Iceland – Geysir, is it worth it?
This should be a short, but explosive post about visiting Geysir (you see what I did there?). I am solely focusing on Geysir, so if you are planning a visit and you are not going on a tour, you may be asking yourself: Geysir, is it worth it? I am not going to delay any longer – yes, yes absa-toot-ely it is! It is also a great winter activity that can be done outdoors.
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Getting to Geysir
As we drove toward Geysir from Secret Lagoon, we started seeing more and more tour buses. This made us worry. When we arrived, there is a giant parking lot to your right. Check the first row, because people do not stay long and you might be able to nab a super close parking spot. You will be able to see Geysir as you drive in and feel the excitement butterflies. There is a short 5-minute walk from the parking lot to the main Geysir.
It turns out that the explosive Geysir is the OG Geysir, since geyser is an Icelandic word. It also turns out the OG Geysir is now mainly inactive, so the one you see today is a different geyser, called Strokkur.
At a Glance:
- Rating: 3, would do again, if in the area
- Intensity: Clothes suitable for being outside
- Duration: Less than 30 mis, but based on preference
- Cost: Free!
- Location: Golden Circle
- Restrooms: in gift shop/restaurant/hotel
Highlights:
- Natural firework
- Hilarious to try to predict
Recommended for visiting Geysir
- Camera
- Warm gloves
- Patience
Geysir, Is it worth it?
Now that you have made it, here is the best (in my opinion) way to experience it. What you gotta do is at the most active geyser, go around to the side where you can see the water swirling. Patiently wait until you can have a clear view of the water. Have your camera turned on and ready. Watch the water until it starts to swell. Have you finger hovering over the appropriate button. Watch the water form a giant bubble. Then watch the water SHOOT into the air in a furious steaming stream. Laugh. Then wait some more.
Seeing the Geysir is a truly incredible and unique experience and absolutely worth the drive. If someone with you with is cranky, have them head over to the Geysir Gift shop with café and possibly restaurant in the main building. There are also restrooms and amazing selection and variety of souvenirs that I spent way too much money on because they have an excellent selection.
Have you seen Geysir or Old Faithful? What did you think?
Happy travels,
Hanna
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