journey to vredefort crater lioden

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Vredefort Crater

June 27, 2018 JPEG

About two billion years ago, an asteroid measuring at least 10 kilometers across hurtled toward Earth. The impact occurred southwest of what is now Johannesburg, South Africa, and temporarily made a 40-kilometer-deep and 100-kilometer-wide dent in the surface. Almost immediately after impact, the crater widened and shallowed as the rock below started to rebound and the walls collapsed. The world’s oldest and largest known impact structure was formed.

Scientists estimate that when the rebound and collapse ceased, Vredefort Crater measured somewhere between 180 and 300 kilometers wide. But more than 2 billion years of erosion has made the exact size hard to pin down.

“If you consider that the original impact crater was a shallow bowl like you would serve food in, and you were able to slice horizontally through the bowl progressively, you would see that the bowl’s diameter will decrease with each slice you take off,” said Roger Gibson of University of the Witwatersrand and an expert on impact processes. “For this reason, we are unable to categorically fix where the edge now lies.”

According to Gibson, the uplift at the center of the impact was so strong that a 25-kilometer section of Earth’s crust was turned on end. The various layers of upturned rock eroded at different rates and produced the concentric pattern still visible today. Vredefort Dome, which measures about 90 kilometers across, was observed on June 27, 2018, by the Operational Land Imager (OLI) on Landsat 8 .

Notice that only part of the ring is visible. That’s because areas to the south have been paved over by rock formations that are less than 300 million years old. The young rock formations have begotten fertile soils that are intensely cultivated.

The darker ring in the center of this image, known as the Vredefort Mountainland, has shallow soils with steep terrain not suitable for farming, so the area remains naturally forested. Along the ridges in the Mountainland you can see white lines: these are the hardest layers of rock, such as quartzite, which resist erosion. The outer part of Mountainland has exposed rocks that are roughly 2.8 billion years old; this is the Central Rand Group, source of more than one-third of all gold mined on Earth.

Visitors to the impact site today can witness geologic time by traversing just 50 kilometers from Potchefstroom toward Vredefort. The journey would take you from shallow crustal sedimentary rocks deposited between 2.5 and 2.1 billion years ago, ending with 3.1- to 3.5-billion-year-old granites and remnants of ocean crust that were once about 25 kilometers below Earth’s surface.

“Such exposed crustal sections are incredibly rare on Earth,” Gibson said. “The added bonus here is that the rocks preserve an almost continuous record spanning almost one-third of Earth’s history.”

NASA Earth Observatory image by Lauren Dauphin, using Landsat data from the U.S. Geological Survey . Story by Kathryn Hansen.

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The world’s oldest and largest known impact structure shows some of the most extreme deformation conditions known on Earth.

Image of the Day for September 1, 2018

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References & Resources

• Gibson, R.L and Reimold, W.U. (2010) Geology of the Vredefort impact structure: A guide to sites of interest. The Meteoritical Society, 2009.
• Turtle, E.P. and Pierazzo, E. (1998) Constraints on the size of the Vredefort impact crater from numerical modeling. Meteoritics & Planetary Science, 33 (2), 483–490.
• United Nations World Heritage Convention (2018) Vredefort Dome. Accessed August 31, 2018.

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Quest 14  

To complete this quest, you need to defeat a total of 10 Celestial Crustacean NPCs in Explore.

Each Celestial Crustacean defeated counts +1 towards the progress bar. Not counting other factors, this will take a little over three full energy bars (~300% energy) to complete this, assuming you use a Lucky Foot on each NPC and you do not spend your energy on anything else.

You can view your progress as you explore on the Journey to Vredefort Crater page. With each successful battle against a Celestial Crustacean, your NPC count will go up.

Once you have defeated 10 total Celestial Crustacean NPCs, return to the Demiurge.

Quest 15  

To complete this quest, you must access the Flood Pit through Crossroads. This can only be done during Wet Season on Lioden. During August (a month-long Dry Season), the Flood Pit is manually opened from 12am LDT to 11:59pm LDT on August 14th and August 28th.

Once you visit the Flood Pit during Wet Season, you will see the following prompt at the top of the Flood Pit.

Once the otters have been spoken to, return to the Demiurge.

This ends Day 10. You must wait one rollover to proceed to Day 11. Click here to view the directory for the Journey to Vredefort Crater.

