The 12 Most Beautiful Crater Lakes in the World

There is something so ethereal and otherworldly about a crater lake. Perhaps it is the fact that they are often located in some of the most beautiful and remote locations on Earth and are extremely protected. Or maybe it is the way that they seem to glow with an inner light. Whatever it is, crater lakes have a special allure that draws visitors from all over the world.

But first… how do crater lakes form? There’s something eerily fascinating about a crater lake. Perhaps it’s the fact that they are formed by such dramatic events, or maybe it’s the way they seem to sit in stark contrast to the surrounding landscape. Whatever the reason, crater lakes continue to captivate the imagination.

The most common type of crater lake is formed when a volcano erupts, blasting material high into the air. This material eventually falls back to earth, creating a circular depression. Over time, rain and snowmelt fill this depression with water, forming a lake. Crater lakes can also be formed by meteorites striking the earth’s surface. In either case, they provide a stunning reminder of the power of nature.

Here, we will explore twelve of the most stunning crater lakes on the planet. Each one is breathtaking in its own unique way.

Crater Lake Oregon

This stunning blue lake is located in the caldera of a collapsed volcano. It is the deepest lake in the United States and one of the most beautiful crater lakes in the world. The water is so clear that you can see down to a depth of 143 meters!

Okama Crater Lake

This crater lake is located on Mount Zao in Japan. It is also known as the “Five-Color Pond” because its waters change color depending on the angle of the sun. In autumn, it is an especially breathtaking sight!

Quilotoa Lake

Quilotoa Lake in Ecuador is another volcanic crater lake with amazing turquoise waters. It is located in the Ecuadorian Andes and is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can hike down into the crater or take a boat ride on the lake.

Mount Katmai Crater Lake, Alaska

This lake is located in the caldera of an active volcano. It is incredibly beautiful, with bright blue waters and stunning views. However, it is also one of the most dangerous lakes in the world because of the risk of volcanic eruptions.

Crater Lakes in the Albertine Rift

The Albertine Rift is a region of Africa that contains several crater lakes. These include Lake Kivu, Lake Tanganyika, and Lake Edward. Each one is unique and worth visiting!

Kelimutu Crater Lake – Flores Island, Indonesia

This lake is located on the island of Flores in Indonesia. It is famous for its three crater lakes, each with its own unique color. The colors change from time to time, making it a truly magical place!

Kaali Crater in Estonia

Kaali Crater is believed to be the result of a meteor impact. It is now a popular tourist destination, with a beautiful lake at its center. Visitors can take boat rides or go swimming in the lake.

Viti Geothermal Lake, Iceland

This stunning blue lake is located in the caldera of an inactive volcano. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Iceland and has been featured in many movies and TV shows.

Lake Taupo, New Zealand

Lake Taupo is the largest lake in New Zealand and one of the most beautiful crater lakes in the world. It is surrounded by mountains and has a stunning blue color. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, fishing, and other activities on the lake.

Lonar Crater Lake, India

This crater lake is located in India and is believed to be the result of a meteor impact. It is a popular tourist destination and has been featured in many movies and TV shows.

Crater Lake, Mount Pinabuto

This lake is located in the caldera of an inactive volcano. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines and has been featured in many movies and TV shows.

Vulcan Point within Crater Lake, Taal Volcano

This lake is located inside the crater of an active volcano. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines and has been featured in many movies and TV shows. It is also one of the most dangerous lakes in the world because of the risk of volcanic eruptions.

These are just a few of the most beautiful crater lakes in the world. Each one is unique and worth visiting! So, which one will you add to your travel bucket list?