south iceland
Kerið Volcanic Crater Lake
About Kerið Volcanic Crater Lake
Vivid blue-green lake filling a 6,500-year-old volcanic crater with red and orange scoria slopes. The volcanic landscape features unique formations and terrain that tell the story of eruptions past, while serving as a reminder of the dynamic forces beneath our feet. 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. Visitor Information: This site is located in South Iceland, Iceland. As a volcano, it provides visitors with a distinctive experience of Iceland's remarkable natural and cultural heritage. What to Expect: - A unique volcano experience in one of Iceland's most scenic regions - Opportunities for photography and exploration - Connection to Iceland's natural landscape and cultural heritage - Accessible during the main tourist season (June-September) - Can be combined with other nearby attractions in South Iceland Best Time to Visit: The site is most accessible during summer months (June-August) when daylight hours are longest and weather is mildest. However, each season offers its own unique character — winter brings possible Northern Lights, while spring and fall offer fewer crowds. Nearby: Explore other attractions in South Iceland to make the most of your visit to this beautiful region of Iceland.
🐉 The Troll of Reynisdrangar
The dramatic sea stacks at Reynisdrangar, visible from many points along the South Iceland coast, are said to be trolls turned to stone. According to legend, two trolls were trying to drag a three-masted ship to shore when they were caught by the first rays of dawn. Sunlight is fatal to trolls in Icelandic folklore, and they were instantly petrified, becoming the towering rock pillars that stand in the sea to this day. On stormy nights, some locals say you can still hear the trolls groaning as the waves crash against them, forever frozen in their midnight labor.
📖 History of Kerið Volcanic Crater Lake
This site in South Iceland is part of Iceland's intensely active volcanic landscape. Iceland sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates diverge, making it one of the most volcanically active places on Earth. Historical records of eruptions in Iceland date back to the settlement era, with the 934 AD Eldgjá eruption being one of the largest lava flood eruptions in recorded history. The 1783 Laki eruption caused a devastating famine that killed about one-quarter of Iceland's population. More recently, the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull eruption brought global attention to Iceland's volcanic power. Each volcanic site tells a chapter of this ongoing geological story.
✈️ Why Visit
Iceland's most colorful crater — vivid blue-green lake surrounded by red-orange volcanic slopes, perfect photo stop on Golden Circle.
💡 Did You Know?
Kerið crater has such perfect acoustics that concerts are held inside with stages floating on the lake — nature's amphitheater.
Key Facts
~6,500 years old
55-metre deep crater
Vivid blue-green lake
Red-orange scoria slopes
Golden Circle route
💎 Hidden Gems
Best Time of Day
Visit this attraction during golden hour (the hour after sunrise or before sunset) for the most beautiful light.
Iceland's low-angle sunlight creates long shadows and warm colors that transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary ones.
Local Knowledge
Ask locals for their favorite nearby spots — Icelanders are friendly and love sharing recommendations.
The best experiences often come from local tips about lesser-known viewpoints, cafés, or hidden natural features.
Weather Changes
Don't leave if the weather is bad — wait 15 minutes and it often changes dramatically.
Iceland's rapidly changing weather can transform a gray scene into a spectacular display of light and clouds in minutes.
🕐 Best Time
Summer for safe access; check volcanic activity alerts
🚗 Access
Some require 4x4 or guided tours. Check SafeTravel.is before visiting.
⏱ Duration
2-5 hours including travel
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to visit?▾
Check SafeTravel.is for current volcanic activity alerts before visiting any volcanic area. Follow all safety instructions.
Do I need a guide?▾
Some volcanic areas can be visited independently, but a guide adds safety and geological insight.
📍 GPS Location
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🌌 See the Northern Lights
Track real-time aurora activity and plan your Northern Lights trip with AuroraVision.