Former President Guðni Th. Jóhannesson begins summer job as guide at Þingvellir
Today is Jóhannesson's first day working at Þingvellir, but in a conversation with mbl.is he says he has fallen in love with being in that beautiful place, being outside and being around people. mbl.is/Magnea Marín
“I was fascinated by being in this beautiful place, being outside and meeting people. That’s why I’m here,” says Guðni Th. Jóhannesson, former President of Iceland, who began his new role as a summer guide at Þingvellir National Park today.
When a journalist caught up with him at Almannagjá, Jóhannesson had just finished guiding a group of elementary school students and their teachers. The group was full of gratitude, with several children reluctant to say goodbye to the former head of state.
It took about 45 minutes on the job before an Icelander recognized him and asked what he was doing. Most tourists didn’t realize they were being guided by Iceland’s former president — a uniquely Icelandic moment that Jóhannesson finds both amusing and meaningful.
A conversation that led to a job
Jóhannesson recalls how the opportunity arose. “I was here at Þingvellir on June 17, 2024, on a lovely day like this one, talking with Einar Á. E. Sæmundsen, the park ranger. We chatted about what was next for me, and I said, ‘Don’t I just have to go look for a job?’ He slyly replied, ‘Don’t you just want to come here?’”
In addition to his duties at Þingvellir, Jóhannesson continues to work as a historian and holds a junior professorship at the University of Iceland.
Jóhannesson with tourists from Canada, the homeland of his wife, historian, writer and former first lady, Eliza Reid. mbl.is/Magnea Marín
Guiding through history and nature
Jóhannesson explains that his tasks are varied. “I answer questions at the service center, guide groups from Haki through Almannagjá to Axarárfoss and Flosagjá, and I’m available to help with anything that comes up.” He’s also completed a first aid course as part of his preparation.
On his first day, groups of children visited from Lindaskóli, Hjallastefnan, and other schools. Many international tourists also passed through, often stopping at Þingvellir as part of their Golden Circle tour.
“There’s a constant stream of people here, especially on a beautiful day like this,” Jóhannesson notes.
From Presidency to Park ranger
The former president sees this work as a natural continuation of his public service — just in a different setting. “It’s an honor to share the history of this place and of Iceland. Most visitors have no idea who I am, and that’s just wonderful,” he says with a smile.
“It’s really nice to be here with a great group of people. There’s an elite team working at Þingvellir. I think the park has been developed in a way that respects its dignity while making it accessible to visitors. I’m just looking forward to spending the summer here.”