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Reykjavik: Golden Circle, Kerid Crater and Sky Lagoon Tour

Exploring the wonders of Iceland’s natural landscape is a captivating experience, and the Reykjavik: Golden Circle , Kerid Crater , and Sky Lagoon Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to witness some of the country’s most iconic sights. From the dramatic geological formations of Thingvellir National Park to the mesmerizing Gullfoss Waterfall , this comprehensive tour takes visitors on a journey through Iceland’s diverse and breathtaking terrain. Whether you’re seeking to learn about the country’s rich history, marvel at its geothermal wonders , or simply bask in the serene beauty of the Sky Lagoon, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on it.

• This 11-hour excursion from Reykjavik showcases Iceland’s iconic natural wonders, including the Golden Circle, Kerid Crater, and Sky Lagoon.
• Highlights include walking between tectonic plates at Thingvellir National Park, witnessing the Strokkur geyser, and experiencing the Gullfoss Waterfall.
• The tour also offers the opportunity to explore the Kerid Crater, a vibrant 3,000-year-old volcanic crater with a blue-green lake at its center.
• Visitors can unwind at the Sky Lagoon, a geothermal spa with a 250-foot-long heated infinity pool and breathtaking ocean views.
• The tour operates in all weather conditions and includes optional bathing suit rentals, making it suitable for travelers of all ages and abilities.

More tours and experiences nearby.

• Reykjavik Food Walk – Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland
• Silfra: Snorkeling Between Tectonic Plates – Meet on Location
• Reykjavik Small Group Walking Tour – by Citywalk
• Golden Circle Classic Day Tour From Reykjavik

Tour Overview

The Reykjavik: Golden Circle , Kerid Crater and Sky Lagoon Tour is an 11-hour excursion that takes visitors to some of Iceland’s most renowned natural wonders, including Thingvellir National Park, the Haukadalur Geothermal Area, Gullfoss Waterfall , Kerid Crater, and the Sky Lagoon.

Priced from Kr4,956 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and includes pickup from the nearest bus stop in Reykjavik’s center.

Guests can expect to see the tectonic plates, experience a geothermal geyser , admire a stunning waterfall, and soak in an infinity pool with ocean views.

The tour operates in all weather conditions and has received overwhelmingly positive reviews for its memorable experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

As part of this immersive tour, visitors can walk between the American and Eurasian tectonic plates at Thingvellir National Park , the historic site of Iceland’s Viking parliament.

Next, they’ll witness the Strokkur geyser erupt every few minutes within the Haukadalur Geothermal Area.

Afterwards, they’ll be awestruck by the powerful two-tier Gullfoss Waterfall , which is fed by meltwater from Iceland’s second-largest glacier and can reveal stunning rainbows on sunny days.

The tour also includes a visit to the 3,000-year-old Kerid Crater , with its colorful rock formations and blue lake.

Thingvellir National Park

Thingvellir National Park’s breathtaking landscapes showcase Iceland’s tectonic rifting , where visitors can stroll between the slowly drifting North American and Eurasian plates.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the location of Iceland’s ancient parliament , the Alþingi, which was founded in 930 AD and is considered the world’s oldest continuous parliament.

Visitors can explore the dramatic fissures, gorges, and lava fields that were formed by the ongoing drift between the plates.

The serene Þingvallavatn lake and the famous Öxarárfoss waterfall are also highlights.

With its unique geological features, historical significance, and stunning natural beauty , Thingvellir National Park offers a truly immersive experience into Iceland’s captivating heritage and landscapes.

Haukadalur Geothermal Area

Nestled in the heart of Iceland’s Golden Circle, Haukadalur geothermal area mesmerizes visitors with its dynamic display of natural wonders, headlined by the iconic Geysir hot spring.

This geothermal wonderland is home to a variety of boiling mud pits, steam vents, and the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every few minutes, shooting a towering plume of steaming water into the air.

Visitors can marvel at the vibrant colors of the surrounding landscape, formed by the area’s unique geological features and high mineral content.

With its captivating geysers, fumaroles, and bubbling mud pools, Haukadalur offers a truly unforgettable glimpse into Iceland’s volcanic heart.

Witness the iconic Geysir hot spring and the erupting Strokkur geyser.

Explore the area’s boiling mud pits and steam vents.

Admire the vibrant colors of the mineral-rich landscape.

Gullfoss Waterfall

Towering over the landscape, the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall cascades in a two-tier display, its powerful flow fed by meltwater from Iceland’s second-largest glacier. The waterfall’s sheer force is mesmerizing, creating a thunderous roar that echoes through the valley. On sunny days, visitors can spot stunning rainbows arching over the churning waters. The area around Gullfoss offers ample opportunities for exploration, with hiking trails leading to prime viewpoints.

