Volunteer opportunities in ICELAND

Art workshops and renovation activities in Reykjavik
Reykjavik          January 24 - February 5, 2012
Reykjavik          February 7 - February 19, 2012
Reykjavik          February 21 - March 4, 2012
Reykjavik          March 6 - March 18, 2012
Reykjavik          April 17 - April 29, 2012

Volunteer project: The Art and Renovation project in Reykjavik has two major activities. The volunteers will help renovating houses in downtown Reykjavik so that they can be used to host intercultural workshops. During the project, the volunteers will paint, move furniture, and work on the renovation of the houses. The volunteers will also participate in art, music or visual art workshops. If you are interested in art or renovation, you will have a very good time in this volunteer project.

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, geysers, 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: 150 Euro

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

 

Forestry and gardening activities in the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic in Hveragerdi
Hveragerði          January 30 - February 13, 2012
Hveragerði          February 13 - March 27, 2012
Hveragerði          February 27 - March 12, 2012
Hveragerði          March 12 - March 26, 2012
Hveragerði          March 26 - April 9, 2012
Hveragerði          April 9 - April 23, 2012
Hveragerði          April 23 - May 7, 2012
Hveragerði          May 7 - May 21, 2012

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. 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 Euro

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

 

The power of the runes
Reykjavik          February 7 - February 19, 2012
Reykjavik          March 6 - March 18, 2012
Reykjavik          May 1 - May 13, 2012

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

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, geysers, 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: Reykjavík

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

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 180 Euro

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

 

 

 

Introducing different cultures to kindergarten children
Reykjavik          February 21 - March 4, 2012

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.

The 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

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, geysers, 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: 150 Euro

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

 

International photo marathon in Iceland
Reykjavik          March 5 - March 16, 2012
Reykjavik          March 19 - March 30, 2012
Reykjavik          April 2 - April 13, 2012
Reykjavik          April 16 - April 28, 2012

Volunteer project: This is the fifth 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 setting up the centre for the summer and, if weather allows, preparing the garden in the volunteer centre and painting the house where needed.

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 accommodations, 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”. 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 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. Reykjavík is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers.

March is the last month when you can see, with a piece of good luck, 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 the 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 tranquility, yet close enough to the capital.

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

Age range: 16 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euro

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

 

Support the organisation of Iceland’s most important design event
Reykjavik          March 15 - March 28, 2012

Volunteer project: This particular project will combine different tasks within Reykjavík city with different partners, which ensures diverse daily tasks and various experiences at once for the international volunteers.

The main task of the project is to give support to DesignMarch 2012, which takes place on the weekend of March 22nd -25th, where volunteers will assist in various tasks connected to the artistic events and supporting the organisers.
Possible tasks may include handing out invitation letters, sorting out information in the office, receiving guests at the airport, driving them and running errands for the festival. In some instances volunteers might get the chance to help artists to put up their exhibitions.

DesignMarch is a four day feast for designers, artists, those with an interest in design, the public and tourists alike. The first three DesignMarch programmes 2009-2011, were splendid and diverse, with events reflecting a wide range of design.

Other tasks during the workcamp may include work on the house where we will stay, which is run as a volunteer base and most of the maintenance and renovation is in the hands of volunteers.
We might also assist in the city to keep the public areas lively, attractive, interesting and charming for both the locals and the guests of the city, and participate in local events and happenings.

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 in Reykjavík; sleeping in shared rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Equipped kitchen and washing machine are available.

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 indicate 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.

Reykjavík is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers.
March is the last month when you can see, with a piece of good luck, the Northern lights (Aurora Borealis) in Iceland. In the area within 100 km of 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). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 120 Euro

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

 

 

Photography workshop in Reykjavik
Reykjavik          March 20 - April 1, 2012

Volunteer project: The purpose of this project is to involve international volunteers in a group experience where they can improve their communication and visual arts skills by capturing some memories in an unforgettable way using photographs and videos. Volunteers will put into action ideas about photography from capture to finished image. In this project, the volunteers will learn together from each other how to better express their vision and how to digitally edit images to highlight the same qualities that drew them to the scene to begin with. Volunteers will work on different themes, such as landscape, fishermen’s life, light and colour, local lifestyle etc. In the evenings the volunteers will gather together to share photos and the project will culminate in a photo exhibition.

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. The volunteers should also keep in mind that the leaders are not professional photographers.

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 accommodation 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, geysers, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.

About Reykjavik   In Reykjavik you can easily feel the pure energy at the heart of Iceland‘s capital city - whether it springs from the underground boiling thermal energy or radiates from the green scenery surrounding the city. Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, space, clean air, nature, culture - and Reykjavik has them in spades. Reykjavik offers both the features of a modern and innovative society and the marvellous traits of a unique natural landscape. The population of the Reykjavik Area is about 200,000. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula offering a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean from nearly every part of the city. In the summer, you can sit by the harbour at midnight and watch the sun dip slightly below the horizon before it makes its way up again. The world’s northernmost capital is framed by the majestic Mt. Esja, which keeps a watchful eye on the city, and the blue waters of Faxafloi Bay. On a sunny day, the mystical Snaefellsjokull glacier towers over the western horizon, while mountainous moonscapes spread to the southeast.

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 - 40 years old

Extra fee: 150 Euro

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, 2012
Sólheimar          May 6 - May 19, 2012

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: 20 - 45 years old

Extra fee: 150 Euro

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

 

Water, nature and sustainable energy
Fjarðabyggð          April 5 - April 17, 2012
Fjarðabyggð          April 19 - May 1, 2012

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 geysers. 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 and we will spend the first day in the capital. The major part of the project will take place in the Eastern fjords of Iceland. On the second day we will travel through the South all the way to Eskifjörður. During day three and four we will visit several places in the East related to the topic of the workcamp. On the last day, we will travel through the North all the way to Reykjavik. The project will therefore include extensive travel around Iceland to the south, east, and north to visit a variety of different sites. This will involve driving for over 2000 km over five 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.

In Eskifjörður, 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, painting or weeding. 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, geysers, waterfalls, and companies that make major use of water and electricity, such as aluminum smelters.

Study theme: Water, nature and sustainable energy

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.

About Reykjavik   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: In the capital, 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 Eskifjörður, the volunteers will stay in a community building. Volunteers should bring their own warm sleeping bags. Mattresses are provided. During the 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, geysers, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.

