Alternative Travel Volunteering: Volunteer Opportunities in Iceland

Volunteer opportunities in ICELAND

Forestry and gardening activities in the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic in Hveragerdi
Hveragerði          February 28 - March 14, 2011
Hveragerði          March 28 - April 11, 2011
Hveragerði          April 11 - April 25, 2011
Hveragerði          April 25 - May 9, 2011
Hveragerði          May 9 - May 23, 2011
Hveragerði          May 23 - June 6, 2011
Hveragerði          June 6 - June 20, 2011
Hveragerði          June 20 - July 4, 2011
Hveragerði          July 4 - July 18, 2011
Hveragerði          July 18 - August 1, 2011
Hveragerði          August 1 - August 15, 2011
Hveragerði          August 15 - August 29, 2011
Hveragerði          August 29 - September 12, 2011
Hveragerði          September 12 - September 26, 2011
Hveragerði          September 26 - October 10, 2011
Hveragerði          October 10 - October 24, 2011
Hveragerði          October 24 - November 7, 2011
Hveragerði          November 7 - November 21, 2011
Hveragerði          November 21 - December 5, 2011

Volunteer project: Hveragerði is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavík. This friendly little community sits on top of a highly active geothermal field which provides heat for hundreds of greenhouses where fruit, flowers and vegetables are produced throughout the year. Even bananas grow in these greenhouses! The name Hveragerði means ‘hot springs garden.’ Geothermal energy is Hveragerði’s lifeblood, and you probably won’t find such a natural wonder in the middle of a populated area anywhere else in the world. Nearby you will find an even more geothermally active site: Gufudalur, the lovely ‘Steam Valley’ behind the town. This whole valley is full of hot springs, geysers, mud pots, fumaroles and steaming vents.

Our host is the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic which is a part of the Nature Health Association of Iceland. Every year approximately 2,000 patients and other guests enjoy their diverse rehabilitation programs, which are focused on an approach that builds self-confidence and personal responsibility for the patients’ own health. The Clinic has earned a solid reputation, both in Iceland and internationally, since its foundation in 1955 for personal and effective care of patients. It is the oldest and one of the two most important rehabilitation clinics in Iceland.

The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where the international volunteers will work most of the time. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly.

Language: English

Leisure time: The volunteers will have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. Hveragerði is known for having great areas for hiking, including a river heated by hot springs.

Accommodation: The volunteers stay in a fully equipped bungalow consisting of several double rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag, but mattresses are provided. Free wireless internet is available, but volunteers need to bring their own laptops if they would like to connect to it.
All meals are provided and cooked by our hosts, the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic. The menu for the project is primarily vegetarian, but two times a week it includes locally-caught fish from Iceland. The food at the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic is known throughout Iceland for its high quality.

Location: Hveragerði, 45 km east of Reykjavík

Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 120 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Green army in Reykjavik
Reykjavik          March 8 - March 20, 2011
Reykjavik          March 22 - April 3, 2011
Reykjavik          April 5 - April 17, 2011
Reykjavik          April 19 - May 1, 2011
Reykjavik          May 3 - May 15, 2011
Reykjavik          May 17 - May 29, 2011
Reykjavik          May 31 - June 12, 2011
Reykjavik          June 14 - June 26, 2011
Reykjavik          June 28 - July 10, 2011
Reykjavik          July 12 - July 24, 2011
Reykjavik          July 26 - August 7, 2011
Reykjavik          August 23 - September 4, 2011

Volunteer project: The volunteers will assist Reykjavik city authorities in improving the condition of the capital. Tasks include removing graffiti ‘tags’, painting old houses, and helping the environmental department to maintain the parks and green areas in the heart of Reykjavik. If the weather does not permit these outdoor tasks, the workcamp members may also assist in indoor renovation.

Language: English

Leisure time: The volunteers will have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools in Reykjavik. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms.
On weekends, the central location of the accommodations is ideal for enjoying Reykjavik‘s amazing nightlife, which is world-renowned for its wide array of bars, clubs, and concerts.
Reasonably-priced weekend excursions will be organised to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.

About Reykjavik Reykjavik is a city full of energy, just waiting for you to experience it. Powered by heat from the earth below, with ever-changing weather sweeping across the landscape, its natural features are matched by the energy of its residents. Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, culture, nature, clean air - and Reykjavik has them in spades. All the advantages of a modern, forward-looking society are complemented by the beautiful natural setting. In a country of only just over 300,000 people, the Reykjavik Capital Area has a population of about 200,000. However, since it’s the only major city in the country, Reykjavik has a lot of the amenities that you would only expect to find in a much larger center elsewhere in the world.

Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital city and is centered on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. Come at the right time of year, and in favorable conditions you will see the city’s skyline silhouetted against the glowing, shimmering curtain of the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights. Reykjavik is framed by the majestic Mt. Esja and the blue waters of Faxafloi Bay to the north, while rugged lava-fields spread to the southeast. On a clear sunny day, the Snaefellsjokull glacier glitters on the western horizon like a crystal.

Accommodation: The volunteers will stay in one of several shared houses offering basic sleeping and cooking facilities in the heart of historical downtown Reykjavik. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag and towels, but mattresses and bed linens are provided. Wireless internet access is provided free of charge, and volunteers also have free access to shared desktop computers in communal areas. The accommodation is located within short walking distance of many urban amenities, including: banks, pharmacies, supermarkets, public swimming pools, restaurants, cafes, libraries, theaters, shops, museums, and bus stations.

Location: Reykjavik

Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 120 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Kicking off youth center activities in Reykjavik
Reykjavik          March 8 - March 20, 2011
Reykjavik          March 22 - April 3, 2011
Reykjavik          May 3 - May 15, 2011
Reykjavik          May 17 - May 29, 2011
Reykjavik          June 14 - June 26, 2011
Reykjavik          June 28 - July 10, 2011
Reykjavik          July 12 - July 24, 2011
Reykjavik          August 23 - September 4, 2011
Reykjavik          September 6 - September 18, 2011
Reykjavik          October 19 - October 30, 2011
Reykjavik          November 1 - November 13, 2011
Reykjavik          November 15 - November 27, 2011
Reykjavik          November 29 - December 11, 2011

Volunteer project: For the past several months volunteers has been restoring old buildings in the centre of Reykjavik. The goal has been to create a cultural center where international volunteers together with young Icelandic people can share a space to plan, promote, and organize cultural, artistic, and environmental activities. The idea for a cultural center was generated in early 2010 when it became apparent that Reykjavik lacked a space for young people to express their ideas and collaborate on volunteer projects. Only three percent of Icelanders have participated in volunteer activities, and so the cultural center will help promote the concept of voluntarism through the experiences of international volunteers.

Volunteers will promote and involve more young Icelandic people in local activities, as well as encouraging greater participation by young Icelanders in international volunteer projects all around the world.

This project has a number of goals, including:
• To promote voluntarism among Icelandic people through the cultural center
• To use ideas from international volunteers to bring more life to the cultural center
• To plan and organize dynamic cultural activities year-round
• To raise awareness about the protection of the environment in Iceland through workshops on garbage recycling
• To offer open space to young Icelanders and international volunteers where they can develop their artistic skills and undertake artistic projects
• To increase the visibility of the social and environmental achievements of volunteer groups in Iceland

The workcamp will focus on exploring the effectiveness of offering a variety of possible activities through the Cultural Centre, including:

• The World Coffee: Volunteers will share examples of different cultures and ways of life from around the world by showing international movies, coordinating discussions, teaching different languages, and, of course, cook and enjoy a little bit of delicious food from different parts of the world
• Video Forum: Volunteers will show movies which are related to the environment and to new trends in music, art, and society in order to encourage a debate afterwards about issues facing young people from all over the world
• Garbage Recycling Workshops: Volunteers will explore the possibility of creating music instruments, clothes, or any other kind of object by using recycling materials
• Handicrafts Workshops: Volunteer will share and learn different methods of making jewelry
• Photo Exhibitions: Volunteers will organize and produce a photography exhibition related to the themes of nature, voluntarism, and new trends in art and society in Iceland
• Promotional Tools: Volunteers will explore the opportunities offered by media such as posters and videos to promote volunteer activities in Iceland
• Outdoor Painting: Volunteers will develop an outdoor painting workshop based on the aesthetic principles of the South African Ndebele tribe, which have already been applied by both the cultural center team and the summer camps in Tierra Bomba, Colombia.

Volunteers should be dynamic and open-minded. Skills and experience in arts, communication, social development, and community outreach are particularly useful.

Language: English

Location: Reykjavik

Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

click here to view the current openings in Iceland

Introducing different cultures to kindergarten children
Reykjavik          March 8 - March 20, 2011
Reykjavik          March 22 - April 3, 2011
Reykjavik          April 5 - April 17, 2011
Reykjavik          May 17 - May 29, 2011
Reykjavik          October 19 - October 30, 2011
Reykjavik          November 1 - November 13, 2011
Reykjavik          November 15 - November 27, 2011
Reykjavik          November 29 - December 11, 2011

Volunteer project: The international volunteers will prepare games, songs, and materials to present to kindergarten students to introduce the kids to different cultures. Volunteers are asked to bring cultural materials from home that can be used in these presentations. The volunteers may also participate in other related activities in central Reykjavik.

Language: English

Location: Reykjavik

Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Reforestation activities in Solheimar Eco-village
Sólheimar          April 4 - April 15, 2011
Sólheimar          May 2 - May 14, 2011
Sólheimar          August 15 - August 27, 2011

Volunteer project: Solheimar is a sustainable community where about 100 people live and work together. It was founded in 1930 by Sesselja Hreindís Sigmundsdóttir (1902-1974). Solheimar community emphasizes on the growth and development of man and nature. The social emphasis is that different individuals are offered variable opportunities to work, live and socialize.
The activity in Solheimar is versatile. In the village, there are organic greenhouses, both for vegetable cultivation and the only organic forestry in Iceland. There is also a shop/gallery in Solheimar, a café, a bakery, guesthouses and many art venues throughout the year. There are six workshops in the village: a candle workshop, ceramics, weaving, carpentry, fine art atelier and an herbal workshop that makes soaps, creams, paper, etc.

In Solheimar you will find a church, a sculpture garden, an arboretum, sports hall, gym and a swimming pool, a music garden, an art gallery and during the summer and for Advent a cultural festival with different venues; music, fine art, theater etc. The Eco-center Sesseljuhus was opened in 2002 where most conferences, meetings and other gatherings are held both for the village and visitors.
Today, Sólheimar (the home of the sun) is a charming village renowned for its international, artistic and ecological atmosphere, which prides itself on its varied cultural, social and sporting activities. The village is only a one-hour drive from Reykjavik. The volunteers have free access to the swimming pool and the gym.

