IKerid (kerið) crater is a volcanic crater lake located in south Iceland. Its natural beauty and unique geological features have been attracting tourists from all over the world for decades.
Formed over 3,000 years ago, the crater is relatively shallow, going from seven to fourteen meters depending on rainfall. The water has a unique aquamarine shade of blue, enjoyable in any season.
Whether you visit Kerid crater in the summer or winter months, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. The spectacular rock formations and interesting hiking trails make it the most famous crater in Iceland’s western volcanic zone.
General Information About Iceland Craters
Iceland is a volcanic country with over 130 volcanoes. It’s long and devastating history of eruptions, has left ehind craters—like the Kerid volcanic crater—scattered across the island. When a volcano erupts, the explosion ejects rocks and various other materials that form the craters.
You shouldn’t mistake craters for calderas, which are formed when a volcano’s magma chamber collapses inward. Craters are much smaller than chambers. In fact, people consider calderas to be giant craters.
Volcanoes define the way nature is going to look in Iceland, and the eruptions have formed unique contrasts in the landscape. Every Icelandic crater is a unique wonder everyone should experience. Followed by captivating fields of moss-coated lava and tectonic rocks, the landscapes surrounding the craters feature dramatic color contrasts and unique views.
Some of the craters in Iceland are filled with water, like Kerid crater. Surrounded by rare red volcanic rock, the neon blue lake offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Some lakes, like Víti explosion crater in the Askja caldera, are filled with geothermal water in which you may bathe if you want to.
Most of the volcanoes are inactive, and you can safely visit the craters and witness the unique beauty of Iceland.
Everything You Need To Know About Kerid
Located along the famous Golden Circle route in Iceland, Kerid crater is unique for many reasons, starting with the way it was formed. According to geologists, it didn’t form from exploding rocks as most craters do. Kerid crater most likely formed when the magma in the center of the volcano depleted itself, causing an empty chamber beneath to cave in and form a bowl. The bright colors of the lake are out of this world, and the rare geological changes that led to its creation add to the exclusivity of the crater.
In addition to the amazing water, the steep side of the crater slope is covered with rare red volcanic rock. If that’s not colorful enough, nature has made sure there is a splash of bright green in the scenery. One side of the slope is covered with majestic green moss, adding to the overall dramatic contrast at Kerid crater Iceland.
During winter, the lake freezes and transforms into an exciting ice rink for adventurous tourists. The scenery is covered with ice and snow, offering spectacular views for tourists and photographers. Equally impressive in the winter as it is in the summer, Kerid volcanic crater, Iceland, is a must-visit for anyone exploring the island.
Details on The Kerid Crater Lake
According to many, Kerid is the most beautiful crater lake the country has to offer. With unique slopes of red volcanic rocks that measure over 170 meters wide, Kerid is famous for the beauty of its caldera that is still mostly intact.
The crater is only 3000 years old, which makes it the youngest geological feature in its surroundings. You can get really close to the crater lake and have a good look at its unique features. There is also a ladder that leads down the lake for the most adventurous visitors.
If you plan on going to Kerid, Iceland on your own, prepare to pay a small entrance fee to walk over to the crater lake. There is a pleasant hike around the rim of the crater that allows you to get close, enjoy the beauty, and take spectacular photos. If you set your timing right and visit this beautiful place late at night, you will witness the northern lights in all their glory.
How do I get to Kerið?
To get to Kerid crater, the Golden Circle ring road is all you need to follow. It’s approximately 40 minutes by car or camper from Thingvellir National Park and 40 minutes from Haukadalur.
Finding this volcano crater near Reykjavik is very easy, and the road to it is very well marked. Many tourists rent cars and campers and have no problem finding their way to and back from Kerid crater.
Walking at the edge of the Kerid crater and taking spectacular photographs is what most tourists do when they visit. Although some people decide to go with group tours, others like to create their own daily agenda and go on an adventure on their own.
Explore With Rent.is
Read our comprehensive Iceland travel guide or contact us if you need any more information about the Kerid Crater Iceland. If you’re ready to visit, check out our Iceland camper rental options and prepare yourself for the adventure of a lifetime!