Kerid Crater — Attraction in Iceland

Not many people in the world can say they have actually walked down inside the crater of a volcano! Albeit, a long extinct volcano, but it is still a pretty cool place to come and visit! Walking around this impressive geological wonder is otherworldly, like stepping back in geological time – even if the weather is proper grey and wet (naff).

Kerid Crater is well sign posted, even though it is right on the edge of the 35 (Biskupstungnabraut) – also part of the Golden Circle tour packages. The car park has free parking, but like most attractions around the southwest of Iceland (close to Reykjavik), it gets very busy and the car park can fill up quick. This said, because it doesn’t take long to explore the site (roughly 30 minutes in all), vehicles do move out again fairly quickly. There are no facilities here, or toilets. There is an information board about when and how the volcano was formed which is an interesting quick read, and a small kiosk at the entrance where there are information leaflets. The admission fee is 600Kr each (£3.32 each).

Getting around and down into the crater is not exhaustive in any way, but it is loose gravel and stone under foot and the path is moderately steep around the rim of the crater in parts. There are some great viewing platforms around the rim, ideal for those landscape photograph shots. There are wooden steps and walkways down to the bottom of the crater, making it easy to access. The path around the crater’s stunning blue lake is narrow and is again loose gravel and stone under foot, with large protruding stones to navigate around and/or over. Oh, and swimming is strictly forbidden (so we’ve read). Overall though, a great, peaceful natural attraction to explore if you are even moderately fit and able. However, wheelchair access is limited to most parts.

An Icelandic highlight. We would highly recommend stopping by this extinct little chap, even if you just want to get out of the car to stretch your legs, for far reaching breathtaking views that will stay with you for a lifetime, just hope the weather is a bit better and clearer!!

Many thanks for the experience Kerid –...

Kerið is a breathtaking natural gem and a must-see stop along Iceland’s Golden Circle. This volcanic crater lake, with its vivid blue water surrounded by striking red and black volcanic rock, is unlike anything we’ve seen elsewhere. The contrast of colors — especially if you’re visiting on a sunny day — makes for absolutely stunning photos and an unforgettable visual experience.

The walk around the rim is easy and gives panoramic views of the entire crater, while the path down to the water offers a closer look at the serene lake below. It’s peaceful, almost surreal, standing at the base of what was once a volcanic eruption site. The crater is about 3,000 years old, and though it’s relatively small compared to Iceland’s other natural wonders, it leaves a big impression.

There’s a small entrance fee (approx. 600 ISK per adult), which goes toward site maintenance — well worth it for the experience. Parking is right next to the crater, making it an accessible and quick stop even for those on a tight schedule.

Whether you’re hiking the rim or just soaking in the views, Kerið is a beautiful and unique addition to any...

Kerið is a visually striking volcanic crater lake located in Iceland’s Grímsnes region along the popular Golden Circle route. Unlike most craters formed by explosions, Kerið is a caldera created when a volcanic cone collapsed into an empty magma chamber. The result is a 55-meter-deep bowl with vivid red volcanic rock walls and a vibrant blue-green lake at the bottom.

The color contrast is what makes Kerið truly special. The red soil, lush moss, and the clear, mineral-rich water create an almost surreal palette—especially on sunny days. The crater is about 3,000 years old, much younger than many of Iceland’s other geological features, which adds to its uniqueness.

Visitors can easily walk around the rim for panoramic views or descend a well-maintained path to the water’s edge. The entire visit can take 30–60 minutes, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the Golden Circle. There is a small entrance fee, which helps preserve the site.

Kerið may not be as vast as other natural landmarks in Iceland, but its accessibility, vivid colors, and geological interest make it a worthwhile and...