Geysers are among the most spectacular natural phenomena on Earth. Watching a column of steaming water shoot into the sky is a humbling reminder of the raw power lurking beneath the Earth’s crust. These natural fountains are rare, only occurring in a few geologically active places around the world, but their eruptions offer an unforgettable experience for any traveler. Having had the privilege of witnessing several geysers firsthand, I can confidently say that each has its own unique character and charm. So where is the best place to see a geyser for yourself?
1. Old Faithful – Yellowstone National Park, USA
They say consistency is key, and Old Faithful lives up to its name. Situated in Yellowstone National Park, this iconic geyser erupts every 60 to 110 minutes, shooting water up to 180 feet (55 meters) into the air. There’s something deeply reassuring about its reliability, and it’s no wonder that visitors line up in anticipation, cameras at the ready. Despite its popularity, the sheer power of the eruption never fails to impress.
2. Strokkur – Haukadalur Valley, Iceland – best place to see a geyser
Unlike Old Faithful, which keeps visitors waiting for a while, Strokkur in Iceland’s Haukadalur Valley erupts every 5 to 10 minutes, making it one of the most dynamic geysers on this list. It may not be the tallest, reaching about 65 feet (20 meters), but its frequent activity means that even the most impatient traveler is guaranteed to see it in action. Watching the ground swell just before the eruption is a thrill in itself! I last visited in February 2025 and it was as punctual and spectacular as ever!
3. Grand Geyser – Yellowstone National Park, USA
If you’re looking for height, then Grand Geyser in Yellowstone is the one to see. As the world’s tallest predictable geyser, it launches water up to 200 feet (61 meters) high every 6 to 15 hours. The eruption, lasting 9 to 12 minutes, is a jaw-dropping spectacle. While waiting might require some patience, the reward is well worth it.
4. El Tatio – Atacama Desert, Chile
At an altitude of 14,000 feet (4,320 meters), El Tatio in Chile is the highest geyser field in the world. The chilly desert air combined with the steaming vents creates a surreal, almost extraterrestrial landscape, especially at sunrise. With around 80 active geysers, this location is truly a geothermal wonderland, and if you fancy a soak, the area offers some incredible hot springs.
5. Steamboat Geyser – Yellowstone National Park, USA
The tallest active geyser in the world, Steamboat Geyser in Yellowstone’s Norris Geyser Basin, is both impressive and elusive. It can blast water over 300 feet (91 meters) high, but its eruptions are unpredictable, sometimes happening days or even years apart. Witnessing a full-scale eruption is a once-in-a-lifetime event, but even on a quiet day, the area’s geothermal features are worth exploring.
Photo of Dome Geyser by Jonathan Larson on Unsplash
6. Geysir – Haukadalur Valley, Iceland
The Great Geysir, the very namesake of all geysers, is one of Iceland’s most legendary hot springs. While it’s not as active as it once was, it has been known to shoot water 230 feet (70 meters) into the air. Though its younger counterpart, Strokkur, steals most of the spotlight, standing near the Great Geysir’s crater is a reminder of Iceland’s incredible geothermal history. Iceland is easy to get to these days from both Europe and the US East coast, with cheap airlines such as EasyJet and Play. There is no excuse not to go to one of the World’s best places to see a geyser.
7. Fly Geyser – Nevada, USA
Fly Geyser is an accidental marvel, formed in 1964 when a geothermal well was left uncapped. What makes this geyser stand out isn’t its height—it only reaches 5 feet (1.5 meters)—but its striking rainbow-colored mineral deposits that have created an otherworldly landscape. While it’s on private land, guided tours allow visitors to witness its surreal beauty up close.
8. Lady Knox Geyser – Wai-O-Tapu, New Zealand
What makes Lady Knox Geyser in New Zealand’s Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland special is its scheduled eruptions. Every morning at 10:15 AM, a small amount of soap powder is added to break the surface tension, triggering an eruption reaching 65 feet (20 meters). While it might lack spontaneity, it’s an entertaining and educational experience for visitors exploring Rotorua’s geothermal region.
9. Andernach Geyser – Germany
Geysers aren’t just a volcanic phenomenon, as Andernach Geyser in Germany proves. As the tallest cold-water geyser in the world, it erupts up to 200 feet (60 meters) high, powered by carbon dioxide buildup rather than geothermal heat. Located along the Rhine River, visitors can take a boat ride to see this rare spectacle, which erupts reliably every two hours. This is a unique best place to see a geyser in the world.
10. Kamchatka Geysers – Russia
For those who truly want to go off the beaten path, the Valley of Geysers in Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula is a remote paradise. With over 200 active geysers, it’s one of the largest geyser fields in the world. The crown jewel, Velikan Geyser, erupts with incredible force, sending steaming water skyward. Reaching this destination requires a helicopter ride, but the dramatic landscapes and raw geothermal power make it one of the most rewarding geyser adventures.
Final Thoughts on the best place to see a geyser
Each of these geysers tells a unique story—some predictable, others mysterious, and all utterly mesmerizing. Whether you’re standing beside the dependable Old Faithful, witnessing the ferocity of Steamboat Geyser, or marveling at the otherworldly beauty of Fly Geyser, these natural wonders remind us of the untamed power of our planet. If you have the chance to visit one (or all) of these incredible sites, don’t hesitate—these are experiences that will stay with you forever.
Photo by Jorge Fernández Salas on Unsplash
