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An Iceland trip isn’t truly complete without feeling the thrill of Strokkur’s eruptions. This famous geyser, neighbor to the original Great Geysir, delivers one of those rare “wow” moments that stick with you. Every few minutes, the suspense builds—then, suddenly, Strokkur spouts, launching scolding hot water high into the sky. It’s a spectacle that brings together travelers from every corner of the world, all waiting for that shared moment of awe.
Perfectly positioned between Thingvellir National Park and Gullfoss waterfall on the Golden Circle route, Strokkur’s powerful display, fascinating history, and stunning surroundings make it a must-visit on your itinerary.
Strokkur geyser eruption in Haukadalur Geothermal Area. Source: Arctic Adventures
Strokkur (“The Churn”) is Iceland’s most regularly erupting geyser and a highlight of the Haukadalur Geothermal Area. First mentioned in 1789, it likely existed since the 13th century, alongside other nearby geysers. Over time, its eruptions varied in strength and frequency, and by the early 1900s, it had stopped completely, becoming a steaming pool. This changed 63 years later when the Geysir Committee instructed locals to unclog its vent, reviving the powerful jets.
Today, Strokkur erupts every 4 to 10 minutes, shooting water up to 131 feet (40 meters) into the air. At the surface, Strokkur geyser temperatures reach around 194–203°F (90–95°C), while deeper, the water can be 233°F (112°C) or even 266°F (130°C).
In addition to the shooting fountain, you can walk around the valley's many colorful mineral-streaked landscapes of yellow, green, and red. Hissing steam vents, bubbling mud pits, and smaller springs scattered throughout create a unique landscape of the hot springs area.
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.
Gullfoss
A cascading Gullfoss waterfall, also known as the “Golden Falls,” is just 6.2 miles (10 km) away to the east of the geothermal area. Its powerful two-tiered drop and dramatic canyon make it one of the three major stops on the Golden Circle route.
Faxi Waterfall
Also known as Vatnsleysufoss, it is located about 6 miles (10 km) to the south. The Faxafoss waterfall features a beautiful 23-foot (7-meter) drop and is known for its wide, peaceful appearance. It also has a fish ladder for salmon migration.
Bruarfoss Waterfall
A bright-blue waterfall in the Western region, known for its stunning turquoise water. The stream flows over rocky steps, creating a beautiful and peaceful scene. Unlike other popular sites, the hidden Brúarfoss is often less crowded since you need to hike for a few kilometers to reach it.
Brúarhlöð
Further east of the Bruarfoss Waterfall is the Brúarhlöð Gorge. It’s a popular landmark for visitors on rafting tours in the Hvítá River. There’s a bridge crossing over, from where you can get great views of the canyon’s impressive rock formations.
The Great Geysir
The big cousin and the namesake of all geysers worldwide. It is an important part of the famous hot spring area. While the renowned Great Geysir no longer produces explosive displays, people can still explore the surroundings since it’s in the same vicinity as its lively counterpart, Strokkur.
Kúalaug
An easily accessible hot spring. Two small pools are located north on Route 333. A five-minute drive from the geothermal zone is worth it for 4-6 people to enjoy a good soak. Unlike the boiling waters of geysers, the temperatures in Kúalaug Hot Spring stay around 104°F (40°C).
Marteinslaug Hot Spring
Just a 5-minute drive from Haukadalur, the hot spring Marteinslaug sits on the southern edge of Haukadalsskógur Woods. The spring's secluded location and lack of facilities allow visitors to relax in the warm water while avoiding crowds.
Tungufljót
For fishing and kayaking, the Tungufljót River to the north along Route 35 is an excellent choice, with sea trout-filled waters. Flowing into the white river Hvítá, it features Faxi Waterfall, favored for salmon fishing. Close to the Golden Circle, it’s a great place for anglers from April to October.
At the start of the eruption and 3.2 feet (1 m) below the surface, the water temperature in Strokkur geyser reaches 194–203°F (90–95°C). At a depth of 32 feet (10 m), temperatures rise to around 233.6°F (112°C), and at 75 feet (23 m), it can be as high as 266°F (130°C).
Strokkur erupts every 4 to 10 minutes. The geyser’s bursts are often spontaneous, with no set pattern, so visitors can either experience multiple eruptions in a short time or wait up to 15 minutes for the next one.
One hour is generally sufficient to experience Strokkur and its surroundings. During this time, you can witness several eruptions, stroll through Haukadalur Valley, and take photos of the various mud pools and fissures.
Yes, Strokkur erupts in winter and throughout the year. It erupts frequently, in short time intervals, regardless of the season. However, depending on the factors inside the geyser itself, the blast might happen after 15 minutes or more.
Yes, Strokkur is still very active and has been erupting regularly for more than 60 years after it was revived in 1963. It has only stopped a few times in history, most notably in the early 20th century when natural causes made it dormant for some duration.
Strokkur geyser’s basin is believed to be at least 75 feet (23 m) deep. Geysers typically have a length of about 4 feet (1.2 m) and a diameter of 60 feet (18 m). This space allows water to build and heat, resulting in powerful eruptions.
Strokkur geyser is 67 miles (108 km) from Reykjavik if you drive clockwise around the Golden Circle, passing Thingvellir Park. If you take the route through Selfoss town heading south, the distance is 71 miles (115 km). Both routes take around 1 hour and 37 minutes to drive.
Strokkur is an active geyser, while the Great Geysir is currently stagnant. Although Geysir was once more prominent and geysers worldwide were named after it, its lively sibling has become a more popular attraction, erupting spectacularly on a daily basis.
Hot springs release water steadily at a constant rate, while geysers shoot water into the air at intervals. Hot springs form closer to the surface, allowing warm water to seep through vents without extra pressure. In contrast, geysers operate under more complex conditions, where pressure and heat build-up in a reservoir launches the water high into the sky through a vent. A great example of a hot spring along the same route as the Haukadalur geysers is the beautiful thermal pool - Secret Lagoon, near Flúðir town.