The volunteers will be working in the Ölur Forestry Centre (the only organic reforestation centre in Iceland). We will help the workers to take care and transplant trees and to do some actual reforestation work in the surroundings. Other tasks may arise depending on the needs of the community.

Language: English

Leisure time: Free access to the swimming pool and the fitness center.

Accommodation: In a nice house with double bedrooms, each with a private bathroom. The house is fully equipped and has a big living room. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag.

Location: Sólheimar Eco-village

Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Photography and environment in the Eastern Fjords
Fjarðabyggð          April 30 - May 13, 2011
Fjarðabyggð          May 12 - May 25, 2011
Fjarðabyggð          May 24 - June 6, 2011
Fjarðabyggð          June 5 - June 18, 2011
Fjarðabyggð          June 17 - June 30, 2011
Fjarðabyggð          June 29 - July 12, 2011
Fjarðabyggð          July 11 - July 25, 2011
Fjarðabyggð          July 24 - August 5, 2011
Fjarðabyggð          August 4 - August 17, 2011
Fjarðabyggð          August 16 - August 29, 2011
Fjarðabyggð          August 28 - September 10, 2011
Fjarðabyggð          September 9 - September 22, 2011

Volunteer project: Fjarðabyggð is an association of different communities in the eastern fjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, Mjóifjörður, Neskaupstaður, Reyðarfjörður and Stöðvarfjörður, all tiny fishing villages with steep mountains towering just behind the houses. This area showcases some of features that make Iceland a unique place in the world: spectacular fjords with rich sea life, a great variety of birdlife, and countless breathtaking hiking paths.

The purpose of this project is to involve international volunteers in team environment where they can improve their communication and visual art skills by capturing their memories in an unforgettable way using photographs and some videos. Volunteers will put into action ideas on how to think about photography from capture to finished image. In this project, the volunteers will learn how to better express their vision and how to digitally optimize images to highlight the same qualities that drew them to the scene to begin with. Each day, volunteers will work with different themes, such as landscape, culture texture, fishermen’s life, or daylight. In the evenings the volunteers will gather to share photos, and the project will culminate in a photo exhibition in a public place.

Volunteers will also directly contribute to keeping the environment and communities that they are photographing clean and healthy. This will include four hours per day, four days per week of environmental work, which may include tasks such as picking up litter along the coastline, planting trees, or helping the local forestry department.

This project is a way to enjoy an amazing time in Iceland with other international volunteers and to have an incredible experience where participants share their knowledge on photography with each other while they are exploring creativity, environmental issues and intercultural learning. So don’t worry if you’re not an experienced photographer, because the project doesn’t require advanced knowledge and it isn’t a competition.

Please note that volunteers need to bring their own cameras to the project.

Language: English

Leisure time: The group will have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms.

Accommodation: The volunteers will stay in an indoor community facility. Mattresses are provided, however volunteers should bring their own warm sleeping bags.

Location: Fjarðabyggð

Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

click here to view the current openings in Iceland

The power of the runes
Reykjavik          April 5 - April 17, 2011
Reykjavik          May 3 - May 15, 2011
Reykjavik          October 19 - October 30, 2011
Reykjavik          November 1 - November 13, 2011
Reykjavik          November 15 - November 27, 2011
Reykjavik          November 29 - December 11, 2011

Volunteer project: The aim of this project is to give volunteers the opportunity to learn about the myths and legends of runes and the old Viking religion. Volunteers create runes out of Icelandic volcanic magic stones, producing enough for the participant to take one set home and to leave others in the cultural centre in Reykjavik.

During the project, volunteers will collect volcanic stones from specific places in the west part of Iceland where nature has shaped and made really beautiful magic stones. Afterwards they will convert the stones into runes in the workshop in Reykjavik. The volunteers will learn about the history of the places where the stones come from, as well as the importance of the healing energy of the stones. The workcamp will include a visit to Snæfellsnes, the location of the glacier Snæfellsjökull, which is famous for the power and energy that many spiritually-minded people sense. It is said to be one of the seven greatest energy centres of the earth.

The workshop is divided into two parts:

Workshop 1º:
1. Travel to collect the stones
2. Define different designs to be carved into the stones
3. Carve the stones and transform them into runes
4. Paint over the design carved into each rune
5. Cut leather and make bags for each set of runes
6. Print and create the legend for each bag

Workshop 2º:
1. Define different drawings and designs for necklaces and bracelets
2. Carve the stones with different designs
3. Paint over the design carved into each rune
4. Finalize necklaces and bracelets

The handicrafts made during this project will be used to raise money for materials needed for volunteer workcamps organized in Tierra Bomba, which is a very poor island in the Caribbean Ocean near the coast of Colombia.

Language: English

Location: Reykjavík

Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Water, nature and sustainable energy
Reykjavik & Fjarðabyggð          April 5 - April 17, 2011
Reykjavik & Fjarðabyggð          April 18 - May 1, 2011
Reykjavik & Fjarðabyggð          September 29 - October 12, 2011
Reykjavik & Fjarðabyggð          October 11 - October 24, 2011

Volunteer project: Iceland is a country extremely rich in water resources. Frequent rainfall, snow, and ice melt feed lakes, cold-water springs, and rivers all over the island, some of which is used to generate electricity in hydro-power plants. The country is situated on the mid-Atlantic ridge, and there is constant volcanic activity beneath the surface of many parts of the island. As a result, many natural underground water reservoirs are heated geothermally, and where this water comes to the surface it forms hotsprings and geysirs. Heat from these geothermal water reservoirs is used for making electricity and to heat buildings. Iceland is the only western country that meets all of its electricity needs from emission-free and sustainable natural resources in the form of geothermal and hydro power.

The volunteer project will start in Reykjavik but it will take place in the Eastern fjords of Iceland. The project will include extensive travel around Iceland to the south, east, and north to visit a variety of different sites. This will involve driving for over 2000km over several days to travel all around the island in order to effectively carry out the study/visit program of the workcamp.

Fjarðabyggð is an association of different communities in the eastern fjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, Mjóifjörður, Neskaupstaður, Reyðarfjörður and Stöðvarfjörður, all tiny fishing villages with steep mountains towering just behind the houses. This area showcases some of features that make Iceland a unique place in the world: spectacular fjords with rich sea life, a great variety of birdlife, and countless breathtaking hiking paths.

The activities are divided between the morning and the afternoon. In the morning, the volunteers perform outdoor work, which may include planting trees, fixing hiking paths, or weeding greenhouses. In the afternoon, volunteers will work together on the study theme, “Water, Nature, and Sustainable Energy”. This will include workshops, discussions, and also occasional site visits to relevant natural features, plants, infrastructure, and industries. Examples of potential site visit destinations include geothermal and hydropower plants, geothermal hot springs, geysirs, waterfalls, public wastewater treatment plants, public water supply plants, and companies that make major use of water and electricity, such as aluminum smelters.

Study theme: Water, nature and sustainable energy

Language: English

While travelling around Iceland during the workcamp, volunteers will stay in a variety of indoor facilities, and should bring their own warm sleeping bags. Mattresses are provided. During this travel, we will also have a chance to visit some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Some of these are unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.

Location: Reykjavik & around Iceland

Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 250 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Easter in Reykjavik
Reykjavik April 19 - May 1, 2011

Volunteer project: This workcamp combines a number of cultural activities over the Easter holiday. There will also be a percussion workshop, culminating in public performances in the streets and in other community locations. Finally, volunteers will prepare games, songs, and materials to present to kindergarten students to introduce the kids to different cultures. Volunteers are asked to bring cultural materials from home that can be used in these presentations.

Language: English

Location: Reykjavik

Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

click here to view the current openings in Iceland

Preserving the Eldfell Volcano and fighting soil erosion on the island of Heimaey
Heimaey, Westman Islands          May 14 - May 27, 2011
Heimaey, Westman Islands          May 27 - June 10, 2011
Heimaey, Westman Islands          June 10 - June 24, 2011
Heimaey, Westman Islands          July 8 - July 22, 2011

Volunteer project: The Westman Islands, or Vestmannaeyjar, consist of a group of fifteen beautiful islands which are situated at a short distance off the south coast of Iceland. The islands were given this name by the nordic residents of Iceland after the Irish slaves that the norse captured that were settled there.
All of the islands are the result of submarine volcanic eruptions during comparatively recent geological time. Heimaey is the largest and only inhabited island in the group, and is Iceland´s largest offshore island, with an area of 13,4 sq. km. Fishing, fish processing, and subsidiary trades are the main source of income. Heimaey is sheltered to the north by low mountains. Between the colorful town, the beautiful cliffs full of birdlife, and the fresh lava and volcano, the landscape gives the islands a scenic interest as varied in character as any in the country.

Eldfell is a composite volcanic cone just over 200 metres high. It was formed in a huge volcanic eruption - the name means Mountain of Fire in Icelandic. This volcanic eruption is considered the largest natural disaster in Iceland in recent history. The eruption began on January 23rd, 1973 on the island of Heimaey, forcing the evacuation of the inhabitants for the five months that the eruption continued. At the time, there was uncertainty as to whether or not the island could ever be repopulated. The eruption caused the destruction of a third of the town, and the massive changes to the landscape of this tiny island made world news. Afterwards, the island became a destination for tourists and scientists alike from all over the world. Now, more than 30 years have passed, and the memories and signs of the spectacular eruption are fading, but lava and ash still cover almost 400 homes and buildings.

International volunteers will assist the local residents in preserving the volcano cone. They will fight erosion by adding soil to the slope and building fences to shelter the soil from the wind. Please note that this is hard physical work.

Language: English

Leisure time: The volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. In addition, an excursion or a boat trip can be organized by the hosting partner.

Accommodation: The volunteers will stay in an indoor community facility. Mattresses are provided, however volunteers should bring their own warm sleeping bags.

