Kerið Crater
About Kerið
Kerið is one of Iceland’s most famous volcanic craters, known for its striking red slopes and vivid blue-green lake. Located in the Grímsnes area of South Iceland, about 15 minutes from Selfoss and directly along the Golden Circle route, Kerið is one of the easiest and most photogenic volcanic features in the country.
The crater is about 55 meters deep, 170 meters wide, and nearly 300 meters across. What makes it special is the contrast of colors, deep red volcanic rock surrounding a calm turquoise lake that sits quietly in the center. The view from above is beautiful, but walking down to the lake’s edge gives a completely different perspective.
Kerið is estimated to be around 3,000 years old, much younger than most other volcanic craters in Iceland. Its relatively fresh appearance, vivid color, and easy accessibility make it a must-stop for travelers exploring the Golden Circle.
The Formation of Kerið
Kerið is part of a volcanic system called Tjarnarhólar, which includes several nearby craters. Unlike most volcanic craters that form from explosions, scientists believe Kerið was created when a volcanic cone collapsed into an empty magma chamber after an eruption.
The red color of the surrounding slopes comes from iron-rich volcanic rock. Over time, rain and groundwater collected inside the crater, forming the small lake that remains today. The lake’s depth varies throughout the year, depending on rainfall and groundwater levels, but its color always appears vibrant due to minerals in the soil and the reflection of the crater walls.
Visiting Kerið
Kerið is privately owned and carefully maintained, and there is a small entrance fee that helps protect the area and maintain the walking paths. The site is open year-round, though visiting conditions vary by season.
A well-marked walking path circles the rim of the crater, allowing you to enjoy views from every angle. It takes about 10–15 minutes to walk the full loop. Another path leads down into the crater, where you can stand beside the lake and see the red and orange slopes up close.
The crater is especially stunning in the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight brings out the color contrast between the red rock and blue water. On calm days, the lake acts as a mirror, reflecting the crater walls and sky above.
Golden Circle Tours
- 8,5 Hours
- Easy
- Reykjavík
Visit Gullfoss, Geysir, Þingvellir and Kerið Ctrater on this Grand Golden Circle Tour
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- 8,5 Hours
- Easy
- Reykjavík
Visit Gullfoss, Geysir, Þingvellir and Kerið Ctrater on this Grand Golden Circle Tour
9.990 ISK
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- Reykjavík
Nature & relaxation trip with admissions included from Reykjavik
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- 8 Hours
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The Legend of Kerið
Local folklore tells of trolls, hidden people, and spirits connected to the area. Some stories describe Kerið as an “eye of the earth,” watching over the surrounding valley. Others say the lake is bottomless or connected underground to nearby rivers.
Although these are legends, they add a touch of mystery to the already magical setting. When standing at the edge of the crater in silence, it’s easy to imagine how ancient Icelanders might have seen this place as sacred.
Seasonal Visiting Guide
Summer (June to August)
The crater is fully accessible, and the paths are dry and safe. The red rock glows in the sunlight, and the lake shines bright turquoise. Perfect for photos and short hikes.
Autumn (September to October)
The landscape around Kerið turns golden and orange, complementing the red slopes of the crater. Cooler weather means fewer crowds.
Winter (November to February)
Snow covers the rim, and the lake often freezes, creating a completely different atmosphere. The red rock beneath the snow makes for striking contrasts. Paths may be slippery, so wear proper shoes.
Spring (March to May)
The snow melts, and the colors return to full strength. The area feels fresh and peaceful, and daylight hours begin to increase rapidly.
Photography and Filming Tips
The best light is early morning or evening, when the crater glows in warm tones.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture both the lake and crater rim.
On calm days, try photographing reflections in the water.
A drone can capture the perfect top-down perspective, but always follow local regulations and keep distance from other visitors.
In winter, bring a tripod for low-light shots and snowy conditions.
Getting There & Practical Information
Location: Grímsnes, South Iceland, near Route 35.
Distance from Reykjavík: About 70 kilometers, roughly a 1-hour drive.
Access: Paved road and parking area with easy walking paths.
Entrance Fee: Small fee (usually 450–500 ISK) for site maintenance and safety.
Facilities: Parking lot, viewing platforms, and information signs.
Accessibility: The upper path is easy to walk. The descent into the crater is short but can be steep and uneven.
Safety and Visitor Tips
Stay on marked paths. The rim can be fragile, and off-trail walking may cause erosion.
Be careful when descending. The slope down to the lake can be slippery, especially after rain or in winter.
Avoid standing too close to the edge. The rim is stable but uneven in some areas.
Wear proper shoes. Comfortable walking shoes or boots are recommended.
Respect the environment. Do not throw rocks into the lake or climb the crater walls.
How deep is Kerið?
The crater is about 55 meters deep, 170 meters wide, and nearly 300 meters across. The lake inside the crater is around 7 to 14 meters deep, depending on rainfall and groundwater levels.
Can I walk down into the crater?
Yes. A marked path leads from the rim down to the crater lake, allowing you to walk all the way to the water’s edge. The descent is short but can be steep in places, so wear proper shoes.
How long does it take to visit Kerið?
Most visitors spend about 20 to 40 minutes exploring the crater. Walking around the rim takes about 10–15 minutes, and visiting the lake below adds a few more.
When is the best time to visit Kerið?
Kerið is open year-round. Summer offers bright colors and easy access, while winter creates stunning contrast with snow and ice. Early morning or late evening gives the best lighting for photography.