Guðni Th. Jóhannesson, ex-president, commences summer employment as a tour guide at Þingvellir.
**"Yo, check out the former President of Iceland, Guðni Th. Jóhannesson, kicking it as a summer guide at Þingvellir National Park now," says the dude, still holding onto the presidency's power. He spilled the tea to us when we caught up with him at Almannagjá, after he wrapped up a tour with a bunch of ecstatic elementary school kids.
It only took about 45 minutes on the job before an Icelander recognized him and asked what the heck he was up to. Most tourists had no idea they were en route with the ex- tops man of the land, making this an authentically Icelandic moment for Guðni that he finds both hilarious and profound.
A convo that led to a gig
Guðni recounts how this opportunity unfolded. "I was all the way out here at Þingvellir on June 17, 2024, on a day just like this one, shootin' the breeze with Einar Á. E. Sæmundsen, the park ranger. We were just yakking about my next move, and I spit out, 'What about me just hustlin' for a job?' He winked and said, 'What about you just comin' here?'"
Aside from his gigs at Þingvellir, Guðni maintains his historiographer grind and holds a junior lectureship at the University of Iceland.
Leadin' history and nature
Guðni clarifies that his tasks are pretty diverse. "I field questions at the service center, guide groups from Haki through Almannagjá to Axarárfoss and Flosagjá, and I'm here if any crises pop up." He's also swotted up on first aid as part of his prep.
On his first day, groups of kids came from Lindaskóli, Hjallastefnan, and other schools. International tourists also piled through, often hitting Þingvellir as part of their Golden Circle tour.
"This place is a absolute hotspot, especially on a day like today," Guðni points out.
From Presidency to Park ranger
Guðni sees this job as a logical extension of his public service mission - just in a new environment. "It's a blast to spread the history of this place and of Iceland. Most visitors got no clue who I am, and that's a genuine win," he says with a grin.
"It's dope to be here with a solid team. The park has been developed in a way that respects its integrity yet keeps it accessible to visitors. I'm just hyped to spend the summer here."
"Guðni Th. Jóhannesson, now working as a summer guide at Þingvellir National Park, discussed his unique lifestyle transition from the presidency to home-and-garden settings, alongside nature-based travel destinations. As he leads tours, he incorporates insights from his historiographer role at the University of Iceland, blending knowledge of Iceland's history with the beauty of its natural landscapes."
"After his work, Guðni plans to spend his personal time exploring various parts of Iceland, including those abroad, to further engage with and appreciate the country's diverse landscapes, thus continuing to embrace a lifestyle that combines home-and-garden relaxation with travel adventures."
