Kerid Crater is a stunning volcanic crater lake in South Iceland and part of the world-famous Golden Circle Route.
The crater is filled with milky blue-green water, surrounded by stark black and deep red slopes. Needless to say, it’s by far one of the most picturesque sites in the country.
I visited the Kerid Volcanic Crater and its lake, and it was one of the highlights of my trip to Iceland.
In this guide, I’ve included everything you need to know about the Kerid Crater hike and the Kerid Crater Lake.
QUICK ANSWERS: KERID CRATER ICELAND
Let’s start this travel guide with some quick answers to the most frequently asked questions about Kerid Crater Lake.
BEST TOUR TO KERID CRATER
In a rush? Let me make it short – the best tour to Kerid is the Golden Circle with Kerid Volcanic Crater from Reykjavik!
Plus, they have hundreds of positive reviews online!
WHAT IS KERID CRATER?
Kerið is a volcanic crater that is known for its blueish-green waters, surrounded by stark black and deep red slopes.
The crater is about 55 meters deep (180 feet), with a diameter of 170 meters. The vibrant color of the water is due to the quantity and quality of minerals in the lake.
WHERE IS THE KERID VOLCANIC CRATER?
Kerið volcanic crater is located in the southern part of Iceland near the town of Selfoss on the Golden Circle route.
It’s only 70 km (43 miles) from Reykjavik, and you’ll be able to reach it in around 1 hour from the capital.
Click here for the exact location on Google Maps.
HOW TO GET TO KERID CRATER?
Kerid is easily accessible by car and can be reached from Reykjavik in just over an hour.
Alternatively, the best way to get to the volcanic crater is by joining a day trip from Reykjavik.
Not only will you get picked up from your hotel but you’ll spend the day with an expert guide that’ll show you all around the Golden Circle – how amazing!
Once you arrive at the crater, you can take a short hike around it to enjoy the spectacular view of its milky blue-green waters.
HOW LONG DOES THE KERID CRATER HIKE TAKE?
The Kerid Crater Hike is a short but beautiful hike and it takes around 20 minutes to complete, considering the walk around the crater’s edge.
If you want to go down to the water, which I recommend, it will take an additional 5 minutes, and you’ll be able to take a few photos from downstairs.
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WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT?
The best time to visit Kerid Volcanic Crater is during the summer months, from June to August.
During this time, the weather is mild and sunny, making it an ideal time to explore the crater and take in its breathtaking views.
The summer months also offer longer days with more daylight hours, allowing you to make the most of your trip.
WHAT ARE THE OPENING TIMES & ENTRANCE FEES?
As a natural wonder, Kerid Crater is always open, so you can visit it at any time of the day.
When it comes to the entrance fee the cost is 450 ISK per person ($3.20 USD).
The entrance fee includes the parking fee and you can pay this at the ticket office located in the parking lot.
It’s worth noting that the ticket counter only opens during working hours, which is from 8.30 AM to 9.00 PM in June through August and daylight hours from September through May.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT KERID VOLCANIC CRATER
When planning a trip to the Golden Circle, here’s what you can expect at the Kerið Crater Iceland.
First of all, the first look of the crater will be from the parking lot, where you’ll take a short hike to the crater’s edges.
As you approach the crater, you’ll be struck by the vibrant red and orange colors of the walls, which beautifully contrast with the deep blue waters of the lake below.
This makes for a perfect photo opportunity, so make sure to bring your camera!
Once you’ve taken in the stunning scenery, make sure to walk around the edges at the top, which is an easy walk that takes about 15 – 20 minutes to complete.
If you come during the winter, you’ll be stunned by the scenery with lots of snow around, which adds a magical atmosphere to the area.
When taking a day trip from Reykjavik, you’ll get to spend 30 minutes at the Kerid Crater, which is enough to fully explore around, and you’ll then head over to the town of Hveragerdi.
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KERID CRATER – FAQ
Now that you have a better idea of what the experience at the volcanic crater is like, let’s discuss some questions from first-time visitors.
IS THE KERID VOLCANIC CRATER WORTH VISITING?
Yes, the Kerið volcanic crater is definitely worth visiting. Its unique combination of vibrant red and orange crater walls, striking aquamarine lake, and picturesque surroundings make it a memorable moment.
Plus, its easy accessibility along the Golden Circle route and I highly recommend you stop for a while before continuing your trip.
HOW FAR IS THE KERID CRATER LAKE FROM REYKJAVIK?
The Kerið Crater Lake is approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) away from Reykjavik.
The drive takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. It makes for an easy day trip while exploring the Golden Circle Route.
ARE THERE TOILETS ON-SITE?
No, there are no toilet facilities on-site, however, you will find restrooms at Gullfoss Falls, which is the stop right before reaching the crater on the Golden Circle Route.
CAN YOU FLY THE DRONE AT THE CRATER?
No, flying drones at the crater is not allowed. This restriction is in place to protect the environment, wildlife, and ensure the safety of all visitors.
WHERE TO STAY ON THE GOLDEN CIRCLE?
There are a few properties to choose from on the Golden Circle Route. See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:
GOLDEN CIRCLE DOMES – GLAMPING EXPERIENCE
HOTEL GRIMSBORGIR
MINNIBORGIR COTTAGES
FOR MORE OPTIONS, SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM
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WHAT TO PACK FOR ICELAND
When visiting Iceland, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:
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Quick-Dry Travel Towel
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Portable PowerBank
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SUMMARY – KERID CRATER HIKE
I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions, please leave me a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
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THANKS FOR READING
Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!
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