Strokkur Geyser: a Must-See on Iceland's Golden Circle

Strokkur is located in the southwest region of Iceland, in Haukadalur Geothermal Field, often called Geysir Hot Springs. Nearby is its famous "cousin," the Great Geysir. The walking trail connects the whole area, dotted with fissures emitting steam and water.

South of the field, across Road 35, are shops, a café, and a hotel. To the east rise the mountain peaks of Tindfjallajökull, while to the north, the ice fields of Langjökull - the second-largest glacier in Iceland - dominate the landscape. As part of Iceland's iconic Golden Circle, the stunning Gullfoss Waterfall lies to the northeast, and Thingvellir National Park stretches to the west of the Strokkur Geyser map.

The distance from Reykjavik to Strokkur Geyser is 62 miles (100 kilometers), and the trip takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Most travelers visit it as a part of the Golden Circle excursions, driving the route clockwise.

To get to Strokkur, head east on Route 1 (the Ring Road) for about 19 miles (30 kilometers). Next, turn onto Route 36 towards Þingvellir Park and continue for another 25 miles (40 kilometers). Then, follow Route 365 to Route 37, which will take you to the Geysir area parking lot, from where you can walk to the geysers to see the famous shooting springs!

Even the smallest geyser has to meet certain conditions to function fully. For this reason, you won’t find many of these wonders outside of highly active geothermal areas.

First, a geyser requires a steady groundwater source to refill after each outburst. Strokkur gets its water from the melting Langjökull glacier, which seeps into the ground, spreads, and eventually reaches the hot magma beneath the geyser.

The second essential circumstance is intense heat. For water to erupt, the heat source must be close enough to the surface to allow the water to boil and escape. Iceland, located at the intersection of two tectonic plates, has abundant geothermal energy, creating hot spots like Haukadalur.

Finally, a geyser needs a reservoir—a space to hold and heat the water. As the magma-heated rocks raise the water temperature, steam and pressure build until they hit a critical point, causing an upward explosion. A silica-coated vent helps contain the water until it reaches eruption pressure, preventing premature bursting.

When these three requirements come together, Strokkur unleashes powerful fountain-like explosions several times each hour.

Strokkur has faced some environmental challenges. In the 20th century, Strokkur became inactive due to natural causes, as earthquakes clogged its vent and prevented water from escaping. In the 1960s, humans intervened by clearing the obstruction, allowing the geyser to resume its activity. Unlike Geysir, no harmful methods like soap solution were used, and Strokkur has been active ever since.

Currently, Strokkur is not likely to stop erupting anytime soon. In fact, according to local news, in 2024, it’s been more active than usual, with fountains reaching up to 98 feet (30 meters) high and even sending stones flying into the air.

However, there have been incidents in the past where people tried to interfere with Strokkur's untouched natural state artificially. In 2015, an artist threw red dye into Strokkur, hoping to make it more dramatic. This act angered locals and raised concerns about the need to protect the attraction and ensure the area’s preservation.

» Strokkur Eruption - The geyser outbursts every 4-6 to 10 minutes, although on rare occasions, you may wait up to 15 minutes. The first recorded eruption dates back to 1789, though it likely spouted long before that.

» Strokkur Elevation - Located at 330 feet (110 meters) above sea level, the spring is in a geothermal field where activity occurs close to the surface. The basin is estimated to reach depths of up to 74 feet (23 meters). The water typically shoots 49–66 feet (15–20 meters) high but sometimes reaches 130 feet (40 meters).

» Things to Do in the Area - Besides observing the explosive jets, visitors can explore the dormant Great Geysir and walk the path to see mud pools, smaller geysers, steaming fissures, and hot springs. You can also shop for souvenirs and eat at the Geysir Centre, and even play at the nearby golf course.

» Opening Hours - The geyser area is open 24/7 and accessible in all seasons. Most visitors come during daylight hours, as navigating the pools and vents can be challenging at night.

» Entrance Cost - Admission to the field is free as it is a public space. It is a popular addition to budget travel itineraries in Iceland.

» Parking - Haukadalur Valley is well-developed with ample paid parking for cars and buses. As of 2024, the fee is ISK 1000 for vehicles with up to 5 seats.