Location: Reykjavik & Fjarðabyggð

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

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 250 Euro

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

 

Support the work of the Reykjavik Botanical Garden
Reykjavik          April 29 - May 12, 2012
Reykjavik          May 13 - May 26, 2012

Volunteer project: The volunteer program with the Botanic Garden in Reykjavík is organized for the second year in a row. The Botanic Garden is an outdoor collection of living plants, founded in 1961 and celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2011. The garden's main role is to conserve plants for education, research and delight. It conserves some 5000 plant species in eight plant collections. The collections give an idea of the enormous diversity of vegetation in the northern temperate zone. In summer there is a variety of events in the Botanic Garden and group receptions are available throughout the year.

The volunteers will be doing general gardening work in the garden, tending the flowers, trees and other plants. Volunteers will also assist in organising and carrying out special events that might be planned on short notice but they will all be related to the general aim and work of the garden. The work starts early every week day; working hours are from 7:30 - 15:05, so volunteers have to be motivated to work early in the morning.

Language: English

Leisure time: Tours and excursions will be arranged for the volunteers at discount fares.

Accommodation: The volunteers 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 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. Reykjavík is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers.

Visitors to Reykjavík experience easily the pure energy at the heart of Iceland's capital city - whether from the boiling thermal energy underground, the natural green energy within the city and around it, or the lively culture and fun-filled nightlife.
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.
Reykjavík is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides. In the summer, you can sit by the harbour at midnight and watch the sun dip slightly below the horizon before it makes its way up again.

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

Age range: 22 and over

Extra fee: 140 Euro

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

 

Environmental and renovation activities in the beautiful Heydalur valley
Ísafjarðardjúp          May 4 - May 18, 2012

Volunteer project: The volunteers will continue working on this project, after the excellent results of last years' groups. International volunteers will be working in Ísafjarðardjúp for the 3^rd year in a row. We will be involved in various projects in this remote location in the Icelandic Western fjords. In general, we will be preparing the area before the summer season, when most tourists and hikers visit the district.

The works may involve cleaning, painting and construction work inside and in the surroundings of the camping area, but also planting vegetables or helping in horse stables. The working plan will be very flexible and it will depend on the needs of our local hosts and advance of the diverse projects in the area surrounding the valley.

In the evenings and during the free days, there will be enough time to explore the surroundings, trekking and walking. You will also be able to rest in the natural hot tubs, bathe in the local swimming pool and discover many other surprises of this beautiful place including horseback riding on the unique Icelandic horses and possibly kayaking in the fjords.

Language: English

Leisure time: The project is based in a place of extreme beauty and isolation; natural surroundings with hot springs, free access to enjoy the hot tub and the local swimming pool. Additional free time activities will be organized for the volunteers like horseback riding and kayaking around a seal colony.

Accommodation: Volunteers will be hosted in a local house; sleeping in beds; sleeping bag is not necessary for the period of the project.

Location: The project will take place in the Westfjords in the north-western part of Iceland. The region accounts for 10% of the country’s surface but only about 7200 people live there, so it is one of the least populated areas of Europe. The Westfjords are very mountainous; the coastline is made by dozens of fjords surrounded by steep hills.
The region is bounded by Breiðafjörður in the south, with Gilsfjörður cutting into the land from the west and Bitrufjörður from the east, the two almost severing the ragged peninsula from the main mass of Iceland. The West Fjords are made up of Ísafjarðar-, Barðastrandar-, and Strandir Counties.
In the Westfjords you will be able to explore the whole range of Icelandic flora from the shore and meadows, through birch to mossy moors. One can see birds, seals, whales, and then an occasional arctic fox around the sheep.
Fishing is traditionally the main industry in the region but tourism started to be more and more important as local and foreign visitors are discovering this region in rising numbers.

The project will take place in a valley covered with birch bushes in Mjóifjörður in Ísafjarðardjúp. The distances to the next town and villages are 130 km to Isafjörður and 90 km to Hólmavík. Hiking in this beautiful area is very impressive and observing the coastline walking or kayaking is an inspiring option. Landline phone connection is available, and the place provides a full variety of opportunities for volunteers and visitors.

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

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 140 Euro

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          May 12 - May 26, 2012

Volunteer project: For the third year in a row we offer this unique project that gives international volunteers the opportunity to work on very diverse tasks: assisting in a local Icelandic farm, doing construction, renovation, environmental work and helping with traditional farming. The project takes place in an agricultural area in the South of Iceland which is rich in both culture and history.

The environmental work will consist of collecting drift wood on the beach, cleaning the coastline and the road sides, marking hiking paths, taking care of popular spots which need to be tended before the busy summer season, when most of the travelers visit the area. Volunteers have to be motivated for easy to medium difficult hikes.

We will work on maintaining an old stone sheep gathering corral and assist the reconstruction of turf houses, a potato storage hut and a shelter used to smoke meat and fish. We will have the chance to build, construct houses & other facilities in the way it was done in Iceland for centuries.

The farm work will offer us the opportunity to get to know the Icelandic farm life by milking the cows, working in the stables and assisting with the busy household tasks. We will be part of a family and work hand in hand with them. This is also a busy time in rural Iceland with assisting the sheep giving birth.
We will participate in the birth-process during the day and will be offered to take turns in night-shifts watching over the sheep. The bright nights are magical with almost 24 hours of sunlight and staying awake with the sheep is a unique experience.

Special requirements: Volunteers need to be motivated to work outdoors and be willing to get to know the ways of living in rural areas in Iceland.

Language: English

Leisure time: Countless opportunities to discover the area by foot or to hike the surroundings; area surrounded by stunning waterfalls, mighty glaciers and black sand beaches.

Accommodation: We will stay in shared rooms in a sleeping bag accommodation with access to kitchen and bathroom. Other guests or travelers might be in the house at the same time as it is a guesthouse accommodation. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

Location: 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 beaches form a contrast and offer a wide range of experiences. The project takes place in an active Icelandic farm in south Iceland with 35 cattle, 8 milking cows, 330 sheep, hens, a cat and a puppy, so it gives us a good example of rural living in Iceland.

Apart from traditional farming, the inhabitants are building up a museum, which will weave together history, culture and nature. The farm is on a flat area between Kirkjubæjarklaustur and Vík í Mýrdal and has amazing view to sands, mountains and glaciers in the west and north and to the Atlantic Ocean in the south.
Mýrdalssandur is a sandy area, about 700 km² large, and its mythical appearance has been an inspiration both in traditional folklore and in modern lyrics and stories.

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

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 140 Euro

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

 

Preserving the Eldfell Volcano and fighting soil erosion on the island of Heimaey
Heimaey, Westman Islands          May 13 - May 26, 2012

Volunteer project: The Westman Islands, or Vestmannaeyjar, are without doubt among the most beautiful places in Iceland. They consist of a group of fifteen amazing 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.
The group will also help the locals to clean and beautify the village and surrounding area.