Gullfoss is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the Golden Circle tour, captivating visitors with its raw power and natural beauty.

Kerid Crater

After taking in the breathtaking power of Gullfoss, the tour moves on to explore the unique geological wonder of Kerid Crater. This 3,000-year-old volcanic crater features vibrant red and golden slopes that encircle a striking blue-green lake in its center.

Visitors can:

Hike down into the crater basin and marvel at the striking contrast of colors and textures.

Snap photos from the rim to capture the crater’s picturesque symmetry against the Icelandic landscape.

Imagine the fiery past of this dormant volcanic feature and how it came to be part of Iceland’s captivating geological history.

The Kerid Crater is a highlight of the Golden Circle tour, offering a chance to witness Iceland’s dynamic and diverse natural wonders.

The tour culminates at the Sky Lagoon, where visitors can indulge in a soothing soak in the 250-foot-long heated infinity pool, which offers stunning ocean views. This geothermal spa experience is available through two different packages: the Pure Pass and the Sky Pass.

The Sky Lagoon provides a tranquil and rejuvenating end to a day spent exploring Iceland’s natural wonders along the Golden Circle route. Guests can unwind and take in the breathtaking scenery before heading back to Reykjavik.

Inclusions and Recommendations

The tour includes scheduled stops for guests to purchase food or snacks along the way. Bathing suit rentals are also available for those who may have forgotten to pack their own.

Travelers are recommended to wear warm, wind, and waterproof clothing, as well as bring along good hiking boots and their personal swimsuit for the Sky Lagoon experience.

The tour organizers recommend the following items:

Warm, wind, and waterproof clothing to stay comfortable in the Icelandic weather.

Sturdy hiking boots for the walking portions of the tour.

A personal swimsuit for the Sky Lagoon soak, though rentals are available if needed.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

• Iceland South Coast Full Day Small-Group Tour From Reykjavik
• Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon With Ticket and Kerid Volcanic Crater
• Snorkeling Between Continents in Silfra With Photos Included
• Silfra: Diving Between Tectonic Plates – Meet on Location
• South Iceland Glaciers, Waterfalls and Black Sand Beach Day Tour From Reykjavik
• Golden Circle With Kerid Volcanic Crater Day Trip From Reykjavik

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?

There is generally no minimum group size requirement for tours. Tour operators typically accommodate solo travelers as well as small and large groups. The number of participants is usually flexible and depends on the tour’s capacity.

Can I Purchase This Tour as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, solo travelers can purchase this tour. The tour operator welcomes individual bookings and does not have a minimum group size requirement. Solo travelers can enjoy the same experiences as larger groups on this tour.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides customers with flexibility and peace of mind when booking the tour.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Towel to the Sky Lagoon?

No, towels are provided at the Sky Lagoon. Guests don’t need to bring their own towels. The tour includes access to the lagoon, so all necessary equipment like towels is available for use during the visit.

Is There an Option to Extend the Time at the Sky Lagoon?

Yes, there is typically an option to extend the time at the Sky Lagoon. Guests can purchase an extended pass or upgrade their existing pass to enjoy more time relaxing in the geothermal waters and facilities.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• From Reykjavik: 6-Day Small Group Tour of Iceland
• Private Golden Circle Tour
• Skip the Line: The National Museum of Iceland Ticket
• From Reykjavik: Golden Circle and Glacier Snowmobiling
• Reykjavík: Geldingadalir Volcano Hike and Blue Lagoon Visit
• Golden Circle Geothermal Wonderland With Hvammsvik Spa
• From Reykjavik: Private Golden Circle Day Tour by Jeep
• Reykjavik: Northern Lights Experience by Superjeep
• Golden Circle
• Puffin Travel Choice – We Decide Where to Go. Do It Like Locals
• Reykjavik: Aurora Reykjavik The Northern Lights Center Entry
• Reykjavik Food and Drink Adventure – Local Evening Experience
• Silver Circle Tour: Lava Cave and Waterfalls Small-Group Day Tour
• Snæfellsnes: Small-Group Hidden Treasures of The West Tour
• Northern Lights Minibus Tour With Hot Cocoa, Blankets & Photos

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Iceland’s iconic natural wonders, from the geological marvels of the Golden Circle to the serene relaxation of the Sky Lagoon .

With convenient transportation, flexible scheduling, and a chance to take in the country’s breathtaking landscapes , it’s an unforgettable way to experience the best of what Iceland has to offer.

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