Location: Heimaey, Westman Islands

Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 120 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Artistic and environmental projects at the Arctic Circle
Raufarhöfn          May 16 - May 29, 2011
Raufarhöfn          May 28 - June 10, 2011
Raufarhöfn          July 18 - July 31, 2011
Raufarhöfn          July 30 - August 12, 2011
Raufarhöfn          August 11 - August 24, 2011
Raufarhöfn          August 23 - September 5, 2011

Volunteer project: The village of Raufarhöfn is the community that lies farthest north in Iceland. It is located in the eastern part of Melrakkasletta close to the Arctic Circle. The population of Raufarhöfn is about 200 and most of the people there earn their living from fishing and fish processing. The harbor is very beautiful and partly shaped by nature itself. A wide and untouched open area surrounds the village with a lot of birds and varied vegetation. In summer one will observe wild migratory birds within the village being a part of the village life with the villagers most often waking up in the morning to the songs of birds. The coastline with its inlets and creeks is filled with driftwood and reaches out into the Arctic Sea. Away and on the surface of the sea various sea-birds will be spotted and an occasional seal. On the beach waders strut and inland on the grassy moorlands there are dozens of lakes filled with trout. In the vicinity many species of ducks, waders and species that favor heaths and moorlands may be observed.

The aim of this volunteer project is to give the volunteers the opportunity to share and learn through some artistic activities such as:
• Learn about the myths and legends of runes and the old Viking religion.
• Create your own set of Runes out of Icelandic volcanic magic stones and leather.
• Participate in a percussion workshop with homemade recycled instruments.
• Participate in photography sessions with different topics from one day to another (texture, culture, nature, people and etc)
• Learn and share knowledge about how to make jewellery and handicrafts.
• Create a Viking Totem out of drifted wood which we will collect from the coastline.

Volunteers will also directly contribute to the environment and community of Raufarhofn. This will include four hours work per day, five days per week of environmental work, which may include tasks such as picking up litter along the coastline, planting trees, weeding or helping the local environmental department with whatever needs to be done.

This workcamp is a way to enjoy an amazing time in Iceland with other international volunteers and to have an incredible experience where participants share their knowledge with each other while they are exploring creativity, environmental issues and intercultural learning.

Language: English

Leisure time: The volunteers have free access to the local swimming pool. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms.

Accommodation: The volunteers will stay in an indoor community facility offering basic facilities. Mattresses are provided, however volunteers should bring their own warm sleeping bags.

Location: Raufarhöfn

Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Viking Festival
Hafnarfjörður June 6 - June 23, 2011

Volunteer project: Hafnarfjörður is a town with population of 23.500 people. It is located 10 km away from Iceland's capital, Reykjavík. Hafnarfjörður (harbour fjord) is named after its natural harbour. The town is first mentioned in the medieval "Book of Settlements," and the earliest reports of voyages to Hafnarfjörður date back to the end of the 14th century. Today, Hafnarfjörður is one of the nation's largest fishing centres and the site of Iceland's first fish wholesale auction market.
The town is famous for having one of Iceland’s largest settlements of elves, dwarves and other mystical beings, which are usually called ‘Hidden Folk.’ Centuries-old folklore has it that whole clans of such beings reside in the rocks that make up part of the town’s centre. We do not doubt this at all. Though elves are visible only to those with second sight, many Icelanders believe in their existence. Indeed, there are many stories to support this belief and reports of cases where the construction of new roads or housing developments were hindered by strange happenings abound. Hidden Folk are highly respected all over Iceland, especially in Hafnarfjördur. There is even a Hidden Worlds tour that takes to their home sites, including Hellisgerði Park and the base of the cliff Hamarinn, which is said to be home to the Royal Family of the Hidden Folk. Along the way, the guide relates ancient folk tales of the magical hidden worlds and narrates how the town developed in harmony with the Hidden Folk.

The Vikings settled in Iceland around the year 874 A.D. and Icelanders are very proud of the brave people who dared starting a new life here, in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. The volunteer project will take place in a small Viking village in Hafnarfjörður. This tiny village is built around the Viking restaurant owned by local people.
During the annual Viking Festival which will take place from the 11th until the 20th of June, Icelanders and “Vikings” from abroad celebrate their heritage. The Vikings’ wild and adventurous spirit lives on, in the people of this unique country. The event is fun and interesting: ancient arts and crafts are on display, while large gruff men in full Viking attire exhibit their ancient battle skills to anyone brave enough to challenge them.

The volunteers will help with the preparation before the festival and will help the organizers to run the festival afterwards. You will receive Viking costumes to wear and different tasks to perform. Tasks will vary and include controlling the venues, giving assistance to visitors, helping the other Viking volunteers and staff in the kitchen or serving the meals. Working hours are flexible and in this project it is important to be very flexible as well. Sometimes the festival is very chaotic but the old Vikings were also known for lack of organization so that is a part of the programme.
Apart from our group of Vikings, there will be also other Viking volunteers coming from all around the world! A big collection of artists and artisans take part in the festival: warriors, bowmen, wrestlers, woodcarvers, stonemasons, blacksmiths, storytellers and enchantresses, musicians and magicians. The working hours are not completely fixed and they will be established according to the different phases of the festival.

Language: English

Leisure time: The volunteers will have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools in the Reykjavik capital area. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms.
Reasonably-priced weekend excursions will be organised to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.

Accommodation: Volunteers will stay in a local sport center with the other Vikings, sleeping on mattresses. Don’t forget to bring a warm sleeping bag.

Location: Hafnarfjörður

Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. Distance from the airport is 35 km.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the organization of the project and is payable to the local host upon arrival.

click here to view the current openings in Iceland

Experience the North and South of Iceland
Reykjavik & Skagafjordur June 9 - June 22, 2011

Volunteer project: This project will take place in two different places in Iceland. In Skagafjordur which is in the North and Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, in the South.

In Skagafjordur it is possible to enjoy both the rich cultural life and lifestyle. The district is an ideal place to enjoy Icelandic nature, horsemanship and activities and different events. Historical sites are many, including museums and exhibits. Skagafjordur is situated near the middle of the North of the land, about 40km long and 30km wide. In the fjord itself are the islands Drangey and Malmey. Drangey used to be the home of Grettir the Strong who was one of the most famous Vikings around the year 1020. The island is very steep and the top is flat. This area is for sure one of the most beautiful in Iceland.

Sailing within the fjord is deep although there is a reef that carries from Hegranes out through the middle of the fjord and is visible at Holmasker. The lowlands are mainly in the west except under the mountain Tindastoll. To the east there is some lowland with high mountains. Natural harbours are few and far between. Where nature hasn't created a harbour, man has.
Towards the end of Skagafjordur is a wide valley, one of the largest in the country, wide and grassy, surrounded by picturesque mountains. The district is 50 km long but is divided at its southernmost end in two. Both valleys bear the name Skagafjordur however in saga times they were known as Goðdalir - valleys of the gods. East of Skagafjordur are majestic mountains but to the west minor ones.

In Skagafjordur we will be cooperating with a local organization. The volunteers will make a new hiking path near to the hot spring Fosslaug. They will also handle different kind of environmental tasks near to Haugsnesgrundir.
In Reykjavik the volunteers will do some environmental work in the centre of the city. It is also possible that they will paint some walls in a cultural centre and do a little bit of renovation. If the participants are interested in art, they can spend some time in a workshop where different kinds of art forms are done.

Language: English

Leisure time: The volunteers will have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools in Reykjavik. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms.
During the stay in Skagafjordur, volunteers will have the opportunity to go on hikes in the extraordinary natural setting and go for excursions in the area.
In Reykjavik, the central location of the accommodations is ideal for enjoying the city’s amazing nightlife, which is world-renowned for its wide array of bars, clubs, and concerts.
Reasonably-priced weekend excursions will be organised to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.

About Reykjavik Reykjavik is a city full of energy, just waiting for you to experience it. Powered by heat from the earth below, with ever-changing weather sweeping across the landscape, its natural features are matched by the energy of its residents. Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, culture, nature, clean air - and Reykjavik has them in spades. All the advantages of a modern, forward-looking society are complemented by the beautiful natural setting. In a country of only just over 300,000 people, the Reykjavik Capital Area has a population of about 200,000. However, since it’s the only major city in the country, Reykjavik has a lot of the amenities that you would only expect to find in a much larger center elsewhere in the world.

Accommodation: In Reykjavik, the volunteers will stay in one of several shared houses offering basic sleeping and cooking facilities in the heart of historical downtown Reykjavik. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag and towels, but mattresses and bed linens are provided. Wireless internet access is provided free of charge, and volunteers also have free access to shared desktop computers in communal areas. The accommodation is located within short walking distance of many urban amenities, including: banks, pharmacies, supermarkets, public swimming pools, restaurants, cafes, libraries, theaters, shops, museums, and bus stations.
In Skagafjordur the volunteers will stay in a local community centre.

Location: Reykjavik and Skagafjordur

Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 130 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Creating a documentary film to promote voluntarism
Reykjavik June 14 - June 26, 2011

Volunteer project: The volunteers in this project will make a short documentary film to promote the concept of voluntarism to Icelanders. Only three percent of Icelanders have participated in volunteer activities, and so there is great potential to encourage young people to volunteer both at home in Iceland as well as internationally. The workcamp volunteers will collaborate to choose a focus for the film and develop a production schedule. The group may also contribute to the development of the local cultural center by helping to paint or renovate.

Language: English

Location: Reykjavik

Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

African days in Reykjavik
Reykjavik June 28 - July 10, 2011

Volunteer project: One of the most important aims of this volunteer project is to promote intercultural understanding. Iceland is getting more and more intercultural and nowadays you can find people from all over the world in Reykjavik. We would like to involve foreign nationals living in Iceland to give them an opportunity to promote the culture of their origin in the local society.
We will help with the preparation and running of cultural activities together with African people living in Iceland. We will also have some workshops and debates related to art and culture.

During the project, the volunteers and the work will be focused on Africa by having workshops of West African percussion instruments and dances. We will also involve Africans living in Reykjavik in order to facilitate to the participants the opportunity to learn about African cuisine, get to know them and make video forums with movies that reflect very well the situation in the continent today in order to create debates concerning different issues. At the end of the project, we will organize a little "African festival" in downtown Reykjavik, where we will show the outcomes of the workshops, a performance of dances and percussion as well food, photos, and reflections about the situation in Africa today and how young people must act in order to improve the current situation.

Language: English

Location: Reykjavik

Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

click here to view the current openings in Iceland

Preservation of the unique Great Geysir area
Reykjavik & Geysir July 2 - July 16, 2011
Reykjavik & Geysir July 9 - July 22, 2011

Volunteer project: This volunteer project takes place in two different locations: in the city of Reykjavik and at Geysir.