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: 150 Euros

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

 

Environmental and renovation activities in the beautiful Heydalur valley
Ísafjarðardjúp          May 17 - May 31, 2012

Volunteer project: The volunteers will continue working on this project, after the excellent results of last years' groups. International volunteers will be working in Ísafjarðardjúp for the 3^rd year in a row. We will be involved in various projects in this remote location in the Icelandic Western fjords. In general, we will be preparing the area before the summer season, when most tourists and hikers visit the district.

The works may involve cleaning, painting and construction work inside and in the surroundings of the camping area, but also planting vegetables or helping in horse stables. The working plan will be very flexible and it will depend on the needs of our local hosts and advance of the diverse projects in the area surrounding the valley.

In the evenings and during the free days, there will be enough time to explore the surroundings, trekking and walking. You will also be able to rest in the natural hot tubs, bathe in the local swimming pool and discover many other surprises of this beautiful place including horseback riding on the unique Icelandic horses and possibly kayaking in the fjords.

Language: English

Leisure time: The project is based in a place of extreme beauty and isolation; natural surroundings with hot springs, free access to enjoy the hot tub and the local swimming pool. Additional free time activities will be organized for the volunteers like horseback riding and kayaking around a seal colony.

Accommodation: Volunteers will be hosted in a local house; sleeping in beds; sleeping bag is not necessary for the period of the project.

Location: The project will take place in the Westfjords in the north-western part of Iceland. The region accounts for 10% of the country’s surface but only about 7200 people live there, so it is one of the least populated areas of Europe. The Westfjords are very mountainous; the coastline is made by dozens of fjords surrounded by steep hills.
The region is bounded by Breiðafjörður in the south, with Gilsfjörður cutting into the land from the west and Bitrufjörður from the east, the two almost severing the ragged peninsula from the main mass of Iceland. The West Fjords are made up of Ísafjarðar-, Barðastrandar-, and Strandir Counties.
In the Westfjords you will be able to explore the whole range of Icelandic flora from the shore and meadows, through birch to mossy moors. One can see birds, seals, whales, and then an occasional arctic fox around the sheep.
Fishing is traditionally the main industry in the region but tourism started to be more and more important as local and foreign visitors are discovering this region in rising numbers.

The project will take place in a valley covered with birch bushes in Mjóifjörður in Ísafjarðardjúp. The distances to the next town and villages are 130 km to Isafjörður and 90 km to Hólmavík. Hiking in this beautiful area is very impressive and observing the coastline walking or kayaking is an inspiring option. Landline phone connection is available, and the place provides a full variety of opportunities for volunteers and visitors.

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

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 160 Euro

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

 

Preserving the environment and support for local farms in the valley of Haukadalur
Haukadalur          May 19 - June 1, 2012

Volunteer project: The international volunteers will be working on various environmental and construction tasks based in two local farms in the West of Iceland. The tasks are indoors and outdoors and will give volunteers a chance to experience how life in Icelandic farms works.
Volunteers will be beautifying the area by clearing old fences of the land, fixing fences and cleaning up the land.
There will be an opportunity to do regular farm work such as milking cows, helping the sheep deliver their lambs or observe if preferred, and herding the animals on the farm.
Other projects will be painting if weather permits and planting trees and garden works in the area.

Language: English

Leisure time: Leisure activities will be organised for the group of volunteers which will include hiking and local excursions.

Accommodation: The volunteers will stay in a fully equipped house in the farm; volunteers will be provided with bed linens and sheets at the farm. It is a shared accommodation. Even if the volunteers are provided with bed linens at the farm, we kindly ask the volunteers to bring their own sleeping bags. Equipped kitchen and washing machine are available.

Location: The project is located in the valley of Haukadalur, which is the home valley of Eric the Red, discoverer and settler of Greenland. Eiríksstaðir is the birthplace of his son Leif Eriksson (Leif the Lucky), who became the first European to set foot in North America. He named the country Vínland or Wineland in the year 1000.
The valley and the farm is located in Dalabyggð, a municipality formed in 1994 when 8 municipalities were merged into one. In 2012 the population of Dalabyggð is 686 and it has been experiencing slight population decline over the past five years. Therefore the area which is 2.421 km² only has 0.2% of the population of Iceland.
The municipality is known for the country’s most fertile and best rivers for salmon and trout fishing, as well as plenty of fresh water lakes for fishing freshwater trout.
The serenity and extraordinary beauty of the area which is located in the western part of Iceland attracts many visitors who come to enjoy nature in calm and quiet area. Dalabyggð is popular with hikers who can choose from many different paths and routes ranging from easy to very challenging and difficult.
Dalabyggð is not only famous for fishing and hiking, it has been mentioned in many of the Sagas and was the setting in two of the very famous Viking sagas from the 850 to 1300. Two of Iceland’s most famous poets also lived in Dalabyggð, therefore the place is ideal for history savvy volunteers.
The project location is about 150 kilometre drive from Reykjavík through the “whale tunnel”.

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

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 100 Euro

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

 

Nature protection and renovation in the Icelandic countryside
South Iceland          May 20 - May 30, 2012

Volunteer project: The volunteers will perform diverse outdoors work consisting of:
- Setting up fences to withhold cattle in the field and painting windows of the houses and stalls.
- Garden work which might include planting trees in order to make a sheltered area and helping around with the spring tasks in the garden and on the land.
- Painting houses or facilities that need maintenance.
- Possibly making, marking and maintaining walking paths close to Fláajökull glacier tongue.
- Helping with cooking and cleaning activities.
All these projects aim to benefit the local society and the nature of this beautiful area.

Special requirements: Volunteers should have a motivation for working outdoors and getting to know the ways of living in rural areas of Iceland.

Language: English

Leisure time: Spare time activities will be organized for the volunteers by the local hosts.

Accommodation: The volunteers will stay in shared rooms in a sleeping bag accommodation with access to kitchen and bathroom. Other guests or travelers might be in the house at the same time as it is a guesthouse accommodation. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

Location: The project takes place in an active Icelandic farm in south Iceland placed between the town Höfn in Hornarfjörður and the glacier lagoon Jökulsárlón where big icebergs float. Tourism has been a growing field in the area and the locals are meeting the new demands. By working under an environmental framework they get a yearly certificate from Green Globe.
They focus is on keeping the area clean and attractive; reduce waste of resources and pollution by recycling, saving energy and using environmentally friendly products. It is important that the nature and cultural heritage is protected and respected but at the same time accessible and interesting for visitors. The project aims at using local products and services as long as it fulfils quality standards. The volunteers are encouraged to bring in their own ideas on how to develop the environmental guidelines even further.

