Kerið is a striking volcanic crater lake filled with milky blue-green water against a backdrop of stark black and deep red slopes. Kerið is a popular Golden Circle route stop for both tourists and locals.
Experts once believed Kerið was an explosion crater formed 3.000 years ago. Geologists now believe it is a magma chamber that collapsed at the end of a volcanic eruption 6.000 years ago. The crater is the northernmost part of a crater row called “Tjarnarhólar.” Furthermore, the colourful crater lake is part of Iceland’s Western Volcanic Zone, which includes the Reykjanes peninsula and Langjokull glacier.
How deep is the Kerið crater?
Kerid is 55 metres (180 ft.) deep, including the still water on the bottom. Beneath a certain level, cavities and fissures in the rock contain groundwater. The surface of this level is the water table. The current pool of water at the bottom of the crater is at the same level as the water table and is not caused by rainfall.
You can walk around the rim of the crater on a special path. During the walk, you can view how the red and black slopes contrast with the striking aquamarine water, The combination of colours and surfaces creates a truly otherworldly landscape.
Where to find Kerið crater?
The crater sits 15 km north of Selfoss in South Iceland. It is actually right off Road 35. A car park (parking lot) sits directly next to the crater.
When did the Kerið crater erupt?
The eruption that created the Kerið Crater took place over 6.000 years ago.
How deep is the lake in the Kerið crater?
Scientists first measured the water depth in the 1950s. At its deepest the lake is between between 8 and 9 meters (26 and 30 feet).
Does it cost to see the Kerið crater?
Yes, there is a small admission fee. Proceeds from the fee help to maintain the path and provide visitor information, as well as to protect the natural area around the crater.
