Krysuvik Geothermal Area , Iceland

We followed Road 427 from Grindavík along the southern coast of Reykjanes, heading toward our destination for the day: the Krýsuvík Geothermal Area. The road was quiet, the skies a clear blue, and the landscape strikingly barren on this particular morning.

​After turning off Road 427 onto Road 42, we found ourselves gliding along beautifully smooth tarmac, driving straight toward the mountain range rising in the distance. The scenery grew more dramatic with every kilometre, setting the stage for the geothermal wonders ahead.

After our visit and a few photos, we continued deeper into the barren landscape beneath a deep blue sky. The road carried us through wide, empty stretches of lava fields and rolling hills, and before long we reached the Krýsuvík geothermal area.

A busy enough car park welcomed us to this remarkable location. The area is right in the middle of the fissure of the mid-Atlantic ridge and is known as the Krysuvik geothermal area. The main geothermal area where we stopped is known as Seltun. From the carpark, a wooden boardwalk runs in between the hotsprings which are marked by green and yellow coloured banks. A slight sulphur smell lingers between the mountains within the valley.

Hot mud pools bubble away like a simmering stew—though this is one “stew” you definitely want to keep your distance from. The landscape is a striking mix of reds, browns, copper tones and sulphur‑stained yellows, creating an otherworldly palette that makes Krýsuvík a must‑visit location.
Informative signs throughout the site explain the geology and geothermal activity, turning the area into an engaging and educational stop for both adults and children.

Krýsuvík is one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet. The combination of steaming vents, bubbling mud pools, and vividly coloured hillsides creates a landscape that’s both dramatic and unforgettable. It’s an easy stop along a scenic drive, yet it feels wonderfully remote, offering a raw and authentic glimpse into Iceland’s geothermal power.

The area is also incredibly accessible, with well‑marked paths and informative signs that explain the geology behind the steam and colours. Whether you’re fascinated by natural science, love unusual landscapes, or simply want to experience something uniquely Icelandic, Krýsuvík is a destination that stays with you long after you’ve left.