Published on
January 11, 2026
The global success of Stranger Things, especially the exciting finale of Season 5, has had surprising but clear effects on Iceland’s tourism industry. When the show’s final episodes were available worldwide on New Year’s Eve, the beautiful Icelandic landscapes featured in the series won over millions of viewers. This sudden interest in Icelandic scenery is quickly changing the country’s tourism situation. Notably, places like the famous Háifoss waterfall are leading this tourism boom.
Iceland’s Hidden Gem: Háifoss Waterfall Takes the Spotlight
Among the most talked-about locations after the finale is Háifoss, a majestic waterfall situated in southern Iceland. Known for its stunning beauty and located near the Hekla volcano, Háifoss features two impressive cascades that dramatically drop from a height of 122 metres, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Following its prominent appearance in the show, interest in this site has surged by approximately 5000%, with travellers now eager to experience its dramatic landscapes first-hand.
Háifoss, along with its twin waterfall, Granni, has become a must-visit spot for Stranger Things fans eager to step into the world of the Upside Down. The remote location of the waterfall, off the beaten path of Iceland’s famed Golden Circle route, adds to its appeal. This under-the-radar status only amplifies the allure of the location, making it a prime destination for adventurers seeking a more authentic and less crowded Icelandic experience.
The Rise of Screen Tourism: A New Era for Iceland
Screen tourism, also known as location-based tourism, has long been an influential factor in travel decisions, but Stranger Things has taken it to new heights. As the series finale ended with captivating shots of Icelandic nature, it ignited a wave of interest from global audiences eager to visit the real-life sites that inspired the show’s setting. The power of media and its ability to shape travel decisions has been well documented in recent years, and Iceland has now become one of the leading beneficiaries of this growing trend.
The immediate effects are already visible. According to travel booking platforms, there has been a marked increase in searches for “Iceland holidays,” “Iceland waterfalls,” and more specific terms like “Háifoss tour.” In particular, travel companies offering packages to these cinematic locations have seen bookings rise as fans look to immerse themselves in the iconic settings of their favourite show. The role of social media cannot be ignored either, as Instagram and TikTok influencers have contributed to the rapid amplification of Iceland’s appeal by sharing personal experiences and stunning imagery of these destinations.
Iceland’s Unique Appeal to Global Tourists
Iceland’s dramatic landscapes have always attracted those seeking adventure and serenity alike. From its otherworldly volcanoes and glaciers to the cascading waterfalls and geothermal hot springs, the country offers a wealth of natural wonders that make it a top destination for eco-tourism and nature lovers. Yet, the Stranger Things effect has added a new layer to this attraction by transforming these sites into iconic destinations for fans of the show.
The impact of the show is not limited to Háifoss alone. Other well-known sites in Iceland, such as Seljalandsfoss and Gullfoss, have experienced heightened interest as well. While these destinations were already part of the Icelandic tourist circuit, the visibility provided by the series has elevated them to a whole new level. For instance, the glacier lagoon of Jökulsárlón, which featured prominently in earlier seasons, continues to attract travellers eager to experience the otherworldly beauty of Iceland’s glacial landscapes.
Social Media and Influencer Impact
One cannot underestimate the role of social media in amplifying the tourism boom in Iceland. Platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok have become powerful tools for travellers to share their experiences, providing a visual feast for audiences eager to follow in the footsteps of their favourite TV characters. In the case of Stranger Things, fan-driven content has flooded these platforms, with many visitors now creating content inspired by their visits to the show’s key locations.
Influencers who have previously visited Iceland have also begun revisiting, capitalizing on the heightened interest and sharing new content that encourages their followers to book trips. This trend is expected to continue, especially with Iceland’s growing presence as a cultural hub for screen tourism.
The Future of Iceland’s Tourism Industry
While the immediate effects of Stranger Things are undeniable, the long-term implications for Iceland’s tourism industry are still unfolding. As global interest in the country’s landscapes continues to rise, local authorities and tour operators are focusing on sustainable tourism practices to protect these fragile environments from the impact of mass tourism. Iceland’s government and various tourism boards have implemented eco-conscious initiatives, including limiting the number of visitors to certain sites, providing educational materials for tourists, and encouraging responsible travel.
Iceland’s remote locations, such as Hverfjall volcano and Lake Myvatn, are also seeing a rise in foot traffic, leading to additional infrastructure developments aimed at supporting this influx of tourists. However, with sustainability at the forefront of Iceland’s tourism strategy, the challenge will be to strike a balance between attracting visitors and preserving the natural beauty that makes the country such a coveted destination.
The Role of Technology in Managing the Surge
The technology sector is also playing a crucial role in managing the growing number of tourists flocking to Iceland. Innovative solutions like real-time booking platforms and traffic apps are being used to help travellers navigate the country efficiently. With the surge in interest, there has been a rise in demand for digital tools that allow tourists to book tours, find accommodations, and explore Iceland’s key attractions.
Booking platforms like Bókun, a subsidiary of Tripadvisor, have become indispensable for managing the surge in travel bookings. These platforms provide not only booking services but also insights into which sites are the most popular, helping travellers avoid crowded areas and make the most of their trips.
A New Chapter for Iceland’s Tourism
Iceland’s tourism industry has benefited greatly from the Stranger Things season finale, which has made the nation a must-visit location for both adventure seekers and Stranger Things fans. The show’s capacity to highlight Icelandic landscapes has sparked a surge of interest around the world that is anticipated to continue well into 2026 and beyond. In order to ensure that Iceland’s natural wonders are preserved for future generations, the nation must strike a balance between sustainability and tourism growth as it gets ready for an influx of tourists.
But for the time being, it’s evident that the Stranger Things effect has completely changed the travel industry, making Iceland one of the most popular travel destinations for both nature lovers and fans. Iceland’s breathtaking landscape is ready to welcome the next generation of inquisitive tourists eager to discover the land of fire and ice, whether they are hiking to the base of Háifoss or taking in the Northern Lights in Reykjavik.