Reykjavik is a city full of energy, just waiting for you to experience it. Powered by heat from the earth below, with ever-changing weather sweeping across the landscape, its natural features are matched by the energy of its residents. Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, culture, nature, clean air - and Reykjavik has them in spades. All the advantages of a modern, forward-looking society are complemented by the beautiful natural setting. In a country of only just over 300,000 people, the Reykjavik Capital Area has a population of about 200,000. However, since it’s the only major city in the country, Reykjavik has a lot of the amenities that you would only expect to find in a much larger center elsewhere in the world.

Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital city and is centred on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. Come at the right time of year, and in favourable conditions you will see the city’s skyline silhouetted against the glowing, shimmering curtain of the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights. Reykjavik is framed by the majestic Mt. Esja and the blue waters of Faxafloi Bay to the north, while rugged lava-fields spread to the southeast. On a clear sunny day, the Snaefellsjokull glacier glitters on the western horizon like a crystal.

Outside of Reykjavik, volunteers will stay for one week in the south of Iceland in the area of the Great Geysir, which is the oldest known geyser in the World and one of the world's most impressive examples of the phenomenon. Geysir lies on the slopes of Laugarfjall hill, which is also the home of Strokkur - the most active geyser in Iceland. In the area there are many hot springs, and the waterfall Gullfoss is only 10 km away from the volunteers’ accommodations.

In Geysir, the volunteers will fix hiking paths and help to maintain this unique area. In Reykjavik, the volunteers will do some environmental work in the centre of the city, will paint some walls in a cultural centre and do a little bit of renovation. If the participants are interested in art, they can spend some time in a workshop where we are doing different kind of art forms.

Language: English

Leisure time: The volunteers will have free access to the local geothermal-heated swimming pools in Reykjavik and at Geysir. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms.
During the stay in Geysir, volunteers will have the opportunity to go on hikes in the extraordinary natural setting. In Reykjavik, the central location of the accommodations is ideal for enjoying the city’s amazing nightlife, which is world-renowned for its wide array of bars, clubs, and concerts.
Reasonably-priced weekend excursions will be organised to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.

In Geysir, the volunteers will stay in tents, and are encouraged to bring their own tents and sleeping mat. However, tents and sleeping mats can be provided for volunteers who have been unable to bring them.

Location: Reykjavik and Geysir

Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Experience farm life in the South of Iceland
South Iceland July 3 - July 17, 2011

Volunteer project: The international volunteers will be working on environmental and nature oriented tasks in this project, based on an Icelandic farm in the South of Iceland. Our tasks will mainly be focused on improving the environment in and around the whole area.

There is an old wave-iron barn that needs to be cleaned and painted; we will be clearing some trees and planting new ones, and tearing down old fences among other things.

We will have the opportunity to live and work with an Icelandic family and also participate in the diverse tasks that they are involved in, in their daily lives. This is a unique opportunity to get to know and to experience firsthand how a family in the countryside lives. The farm is big, with sheep, cows and horses, have their own produce and we will have the opportunity to learn about that.

The working plan will be very flexible and it will depend on the needs of our hosts, the advance of the diverse projects in the area and of course on the weather conditions.
We will help to preserve the local environment and explore the surroundings enjoying our free time.

Special requirements: Volunteers need to be motivated to work outdoors and be willing to take part in all the diverse projects connected with the workcamp.

Language: English

Leisure time: The extremely beautiful natural surroundings offer countless opportunities to hike and discover it by foot. Free time activities in the area will be organised for the volunteers. This might include horse-back riding, fishing, sight-seeing, hiking, etc.

Accommodation: We will be hosted in a farmhouse, sleeping on mattresses. Please bring your own sleeping bag. The house is a fully equipped home, with access to a kitchen, bathroom and a washing machine.

Location: The project is based in the beautiful south lowlands of Iceland. We will be able to explore and enjoy the south Icelandic lowland, which is made out of sand and rock sediments delivered by the river Þjórsá during the last centuries. The land is covered mostly by green grass and the closeness of the ocean can be felt in the air. The Southern district is known by its geothermal activity which helped to develop important greenhouse agriculture.

The south of Iceland is one of the most popular destinations for travelers as the landscape offers diverse and breathtaking nature. Rivers and waterfalls, mountains, glaciers and long stretches of beach form a contrast and offer a wide range of experiences. The project takes place in an active Icelandic farm in south Iceland.

In this area you will find some of Iceland’s most beautiful places, like Þórsmörk, Tindfjöll, Eyjafjallajökull, Skógarfoss, Seljalandsfoss (a waterfall you can walk behind) and Paradísarhellir (Paradise Cave) in addition to finding unique natural and geological heritage sites and relics of a centuries-old forest.

Terminal: International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 160 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Restoring artwork and setting up a festival in the Western Fjords
Selárdalur July 4 - July 17, 2011

Volunteer project: International volunteers will be working for the third year on this particular project at the artworks of Samúel Jónsson, an Icelandic artist, who lived at Selárdalur. We will be working on restoring an old church. We will be working hand in hand with a well known sculpture artist, who has dedicated several years to this project. The restoration work will include carpentry work, concrete wall building and more light maintenance work inside the church, like oiling the wood, etc.

There is a small festival in the area when we are there and we will be assisting in setting up the festival, assisting during the happenings and taking it down.

Volunteers will continue supporting the project, as the buildings have been rapidly decaying after the artist’s death.

Language: English

Leisure time: Place of extreme beautiful natural surroundings with countless opportunities to hike and discover it by foot. Free time activities in the area will be organised for the volunteers. This might include sightseeing, hiking, swimming, etc.

Accommodation: We will be hosted in a local house, sleeping bag accommodation with mattresses. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

Location: This project is on the west side of Arnarfjörður, located in the Icelandic Western Fjords, which are too often missed by visitors due to its distance (real and perceived) from Route 1, the circle road, and from other population centers. The West Fjords are a mass of fjords, mountains and isolated villages on spits of lands surrounded by water and mountains. The area includes its own glacier, the magnificent, remote Hornstrandir and Europe's westernmost point at Látrabjarg, where millions of birds nest, a must for bird watchers.

The artist who lived there was not able to really practise his art until he retired from his job and then he began building palaces and sculptures. He started adding to his home and then he built a museum for all his artwork, sculptures as well as paintings with carved frames which he made during the winter. Samúel built a grotesque but charming resemblance to the lion’s fountain in the Alhambra-palace in Granada, Spain, and many sculptures showing seals and other animals as well as figures from Icelandic history like Leif the lucky who found America.

Iceland's most famous hermit Gísli Gíslason lived in this area. He lived alone on a farm named Uppsalir, almost without any communication with other people. He was famous for living in total harmony with nature, not having to use any money or modern facilities such as electricity, machines or vehicles. Now there are plans to make a museum out of his former home.

The distance from Reykjavik is about 500 km (7-8 hours drive) by the Whale Bay tunnel; it is perhaps one of Iceland's most remote areas and a very peaceful and beautiful place to enjoy.

Terminal: Closest International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 140 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

click here to view the current openings in Iceland

Maintaining hiking paths and preparing a traditional festival in Strandir
Strandir July 10 - July 23, 2011

Volunteer project: The area of Strandir is a paradise for nature enthusiasts as well as for those who simply want to enjoy the pleasure of experiencing a place of complete silence. There you will find seabirds on rugged cliffs, arctic foxes in their lairs, and little fishing villages huddled against sheer mountains where for centuries people have battled with the forces of nature to harvest the ocean’s riches. This is the most remote area of Iceland and one of the most exiting! It is known for the inhabitants' knowledge of magic and witchcraft.

The village Drangsnes is a small hamlet at the head of the Steingrimsfjordur bay. Drangsnes has a population of barely 100 people. The settlement of Drangsnes started populating after 1920's. A tall rocky outcrop on the shore is called "the old woman", or "the hag", which is said to be one of the ogresses who turned to stone when the sun came up while the trolls were trying to separate the western fiords from the mainland by a large ditch.
The people of Drangsnes live almost entirely on traditional fishing and farming and are increasingly aware of their heritage and will proudly tell tales of their ancestors' dealings with ghosts and other supernatural beings like trolls, dwarves and elves.
Hornstrandir nature reserve on the region’s northern edge is both breathtakingly raw and astonishingly rich in vegetation, on the rim of the inhabitable world. Relics from life in other once-thriving outposts can be seen in places such as the now abandoned herring centre of Djupavik.

The local festival “Bryggjudagar” will take place 17th to the 19th of July. The locals will organize different activities, for example traditional music, photo exhibition, singing contest, barbecue, bonfire and of course a big party. This is also a great opportunity to taste the fresh delicatessen from the sea, some specialties that you will not find anywhere else in the world.

We will maintain hiking paths and do other environmental work in and around the village of Drangsnes. We will also help the locals to prepare and run the “Bryggjudagar” festival. The work available will depend on the weather condition and that’s why we have to be a bit flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically demanding and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though it will be nice most of the time.

Language: English

Leisure time: Free access to the local modern swimming pool, excursions and/or boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner. The locals are very much looking forward to host the group and they will offer different free time activities to us.

Accommodation: In the local school, participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag.

Location: Strandir

Terminal: Reykjavík - Keflavík.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Latin American days in Reykjavik
Reykjavik July 12 - July 24, 2011

Volunteer project: One of the most important aims of this volunteer project is to promote intercultural understanding. Iceland is getting more and more intercultural and nowadays you can find people from all over the world in Reykjavik. We would like to involve foreign nationals living in Iceland to give them an opportunity to promote the culture of their origin in the local society.
We will help with the preparation and running of cultural activities together with Latin American people living in Iceland. We will also have some workshops and debates related to art and culture.

During the project, the volunteers and the work will be focused on Latin America by having workshops of Latin American music and dances. We will also involve Latin- American people living in Reykjavik in order to facilitate to the participants the opportunity to learn about Latin American cuisine, get to know their culture and make video forums with movies that reflect the situation in the continent today in order to create debates concerning different issues. At the end of the project, we will have a little "Latin American festival" in downtown Reykjavik, where we will show the outcome of the workshops, a performance of dances and music as well food, photos, and reflections about the situation in Latin America today and how young people should act in order to improve the current situation.

Language: English

Location: Reykjavik

Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Festival of Nordic coastal culture and sailing in the North of Iceland
Húsavík July 13 - July 27, 2011

Volunteer project: The volunteers will be working on a coastal cultural festival in the North of Iceland. All in all the festivities will last for nine days, with seminars, lectures, courses and exhibits. Furthermore there will be markets every day with food and handicrafts; music, dance and plays. We will be a part of the diverse preparations and assisting during the festival.

