locals successfully cleared its vent, reviving the gushing fountain. Since then, it's reliably shooting steam and water up to 131 feet (40 meters) every 4-10 minutes, captivating visitors. While it currently shows no signs of dying out, any significant geological events could impact its activity.

The Great Geysir is the most famous geyser in the world, though it is currently dormant. Its fame comes from centuries of impressive eruptions that amazed visitors. Geysir is also the namesake for all geysers around the globe, even though it no longer erupts regularly. In the past, it could shoot water over 200 feet into the air, showing off the area’s incredible geothermal energy. Today, it still attracts many tourists who want to learn about its fascinating history.

Geysir is “the grandfather of all geysers.” It was discovered long before any other erupting fountain worldwide. The name of this spring was given to it in the 17th century by the Icelandic people. It derives from the verb “gjosa”, meaning “gush” or “erupt.” 

The anglicized word “geyser” allegedly emerged due to a general lack of understanding by English speakers, who began using the term to describe all spouting hot springs, not just this specific one.

The famed Geysir is not only ancient but also incredibly powerful. At its peak in 1845, it shot water high into the air, reaching an amazing 558 ft (170 m)—similar to a 50-story building! However, the famous geyser had its ups and downs. After a period of impressive activity, it fell silent for many years until an earthquake in the late 1800s brought it back to life. By the early 1900s, visitors could see it erupting every 30 minutes, but as time went on, those bursts became less frequent, leading to another quiet spell.

In the 1980s, scientists tried using soap to get Geysir to erupt again, but they eventually stopped this practice for environmental reasons. Another earthquake in the early 2000s gave it a brief revival, but since its last eruption in February 2016, Geysir has been waiting quietly. Who knows? A geological shift could awaken this iconic geyser once more!

Blesi Geysir is another prominent hot spring in the Haukadalur geothermal valley. It consists of two hot springs connected to each other. Although it no longer erupts regularly, it is one of the most beautiful Icelandic geysers. The serene blue color of the water makes it look like two eyes or glasses when viewed from above. The southern pool is pure boiling water, and the northern part is 104°F (40°C). For safety reasons, swimming in any Haukadalur hot springs is not permitted.

Konungshver is one of the largest springs located at the western edge of the geothermal area. Its name, "The King's Hot Spring" or "The Royal Spring," comes from the Danish King Christian IX, who visited the valley at the end of the 19th century. Nearby, you can find three rocks, known as Konungasteinar, with inscriptions of three Danish kings who also stopped by this place. The main characteristic of Konungshver is that it never appears the same color. One day, it can be crystal clear, another—blue, green, or reddish brown.

Litli Geysir, meaning “Little Geysir,” was once a powerful and active geyser until the late 19th century. Known for its noisy, frequent eruptions that reached up to 33 feet (10 m) high, Litli eventually became inactive and no longer produces water bursts. 

While the exact timing of this shift is unknown, Icelandic physicists observed in 1896 that the geyser had reduced to mere bubbling, which continues to this day. However, these changes aren’t necessarily permanent. Like all natural cycles, Litli could one day spring back to life.

Smiður Geyser, meaning “the craftsman” or “the carpenter,” is a dormant spring that bubbles slightly. Legend says that before Danish King Frederik VIII’s visit in 1907, a local carpenter cleared out its vent, leading to temporary eruptions of 10 to 16 feet (3 to 5 meters). Today, Smiður is just a steaming pool, but someday, this sleeping geyser might regain its activity.

» Geysir parking: The large parking lot is on the right side of the road if arriving from Reykjavik. As of 2024, the fee for a car is from ISK 1,000 and can be paid online.

» Geysir tickets: The entry to the geothermal area is free of charge.

» Geysir center: The visitor center, with a souvenir shop, cafe, and restaurant, is across the street from the hot springs.

» Geysir golf course: The L-shaped golf course features 9 holes with a par of 37. The green fee is from ISK 2,000.

» Accommodation and hotels near Geysir:

• Geysir Hotel - a 4-star family-run hotel in Geyser Park, 3 min walk.
• Hotel Gullfoss - a 3-star hotel by the Hvita River, 8 min drive.
• Efstidalur II - a 3-star rustic hotel on a farm, 15 min drive.

» Campsites: 

• Geysir campground: The price is ISK 2,500 for adults. Facilities include showers, bathrooms, electricity, free WiFi, and a playground. It is open from May 15th to September 15th.
  
  
• Skjòl campsite: The price is ISK 1,500 for adults. Facilities include bathrooms, showers, electricity, and a restaurant. It is open all year round.
  
  
• Úthlíð campsite: The price is ISK 2,000 for adults. Facilities include bathrooms, showers, a hot tub, free WiFi, washing machines, a restaurant, a swimming pool, and a golf course. It is open from May to September but all year round for campers.
  
  
• Faxi camping ground: The price is ISK 1,800 for adults. Facilities include a kitchen, electricity, bathrooms, showers, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. It is open from May 15th to September 30th.

Hverir Hot Springs is a geothermal zone in Northeast Iceland with natural black rivers, bubbling mud pools, steam-spouting springs, and rhyolite mountains. It’s part of a larger Námaskarð geothermal pass known for its pungent sulfur smell, which can be compared to a rotten egg and is a result of a gas releasing from underground. 

