Kerid Crater

Kerið, as the crater is called by the Icelanders, is a 55 meter deep funnel-shaped crater. The lake is stunningly situated in the bowl and can easily be reached on foot. The wooden footpath leads into the water. But, before you might have any hopes, it is not allowed to swim in Kerid Volcanic Lake.

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Scientists believe the crater was created by a volcanic eruption some 3,000 years ago. A small magma chamber collapsed, creating the crater. Kerid Crater is part of the much larger Tjarnarhólar crater complex. According to local legends, the water level of the lake in Kerið rises when the water falls into a small lake atop Mount Búrfell. And vice-versa. The small lake on the Búrfell is located 5 km north of Kerid. Nearby you can find two other craters, the Seyðishólar and Kerhóll. But Kerid is the only one that is easy to visit.

The volcano crater is located along road 35 on the route to the town of Selfoss. From the parking lot you can walk to the various viewpoints in a few minutes. Most people walk counterclockwise so the path to the lake is at the end of the walk.

A visit can be easily combined with attractions such as Geysir and Strokkur, but also waterfalls such as the lesser-known Faxifoss and the Gullfoss waterfall. You have to pay an entrance fee, although it is actually a ticket to park your rental car. It is well worth it.