Our project will involve putting up exhibitions related to the sailing and coastal culture in the area, greeting incoming ships and putting up the exhibitions that they carry. We will be building a boat shelter in a historical way and some of the work will involve a few nightshifts watching the exhibition area on the pier.

We will also be assisting the guests with information regarding the festival and the area and some of us might take shifts in the festival info office. A festival needs many hands to do many different things, and we need to be very flexible and willing to jump into the diverse task that our hosts might need assistance with.

Special requirements: Volunteers applying for this project should be motivated to work with people in outdoor activities and be prepared for a flexible time schedule.

Language: English

Accommodation: We will be hosted in a local school, sleeping on mattresses. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

Location: The project will take place in the North of Iceland in one of the largest towns in the area. The town used to bustle with life around the fishermen, but now most of the bustle is due to the whale-watching industry. Some say this is the best place in Iceland to see whales.

The town church was built 1907 and is regarded by many as the most beautiful church in the country. As in most populated places in Iceland, there is a nice geothermal swimming pool in town, and many nice hiking opportunities.
One of the oldest cared for birch forests in the country is in the area with the tallest and straightest birch trees in Iceland. The forest was bought and protected in 1905 and the work has been continuous ever since.

Close by we will find the largest continuous woodland in Iceland, reaching from Háls at the western part of Ljósavatnsskarð and south to Belgsá, and it is spreading. In the valley flows Fnjóská, considered the most beautiful fishing river in Iceland. There are many marked hiking routes in the area and museums of nature, culture and trees.

We will be close to many of the most beautiful places in Iceland, like Mýatn, Dimmuborgir, Goðafoss and Ásbyrgi - a huge horseshoe shaped cliff face, reputedly a hoof print made by the Norse god Odin’s eight-legged horse.

Terminal: Closest International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). Closest Domestic Airport: Akureyri (AEY), closest bus stations in Akureyri or Húsavík.

Age range: 20 and over

Extra fee: 180 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

click here to view the current openings in Iceland

Heritage house renovation in Thingeyri
Thingeyri July 16 - July 29, 2011

Þingeyri at Dýrafjörður is a beautiful village that is located on a spit of land bearing the same name. The village is a part of the Ísafjörður town municipality that includes also Hnífsdalur, Flateyri and Suðureyri. Þingeyri is 49 km away from Ísafjörður on a paved road and 409 km away from Reykjavík when driving the southern part of the Westfjords and then passing the heaths Hrafnseyrarheiði and Dynjandisheiði.
This is a small village with a population of just a little more than 300 people. It is known as one of the oldest trading places in this area. A famous iron foundry is still in operation in Þingeyri, whose reputation at the beginning of the century even reached beyond the shores of Iceland.

Þingeyri is the location for the Western fjords Viking project. Recently the locals built a Viking ship at the location. Anyone interested in the lifestyle and history of the ancient Vikings should pay a visit to the Viking project at Þingeyri and perhaps discover the hidden dormant Viking in all of us.

We will help the locals to renovate one of the oldest houses in Thingeyri. Two years ago the community wanted to destroy the house, but after consulting with the people living in the village, they decided to hand the house over to local people, who are now renovating the house so it can be used for the sake of the community in the future.

Language: English

Leisure time: Free time activities will be arranged for the volunteers. The volunteers will also have a free access to the local swimming pool.

Accommodation: In a community center, most likely we will stay in hotel Nupur. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag.

Location: Þingeyri in Dýrafjörður

Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. The closest domestic airport is Ísafjörður.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Beautifying towns and coastline areas in the Eastfjords of Iceland
Fjarðabyggð          July 18 - July 31, 2011
Fjarðabyggð          July 30 - August 12, 2011
Fjarðabyggð          August 11 - August 24, 2011
Fjarðabyggð          August 23 - September 5, 2011
Fjarðabyggð          September 4 - September 18, 2011
Fjarðabyggð          September 17 - September 30, 2011

Volunteer project: “Fjarðabyggð" is an association of villages in the Eastfjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, Mjóifjörður, Neskaupstaður, Reyðarfjörður and Stöðvarfjörður, all tiny fishing villages with steep mountains towering just behind the houses. In this area, you will see some of the features that make Iceland a unique place in the world: spectacular fjords with a rich sea life, a great variety of birdlife, and countless breathtaking hiking paths. You will explore the area during your stay in the east. Our tasks will depend on the general situation in Fjarðabyggð, the site of the project.

Most of the work will consist of cleaning and beautifying the towns and the surrounding area. We will also clean the coastline, plant trees and build hiking paths. Our tasks will also depend on the weather conditions and that’s why we have to be flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time.

Language: English

Leisure time: Free access to the local swimming pool, great hiking places.

Accommodation: In a community center offering basic facilities. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will have access to showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre.

Location: Fjarðabyggð, Eastfjords

Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. The closest national airport is Egilsstaðir airport which is 40 km away from the project site.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 120 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Help preparing and running the most popular Icelandic festival on Westman Islands
Heimaey, Westman Islands July 22 - August 5, 2011

Volunteer project: This is the 7th time that we host this project and it has been one of the highlights each year.
The Westman Islands consist of a group of fifteen islands which are situated at a short distance off the south coast of Iceland. They are so named because the Nordic settlers in the country called the Irish, after which the islands are named, "westmen" (=the men from the west). All the islands have been created in submarine volcanic eruptions during comparatively recent geological time. The colourful town, the beautiful bird-cliffs, the new lava and volcano and the landscape in general give the islands a scenic interest as varied in character as any in the country. Heimaey is the largest and only inhabited island in the group and is Iceland's longest off shore island with an area of 13,4 sq.km. Fishing and fish processing and subsidiary trades are the main source of income. Heimaey is sheltered to the north by low mountains and the imposing bird-life Heimaklettur, which protects the narrow cove at the end of which the harbour lies.

On the first weekend of August, Icelanders celebrate the 1874 grant of Icelandic sovereignty with a huge festival in the town of Heimaey. The population moves into a tent city in the Herjolfsdalur, a short distance west of town, for an extended weekend of bonfires, dance, and song. This festival is the most popular one in Iceland.

The volunteers will help with the preparation of the festival, helping to run it and of course taking part in it and afterwards help to clean the area.

Language: English

Leisure time: Free access to the local swimming pool. Excursion or a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner.

Accommodation: In the community and sport center of Heimaey offering basic facilities. Participants are asked to bring their own warm sleeping bag.

Location: Heimaey, Westman Islands

Terminal: International Airport in Reykjavík - Keflavík (KEF).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

click here to view the current openings in Iceland

Restoration of the cultural and historical heritage in the Western Fjords
Brjánslæk July 28 - August 11, 2011

Volunteer project: The volunteers will be working in a cultural and historical heritage project, assisting in the renovation of an old church. This project will include carpentry work, building fences around the old church, maintaining the area around the church and the old priests’ house.
We might also, if time and weather allows, be assisting in some surfacing work, changing the corrugated iron on a barn.

This project is very ambitious and all former work has been done with the uttermost respect for the past. This is a great opportunity to stay in a remote, historical location doing meaningful work with this small community in the Icelandic Western fjords.

Language: English

Accommodation: We will be hosted in the old Priest’s house, sleeping bag accommodation with mattresses. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

Location: This workcamp takes place in the Icelandic Western Fjords, which are too often missed by visitors due to its distance (real and perceived) from Route 1, the circle road, and from other population centres. The West Fjords are a mass of fjords, mountains and isolated villages on spits of lands surrounded by water and mountains.
The area includes its own glacier, waterfall, the magnificent, remote Hornstrandir and Europe's westernmost point of land at Látrabjarg, in about one hour drive, you will find this gigantic, sheer cliff facing the North Atlantic Ocean. There, millions of birds nest in the cliffs among them puffins, arctic tern, guillemots and other types of birds making Látrabjarg a must for bird watchers.

Close to the site you will find ruins from one of the first settlers and the area is surrounded by mountains and sea with beautiful sand beaches that offer endless opportunities to enjoy nature and wilderness during all seasons.

The vicinity offers a variety of interesting places to explore; hiking and mountain climbing are popular. The sheer beauty of the region attracts many people and tourism has started to play an increasing role recently. The distance from Reykjavik is about 5 hours drive by the Whale Bay tunnel.

It is perhaps one of Iceland's most remote areas. In the West fjords one travels through the whole range of Icelandic flora from the shore and meadows, through birch and willow, to mossy moors. On a stroll amidst the driftwood on the shore one can see birds and seals and then an occasional arctic fox around the deserted farmsteads.

Terminal: Closest International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 180 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Iceland by Bike
Iceland August 2 - August 14, 2011
Iceland August 13 - August 25, 2011

Volunteer project: The international volunteer project is organized in cooperation with a local NGO promoting cycling and healthy lifestyles. We will cycle between different municipalities and meet with locals, cyclists, youth centres, organisations and other interested people to discuss the issues of cycling, healthy and sustainable lifestyle. We would like to have gatherings with the locals where we can exchange and share with them. Our presentations can be in the form of theatre, using audiovisual resources, round tables, etc. It will mostly depend on the availability of a venue and our own creativity. During the visits, we aim at getting in touch with the locals, share with them, discussing about cycling as an alternative to transportation, recreation and sustainable lifestyle. We will stay two nights in each municipality as that will give us reasonable time to meet the locals, have our meeting(s) and plan the future project with each partner.

Participants do not have to be experienced cyclists; the cycling requires reasonable physical condition but each trip is meant to be a leisure activity in a nice environment.

Promoting sports activities, healthy and sustainable lifestyles to Icelanders and others is the main target of the project; to encourage them to use the bicycle as a mean of transportation and a daily part of their lives. Apart from promoting public health through outdoor activities, this will gather people of all ages in a fun and educating experience.
In some of the locations, we may volunteer in specific projects identified by our local partners.

Study theme: This project has an educational/awareness-rising approach, promoting outdoors, sports activities, healthy and sustainable lifestyles.

Special requirements: Volunteers should be motivated to work with people in matters related to cycling and outdoor activities. Bicycles will be provided but we encourage those who can bring their own to do so.

We are looking for volunteers with passion & commitment, with gifts of all kinds –creativity, positivity, endless energy, humour, logistics, or general helpfulness. The more diverse a group we are, the more we can accomplish, the stronger our message, and the more we learn from each other.

Being an experienced cyclist is not a requirement!

Language: English

Accommodation: We will travel between five to six different towns during the project. The accommodation will depend on each municipality’s facilities. It may be sleeping bag accommodation or sometimes we may sleep outdoors in tents at the local camp site. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

Location: This project is unique as we will have the chance to visit different municipalities so it is a great opportunity for us to travel and see different parts of the country. Each town of the country has its own charm, specialty and history.

