Kerid (also spelled Kerið) Volcanic Crater in Iceland is an ancient geological formation that has drawn the admiration of scientists, travelers, and photographers alike. Located in the Grímsnes region in southern Iceland, it forms part of the Golden Circle route, making it accessible for travelers looking to experience Iceland’s incredible natural wonders. Unlike most craters formed by volcanic explosions, Kerid’s creation stems from a collapsed magma chamber, leaving behind a steep, elliptical depression filled with an azure blue lake at its base.
Kerid Crater is around 3,000 years old, relatively young in geological terms. It stands out for its vivid colors, with the steep walls of the crater composed of red volcanic rock contrasting against the vibrant blue of the lake and the surrounding moss-covered landscape. The crater is approximately 55 meters (180 feet) deep, 170 meters (560 feet) wide, and 270 meters (890 feet) across, allowing visitors to walk along its rim and take in panoramic views from above or descend to the crater’s edge and experience the unique environment from a closer perspective.
Kerid is one of several craters in Iceland’s Western Volcanic Zone. Unlike explosive craters formed from powerful eruptions, Kerid was likely formed by a smaller eruption followed by a partial collapse of the magma chamber. The unique shape and composition of the crater allow geologists to study the interactions between volcanic activity and water over time. This crater is a precious relic of Iceland's volatile volcanic history, and studying it offers insights into the region’s seismic activity and geothermal energy.
One of the striking features of Kerid is its vibrant color palette. The red volcanic rock of the crater walls, created by high iron oxide levels, creates a stunning contrast with the green moss that covers the surrounding rocks and hills. The lake, which fills the bottom of the crater, is fed primarily by groundwater and has a rich blue-green hue that changes with light and seasonal conditions.
In winter, the water in the crater can freeze, adding a different layer of beauty with snow blanketing the surrounding rocks. During spring and summer, the lake’s colors are more vibrant due to increased daylight, which allows for breathtaking reflections on calm days. This color variance adds to the appeal of visiting Kerid at different times of the year, making it a dynamic and ever-changing destination.
Kerid is located approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) from the town of Selfoss and about 70 kilometers (43 miles) from Reykjavik, Iceland's capital. The crater is part of the Golden Circle, a popular tourist route that includes iconic Icelandic attractions such as Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area, and Gullfoss Waterfall. Most visitors reach Kerid by car, and there are several tour companies that offer guided trips along the Golden Circle with stops at Kerid.
For those driving independently, the crater has a small parking lot, and there is usually an entrance fee to visit. This fee helps maintain the area and manage the influx of visitors, ensuring that Kerid can be preserved for future generations.
Upon arriving, visitors can choose to walk around the rim of the crater, which provides a 360-degree view of the lake and the Grímsnes region. The trail is well-marked and manageable for most visitors, though caution should be taken, especially on windy days or during winter when the path can be slippery.
For those who want a closer look, a path leads down to the lake at the bottom of the crater. This descent allows visitors to fully appreciate the size of the crater and the clarity of the lake. The acoustics within the crater are unique, creating a quiet atmosphere even when there are multiple visitors around. The lake’s edges offer excellent opportunities for photography, especially when capturing reflections or the contrast between the red rocks and the lake’s blue-green hues.
Kerid is open to visitors year-round, and each season offers a different experience. Summer (June to August) brings warmer weather and nearly 24 hours of daylight, allowing for extended exploration and vibrant colors throughout the day. The long daylight hours also make it easier to include Kerid as part of a Golden Circle day trip.
In winter (December to February), the landscape takes on a serene quality, with snow often blanketing the crater walls. Winter is also an ideal time for photographers seeking stark contrasts, as the red walls stand out beautifully against the white snow. On clear winter nights, the area around Kerid can be an excellent spot for viewing the Northern Lights, as the crater’s remote location reduces light pollution.
Spring and autumn are excellent times to visit for those who prefer fewer crowds. The weather can be unpredictable, with the landscape shifting from frosty to lush, but the changing colors of the lake and surrounding vegetation make these seasons particularly picturesque.
While Kerid is not as prominently featured in Icelandic folklore as some other natural sites, it holds a place in local culture and is revered for its beauty. Icelandic folklore often imbues natural landscapes with stories of hidden people, elves, and other mystical beings, and Kerid’s surreal setting feels fittingly mystical. The calm lake and otherworldly colors add to the atmosphere of myth and legend, making it easy to imagine why Icelanders feel a strong connection to their land.
Although Kerid is a relatively accessible destination, it’s essential to exercise caution while visiting. The crater’s rim has steep drop-offs, and windy conditions can make the path challenging, especially for those unaccustomed to Iceland’s often unpredictable weather. Visitors should stay on marked paths, avoid getting too close to the edge, and wear sturdy footwear to navigate the sometimes rugged terrain.
During winter, icy conditions can make the descent to the lake slippery. If you plan to visit in winter, consider using crampons or other winter hiking gear for extra safety. Additionally, if you plan to visit during sunrise, sunset, or nighttime hours, bring a flashlight or headlamp to ensure visibility on the trail.
Kerid’s vivid colors, unique landscape, and seasonal changes make it a paradise for photographers. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for capturing the dramatic lighting and shadows cast over the crater. The lake's still surface, especially on calm days, provides excellent opportunities to capture reflections of the crater walls and sky.
In winter, photographers can capture the contrast between the crater's red walls and the surrounding snow, while spring and summer offer lush green moss and vibrant blue water. Autumn, with its unique lighting and varying weather conditions, provides an excellent chance for capturing atmospheric shots, with mist or light snow adding to the ethereal beauty of the scene.
As with many natural attractions in Iceland, it is vital to practice responsible tourism when visiting Kerid. The entrance fee helps to fund conservation efforts, and visitors are encouraged to follow guidelines to preserve the area. Staying on designated paths, refraining from littering, and avoiding disturbing the fragile moss and vegetation are ways visitors can help maintain the crater’s natural beauty.
Kerid Crater is unique because it wasn’t created by a volcanic explosion, as many craters are. Instead, it formed when a volcanic cone collapsed, leaving a deep, elliptical depression that gradually filled with groundwater, creating the beautiful lake seen today.
Yes, there is a path that allows visitors to descend from the crater rim down to the lake’s edge. This path offers a closer view of the vivid blue lake and the crater walls. However, the descent can be slippery, especially in winter, so visitors should take care and wear appropriate footwear.
Kerid Crater can be visited year-round. In summer, visitors enjoy longer daylight hours and vibrant colors. Winter offers a stunning contrast, with snow on the crater walls and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights. Spring and autumn provide fewer crowds and changing seasonal colors.
Yes, a small entrance fee is usually required to visit Kerid Crater. The fee helps fund maintenance and preservation efforts to keep the site safe and accessible for visitors.
Kerid is about 70 kilometers (43 miles) from Reykjavik, roughly a 1-hour drive. It’s located on the Golden Circle route, making it an easy addition to a day trip. The route is best traveled by car or as part of a guided Golden Circle tour.
Kerid Volcanic Crater is a vivid reminder of Iceland’s geological history and a testament to the forces that have shaped the island. Its unique formation, striking colors, and tranquil lake make it a must-see destination on the Golden Circle route. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, a photographer, or simply a traveler seeking natural beauty, Kerid offers a mesmerizing experience. As you stand at the crater’s edge, overlooking the calm waters below, you’ll gain an appreciation for the dynamic landscapes that make Iceland one of the most captivating places on Earth.
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