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 beaches form a contrast and offer a wide range of experiences.
The view is spectacular and the biggest national park in Europe with the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajökull, is only few kilometres away. The unique beauty of the nature, unpredictable weather and local culture have shaped the character of the area.

The Vatnajökull N.P., stretching from the south coast to the north coast of the island, is the largest protected wilderness in Europe. It covers around 15.000 km² (15% of the surface of Iceland), including all of Vatnajökull glacier, the former Skaftafell N.P., Jokulsargljufur N.P. and surrounding area.

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

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 160 Euro

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

 

Environmental cleaning and tree planting in the Westfjords
Ísafjarðarbær          May 20 - June 2, 2012

Volunteer project: The volunteers will be doing mainly environmental work in this work camp. The work is mostly outdoors and volunteers will have to be willing to work outdoors. The projects are clearing up old fences in the country side, collecting old steel and iron in the land that will either be removed or cleaned for other purposes. Volunteers will also help in cleaning out an old barn that will be bulldozed after it has been stripped of all its valuables.
Other possible projects during the work camp will be planting trees and beautifying the area.

Language: English

Leisure time:  Our local hosts will organise leisure time activities for the volunteers, these may include hikes, access to the swimming pool in Flateyri, kayaks and boat fishing.
Place of extreme beautiful natural surroundings with countless opportunities to hike and discover it by foot.

Accommodation: The volunteers will stay in a farm house with 5 bedrooms in shared accommodations. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

Location: The workcamp will take place in the municipality Ísafjarðarbær, in the Westfjords at the north-western part of Iceland. The region accounts for 10% of the country’s surface but only about 7200 people live there, so it is one of the least populated areas of Europe. The Westfjords are very mountainous; the coastline is made by dozens of fjords surrounded by steep hills.
Districts on the West Fjords have been merging recently in order to strengthen their administrative capabilities. The largest and most populous is Ísafjarðarbær with a population of 3800 in total.
In the Westfjords you will be able to explore the whole range of Icelandic flora from the shore and meadows, through birch to mossy moors. On the shore, one can see birds and seals and then an occasional arctic fox around the sheep.
Fishing is traditionally the main industry in the region but tourism started to be more and more important as local and foreign visitors are discovering this region in rising numbers.
The farm-house/base of the project is very close to Flateyri which is a small and friendly fishing village by Önundarfjörður, located about 500 Km away from Reykjavík and with 260 inhabitants.
Flateyri has been a trading post for over two centuries and a whaling station operated there until it burned down in 1901. In the old days Flateyri was the local harbour for shark fishermen but today fish processing and fishing is the main trade. During the last years; due to the introduction of the quota system in the Icelandic fishing sector, the town lost part of its share in the fishing amounts to be caught, which strongly hit the economy and living situation in the area. In the past years the emphasis on alternative industries has been more visible similar to other fishing villages in Iceland.
Flateyri is surrounded by spectacular mountains and above the village is Eyrarfjall which caused a devastating avalanche in 1995; defensive walls were then constructed, which tower over the town.
In Flateyri there is a swimming pool, kayak rental and a beautiful sandy beach that hosts a sandcastle building competition each summer. Many small boats are equipped and run from Flateyri, characterising the village, especially during the summer.

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

Age range: 24 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euro

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

 

Preserving the natural environment and historic heritage in the old herring village Djupavik
Djúpavík          May 22 - June 3, 2012

Volunteer project: Volunteers will be working on various projects in and around Djúpavík, which is a tiny little village in the Icelandic Western fjords.
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 alongside them. Other tasks will include cleaning the coastline between Djúpavíkurkleif and Stekkjarnes, collecting driftwood and general gardening work.

In Djúpavík there is an old abandoned herring factory and we will be assisting in some maintenance and renovation works inside it. The building is used now by artists and to host diverse cultural events.

Language: English

Leisure time: Excursions for the volunteers include kayak trips in the fjord with a seal colony, a visit to the area and isolated pool in Krossnes, among other recreation activities.

Accommodation: Volunteers will be hosted in a local summer house, sleeping on bunk beds. Please bring a 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, the 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: 150 Euro

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

 

Environmental projects in the remote West Fjords
West Fjords          May 30 - June 13, 2012

Volunteer project: The volunteers will take part in environmental projects in the Icelandic Western fjords. We are working with our local hosts in diverse projects including cleaning the coastline and collecting driftwood.

We will also be going out to a small and beautiful island in the fjord where there is an eider nesting ground. We and the local inhabitants will be collecting the eider down, which is the most valuable and best filling for unique eider-down duvets.
Those who wish can assist the sheep and locals during the lambing season, which is both fun and very rewarding being a part of bringing new life to the world. In addition, we will also be assisting our hosts with putting up fences, clearing old ones and some paint jobs. 

Special requirements: Volunteers applying for this project should be motivated for working outdoors and getting to know the ways of living in rural areas of Iceland

Language: English

Leisure time: Spare time activities will be organized for the volunteers by the local hosts. This may include sightseeing, hiking, swimming pool visit, boat rides, fishing, etc. Place of extremely beautiful natural surroundings with countless opportunities to hike and discover it by foot.

Accommodation: We will be hosted in a local Icelandic family house, sleeping in shared rooms with mattresses. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Kitchen will be available, as well as a washing machine.

Location: The West Fjords is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful places in Iceland, with its high mountains of extreme beauty and dramatic fjords cutting deep into the landscape.

The area has a mythological aura and the landscape draws people into the world of elves, trolls and other supernatural creatures. The driftwood has always been one of the main valuables for the people and it has been used for building houses, boats and heating up accommodations. The numerous hiking ways in the area attract many visitors during the summertime to enjoy the beautiful landscape.

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. 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. This 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.

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

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 160 Euro

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          June 1 - June 15, 2012

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.

We will assist in garden work, fix a roof that got damaged, work on removing fences and fix other. We will help with painting walls and maintaining houses and facilities for the animals.

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 all that.

The working plan will be 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, 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: 150 Euro

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

 

Help save the whales
Reykjavik          June 4 - June 17, 2012

Volunteer project: The volunteers will take part in a whale-awareness and protection project run in cooperation with IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare). This mainly consists of distributing information, conducting a survey, having people fill out postcards that will be taken to the government at the end of the project, talking to people and having fun in Reykjavík!

The group will take turns wearing a whale costume and walking around downtown Reykjavík. One part of our project is also to let pedestrians try on the costume and take pictures. This project is fun loving, friendly and peaceful. We encourage each volunteer to come prepared with some ideas of awareness rising for this project, to discuss with the group and implement.