The first and last night we will stay in Reykjavík, the capital, which is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers.

Terminal: Closest International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 180 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

International Photo Marathon in Reykjavik
Reykjavik August 9 - August 21, 2011

Volunteer project: A photo marathon is a competition, where photographers are given certain topics to interpret within a time limit. This is a socio-cultural event that aims to promote the art of photography and bring together people with all kind of background and knowledge in that field. Anyone interested in photography can take part - beginners and experienced photographers alike. Following the photo Marathon, an exhibition will be organized.

This Photo Marathon will take place 14th of August and the exhibition will be open during the Cultural Night of Reykjavik on the 20th of August, which has become an essential part of cultural life in Iceland with thousands of people strolling down the streets of the city on this exciting and eventful night. Cultural Night offers a chance to enjoy a variety of activities ranging from traditional shows and exhibitions to more unusual happenings. A number of cultural institutions such as galleries, ateliers, shops, cafes, churches, restaurants and bars in downtown Reykjavik stay open until late. The immensely popular Reykjavik Marathon takes place on the same day.

We will help with the preparation of the Photo Marathon, hand out brochures and posters and help with the promotion of the activities. We will then help the participants during the Marathon and afterwards prepare the photo exhibition. A brief introduction to photography will be offered to the volunteers, where they will have an opportunity to improve their skills in capturing their memories in an unforgettable way. Please note that the group leader is not a professional photographer.

Language: English

Location: Reykjavik

Terminal: Reykjavík - Keflavík

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

click here to view the current openings in Iceland

Help organizing the local festival "Danish days" in Stykkisholmur
Stykkishólmur August 10 - August 22, 2011

Volunteer project: The beautiful town of Stykkishólmur is situated in the western part of Iceland, to the north of the Snæfellsnes peninsula. With its 1,240 inhabitants, it is a centre of services and commerce for the area. Most of the people make their living from fishing and tourism. A ferry goes over the Breiðafjörður to the West Fjords. The village features picturesque old houses, the oldest of which, the Norwegian House, is a folk museum, where exhibitions are frequently held. The new church at Borg is worth a visit. Concerts are given there every fortnight during summer. The Snæfellsnes peninsula and Breiðafjörður bay are renowned for their natural beauty and remarkable wildlife. There are several pleasant hikes to be made within the Stykkishólmur area. A walk along Súgandisey by the harbour will reveal a unique panoramic view. During the time of the project, the festival “Danish Days” will take place in Stykkishólmur.

We will help the organizers of the festival to carry out many tasks, such as preparing the stages and venues before and after the concerts, helping with festival security which is a very important task, cleaning up the town during and after the festival, etc. It is possible that we will also do some environmental work before or/and after the festival in cooperation with the local community.

Language: English

Leisure time: Reasonably priced weekend excursions will be organized to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
The volunteers will have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pool in Stykkisholmur. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture.

Accommodation: We will be hosted in a house owned by the local community. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag

Location: Stykkishólmur

Terminal: International Airport Keflavík (KEF) Reykjavík.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 180 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Blueberry festival and fundraiser to help kids in Colombia
Western fjords August 16 - August 29, 2011

Volunteer project: The “Western fjords” are situated in the Northwest part of Iceland, reaching out almost to Greenland – therefore the most westerly part of Europe. The landscape here is majestic, with fjord after fjord, towering above shore and sea, each and every fjord has its own distinctive character and tiny fishing villages nestle at their foot. It is an ideal place for hikers and all nature lovers, in summer and winter alike. Seals bask on the rocks, huge colonies of seabirds are seen and the king of the skies, the white-tailed eagle may be watching over.
Isafjörður is the principal town of the Westfjords peninsula, in the North-West corner of Iceland. The municipality, which also includes the villages Hnifsdalur, Sudureyri, Flateyri and Thingeyri, has around 4.000 inhabitants. The community stretches over 2400 square kilometres, from the beautiful waterfall Dynjandi in the south, to the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve in the north, where, amongst other things, one can find the famous cliff Hornbjarg which is one of the largest colonies for seabirds in the North Atlantic.

Our main activity is to collect all kind of herbs, plants and berries in the Western fjords. We will also have some guidance from our hosts in Nupur about different ways to make delicious food with herbs and berries from the area. In the end of the workcamp, we will sell the food that we've collected and the income will be used to help the children in Tierra Bomba to get a better life. Tierra Bomba is a small island in Colombia where international volunteer projects are also organized.

We will also participate in the International Blueberry festival in Súðavík which is a small village near to Isafjordur.

Language: English

Leisure time: Excursion or a boat trip and free time activities will be arranged for the group. The volunteers will have a free access to the local swimming pools.

Accommodation: We will stay in one of the buildings in hotel Nupur which is an old boarding school in Dyrafjordur. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. Please note that this is a remote area and that the next village is 23 km away from the place.

Location: Western fjords

Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. The closest domestic airport is Ísafjörður.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Environmental activities in the Fjord of the Eagles
Arnarfjörður August 18 - September 1, 2011
Arnarfjörður August 31 - September 14, 2011

Volunteer project: The volunteers will be working on few different projects, mainly collecting wild berries and gathering the ingredients as Icelanders used to cater themselves some decades ago when the country and this region in particular were very isolated and transport of “foreign” goods and products was almost non-existent.

Our local host and few groups of international volunteers have been counting, registering and following up the growth of the local flora. We will continue counting and registering information regarding the plants and trees that grow in the area.

Other tasks might include maintaining hiking trails and pathways in the area of Langibotn and putting up signs and descriptive information charts for the trails.
We might also take part in a media project which may include photography and filmmaking.

Language: English

Leisure time: The volunteers will be invited for a boat-sightseeing trip in the area and to catch fish from the ocean. Places of extreme beauty with countless opportunities to discover them by foot or to hike.

Accommodation: The group will be hosted in a local house in Bíldudalur; bringing sleeping bag is necessary.

Location: Perhaps one of Iceland's most remote areas, the Fjord of the Eagles, Arnarfjörður, is located in the West fjords at 65º north of the Equator, close to the northern most part of the country and in the area is the western-most point of Iceland and Europe, Látrabjarg. The distance from Reykjavik is 475 km (7 hours drive) by the Whale Bay tunnel.

Bíldudalur is a small sea-side village, built on the slopes between mountain and sea, on a spectacular fjord inlet, famed for its beautiful landscape and good weather. The summers are often very warm and sunny with gentle breezes, conditions which are hospitable for fishing, swimming, hiking and a variety of other activities. The vicinity offers a variety of interesting places to explore and hiking and mountain climbing are popular. The sheer beauty of the region attracts people and tourism has started to play an increasing role recently.

The main trades in Bíldudalur are/were fishing and fish processing. However, during the last years and due to the introduction of the quota system in the Icelandic fishing sector, the town lost its share in the fishing amounts to be caught and this has strongly hit the economy and living situation in the area.

Langibotn is one of the places where the story of Gísli Súrsson took place, which is one of the most famous Icelandic sagas; a classic outlaw saga that is centered on the internal struggles of Gísli, a 10th century settler who ends up outlawed - that is, being declared a person who could be legally killed by anyone finding him - after he avenges the death of his blood brother.

The area includes its own glacier, the magnificent, remote Hornstrandir and Europe's westernmost point of land at Látrabjarg, where millions of birds nest making it a must for bird watchers.

Terminal: Closest International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 180 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

click here to view the current openings in Iceland

Preserving the natural environment and historic heritage in the old herring village Djupavik
Djúpavík August 21 - September 4, 2011

Volunteer project: Volunteers will be working on various projects in and around Djúpavík, which is a small village in the North-West of Iceland.
Among the main tasks will be to build and maintain hiking trails and walking paths in the area, as well as putting up sticks and signs to mark them. Other tasks will also include taking down old farming fences which have now become danger hazard instead of marking division of properties and land.

In Djúpavík there is an old abandoned herring factory which needs to be maintained. The main task this year will be to clean its rooftops. The building is used now by artists and to host diverse cultural events. Furthermore, volunteers will be cleaning the coastline between Djúpavíkurkleif and Stekkjarnes. And finally, if time allows, volunteers will be helping locals doing some gardening work.

Language: English

Leisure time: Excursions are planned for the volunteers, kayak trips in the fjord and a visit to the area and pool in Krossnes, among other recreation activities.

Accommodation: Volunteers will be hosted in a local summer house, sleeping on bunk beds in shared rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

Location: Djúpavík is located at the head of Reykjarfjörður on the Strandir coast in the Westfjords region (Vestfirðir), in the municipality of Árneshreppur. Perhaps one of Iceland's most remote areas, it is a sheltered bay in a remote region, largely untouched by modern developments where silence reigns and nature continues to shape a rugged, mountainous landscape. The distance from the capital is around 360 km.

You can hardly get further away from the bustle of the towns to enjoy life in the beautiful and peaceful landscapes of this remote area. The bay Djúpavík is among the least frequented parts of the country. The roads up there are only open during the few months of the short summer. It is one of the remotest corners of Europe, where the coastline is covered with vast expanses of driftwood that originated on the other side of the Arctic Ocean, in Russian Siberia. The region is stunningly beautiful and somewhere to really experience Iceland’s wildness.

There has been small farming communities in the district for hundreds of years, but the story of Djúpavík really began in 1915, when Elías Stefánsson started a herring salting station that worked until 1919 when he went bankrupt. Then a herring factory built in 1934 changed the lives of the people for a few years until the last big catches were landed about 20 years later.

Djúpavík is dominated by the huge ruins of its old herring factory and the rusting shipwreck of the 100-year-old former passenger and cargo ship Suðurland. When the herring industry was at its height in the mid-1940s, hundreds lived in this remote location, women salting the fish, men turning the remains into animal meal and oil. The factory went bankrupt in 1954 following a disastrous collapse in fish catches, but the huge costs involved in demolishing the building – once the largest concrete structure in Europe – means that its huge shell remains, reminiscent of a Hollywood set.

Few years ago, world-famous Icelandic band Sigur Rós held a small number of concerts in Iceland. The venues were specially chosen, and the old herring factory in Djúpavík was one of them.

