Guide to Kerið Crater on the Golden Circle
Kerið is one of the more unique lakes in Iceland as it's a striking volcanic crater lake located in the Grímsnes area of southern Iceland, along the popular Golden Circle route. The crater, approximately 3,000 years old, is one of several volcanic features in the area but stands out due to its vibrant, almost surreal colors. The caldera is steep with red volcanic rock walls that contrast beautifully with the vivid blue-green water at its base. Unlike many other volcanic craters, Kerið is believed to have formed when a magma chamber emptied and collapsed rather than from an explosive eruption.
Visitors can walk around the rim of the crater for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape or descend a path to the edge of the lake for a closer look. The unique combination of colors, especially in contrast with the surrounding Icelandic scenery, makes Kerið a favorite among photographers and nature lovers alike. The site is easily accessible and offers a fascinating glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic past, making it a worthwhile stop on any journey through the region.
Kerið Crater Facts & Figures
Kerið Volcanic Crater is notable for its deep blue crater lake and vibrant red slopes, which stand out in contrast to the surrounding green moss and grass. Here are the key details about Kerið Crater:
- Age: Approximately 3,000 years old, relatively young in geological terms.
- Depth of the Crater: 55 meters (180 feet)
- Diameter: 170 meters (560 feet)
- Depth of Crater Lake: 7-14 meters (23-46 feet), depending on rainfall and season.
- How long to spend at Kerið Crater: 30 to 60 minutes is generally recommended to explore the crater, walk along its rim, and descend to the lake.
- Can you swim at Kerið Crater?: No, swimming is not allowed due to safety and environmental protection measures.
- Kerið Crater Parking Fee: Parking is free but there is a small entrance fee of 600 ISK in 2025 [1] that helps with the maintenance of the site.
Visitors often describe Kerið as the "Eye of the World," thanks to its perfect circular shape and stunning blue lake that looks like an iris from above.
History and Geology
The Kerið Crater is a volcanic caldera formed approximately 3,000 years ago. Unlike other volcanic craters, which are typically formed by explosions, Kerið was created when the magma chamber of a volcano emptied, causing the land above to collapse into the chamber. This created the bowl-shaped crater we see today. The distinctive red and orange slopes of Kerið are due to the presence of iron in the volcanic rock, setting it apart from many other craters in Iceland that have darker black or gray rock.
Kerid Crater Lake fills the bottom of the caldera and is fed by groundwater rather than rainfall, meaning that its water levels vary depending on the season. The lake's bright blue color creates a striking contrast with the surrounding red and green landscape, offering a stunning visual display that changes with the seasons.
It belongs to the Tjarnarhólar Crater Group, consisting of a cluster of volcanic craters; however, Kerið is by far the most famous because of its dramatic beauty and accessible location.
Kerið and the Golden Circle
Kerið Crater is one of the most accessible volcanic craters in Iceland, making it an easy addition to any Golden Circle tour. The Golden Circle is a popular tourist route that includes the Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir Geothermal Area, and the mighty Gullfoss Waterfall. Kerið is located near the village of Selfoss, which makes it a convenient stop along the way.
Visitors can easily combine a trip to Kerið Crater with other major attractions in the area. After experiencing the dramatic Geysir eruptions and the power of Gullfoss, a stop at Kerið offers a more tranquil yet equally impressive natural site. The short hike around the rim of the crater provides a stunning vantage point of the lake below, and visitors can also descend to the crater floor to get closer to the water.
Kerið's accessibility and location make it a must-see while on tour in Iceland's Southern Peninsula and its natural treasures.
What to Expect in Winter
Visiting Kerið Crater in winter is a magical experience. The red slopes of the crater are often dusted with snow, and the icy blue water in the lake below creates a beautiful contrast. Although the water may partially freeze during the colder months, the landscape takes on an otherworldly feel as the snow highlights the crater's unique geological features.
Winter visitors should dress warmly, as the winds around the crater can be strong, and the paths may be icy. However, Kerið is accessible year-round, and walking around the rim during the winter provides an unforgettable view view of the south in a snow-covered landscape.
Where is Kerið Crater?
Kerið Crater is located in southern Iceland, along the Golden Circle route, making it easily accessible for visitors exploring the region.
- GPS Coordinates: 64.0414° N, 20.8851° W
The crater is part of the Grímsnes area, a region rich in volcanic activity. Its proximity to Reykjavik and other Golden Circle attractions makes it an essential stop for visitors looking to experience Iceland's volcanic history firsthand.
How to Get to Kerið Volcanic Crater?
Reykjavík to Kerið Crater is as easy as pie, hence why it is such a stop for locals and tourists. It is roughly 55 km from Reykjavik; it takes around 45 minutes by car from Route 1 northeast, then onto Route 35 to the east, the major road which forms part of the Golden Circle.
Those coming without their own transport can take one of the many Golden Circle tours that include Kerið in their schedule. Most guided tours leave from Reykjavik and cover the main attractions along the route known as the Golden Circle.
Parking and Facilities
Once arriving at Kerið Crater, there is a car park free of charge right next to the crater for easy access. However, unlike most of the other natural attractions in Iceland, there is a small entrance fee to visit Kerið, 600ISK as of 2025. This money goes toward maintenance of the paths and facilities that surround the site.
Facilities at Kerið Crater are limited; an information board adjacent to the car park contains more detailed information on the geology and history of the crater. At Kerið, there are no toilets or cafes, but nearby towns like, for example, Selfoss provide many different kinds of services: shops, restaurants, and hotels.
The walk from the parking lot to the crater is short, and visitors can easily access the rim for a panoramic view or take a path that descends to the bottom of the crater for a closer look at the lake. It’s an easy walk, making Kerið accessible to most visitors.
Can You See the Northern Lights from Kerið Crater?
For sure, Kerið Crater is a great place to see the Northern Lights in winter. Because it’s located outside of town, less light pollution can be expected. Kerið is dark enough to provide an unobstructed view of the night sky for great aurora hunting. The reflection of the lights in the lake of the crater form an especially magical sight of colors dancing in the still waters below.
The best time to see the Northern Lights, however, is from September to March, during conditions where the weather is cold, the air is still and sky is clear, so make sure you time your visit appropriately.