The purpose of this project is to raise awareness among tourists (and locals) that by tasting whale meat in Icelandic restaurants they encourage whaling. The truth is that most Icelanders have never tasted whale meat and do not intend to do so. In a survey made by Gallup in 2007, 86% of those asked had not purchased whale meat in the last 12 months; however 67% were in favour of commercial whaling. This seems obscure, but explanations can be found in the nation’s heritage.
In Iceland there's a saying ‘Hvalreki’ or ‘Beached-Whale’ meaning ‘Jack-pot’. When a whale beached, the whole community had food for a long time, and had indeed hit the jack-pot. Later Icelanders started whaling for the oil, that at one time was used for lighting street-lamps in cities such as Paris. This created work and foreign currency and improved life in the country at that time.
Iceland was also one of the first countries in the world to ban commercial whaling. We can help Iceland to make a positive decision again, by educating the growing number of people who eat up to 40% of the whale meat consumed in the country, but at the same time say they are against whaling.

Language: English

Leisure time: Volunteers will be provided with passes to go on free whale watching trips. Excursions (Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, South shore, etc) will be arranged at discount fares.

Accommodation: The volunteers will stay in a fully equipped house with 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 indicate 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. Reykjavík is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers.
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). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euro

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

 

Help restore the natural and historical heritage of the Highlands north of Vatnajokull glacier
Highlands of Iceland          June 6 - June 20, 2012

Volunteer project: The volunteers will work in the midland, East of the beautiful Mývatn lake and North of the Vatnajökull glacier. Our project base is situated in the highlands - 469 meters above the sea level.
This area has been inhabited since the early times of the settlement and some of the highest farms in the country are in this area. As small-scale farming has turned more difficult in recent times, some of the locals have decided to combine the work with new tourist services and push forward alternative ways of income generation for the region. The extreme beauty of the area draws more and more visitors every year; especially after the Vatnajökull national park was enlarged in 2008.

Past farming work has taken its toll in the pristine landscape. The international volunteers will support local farms in removing elements and machinery used in the past (e.g. old tires, old corrugated iron, fences, etc.) that have been left unattended and need to be removed in order to restore the natural and historical heritage of the region.
Volunteers will also work repairing an old turf building, restoring it to its previous „form“, so it looks similar to the several other turf buildings in the surroundings.
Additional work for the volunteers will be turfing, fixing and maintaining walking paths and making a new trail.

Language: English

Leisure time: Remote places located in natural areas of extreme beauty to be visited. Outdoor activities like hikes in the area will be arranged for the volunteers and it's possible to go horseback riding during the project.

Accommodation: Volunteers will be lodged in a house at one of the farms, sleeping on mattresses. Please bring a sleeping bag. Equipped kitchen and washing machine are available.

Location: Located in the North-eastern part of the country and in the vicinity of the largest National park in Europe, the Vatnajökull National park, which is now around 12.000 square kilometers. It is expected that the national park will be enlarged even further within the next few years. The region of the park is unique: one can find glaciers, volcanic activities, glacier bursts, eruptions and geothermal heat plus extremely rare landscapes and untouched vastness.

With the establishment of Vatnajökull national park, Icelanders wade into the largest nature conservation project ever in Iceland. It is one of the largest developments the authorities have undertaken in this region and has created many jobs. The land within the park is mostly owned by the government, but a few privately owned districts are also part of the national park.
The farms in the area are surrounded by untamed nature of supreme beauty; most of the area is unspoiled and undisturbed. Some farms have been inhabited already since the early settlement.

Under the ice-cap glacier hide seven volcanoes and most of them are active. Underneath there is an ice cavern system several km long. Vatnajökull covers about 8% of the country, and is about 1000 m thick at its thickest point. Mount Herðubreið, the queen of Icelandic mountains and one of the most famous in Iceland is located in the area.

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

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euro

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

 

Erosion control and reviving the natural vegetation in the south of Iceland
Reykjavik          June 11 - June 25, 2012

Volunteer project: The project is organised since 2007 in cooperation with several local NGOs devoted to the re-vegetation of eroded soils in the south-west part of Iceland. The aim of the project is to halt the downward spiral of erosion and to strengthen the ecosystem by enhancing its natural vegetation.

By using organic waste materials for fertilizing, we aim for a double dividend. The soils, poor in plant nutrients, are enriched while the amount of materials in need of waste treatment is substantially decreased. The south west is part of the volcanic belt of Iceland envisaged by vast lava fields and easily erodible volcanic soils. On top of that, the area has suffered from overgrazing of sheep for a long time. Consequently, the ecological condition is rather poor and some areas are stripped entirely of top soil.

Close to 70% of the total population lives in this part of Iceland with the capital Reykjavík and neighbouring municipalities making up the bulk of the population. Different kinds of organic waste materials are being generated in and from the urban environment, substantial quantities every year. In the long run, stuff like horse manure, garden waste and the likes are the best revegetation means available. We work to make way for these materials as a revegetation medium.

In this project, we combine professionalism with idealism. The results so far can already be seen at a number of sites in the area.
In 2012, the volunteers will perform three different types of work: a) Revegetation and erosion control; b) Monitoring the survival and growth of tree plantations of former years; c) Tree planting. Volunteers will likely be working hand-in-hand with Icelanders.

Language: English

Leisure time: Excursions to the Blue Lagoon, South of Iceland and a weekend stay away from the project (e.g. in the largest National Park in Europe: Skaftafell/ Vatnajökull National Park) will be organised.

Accommodation: Volunteers will be accommodated in a house with basic facilities in one of Reykjavik’s neighbouring towns, Hafnarfjörður; sleeping on mattresses. Please, bring a sleeping bag.

Location: The work will take place in the vicinity of Reykjavík, and the group will touch upon more than one project in more than just one place. The main emphasis will be on erosion control on the banks of Kleifarvatn, the big lake of the Reykjanes peninsula; Vatnsskarð, Bolalda, Sandskeið and Bláfjöll.

The Reykjanes peninsula at the south–western end of Iceland is located near the capital and most travelers to Iceland land in the area. As the Reykjanes coastline draws closer and the plane prepares to land at Keflavík Airport, the peninsula is marked by active volcanism under its surface, and large lava fields allow little vegetation. There are numerous hot springs and sulphur springs in the southern half of the peninsula, around the Kleifarvatn Lake and the Krýsuvík geothermal area. The Peninsula is envied for its long and short hiking trails that zigzag through the region with colourful landscapes. Amazing ocean cliffs (up to 70 m high) are nested by numerous bird species, often a wonderful spot for bird and whale watching.

