Krýsuvík Geothermal Area
Krýsuvík is a geothermal area in the Reykjanes Peninsula, which is situated on the southwest of Iceland. Krýsuvík, one of the most compelling geothermal areas in Iceland, provides a detailed insight into how the explosive forces of nature are constantly changing the landscape. It’s known for its steaming vents, boiling mud pots, and rainbow colored hot springs with reds, yellows and greens resulting from the rich minerals in the region. The presence of geothermal activity in Krýsuvík is due to its volcanic landscape — the region lies across a fissure zone between the Eurasian tectonic plate and North American tectonic plate. With fascinating places such as Seltún, Grænavatn and the cliffs of Krýsuvíkurberg you can’t skip this place when visiting Iceland.
Facts & Figures
Krýsuvík is perfect for a day trip as it’s only about 40 km (25 miles) south east of the capital, Reykjavík. In Reykjanes Geopark you’ll find hot springs, steaming mud pots, fumaroles and sulfur deposits and luckily Krísuvík geothermal field covers a significant portion of this area. It’s known for being an active volcanic area well known for its vast areas of fresh lava and colorful geothermal features. Beneath the surface here, geothermal water temperatures frequently surpass 200°C (392°F) making it one of the most active geothermal zones in the country.
Krýsuvík sits at an elevation of around 180 meters (590 ft) above sea level, whereas the highest elevation of the volcanic system of Krýsuvík is around 393 m (1,289 ft). The volcanic system further covers an area of 350 km2 (140 sq mi), extending 55 km (34 mi) in length and around 13 km (8.1 mi) in width.
Geothermal Area Highlights
The most striking part of Krýsuvík is without a doubt the otherworldly landscape, where barren, rocky land meets with steaming geothermal features to create an alien atmosphere. There are wooden boardwalks and trails that allow visitors to safely get around the area so you can see up close the boiling mud pots and fumaroles. The site is also the location of Seltún, a geothermal field within Krýsuvík that has striking colorful soils and vigorous steaming from the geothermal vents.
Only two minutes drive away is the stunning, green colored volcanic crater lake called Grænavatn. The color is a result of the minerals in the water, combined with reflections from the hills which encircle it. The Krýsuvíkurberg cliffs - a favorite amongst birdwatchers during the summer since a variety of seabirds (including puffins and guillemots) come here to nest - are just 20 minutes away along the coast. Visitors can also explore the geothermal marvel of Gunnuhver hot spring for a more remote experience at the cape on the peninsula, also within Reykjanes Geopark.
Location
The Krýsuvík Geothermal Area is located on the Reykjanes Peninsula in southwestern Iceland, less than 50 minutes by car from Reykjavík. With its close location to the iconic Blue Lagoon and Gunnuhver hot springs, it’s an obvious stop on any Reykjanes Peninsula itinerary. It is located within the Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, famous for its volcanic and geothermal landscape.
- Coordinates for Krýsuvík: 63°53'45.0"N 22°03'08.6"W
How to Get There?
If you are driving from Reykjavík it’s easy to get to Krýsuvík. Leave the city on Route 41 towards Keflavík, then take Route 42 and you will arrive at the geothermal area directly. The distance is around 40 km and it will take you about 45 minutes to reach.
It’s great to pair a visit to the Blue Lagoon with a stop at Krýsuvík as it’s only a 30-minute drive along Route 427. There is no public transport to Krýsuvík, but lots of guided tours include this stop.
Krýsuvík & Seltún Parking
Parking is free and easy at Krýsuvík and Seltún. These sites have enough space for a car park, making parking possible next to the geothermal areas.
Exploring Krýsuvík Year-Round
Krýsuvík and surrounding areas are available all year round to visit, but every season will give you a different experience. Seeing Krýsuvík in winter, the geothermal smoke rising from snow-capped terrain makes you feel as if you're on another planet. Ready yourself for cooler temperatures and maybe even icy trails, but it's worth bundling up for. The long hours of daylight and green landscapes make summer ideal for Krýsuvík’s hiking trails.