About

Kerið is a volcanic crater lake located in the Grímsnes area of South Iceland, part of the Western Volcanic Zone. The crater is one of several in the Tjarnarhólar crater group, formed approximately 6,500 years ago. Dimensions: - Diameter: ~270 metres - Depth: ~55 metres (caldera) - Lake depth: 7–14 metres (seasonal variation) - Shape: Nearly circular/oval Characteristics: - **Crater type**: Caldera (collapsed magma chamber), not explosion crater - **Lake color**: Opaque blue-green from minerals and algae - **Slopes**: Red and orange scoria (volcanic cinder) - **Vegetation**: Moss and grass on slopes Formation: - Magma chamber emptied during eruption - Ground collapsed into void, creating caldera - Groundwater filled depression - Lake level connected to water table (fluctuates) Access: - Route 35 (Golden Circle extension) - 15 km north of Selfoss - Parking and entrance fee (~400–500 ISK) - Stairs/path around rim (10–15 min walk) - Stairs down to lake shore Kerið is a convenient Golden Circle add-on (many tours include it). The vivid colors photograph beautifully. Occasionally rock concerts are staged in the crater with floating platforms. Best visited in summer for greenest slopes and bluest water. Winter offers frozen, snow-covered beauty. Visit duration: 20–30 minutes.

📖 Story

Most explosion craters drain or stay dry. Kerið filled with groundwater, creating a vivid aquamarine lake that sits like a jewel in the red-orange volcanic caldera. The crater formed about 6,500 years ago near the end of the volcanic system's activity. You can walk the crater rim (10 minutes) or descend to the water's edge. The amphitheater shape has excellent acoustics — concerts are occasionally held here, with floating stages on the lake. It's a quick, colorful stop on the Golden Circle route.

Key Facts