There is also a geothermal power station at Svartsengi, where a pool has been installed using the hot and mineralized water coming down from the station. It is known as the "Blue Lagoon". The Leif the Lucky Bridge spans the Álfagjá rift valley (60 feet wide and 20 feet deep) near Grindavík that marks the boundary of the Eurasian and North American continental tectonic plates. The bridge is named after the Icelandic explorer Leif Eriksson who travelled from Europe to America 500 years before Columbus.

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

Age range: 16 and over

Extra fee: 180 Euro

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

 

Erosion control and reviving the natural vegetation in the south of Iceland
Reykjavik          June 25 - July 9, 2012

Volunteer project: The project is organised since 2007 in cooperation with several local NGOs devoted to the re-vegetation of eroded soils in the south-west part of Iceland. The aim of the project is to halt the downward spiral of erosion and to strengthen the ecosystem by enhancing its natural vegetation.

By using organic waste materials for fertilizing, we aim for a double dividend. The soils, poor in plant nutrients, are enriched while the amount of materials in need of waste treatment is substantially decreased. The south west is part of the volcanic belt of Iceland envisaged by vast lava fields and easily erodible volcanic soils. On top of that, the area has suffered from overgrazing of sheep for a long time. Consequently, the ecological condition is rather poor and some areas are stripped entirely of top soil.

Close to 70% of the total population lives in this part of Iceland with the capital Reykjavík and neighbouring municipalities making up the bulk of the population. Different kinds of organic waste materials are being generated in and from the urban environment, substantial quantities every year. In the long run, stuff like horse manure, garden waste and the likes are the best revegetation means available. We work to make way for these materials as a revegetation medium.

In this project, we combine professionalism with idealism. The results so far can already be seen at a number of sites in the area.
In 2012, the volunteers will perform three different types of work: a) Revegetation and erosion control; b) Monitoring the survival and growth of tree plantations of former years; c) Tree planting. Volunteers will likely be working hand-in-hand with Icelanders.

Language: English

Leisure time: Excursions to the Blue Lagoon, South of Iceland and a weekend stay away from the project (e.g. in the largest National Park in Europe: Skaftafell/ Vatnajökull National Park) will be organised.

Accommodation: Volunteers will be accommodated in a house with basic facilities in one of Reykjavik’s neighbouring towns, Hafnarfjörður; sleeping on mattresses. Please, bring a sleeping bag.

Location: The work will take place in the vicinity of Reykjavík, and the group will touch upon more than one project in more than just one place. The main emphasis will be on erosion control on the banks of Kleifarvatn, the big lake of the Reykjanes peninsula; Vatnsskarð, Bolalda, Sandskeið and Bláfjöll.

The Reykjanes peninsula at the south–western end of Iceland is located near the capital and most travelers to Iceland land in the area. As the Reykjanes coastline draws closer and the plane prepares to land at Keflavík Airport, the peninsula is marked by active volcanism under its surface, and large lava fields allow little vegetation. There are numerous hot springs and sulphur springs in the southern half of the peninsula, around the Kleifarvatn Lake and the Krýsuvík geothermal area. The Peninsula is envied for its long and short hiking trails that zigzag through the region with colourful landscapes. Amazing ocean cliffs (up to 70 m high) are nested by numerous bird species, often a wonderful spot for bird and whale watching.

There is also a geothermal power station at Svartsengi, where a pool has been installed using the hot and mineralized water coming down from the station. It is known as the "Blue Lagoon". The Leif the Lucky Bridge spans the Álfagjá rift valley (60 feet wide and 20 feet deep) near Grindavík that marks the boundary of the Eurasian and North American continental tectonic plates. The bridge is named after the Icelandic explorer Leif Eriksson who travelled from Europe to America 500 years before Columbus.

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

Age range: 16 and over

Extra fee: 200 Euro

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

 

Restoring the artworks of Samuel Jonsson
Selárdalur          July 1 - July 15, 2012

Volunteer project: International volunteers will be working for the fourth 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 made by the artist himself. 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 some light maintenance work inside the church, like oiling the wood, etc.

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. Some free time activities will be organised for the volunteers including sightseeing, hiking, swimming in natural hot pots, 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 practice 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: 200 Euro

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

 

Help save the whales
Reykjavik          July 2 - July 15, 2012

Volunteer project: The volunteers will take part in a whale-awareness and protection project run in cooperation with IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare). This mainly consists of distributing information, conducting a survey, having people fill out postcards that will be taken to the government at the end of the project, talking to people and having fun in Reykjavík!

The group will take turns wearing a whale costume and walking around downtown Reykjavík. One part of our project is also to let pedestrians try on the costume and take pictures. This project is fun loving, friendly and peaceful. We encourage each volunteer to come prepared with some ideas of awareness rising for this project, to discuss with the group and implement.

The purpose of this project is to raise awareness among tourists (and locals) that by tasting whale meat in Icelandic restaurants they encourage whaling. The truth is that most Icelanders have never tasted whale meat and do not intend to do so. In a survey made by Gallup in 2007, 86% of those asked had not purchased whale meat in the last 12 months; however 67% were in favour of commercial whaling. This seems obscure, but explanations can be found in the nation’s heritage.
In Iceland there's a saying ‘Hvalreki’ or ‘Beached-Whale’ meaning ‘Jack-pot’. When a whale beached, the whole community had food for a long time, and had indeed hit the jack-pot. Later Icelanders started whaling for the oil, that at one time was used for lighting street-lamps in cities such as Paris. This created work and foreign currency and improved life in the country at that time.
Iceland was also one of the first countries in the world to ban commercial whaling. We can help Iceland to make a positive decision again, by educating the growing number of people who eat up to 40% of the whale meat consumed in the country, but at the same time say they are against whaling.

Language: English

Leisure time: Volunteers will be provided with passes to go on free whale watching trips. Excursions (Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, South shore, etc) will be arranged at discount fares.

Accommodation: The volunteers will stay in a fully equipped house with 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 indicate 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. Reykjavík is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers.
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). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 180 Euro

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

 

Support the work of the Reykjavik Botanical Garden
Reykjavik          July 8 - July 21, 2012

Volunteer project: The volunteer program with the Botanic Garden in Reykjavík is organized for the second year in a row. The Botanic Garden is an outdoor collection of living plants, founded in 1961 and celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2011. The garden's main role is to conserve plants for education, research and delight. It conserves some 5000 plant species in eight plant collections. The collections give an idea of the enormous diversity of vegetation in the northern temperate zone. In summer there is a variety of events in the Botanic Garden and group receptions are available throughout the year.

The volunteers will be doing general gardening work in the garden, tending the flowers, trees and other plants. Volunteers will also assist in organising and carrying out special events that might be planned on short notice but they will all be related to the general aim and work of the garden. The work starts early every week day; working hours are from 7:30 - 15:05, so volunteers have to be motivated to work early in the morning.

Language: English

Leisure time: Tours and excursions will be arranged for the volunteers at discount fares.

Accommodation: The volunteers 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 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. Reykjavík is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers.

Visitors to Reykjavík experience easily the pure energy at the heart of Iceland's capital city - whether from the boiling thermal energy underground, the natural green energy within the city and around it, or the lively culture and fun-filled nightlife.
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.
Reykjavík is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides. In the summer, you can sit by the harbour at midnight and watch the sun dip slightly below the horizon before it makes its way up again.

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

Age range: 22 and over

Extra fee: 180 Euro

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

 

Lunga youth arts festival
Seyðisfjörður          July 11 - July 25, 2012

Volunteer project: The long, calm, deep fjord of Seyðisfjörður twists and turns for 17 kilometres from its mouth to the end of the fjord, where the town by the same name finds shelter under Mt. Strandartindur and Mt. Bjólfur. In the valley above, the river Fjarðará falls from the edge of the heath above in innumerable beautiful waterfalls, down to Lón (the lagoon) at the end of the fjord. A road starts at the fjord and runs along the river until the Hérað district, 26 kilometres away, across the Fjarðarheiði heath. Once a hazardous place to travel, today the heath can be crossed in just half-hour on a pleasant and scenic road. The route (Stafirnir) that goes down into Seyðisfjörður by the Fjarðará river, is one of Iceland's most spectacular roads.

Lunga is an art-festival for young people. With unique artistic ambition and thanks to the participation of domestic and foreign artists, it offers an eclectic program which draws much attention to the town. Visual arts, music, circus and outdoor events create a lively event that appeals to the large crowd of locals and foreign visitors.
Lunga is first and foremost a festival created to involve people and foster their creativity while also promoting knowledge of art and culture. Lunga is a terrific venue for art lovers and art teachers and students.

We will help the local people with the preparation of the festival and with many activities during the hectic time of the festival; in some stage of the project we will work on shifts. The volunteers will have the opportunity to participate in and help with the workshops. During the festival we will setup the venues before and after the concerts, and control the entrances if needed. There are many other chores awaiting us and we should be flexible and willing to give a hand whenever necessary. 

Language: English

Leisure time: Free access to the local swimming pool.

Accommodation: We will be staying in the local community center offering basic facilities. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag.

Location: Seyðisfjörður

Terminal: International Airport: Reykjavík - Keflavík (KEF). The closest national airport is located in Egilsstadir.

Age range: 23 - 30 years old

Extra fee: 180 Euro

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

 

Help save the whales
Reykjavik          July 30 - August 12, 2012

Volunteer project: The volunteers will take part in a whale-awareness and protection project run in cooperation with IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare). This mainly consists of distributing information, conducting a survey, preparing the local communities for port visits from the research boat, having people fill out postcards that will be taken to the government at the end of the project, talking to people and having fun in Reykjavík!

The group will take turns wearing a whale costume and walking around downtown Reykjavík. One part of our project is also to let pedestrians try on the costume and take pictures. This project is fun loving, friendly and peaceful. We encourage each volunteer to come prepared with some ideas of awareness rising for this project, to discuss with the group and implement.

The purpose of this project is to raise awareness among tourists (and locals) that by tasting whale meat in Icelandic restaurants they encourage whaling. The truth is that most Icelanders have never tasted whale meat and do not intend to do so. In a survey made by Gallup in 2007, 86% of those asked had not purchased whale meat in the last 12 months; however 67% were in favour of commercial whaling. This seems obscure, but explanations can be found in the nation’s heritage.
In Iceland there's a saying ‘Hvalreki’ or ‘Beached-Whale’ meaning ‘Jack-pot’. When a whale beached, the whole community had food for a long time, and had indeed hit the jack-pot. Later Icelanders started whaling for the oil, that at one time was used for lighting street-lamps in cities such as Paris. This created work and foreign currency and improved life in the country at that time.
Iceland was also one of the first countries in the world to ban commercial whaling. We can help Iceland to make a positive decision again, by educating the growing number of people who eat up to 40% of the whale meat consumed in the country, but at the same time say they are against whaling.

Language: English

Leisure time: Volunteers will be provided with passes to go on free whale watching trips. Excursions (Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, South shore, etc) will be arranged at discount fares.

Accommodation: The volunteers will stay in a fully equipped house with 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 indicate 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. Reykjavík is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers.
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). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 200 Euro

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

 

Support the work of the Reykjavik Botanical Garden
Reykjavik          July 22 - August 4, 2012
Reykjavik          August 6 - August 18, 2012

Volunteer project: The volunteer program with the Botanic Garden in Reykjavík is organized for the second year in a row. The Botanic Garden is an outdoor collection of living plants, founded in 1961 and celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2011. The garden's main role is to conserve plants for education, research and delight. It conserves some 5000 plant species in eight plant collections. The collections give an idea of the enormous diversity of vegetation in the northern temperate zone. In summer there is a variety of events in the Botanic Garden and group receptions are available throughout the year.

The volunteers will be doing general gardening work in the garden, tending the flowers, trees and other plants. Volunteers will also assist in organising and carrying out special events that might be planned on short notice but they will all be related to the general aim and work of the garden. The work starts early every week day; working hours are from 7:30 - 15:05, so volunteers have to be motivated to work early in the morning.

Language: English

Leisure time: Tours and excursions will be arranged for the volunteers at discount fares.

Accommodation: The volunteers 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 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. Reykjavík is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers.

Visitors to Reykjavík experience easily the pure energy at the heart of Iceland's capital city - whether from the boiling thermal energy underground, the natural green energy within the city and around it, or the lively culture and fun-filled nightlife.
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.
Reykjavík is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides. In the summer, you can sit by the harbour at midnight and watch the sun dip slightly below the horizon before it makes its way up again.

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

Age range: 22 and over

Extra fee: 200 Euro

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

 

Biofuel production and soap recycling initiative
around Iceland          July 7 - July 19, 2012
around Iceland          August 7 - August 19, 2012

Volunteer project: An opportunity to travel around Iceland and at the same time participate in a very important environmental project!
Cooking oil and soaps are among the most harmful liquids polluting our rivers, lakes and seas. Due to the lack of information and education available, these waste products are often disposed of improperly - resulting in contamination of waterways. Even if disposed of in sewage systems, these products can damage treatment facilities and pipes. We need to educate users and adopt proper recycling strategies to prevent environmental damage.