The mineral-rich terrain paints the landscape in various shades of orange, pink, yellow, and green, giving it a Mars-like appearance. For a panoramic view of the Hverir mud pools, head to the Námafjall Hverir Viewpoint, which has a big parking space (fee required). Take in the striking contrasts of orange and yellow mud pools set against the black earth and enjoy the unique geological formations surrounding you!

Gunnuhver Hot Springs is an active geothermal area in the southern part of the Reykjanes Peninsula. The origin of the name is connected to the history of a female ghost, Guðrún, who haunted this region and was trapped forever inside the hot spring. 

Wooden paths lead to bubbling springs and pools, where water temperatures reach over 300°C (572°F). The main attraction is the famous Gunnuhver mud pool, the largest in Iceland. It measures 65 feet (20 m) and boils so intensely that it could almost be called a Gunnuhver geyser or Gunnuhver volcano of mud if only it produced some explosions. The steaming pools are too hot for bathing, but they’re a popular stop on many hot spring tours across Iceland.

Another unique geothermal wonder of Iceland is the Deildartunguhver hot spring. It is Europe's most powerful thermal spring and is used to heat houses in nearby towns and villages. Almost 90% of Icelanders rely on subterranean heating resources.

Deildartunguhver provides 48 gallons (180 l) of boiling water per second, most of which is used for central heating, the rest—for hot water supply within a 40,3 mi (65 km) radius. 

Can you swim in Deildartunguhver? The answer is a firm no. The pillars of hot steam emerging from the ground can be seen from miles away. With water temperature holding steady at approximately 200°F (97°C), visitors have to be extremely careful and not go over the fence surrounding the hot spring.

Hidden between two glaciers, Hofsjökull and Langjökull, Hveravellir Nature Reserve is an excellent location for outdoor adventurers in the Icelandic highlands. It is popular for camping, relaxing in hot pools, and enjoying a shorter or longer hike. 

Hveravellir Blue geothermal pool is open even in winter. Its temperature varies between 64 and 102.2°F (18 - 39°C). It is a perfect place for those wanting to dip into one of those warm springs finally. You can stay in lovely mountain lodge-like huts right next to Hveravellir Hot Spring. The prices start from ISK 9,500/night.

Hveradalir geothermal area in Mt. Kerlingarfjöll is located in the central highlands of Iceland and offers one of the most scenic and colorful hiking opportunities you'll find. The Hveradalir hike is about 2.5 miles (4 km) long and takes you through many hot springs and steam vents. You will find wooden steps and bridges that take you along trails snaking through the hills. It usually takes around four hours to complete. Camping directly in the field is not allowed, but there are many designated campsites nearby.

If you want to see hot springs without venturing far from Reykjavik, the Seltún geothermal area in the Krýsuvík volcanic system is the perfect place. Located 43 minutes by car from the capital, the field is full of boiling hot springs, fumaroles, mud pots, and volcanic vents.

It is easily accessible as the trail starts right next to the road and has been reopened with improvements after reconstruction. The whole area is covered in yellow sulfur and orange mineral deposits, making it a vibrant photo opportunity. The lower platform has wheelchair access. However, the upper deck can only be reached by stairs and walking to the top.

Haukadalsskógur forest - One of the biggest and most highly cultivated national forests in Iceland. It offers numerous hiking trails, many of which are wheelchair accessible. Martinslaug (Marteinslaug) - A hot spring in the forest of Haukadalsskógur that is suitable for bathing. The small pool can fit 3-5 people and is hidden in the surrounding forest. It should not be confused with the hot spring at Marteinshver, where swimming is forbidden and dangerous.

Valahnúkur - A famous 1503-foot (458-meter) mountain in the valley of Þórsmörk. Numerous travelers come here to experience a scenic hike with serene views over rivers, hills, and valleys. 

Kúalaug - A natural hot spring only 1.2 miles (2 km) away from Geysir with several geothermal pools available for bathing. The water is a mild 104°F (40°C), and each pool fits up to 6 people. 

Brúarhlöð Canyon - A narrow gorge in the river Hvita, located on the Golden Circle route. The strong flow of the water has carved the rocks into spectacular formations. The canyon’s river is very popular for river rafting. 

Gullfoss Golden Waterfall - One of the three wonders of the Golden Circle. This powerful waterfall measures 105 feet (32 m) in its two cascades. Numerous travelers visit the cascading falls every year to witness nature’s power.

Faxafoss (Vatnsleysufoss) - Another stunning waterfall located along Iceland’s most famous travel route. About 262 feet (80 m) wide and 23 feet (7 m) high, these falls are known as the smaller version of Gullfoss. The surrounding areas are perfect for short scenic hikes.

Hrepphólar - The magnificent basalt columns in South Iceland. These towering pillars, measuring approximately 1.5 ft (0.45 m) in diameter and exceeding 66 ft (20 m), look like they’ve been hand-carved. There are hiking trails and a charming old church named Hreppholarkirkja nearby. 

Bruarfoss Waterfall - The bluest waterfall in Iceland, located 11 miles (18 km) or a 20-minute drive from the Geysir area. It is known for its striking aquamarine color, which comes from the Langjökull Glacier’s meltwater. You need to take a 1.9 mi (3 km) hike through the remote Icelandic countryside to reach the cascading falls.