If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, chances are the Golden Circle is on your must-see list. Among its many natural wonders, Kerið Crater offers a uniquely colorful and accessible stop that’s well worth a visit. This ticket review covers what you can expect, the value it provides, and how it fits into your Iceland adventure.
What we love about this experience is how easy it is to access, the chance to capture jaw-dropping photos, and the opportunity to walk along the crater rim for panoramic views. But, like any attraction, it’s not without its considerations—mainly, it’s a quick stop rather than a lengthy tour. This experience is ideal for travelers who want an affordable, scenic break during their Golden Circle journey or those who enjoy exploring natural geological formations up close.
One potential consideration is that this ticket offers self-guided exploration, meaning you won’t have a guide providing detailed commentary. If you prefer a guided experience with historical insights, you might want to combine this visit with a guided tour. Overall, Kerið suits travelers looking for an easy, budget-friendly option to enjoy Iceland’s volcanic landscape without committing to a longer or more expensive tour.
You can check if your dates are available here:Good To Know
- Affordable price point at just $4.73 per person.
- Self-guided exploration allows for flexible timing and pacing.
- Stunning photo opportunities of the vibrant turquoise crater lake.
- Accessible location along the Golden Circle route with free parking.
- Unique volcanic features created by a cone volcano that collapsed into an empty magma chamber.
- Breathtaking views from the crater rim trail, perfect for panoramic shots.
The Kerið Crater Experience: What You Can Expect
Kerið, formed roughly 6,500 years ago, is an impressive volcanic crater located at the northern end of a series of craters called Tjarnarhólar. Its geological story is fascinating: instead of being a typical explosive volcano, Kerið is a cone volcano that erupted and emptied its magma supply. The resulting weight caused the cone to collapse inward, forming the caldera we see today.
The crater itself measures approximately 55 meters deep, 170 meters wide, and 270 meters across, with its walls made up of distinctive red volcanic rock. This coloration, combined with the vivid aquamarine lake at the bottom, makes for truly striking photographs. The lake’s hue comes from minerals leached into the water from the surrounding soil, not rainfall, which adds a layer of geological intrigue.
Self-Guided, Flexible Exploration
Your ticket grants you entry into Kerið for the day, allowing you to explore at your own pace. You’ll have the opportunity to walk along the crater rim trail, which offers breathtaking panoramic views over the volcanic landscape. Many visitors enjoy hiking down one of the crater’s slopes, which is blanketed in lush green moss—a great spot for photos or just soaking in the scenery.
The experience is designed for independent exploration, so you won’t be accompanied by a guide. However, this means you can spend as little or as much time as you like, making it perfect for fitting into a tight schedule or combining with other Golden Circle stops.
Accessibility and Convenience
Located within easy reach of Reykjavik and other major attractions, Kerið benefits from free parking, making it a hassle-free stop. The site is open during daylight hours, so you’ll want to plan your visit accordingly. Its proximity to other popular Golden Circle sights makes it an excellent quick detour that adds a splash of color and geology to your day.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyThe Value of the Admission Ticket
At just $4.73 per person, this is a remarkably affordable way to experience a geological marvel. For comparison, guided tours that include Kerið often cost much more, but this ticket allows you to enjoy the crater without the added expense—perfect for budget-conscious travelers or those who prefer spontaneity.
The ticket includes admission to Kerið, self-guided exploration, and photo opportunities. It’s a straightforward purchase, with the flexibility of reserving now and paying later, and the peace of mind of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Authentic Travel Insights
One reviewer described their experience as “It worked great. No change necessary,” highlighting the simplicity and reliability of this ticket. Others appreciated the stunning views and the ease of access, remarking that the visit was “perfect for photo ops and simply admiring the beauty of Iceland’s volcanic history.”
Travelers have also mentioned that the guides or staff are not involved during your visit, so knowledge about the site depends on what you bring with you or what you learn elsewhere. Still, the natural beauty alone makes it worthwhile.
How This Stop Fits Into Your Iceland Itinerary
Kerið is best suited for travelers who want a quick, scenic, and budget-friendly experience. It’s an ideal add-on if you’re doing the classic Golden Circle route, which typically includes Þingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss. The crater’s location makes it a convenient stop without adding significant travel time.
You’ll want to check the availability and starting times, as this ticket is valid for one day only. Given its close proximity to other Golden Circle highlights, it can be combined seamlessly into a half-day or full-day itinerary.
Who Should Consider This Experience?
- Budget travelers seeking an affordable, scenic stop.
- Photographers eager to capture Iceland’s vibrant volcanic landscape.
- Self-guided explorers who prefer flexibility and independence.
- Visitors with limited time on their Iceland itinerary.
- Nature lovers interested in volcanic geology and landscape features.
The Sum Up
Kerið’s volcanic crater is one of Iceland’s most colorful and accessible geological sites. With its striking red rock walls and vivid lake, it offers a visually captivating experience that’s easy to fit into any day of exploring the Golden Circle. The self-guided nature of the admission ticket makes it a flexible, budget-friendly choice, especially if you’re comfortable exploring independently.
If you love striking landscapes, geological marvels, and taking photos without breaking the bank, this ticket provides excellent value. It’s particularly well-suited for those who prefer spontaneous stops, travelers on a budget, or anyone looking to add a splash of natural color to their Iceland adventure.
For a straightforward, scenic, and affordable Icelandic highlight, Kerið is hard to beat. It’s a quick detour that delivers a memorable glimpse into the volcanic forces that shaped this remarkable island.
FAQ
Is the Kerið Crater open year-round?
Yes, it is open during daylight hours throughout the year, weather permitting.
How much does the admission ticket cost?
The ticket is priced at just $4.73 per person, making it an inexpensive way to see the crater.
Can I explore the crater at my own pace?
Absolutely. The ticket includes self-guided exploration, so you can spend as much or as little time as you like.
Is there parking available?
Yes, free parking is provided, making it easy to access the site.
What should I bring for my visit?
Bring your camera for photos, comfortable shoes for walking, and perhaps a jacket depending on the weather.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, the site is accessible and safe for children, especially since it is a short walk around the rim and down the slopes.
Are guided tours available at this site?
This ticket is for self-guided exploration only. For guided experiences, check other tour options.
Can I visit Kerið if I am on a tight schedule?
Yes, it’s a quick stop that can be squeezed into a half-day Golden Circle tour or a longer sightseeing day.
This detailed review aims to give you all the information needed to decide whether Kerið is right for your Iceland trip. Its unique volcanic features and affordability make it a compelling stop for a wide range of travelers.
You can check if your dates are available here: