The wrestler on a world tour: Icelanders inspire with courage and empathy!

The wrestler on a world tour: Icelanders inspire with courage and empathy!

Kristján Gíslason, a 58-year-old Icelandic adventurer, has achieved a remarkable milestone in the world of travel. Known by the nickname Hringfarinn, he undertook an epochal solo motorcycle tour around the world from 2014 to 2015, which attracted significant attention from the Icelandic public. This was the first trip of its kind undertaken by an Icelander. During his ten-month tour, he covered almost 48,000 kilometers (nearly 30,000 miles) through 35 countries on five continents and documented his experiences with a camera.

The trip was not only a physical adventure but also a journey of cultural exchange. Kristján met numerous people whose stories had a lasting influence on him. He realized that the encounters with people and the experiences during the trip were far more important than the documentation itself. This deep insight inspired him to write a book called “Sliding Through” after his return, which summarizes his experiences and reflections.

Charitable initiative and cultural enlightenment

Together with his wife Ásdís Rósa Baldursdóttir, Kristján founded the Hringfarinn Foundation. This organization aims to support charitable causes and in particular promotes drug prevention programs for young people in Iceland and educational initiatives for children in Africa. The foundation stands as a beacon for future travelers and reminds us that travel can change lives.

All proceeds from his publications and documentaries go to the foundation, which provides transformative experiences to people who otherwise would not have access to them. Kristján is also a sought-after speaker, giving talks on the spiritual dimensions of travel and the importance of cultural understanding. After gaining notoriety through a documentary series that featured his journey on national television, he has spoken about his mission and travels in various newspapers, magazines and podcasts.

About Kristján Gíslason

Kristján, born on April 16, 1956, is one of Iceland's versatile personalities. Before he became known as an adventurer and writer, he worked as a programmer and systems analyst from 1976 to 1985. He then ran his own company specializing in maritime telecommunications until 2013. Inspired by his father, who always encouraged him not to lose courage, he originally planned a three-month motorcycle trip, which eventually expanded to ten months.

Kristján has published a total of two photo-illustrated books and over 15 documentaries that have been broadcast on the Icelandic state channel RÚV. These include “Hringfarinn – í kringum hnöttinn á mótorhjóli” and “Hringfarinn – the Africa Journey”. He made many of these trips with his wife Ásdís and their three sons Gísli, Baldur and Árni as well as five grandchildren can look back proudly on the legacy he leaves behind with his passion for travel.

Kristján's story is a powerful example of determination and the pursuit of new horizons. Through his work and travels, he inspires others to find their own path while appreciating the diversity of cultures the world has to offer.