Terminal: Closest International Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 180 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Clean up the coastline of Iceland
around Iceland          August 21 - September 3, 2011
around Iceland          August 28 - September 10, 2011
around Iceland          September 4 - September 17, 2011

Volunteer project: Do you want to travel around Iceland and at the same time participate in two very important projects?
The volunteers will participate in the “Clean Up the Coastline” project. We have for the last four years been cleaning the coastline of Iceland and we will continue that work for the next four years. A part of this is to locate all items on the coastline which are too big to move by hand. The volunteers are going to travel around the North and East part of the island, they will locate the items with GPS positioning system, measure them and estimate the weight and make photos as well. The information will be put into an electronic map on a website.

The other project is to collect berries, plants and herbs that will be used in a fundraising campaign to support children in Tierra Bomba which is a small island in the North coast of Colombia.

For the first week, the group will stay in the capital area. During that week, the volunteers will get information about the tasks and will participate in the fundraising project. Than they will travel around the North for another week.
Please note that we will drive more than 1.500 km during the project and we will drive the Nr 1 road in Iceland which goes around the island. During the trip we will also visit some of the most beautiful places in Iceland.

The volunteers will do a survey for monitoring of marine litter in several places on the coastline. We will clean certain areas (position recorded by GPS on our map) in different parts of Iceland and collect all the trash on the beach and classify it in a standard form. We will also make photos of the coastline.
This project provides us the standard methodology needed to produce some serious data. At the end, we will create a scientific data useful to know more about the pollution in the oceans and on the coastline.
The marine area around Iceland is regarded as one of the cleanest of the world. Nevertheless, marine litter such as persistent organic pollutants, heavy metals or hydrocarbons is constantly contaminating Iceland‘s shore. A large-scale surface of the Icelandic coastline is concerned by this pollution and some beaches are even fully covered by trash, mainly caused by poorly managed landfills close by.

Special requirements: Volunteers with good computer skills, interested in scientific work and/or photographing are very much welcome to this project. Volunteers who like outdoor work are also encouraged to apply.

Language: English

Leisure time: We will do some hikes in different areas in Iceland. In some places we will have free entrance to the swimming pools. This project is "on the move", so we will travel a lot and see many beautiful places.

Accommodation: The group will be stay in a house in Reykjavik which is near to the University area, 5 minute walk from the geothermal beach and 25 minutes walking distance from the city center. During the travel, we will stay in the accommodation of our workcamps where possible. In some places we might stay in tents which will be provided.

Location: Iceland

Terminal: International Airport Reykjavík - Keflavík (KEF)

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 220 Euros - travel around Iceland included

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Organic farming in the Icelandic north-east
Fljótsdalshérað August 28 - September 11, 2011
Fljótsdalshérað September 10 - September 24, 2011

Volunteer project: The volunteers will be working at one of the few organic farms in Iceland, located in the East of the country. Our main tasks will be to harvest (by hand) vegetables, mainly potatoes, beats, beetroots and lettuce. Alongside the harvesting tasks, we will clean the vegetables and make them ready for the consumers in the Icelandic market. Around the farm there is a young forest that can be maintained and cleaned in case the harvesting jobs are done.
We will also be doing some berry picking and other things the host needs assistance with.

Volunteers need motivation to work mainly outdoors on physical jobs and under changeable weather conditions. We will be provided with good waterproof overalls and gloves for the work.

Language: English

Leisure time: Free time activities will be organized for the volunteers such as day trips and excursions in the area.

Accommodation: We will be hosted in a local house; sleeping on beds or mattresses in several rooms, shared by 2-4 volunteers each. Please bring your own sleeping bag. All facilities like showers and a washing machine are available.
Please, keep in mind that during this project, only vegetarian food will be provided, which also means that we will be mainly eating local, organic food from the farm.

Location: The farm, one of the few and large organic farms in Iceland is run with the support of volunteers; who have been helping in the project of organic locally grown crops for the last years. About 20% of the farm is used for cultivation of different crops and the rest of the land is grassland, there is a forest of about one million trees planted there since starting the farm in the 1970s. The two major crops grown are barley and potatoes, and others include parsley, kale, beetroot, lettuce, kohlrabi, carrots and cabbage.

The farm is located in the municipality of Fljótsdalshérað, Iceland's easternmost populous municipality; 16 km from the largest town in the Eastern Iceland - Egilsstaðir (population 2300). Total population is about 3.700 and it is the largest municipality (in area) in the country.

The wild reindeers of Iceland are found in Fljótsdalshérað, they are about ten thousand and also the biggest forest in Iceland, Hallormstaðarskógur is located within the district. The farm is located very close to Lagarfljót, the home of the mythical creature of the Lagarfljót Serpent (Lagarfljótsormur). If you are lucky you might get a glimpse of it and maybe even be able to get a picture of the much sought after serpent.

The East Fjords is a region of a special landscape, dominated by long, narrow fjords and steep mountains. This is one of the oldest regions of Iceland shaped by glaciers in the Ice Age.

Terminal: Closest International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). The closest bus stop and local airport is located in Egilsstaðir (EGS). The harbour for ferries coming from Faroe Islands and Denmark is in Seyðisfjörður, 27 km from Egilsstaðir.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 120 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

click here to view the current openings in Iceland

Like in the old days
Brynjudalur & Reykjavik August 28 - September 9, 2011

Volunteer project: This is a unique project where volunteers will be working in two different locations.

The first part will take part in Brynjudalur, Valley of Brynja, renovating a house made of timber and natural materials. We will help with cutting the wood and forming the house. We may also have the chance to cut down and make the tiles for the roof and install them on top of the house. We will assist with the sorting out and cleaning of wood pieces for flooring.
We will also help building a rustic fire place and building paths with stone tiles. If weather and time allow, we will be offered to travel to different locations, collect drift wood with 1000 year old techniques.
Natural Icelandic materials will be used for the construction: wood, rope, turf, rocks and stones are the primary building materials. We will learn the crafts of the Viking days, using old day tools and techniques; to do rope and wood work and traditional Icelandic rock and turf walling.

The second part we will be at the new volunteers’ base located in the outskirts of Reykjavík. We will be assisting and giving contributions to the future development of international volunteer activities. We will be taking care of the garden of the volunteer centre, painting the house if needed and if weather allows, planting trees, preparing a vegetable garden and tending the lot.

This project offers volunteers an amazing opportunity to learn from and work with an expert in building with traditional techniques, using natural resources and experience first-hand a way of living that is long gone.

Special requirements: Volunteers need to be motivated to work outdoors and be willing to take part in all the diverse activities during the project.

Language: English

Leisure time: Free time activities will be organized in the area for the volunteers. Extremely beautiful natural surroundings with countless opportunities to hike & discover by foot.

Accommodation: During the first part of the project, we will sleep in a big “Indian” tent on the project site. The food provided will be traditional Icelandic food, Icelandic lamb, fish, and root vegetables among other more modern products which we will cook on an open fire. Food will be kept cold in the river and we will wash ourselves with cloths and water either straight from the river or with water heated on the fire. (Remember that the idea of the project is to experience what life was like in the old days!) A travel-toilet will be set up in a private location.
In the second part of the project we will stay in the volunteers centre in Reykjavík, a fully equipped house with showers and washing machines; sleeping in shared rooms.

Location: The workcamp will take place in the Brynjudalur valley, about 80 km from the capital. The valley is extremely beautiful, with many plants and trees, surrounded by high mountains on both sides. Many small canyons, streams and waterfalls and it is a popular place for hikers to visit. Along the valley runs the river Brynjudalsá which starts in Sandvatn.
Part of the project will take place in the outskirts of Reykjavík, in the hills of Wolves’ Mountain, far enough from the city to be able to enjoy the quality of the country life, pure air, nature & tranquility, but close enough to be able to visit the capital once or twice during the project.

Terminal: Closest international Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 180 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Asian days in Reykjavik
Reykjavik September 6 - September 18, 2011

Volunteer project: One of the most important aims of this volunteer project is to promote intercultural understanding. Iceland is getting more and more intercultural and nowadays you can find people from all over the world in Reykjavik. We would like to involve foreign nationals living in Iceland to give them an opportunity to promote the culture of their origin in the local society.
We will help with the preparation and running of cultural activities together with Asian people living in Iceland. We will also have some workshops and debates related to art and culture.

During the project, the volunteers and the work will be focused on Asia by having workshops on Asian music and dances. We will also involve Asian people living in Reykjavik in order to facilitate to the participants the opportunity to learn about Asian cuisine, get to know them and make video forums with movies that reflect very well the situation in the continent today in order to create debates concerning different issues. At the end of the project, we will organize a little "Asian festival" in downtown Reykjavik where we will show the outcomes of the workshops, a performance of dances and music as well food, photos, and reflections about the situation in Asia today and how young people must act in order to improve the current situation.

Language: English

Location: Reykjavik

Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Reykjavik International Film Festival
Reykjavik September 20 - October 4, 2011

Volunteer project: The international volunteers will help the organizers of the Reykjavík International Film Festival with different tasks before and during the festival. Our group will work closely with the team of Icelandic volunteers who are in most cases students of the Universities in Reykjavik.

We will put up posters and hand out leaflets and brochures around the city before the festival starts; some of the volunteers might be asked to pick up international guests at the airport. During the festival we will sell entrance tickets and festival passes, setup the venues before and after the movies and control the entrance if needed. There might be other tasks to be done and we will have to be flexible and willing to give a helping hand whenever necessary.

The festival is one of the most important cultural events in Reykjavik and the work of the volunteers is a crucial contribution to the event. It is interesting for the volunteers to be part of this international project and have the opportunity to experience its amazing atmosphere.

Language: English

Location: Reykjavik

Terminal: International airport Keflavik (KEF), Reykjavík

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

click here to view the current openings in Iceland

Iceland airwaves music festival
Reykjavik October 7 - October 17, 2011

Volunteer project: Iceland Airwaves is an annual music event that started out in 1999 as a talent show for foreign record executives. Since then, Airwaves has grown and blossomed and is now an integral part of the cultural life in Reykjavík. The fruits of the festival's labour have been ripening and today many Icelandic artists such as Quarashi, Minus, Sigur Ros, Apparat Organ Quartet, Trabant, Leaves and others have made their way to the International music scene.
Airwaves festival attracts approximately 2.000 people annually from abroad (more than half from the music industry). Visitors come to sample the fresh sounds, or in search of new talents, others seeking inspiration or simply on a quest for adventure on the Arctic Circle.

We will help the organizers of the festival to carry out many tasks, such as preparing the venues before and after the concerts, helping with festival security etc. Before and after the festival we will help Reykjavik environmental department maintaining the green areas in Reykjavik.

