Stranger Things Finale Sparks Tourism Boom at Iceland Falls

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The popularity of the TV series Stranger Things has not only influenced global pop culture, but also sparked a strong new tourism phenomenon, particularly to dramatic natural locations that appeared in the final scenes of the last season. According to the Daily Mail, these scenes have driven a surge in travel interest to Haifoss waterfall and its surroundings in Iceland due to its stunning visual portrayal.

Since the release of the fifth and final season of Stranger Things on New Year's Eve 2026, online searches related to tourist destinations seen as specific scene settings have increased dramatically. Data shows a surge in searches of over 5,000 percent for terms such as 'Haifoss waterfall' and 'Haifoss twin waterfalls', two waterfalls believed to be the real-life locations that inspired the visuals in this series.

Haifoss waterfall, located in the Icelandic highlands near the Hekla volcano, is known for its two main water streams falling from a steep height of about 122 meters, forming a dramatic and cinematic natural backdrop. This location has become a favorite among fans after its attention-grabbing appearance in the story's end, presenting a vast natural landscape beyond the fictional world of Hawkins.

Impact on Travel Trends

This phenomenon reflects what is known in the tourism industry as 'set jetting', a travel trend triggered by fans' interest in visiting real-life locations that appear in popular films or TV series. The visual promotion from major productions such as Stranger Things often has a significant impact on consumer travel decisions.

In addition to the increased attention to the waterfall, searches for general information on the best time to visit Iceland have also significantly increased, demonstrating a broader impact on global tourist destination preferences after the series' release.

The use of real-life locations in major visual productions not only inspires fans but also helps to broaden global awareness of destinations that were previously less known outside adventurous travelers. The surge in interest in locations like Haifoss also illustrates how entertainment content can influence travel behavior, expanding the geographic and natural appeal of a country to a larger global audience than just fans of the series.

About Haifoss Waterfall

According to Visit South Iceland, Haifoss waterfall is located near the Hekla volcano in southern Iceland. This waterfall is the highest on the island. Standing at 122 meters tall, it is the flow of the Fossa River, a tributary of the Pjorsa River.

This waterfall did not have a name for quite some time. However, in 1912, Dr. Helgi Ptursson, a geologist, came and gave it a name. Visitors can hike to the waterfall along the Fossa River, a six-kilometer one-way trek. The hike can also be done from the opposite direction, as there is a parking area at the top of the waterfall.

Contributed by Putri Az Zahra Suherman.

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