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Beauty of Kerid Crater Lake in Iceland

  • Writer: RetiredCormac
    RetiredCormac
  • 6 days ago
  • 2 min read

Its pretty cool for a quick visit. Take a walk around the top and then walk down into the crater.


TL;DR

It's certainly worth stopping off and having a quick look around. The parking fee is minimal.


The Geological Marvel of Kerid

The stats are 55 meters deep, 170 meters wide, and 270 meters long, making it a formidable geological landmark. The vibrant colors of the water are due to its mineral content, reflecting the landscape in an extraordinary way.


The crater formed during a volcanic eruption in the last Ice Age. As the magma chamber beneath emptied, the ground collapsed, resulting in the current crater. This geological history adds an educational aspect to your visit, making Kerid a site of both beauty and significant scientific interest.


Getting to Kerid

Reaching Kerid Crater Lake is straightforward, nestled along the famous Golden Circle route - a popular tourist path in Iceland. Located about 15 kilometers from Selfoss and roughly 70 kilometers from Reykjavik, the crater is accessible by car. Ample parking near the entrance ensures a relaxed arrival.


Several tour companies offer day trips that include Kerid as part of a larger itinerary. This option is excellent for travelers wanting to explore multiple attractions conveniently. For instance, a full-day tour might also take you to Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir geothermal area.


Ideal Visiting Times

Any time - we've been both winter and summer and for differing reasons - both seasons are fantastic for a visit. It is nice to avoid crowds though so early or late in the day would be my suggestion, after the day trippers have returned to Reykjavik.


Enjoyable Activities at Kerid

The crater lake is the main draw, though there are some hiking trails near by. We tend to stick to walking around the top, and then maybe down into the crater before returning to the car.


As you plan your trip, be sure to add a stop off at Kerid to your itinerary. This remarkable crater lake is not only a magnificent sight but also a reminder of the power of nature and the beauty awaiting you in the world.


Happy travels!


Kerid

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