Language: English

Accommodation: The volunteers stay in one of several shared houses offering basic sleeping and cooking facilities in the heart of historical downtown Reykjavik. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag and towels, but mattresses and bed linens are provided. Wireless internet access is provided free of charge, and volunteers also have free access to shared desktop computers in communal areas. The accommodation in Reykjavik is located within short walking distance of many urban amenities, including: banks, pharmacies, supermarkets, public swimming pools, restaurants, cafes, libraries, theaters, shops, museums, and bus stations.

Location: Reykjavik

Terminal: International airport Keflavik (KEF), Reykjavík

Age range: 18 - 35 years old

Extra fee: 150 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

The Icelandic experience: language, culture and traditions
Reykjavik October 10 - October 21, 2011

Volunteer project: The volunteers in this project will be part of voluntary service combined with non-formal learning activities bringing to the participants knowledge and practical skills on few different Icelandic traditions in the fields of language, gastronomy, folk culture and handcrafts.
Project coordinators (enthusiastic Icelanders) will have prepared lessons on different topics such as:
   - Language: Basics of the Icelandic language, its history and basic conversation
   - Gastronomy: Cooking lessons on how to prepare some typical Icelandic dishes.
   - Folk culture: Guest speakers on folk tales and Icelandic history
   - Handcrafts: Icelandic knitting, how to make your own huts, gloves, scarves & “lopapeysur”
The coordinators will conduct the sessions and take the volunteers to places related to the different topics. The sessions will be interactive. Ingredients for the cooking will be provided, while materials for the knitting lessons (e.g. wool, knitting needles) will be brought/bought by the volunteers themselves according to taste and items to knit.

The group will also work on a new volunteers’ base in the outskirts of Reykjavík where we will be partly staying. We will be assisting and giving contributions to the future development of the volunteer base and its activities (painting the house and possibly tending the lot, all depending on weather conditions).

We may work with the city of Reykjavík on trying to keep the city and its public areas lively and charming for locals and guests. Tasks may involve painting to cover graffiti tags, tiding up public spaces, working in the green areas and preparing the city for the winter.

This project combines different tasks in Reykjavík and its surroundings ensuring diversity and various experiences for participating volunteers.

Language: English

Leisure time: Tours and excursions (Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon or South Shore) will be arranged for the volunteers at discount fares.

Accommodation: The volunteers will stay in two different volunteer bases, both fully equipped houses; sleeping in shared rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

Location: The project will take place in the city centre and also in the outskirts of Reykjavík. Reykjavík is the capital of Iceland, often called “the nightlife capital of the north”. It is an international city with a lively cosmopolitan cultural scene. The world’s northernmost capital bridges the Atlantic, between Europe and North America.

In October, you are likely to see the Northern lights (Aurora Borealis) in Iceland. In the area within 100 km from Reykjavík, there are several spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastline and the well-known geothermal Blue Lagoon spa to visit.

Part of the time the group will stay in the hills of Úlfarsfell, or Mountain of Wolves. The location is far enough from the city to be able to enjoy the quality of the country life, pure air, nature and tranquillity but close enough to the capital.

Terminal: International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 160 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Learn the craft of camera shooting and acting
Reykjavik October 10 - October 21, 2011

Volunteer project: In this project we want to take our successful photo marathons a step further and combine theatre & camera work. The main objective of the project is to improve the volunteers’ skills in front and behind the camera. The main work done will be photography and acting training. Volunteers shall be prepared for flexible time schedule (morning acting sessions, night photographing).
The project coordinators will prepare different topics on which the participants will base their entries. The topics will be mostly related to Environment and Intercultural understanding.
Participants need to take their own digital cameras and the main work will be done taking photographs / videos as well as acting training. The final works of the participants will be exhibited.

This project combines different tasks in Reykjavík and its surroundings ensuring diversity and various experiences for participating volunteers.

Language: English

Leisure time: Tours and excursions (Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon or South Shore) will be arranged for the volunteers at discount fares.

Accommodation: The volunteers will stay in two different volunteer bases, both fully equipped houses; sleeping in shared rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

Location: The project will take place in the city centre and also in the outskirts of Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, often called “the nightlife capital of the north”. But there is more to Reykjavík than pubs and clubs. Reykjavík also gathers the most interesting of Icelandic culture. It is an incubator of new ideas and styles which often indicate new global trends. It is an international city with a lively cosmopolitan cultural scene.
The population of the city is over 200,000 including the metropolitan area, so two thirds of Iceland’s inhabitants live here. It is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers.

Terminal: International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 160 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

click here to view the current openings in Iceland

Photo Marathon in Reykjavik
Reykjavik October 24 - November 4, 2011
Reykjavik November 7 - November 18, 2011

Volunteer project: This is the fourth year that series of International Photo marathons are organized! Last years’ were very successful and we want to continue organising this project! Our main objective is to deliver messages and draw the attention of the local population through pictures and photos made during the project.
The coordinators will prepare different topics on which the participants will base their entries. The topics will be mostly related to Environment and Intercultural understanding.

Participants need to bring their own digital cameras. The main work will involve taking photographs on the given issues. The best pictures will be selected for a final exhibit. The last part of the project will be putting up the exhibition.
Volunteers shall be prepared for walking/cycling, flexible time schedule (early morning photo sessions, night photographing).

Volunteers’ additional work will be at a new volunteer base located in the outskirts of Reykjavík. We will be assisting and contributing to the future development of the base and its volunteer activities. We will help with taking care of the garden in the volunteer centre, painting the house if needed and, if weather allows, working at the garden and tending the lot.

Volunteers may work with the city of Reykjavík; trying to keep the city and its public areas lively. Tasks may involve painting to cover graffiti tags, tiding up public spaces and face-lifting the city.

Language: English

Leisure time: Tours and excursions (Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon or South Shore) will be arranged for the volunteers at discount fares.

Accommodation: The volunteers will stay in two different volunteer bases, both fully equipped houses; sleeping in shared rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

At this time of the year, you are likely to see the Northern lights (Aurora Borealis) in Iceland. In the area within 100 km from Reykjavík, there are several spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastline and the well-known geothermal Blue Lagoon spa to visit.

Terminal: International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 180 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Christmas food distribution project in Reykjavik
Reykjavik November 24 - December 6, 2011
Reykjavik December 9 - December 24, 2011

Volunteer project: In December the city gets busy with people preparing for Christmas. In this time of the year many families struggle to make ends meet and need to reach out for support of any kind.
The Red Cross organises food donations to them and we will assist them during this busy time. The tasks will be to prepare the warehouse for the food-donation-station, put food packages together, organise and classify the food in stock, give the food to the people among other related tasks.

Volunteers will also join the festive atmosphere during some days by handing out hot chocolate in the city centre as a way of fundraising for non-for-profit projects.
We will help in the preparation by putting up the chocolate stations, decorating the tables, making the chocolate and taking it to the different stations around the city. At the end, we will assist in taking down the stations and leaving the areas clean.

Volunteers with artistic skills, such as singing, juggling, playing music are encouraged to apply for this project as they will have the chance to perform during the chocolate hand-out and help to create a nice and friendly atmosphere.

Language: English

Leisure time: Tours and excursions (Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon or South Shore) will be arranged for the volunteers at discount fares.

Accommodation: We will stay in a fully equipped house in Reykjavík; sleeping in shared rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

Location: Reykjavík is the capital of Iceland, often called “the nightlife capital of the north”. But there is more to Reykjavík than pubs and clubs. Reykjavík also gathers the most interesting of Icelandic culture. It is an incubator of new ideas and styles which often indicates new global trends. It is an International city with a lively Cosmopolitan cultural scene.
The world’s northernmost capital bridges the Atlantic, between Europe and North America. Reykjavík is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides.
The population of the city is over 200,000 including the metropolitan area, so two thirds of Iceland’s inhabitants live here. It is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers.
In December the city is lighten up with Christmas lights in “every window”. During this month the chances to see spectacular Northern lights (aurora borealis) are very high. The warm geothermal swimming pools offer a great way of relaxation; dipping into a hot pot, surrounded by snow and stars shining above is an experience not to miss.
In the area within 100 km from Reykjavík, there are several spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastline and the well-known geothermal Blue Lagoon spa to visit.

Terminal: Closest International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 180 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Photo Marathon in Iceland
Reykjavik November 24 - December 6, 2011
Reykjavik December 9 - December 24, 2011

Language: English

Leisure time: Tours and excursions (Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon or South Shore) will be arranged for the volunteers at discount fares.

Accommodation: The volunteers will stay in a fully equipped house; sleeping in shared rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

Location: The project will take place in the outskirts of Reykjavík, in the hills of Mountain of Wolfs. The location is far enough from the city to be able to enjoy the quality of the country life, pure air, nature and tranquillity, but close enough to be able to visit the capital once or twice.

Reykjavík is the capital of Iceland, often called “the nightlife capital of the north”. But there is more to Reykjavík than pubs and clubs. Reykjavík also gathers the most interesting of Icelandic culture. It is an incubator of new ideas and styles which often indicate new global trends. It is an international city with a lively cosmopolitan cultural scene.
The population of the city is over 200,000 including the metropolitan area, so two thirds of Iceland’s inhabitants live here. It is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers.

Terminal: International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 180 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

Christmas and New Year at a volunteer center in Reykjavik
Reykjavik December 19, 2011 - January 1, 2012

Volunteer project: We will live together and create a cosy atmosphere in the area of the volunteer and cultural centre in Reykjavik by putting up lights and Christmas decorations. The main idea of this project is to celebrate Christmas together and to promote peace and friendship among the group through intercultural learning and exchange. We will learn Christmas songs from all over the world from each other and weather permitting will sing in the streets of Reykjavik and other public places in town as a sign of peace and multiculturalism. For New Year’s Eve we will organize a little party for the volunteers and we will enjoy Reykjavik´s spectacular fireworks in front of the cathedral. We will also arrange a visit to the ‘Imagine Peace Tower’ which was designed by Yoko Ono in memory of John Lennon. The tower is made-up of 15 large searchlights surrounded by a number of prisms that act like mirrors, reflecting the light vertically into the sky, usually reaching an altitude of at least 4000 meters. Over half a million written wishes that people from all over the world have sent to Yoko Ono as part of her ‘Wish Trees’ project are buried underneath the tower.

Language: English

In this time of the year when conditions are favorable you can see the Northern lights (Aurora borealis) glowing curtain of greenish yellow lights, dancing in the distance to a spectacular, multicolored fusion stretching across the sky.

Location: Reykjavik

Terminal: Reykjavík - Keflavík.

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 180 Euros

The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.

archive of previous year, click here

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