Great Geysir (Great Geyser)
Haukadalur, Geysir, ISL
The world's original geyser, the Great Geysir (Great Geyser) is the source of the English word after which all other geysers are named. Geysir literally means "gusher" in Icelandic, and this natural phenomenon in the Haukadalur geothermal region has been active for more than 10,000 years; records of hot springs activity in the region date back to 1294.
The Great Geysir's activity has become sporadic in the recent past, noticeably increasing with earthquake activity in the region. However, the nearby Strokkur geyser erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, shooting a plume of hot water 50 to nearly 100 feet (15 to 30 meters) in the air.
Both Geysir and Strokkur are best seen as a stop on a Golden Circle tour that covers the natural wonders of southern Iceland, whether with a group and guide or on your own. Other Golden Circle landmarks include Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall, and Seljalandsfoss waterfall.
A brief stop at the site is sufficient; just wait a few minutes to see Strokkur erupt.
You'll find a gift shop across the road from the geyser.
Take a comprehensive Golden Circle tour from Reykjavik to see more of Iceland's top sights.
The Geysir area is accessible for wheelchair users, thanks to wide boardwalks.
The Great Geysir lies on the slope of Laugarfjall Hill, about 62 miles (100 kilometers) outside of Reykjavik. It takes about 90 minutes to reach by car from the city. Most people arrive as part of a guided Golden Circle tour of southern Iceland, the majority of which include round-trip transportation.
Both Geysir and the Strokkur geyser erupt on their own schedule; you generally won't have to wait around too long to see a spout, though, and both erupt sporadically throughout the year.
A staple on the Golden Circle, Iceland's Great Geysir is a must-see for many visitors. To make the most of your time in the region, be sure to pay a visit to the spectacular Gullfoss Waterfall, Thingvellir National Park, and the Langjökull glacier. All of these striking natural attractions can be explored on tours from Reykjavik and beyond.
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