Age
~3,000 years
Formed when a volcanic cone collapsed after emptying its magma reservoir
Kerið Crater – Volcanic Crater Lake on Iceland's Golden Circle
A jewel-toned volcanic crater lake on Iceland's famous Golden Circle, where vivid red rock meets shimmering aquamarine water
Updated February 1, 2026By the Iceland.org Travel Team
Location
South Iceland
Golden Circle route, near Selfoss
Kerið is one of Iceland's most recognizable volcanic craters, a 3,000-year-old caldera filled with a striking aquamarine lake. Located in the Grímsnes volcanic area along the popular Golden Circle route, the crater's steep walls reveal layers of vivid red, orange, and black volcanic rock that contrast dramatically with the mineral-rich blue-green water below. Unlike most volcanic craters that form from explosive eruptions, Kerið is believed to have formed when a cone volcano emptied its magma reservoir and the cone collapsed inward, creating this remarkably colorful bowl-shaped depression.
Safety + sourcing
Last updated: 2026-02-01
Stay on marked paths and the boardwalk. The crater walls are steep and the rock can be loose in places.
Sources to check
Depth
55 m
The crater reaches 55 meters deep, with the lake itself about 7-14 meters deep
Diameter
270 m
The crater spans 270 meters across and 170 meters wide at its widest point
What to Expect
Vivid Red Volcanic Rock
The crater walls display layers of striking red, orange, and black volcanic rock formed from different eruption phases over thousands of years.
Aquamarine Lake
The crater lake's vibrant blue-green color comes from dissolved minerals and algae, creating a mesmerizing contrast with the red rock walls.
Rim Boardwalk
A well-maintained boardwalk and gravel path circles the crater rim, offering panoramic views from every angle.
Lakeside Access
A wooden staircase descends the western wall to the water's edge, providing an up-close view of the lake and its dramatic surroundings.
Golden Circle Stop
Kerið makes an easy addition to a Golden Circle day trip and sits just off Route 35 between Selfoss and Geysir.
Year-Round Access
The crater is accessible throughout the year, though in winter the lake may freeze over and the paths can be slippery.
Getting There
Kerið is located approximately 75 km east of Reykjavík along Route 35 in the Grímsnes area. From Reykjavík, drive east on Route 1 toward Selfoss, then take Route 35 north toward Laugarvatn. The crater is clearly signposted on the western side of Route 35. There is a parking area directly beside the crater with space for cars and tour buses. The drive from Reykjavík takes around one hour. Most Golden Circle tour operators include Kerið as an optional stop.
Best Time to Visit
Kerið is accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is from May through September when the colors are at their most vivid and the paths are dry and easy to navigate. In summer, the long daylight hours provide excellent lighting for photographs. During winter, the lake may freeze over completely, and the surrounding area can be dusted in snow, creating a beautiful but different landscape. Early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended during peak summer months to avoid the busiest Golden Circle tour bus arrivals.
Planning help
Kerið Crater FAQs
Quick answers with safety notes where it matters.