What to expect in Iceland in 2024

Iceland has always been a destination that defies expectations, and 2024 is shaping up to be no different. From the dancing Northern Lights to the bubbling geothermal wonders, this Nordic jewel has surprises in store for every kind of traveller. Here’s what to expect from Iceland in 2024…

A Growing Population

A surge in Iceland's population is on the horizon, set to surpass 400,000 people, driven by a remarkable resurgence in the tourism sector post-Covid. The unexpected influx of newcomers due to a labour shortage is propelling the country towards this milestone, expected to be reached in early 2024—shattering predictions by six years, pre-pandemic.

With approximately 70 percent of Iceland's population concentrated in the southwestern region, particularly around Reykjavík, the surge in residents is prompting a significant overhaul of the city's public transportation system. The forthcoming transformation, dubbed "City Lane," will introduce rapid transit lanes exclusively designated for electric buses.

(Fun fact no more: Iceland’s human population will for the first time exceed the number of sheep.)

More Volcanic Eruptions

This is one is a maybe, but a strong maybe. The volcanic expanse widely recognized as Fagradalsfjall has erupted three times since 2021, and volcanic experts anticipate additional activity in the future, guided by seismic patterns and the pressure detected within magma chambers situated less than 35 kilometers from Reykjavík.

According to Professor Þorvaldur Þórðarson, speaking to local media in October 2023, there appears to be a continuous warmth in the feeder dike—the conduit from the magma chamber to the Earth's surface—between the recent eruptions. This observation leads him to posit that the next eruption might manifest sooner rather than later.

Whether dormant or ablaze, the Fagradalsfjall region is poised to maintain its status as a premier destination, offering an enjoyable hike coupled with panoramic vistas of Iceland's evolving landscape.

Akureyri Airport Expands

Keflavík Airport, the major international airport nearby Reykjavík, will finally have a rival with the expansion of Akureyri Airport.

The new terminal - some 1100 square meters, much larger than the current airport - will facilitate the growing demand for direct flights between Europe and northern Iceland. This makes direct package holidays to North Iceland all the easier – and of course here at Iceland Holidays, we’ve already got several fantastic North Iceland offers ready to go!