Kerid Crater Lake: A Vivid Volcanic Wonder in Iceland

Claim to Fame

Kerid Crater Lake is renowned for its vibrant aquamarine water and striking red volcanic slopes, making it one of the most photogenic and accessible crater lakes in Iceland.

📌 Navigating Kerid Crater Lake : Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Washrooms: Washrooms are available at the visitor center for public use.
Hours of Operation: The site is typically open year-round, but hours may vary by season.
Important Information: Weather conditions can affect accessibility, so it's advisable to check forecasts before visiting.
Admission Fee: There is a nominal admission fee to access the crater area.
How Long to Visit: A visit usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on activities and exploration.
Parking: Parking is available on-site, with designated areas for visitors.
Family Friendly: Kerid Crater Lake is family friendly, offering safe areas for children to explore.
Photography: The vibrant colors of the lake and surrounding landscape make it a popular spot for photography.
WIFI: There is no public Wi-Fi available at the site.
Picnic Area: A picnic area is available for visitors wishing to enjoy a meal amid scenic views.
Handicap Accessible: The site is mostly handicap accessible, with paths leading to viewing areas.
Pets: Pets are not allowed in the crater area to preserve the natural environment.
Guided Tours: Guided tours may be available through local operators, providing insights into the geological features.
Restaurant or Cafe: There are no restaurants or cafes on-site, but nearby options can be found in the surrounding area.
Gift Shop: A small gift shop is located near the entrance, selling souvenirs and local crafts.

📌Heads up: All times, prices and visitor policies are subject to change without notice. Please check the official website for the most recent information.

Photos of Kerid Crater Lake

Located along the popular Golden Circle route, Kerid (also spelled Kerið) is a 3,000-year-old volcanic crater lake in South Iceland. Unlike many older craters that have eroded into obscurity, Kerid remains impressively intact with its steep walls and vivid color contrasts—red and black volcanic rock surrounding a serene, blue-green lake.

What makes Kerid unique is its unusual appearance. The crater is oval-shaped, about 270 meters (890 feet) long and 55 meters (180 feet) deep, with the lake filling the basin at the bottom. The depth of the water varies but typically measures around 7 to 14 meters. Visitors can walk the rim for panoramic views or descend a path to the lake’s edge for a closer look.

Geological Background

Kerid is part of a row of volcanic craters known as Tjarnarhólar and is believed to have been formed when a volcanic cone collapsed into its own magma chamber. The red volcanic rock here sets it apart from most other crater lakes, which often display darker basalt tones. This contrast, combined with the vivid blue water, gives Kerid its otherworldly look.

Things to Do at Kerid

Walk the Crater Rim: A well-marked path circles the crater, offering stunning views from every angle.
Descend to the Water: A staircase allows easy access to the lake shore—ideal for photography and peaceful reflection.
Photography: Sunrise and sunset light up the crater’s colors, making it a dream for landscape photographers.
Part of the Golden Circle: Kerid is often visited along with Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss for a full-day adventure.

Visitor Information

Kerid is on private land, and a small entrance fee (around 400 ISK) is charged to help maintain the site. There is a small parking area next to the crater, and visits usually take 30–45 minutes.

Best Time to Visit

Kerid can be visited year-round, but summer and early autumn are ideal for enjoying the color contrasts and clear walking paths. In winter, the crater may be dusted with snow, and the lake might freeze, offering a very different but equally scenic experience.

Nearby Attractions

Gullfoss Waterfall: One of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls, just a short drive away.
Geysir Geothermal Area: See Iceland’s original geyser and the frequently erupting Strokkur.
Thingvellir National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing rift valleys and Icelandic history.

Final Thoughts

Kerid Crater Lake is a compact yet unforgettable stop along the Golden Circle. Its vivid colors, accessible trails, and serene setting make it a must-see for anyone exploring the natural wonders of southern Iceland.

📘 Iceland Visitors Travel Information

Time Zone: Iceland operates on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) year-round. It does not observe Daylight Saving Time.

Weather: Iceland has a subarctic and oceanic climate, characterized by cool summers and relatively mild winters for its latitude. Summer temperatures average 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), while winters hover around -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F). Weather is highly variable, with frequent wind and sudden changes.

Population: Iceland has a population of approximately 380,000 people, making it one of the least populated countries in Europe. Nearly 60% of the population lives in or around the capital city, Reykjavík.

Size: Iceland covers about 103,000 square kilometers (40,000 square miles), making it the second-largest island in Europe. Its landscape features volcanoes, glaciers, geothermal springs, and lava fields.

Language: Icelandic is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood throughout the country, especially in tourism and service industries.

Currency: The official currency is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Credit and debit cards are accepted nearly everywhere, including taxis and remote guesthouses. Cash is rarely needed.

Safety: Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world. Violent crime is extremely rare, and solo travel is common. Natural hazards, such as strong winds or icy roads, pose the biggest risks for visitors.

Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Iceland, as service charges are typically included in the bill. However, rounding up or leaving a small tip for excellent service is appreciated but not expected.

Electricity and Plugs: Iceland uses 230V electricity at 50Hz. Plug types C and F are standard. Visitors from countries using different plug types should bring an adapter.

Water: Tap water in Iceland is exceptionally pure and safe to drink. It comes directly from natural springs and glaciers, often without chemical treatment. Bottled water is unnecessary.

Annual Visitors: Iceland receives over 2 million visitors annually—more than five times its population. Tourists are drawn by the Northern Lights, the Blue Lagoon, waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes.

Visa Requirements: Citizens of the EU, U.S., Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter Iceland visa-free for up to 90 days within the Schengen Area. A valid passport is required.

Health & Vaccinations: No vaccinations are required to enter Iceland. Visitors should be up to date on routine vaccines such as tetanus, flu, and MMR. Healthcare is high quality and available in most towns.

Transportation: Public transportation is limited outside Reykjavík. Most travelers rent cars to explore the countryside and the Ring Road. Tour buses also serve major natural attractions. Roads may be closed in winter due to weather.

Food: Icelandic cuisine includes lamb, seafood, skyr (a yogurt-like dairy product), and traditional dishes like fermented shark. Reykjavík offers a wide variety of restaurants, including international options.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms: Icelanders are friendly, honest, and value personal space. Punctuality is important, and visitors are expected to respect nature and follow local guidelines, especially when exploring natural areas.

Telecommunications & Connectivity: Wi-Fi is widely available in Iceland, including hotels, cafés, buses, and even remote guesthouses. Mobile coverage is good in most areas, and local SIM cards are available at the airport and convenience stores.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is strongly recommended in Iceland. Medical care for non-residents can be expensive, and insurance can also cover weather-related delays, cancellations, and rental car coverage for rural travel.

Did You Know? - Facts About Kerid Crater Lake

Kerid Crater Lake, located in southern Iceland, is a volcanic crater lake estimated to be around 3,000 years old.

The crater is composed of striking red volcanic rock, which contrasts beautifully with the vivid blue-green water of the lake.

The lake is relatively shallow, with a maximum depth of about 10 meters (33 feet), allowing for various reflections on its surface.

Kerið is one of several volcanic craters in the area, though its picturesque color and easy accessibility make it the most popular.

Visitors can walk around the rim of the crater and descend a path to the lake's edge, offering different perspectives and photo opportunities.