The Biofuel project: Rudolph Diesel, a German engineer, introduced the diesel engine over a century ago (Nitske and Wilson, 1965). A great deal of research and development has taken place, not only in perfecting the design but also in finding an appropriate fuel. Until the oil crisis of the 1970’s, the availability of inexpensive middle-distillate petroleum fuels provided little incentive for experimenting with alternative, renewable fuels for diesel engines. However, since the crisis, research has expanded in the area of alternative fuels. Of all the current alternative fuels, only ethanol and vegetable oils are non-fossil fuels.

Due to the high contents of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids (fats or oils) in oilseeds, one of the main end products are edible vegetable oils for human consumption and food processing. Currently much of the used cooking oil is poured into the sewer system. There are at least two reasons to work to encourage proper disposal. Oils and grease may clog pipes because they stick to the inner walls and reduce the effective diameter of the sewer pipes, in some cases this may cause sewage spills. Even if oil reaches the wastewater treatment plants, it disrupts normal operations and increases both maintenance costs and the cost to purify the water.

A simple alternative is collecting the used oil in a plastic bottle (for example, a big soda bottle) and placing it with other waste for recycling. The bottles will be collected and properly disposed of. In the past this waste was mainly used to make animal food. However, as there is some evidence that waste oils may have carcinogenic properties, animal food from used cooking oil is being prohibited by governments. Biodiesel manufacturing may be an alternative option for reusing waste cooking oil. Biodiesels from both used and unused vegetable oils have very similar properties and potential in reducing pollutant emission from the engine because both are composed of methyl esters of fatty acids. In most cases a simple pre-treatment (removal by filtration of solid particles, etherification process to reduce the content of free fatty acids) is enough to prepare waste oil for use in diesel engines.

The Soap project: Have you ever wondered what happens to all those little bars of soap in hotels? You use them once or twice during a stay and then they're discarded the next day. In the USA alone around 1 million bars of soap a day are thrown away.
Because of the fatty acids, soaps are really bad for the environment and should be recycled. During the Biofuel and Soap tour, the volunteers will collect used soaps from hotels to be recycled and reused afterwards.

Bar soap can reduce deaths of children from pneumonia and diarrheal disease… which kill around 9,000 kids a day.
The recycled soap from the 2012 projects will be sent to Tierra Bomba, Colombia and distributed to the most needy families. Tierra Bomba is a place with a lot of misery and lack of basic needs. Recycled soap could play an important role in the daily life of the Tierra Bomba population and especially for the children.

The international volunteer project aims to take action on this environmental issue by  collecting waste oil and soap from hotels, restaurants and petrol stations all around the country. Iceland is still a clean and unpolluted area and proactive education and awareness programs will protect this environment.

During the first week of the project, volunteers together with team leaders will travel around Iceland collecting soaps and cooking oil. We will use a GMC truck to collect the materials and a Ford Econoline for the group of volunteers. Both cars are using cooking oil as fuel. Please note that we will drive more than 1,700 km around Iceland on Route #1 – the ring road. During the trip, we will have the opportunity to visit some of the most beautiful places in Iceland - waterfalls, glaciers, hot water springs and black beaches.
During the second week of the project, the volunteers will learn how to process waisted soaps and cooking oil and will start the first step of transforming it into renewable fuel and soaps. During this second week, the volunteers will also take part in some more environmental activities such as planting trees, making paths or cleaning rivers.

Special requirements: Volunteers with interest in scientific work and/or protection of nature 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 a free entrance to the swimming pools. This project is “On the move”, so you will travel a lot and see beautiful places.

Accommodation: During the travel around Iceland, the group will stay in tents or in community centres. During the second week, the group will be located in a very nice place called Laugarás in the south of Iceland.

Location: Iceland

Terminal: International Airport Reykjavík - Keflavík (KEF)

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 250 Euro – travel around Iceland included.

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

 

Support the operation and mission of the Salvation Army Guesthouse and Shelter in Reykjavik
Reykjavik          July 13 - July 27, 2012
Reykjavik          July 27 - August 10, 2012

Volunteer project: The volunteers will take part in a volunteer project with the Salvation Army in Iceland.
The Salvation Army runs since 1898 a popular guesthouse in the centre of Reykjavík. The profit from its operation goes to the charity and social work of the Salvation Army in Iceland. By staying there, guests (mainly international travellers) are helping their projects that support people in need.

Volunteers will have 3 main tasks during their stay at the guesthouse in Reykjavík:
- Helping the team of the guesthouse to clean the rooms and common areas,
- Preparing breakfast for the guests and lunch for the team and volunteers, and
- Taking care of the laundry.
The work will be mainly in the mornings and volunteers will have plenty of time in the afternoon to explore and discover the city of Reykjavík.
Volunteers are also welcome to bring in ideas to improve the guesthouse as to take on projects like creating a new welcome book for the guests with travel information, history of the guesthouse, links to learn more about Iceland, etc. Volunteers could also create a welcome poster about the guesthouse which will be framed and placed at its main entrance.

Additional to the main tasks, volunteers may provide support at the day shelter, which welcomes people every day, preparing food and taking care of the facilities to allow the visitors of the shelter to rest, talk, take showers and relax while watching television or playing games.

The Salvation Army is an international Church movement that currently works in over 120 countries and is known for its thrift stores and charity work. In Iceland their social work is directed to support people in need or in difficult situation, mainly individuals dealing with drug or alcohol abuse, homeless, aid to refugees and to the elderly.

Language: English

Leisure time: Volunteers will have plenty of free time to visit Reykjavík and the vicinity during the project.

Accommodation: The volunteers will stay at the Salvation Army Guesthouse or in a flat, 100 meters from the guesthouse with access to kitchen, washing machine and Wi-Fi at the guesthouse.

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. Reykjavík is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers.
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). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 160 Euro

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

 

New life for an old farm
Hvalfjörður          July 17 - July 29, 2012
Hvalfjörður          August 14 - August 26, 2012

Volunteer project: Hvalfjörður (Icelandic: Whale-fjord) is situated in the west of Iceland between Mosfellsbær and Akranes. The fjord is approximately 30 km long and 5 km wide. It is only 30 km away from the centre of Reykjavik.
The name Hvalfjörður is derived from the large number of whales which could be found and caught there. Until the 1980s, one of the biggest whaling stations in Iceland was located in this fjord. In the past, the fjord also contained a large number of herring fisheries. A hiking trail to the highest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur, has its origin at the innermost end of the fjord.

This fjord is one of the most beautiful fjords in Iceland and there are many farms located in the area. It will be a unique experience for our volunteers to live in a farm but still so near to the capital city.

This project is an opportunity to renovate and work at an old Icelandic farm. The idea of renovating old spaces in the countryside of Iceland and especially in areas where there isn’t much population has a lot if merit. On the one hand, we have the opportunity of giving life to an empty and old space, on the other hand, we are bringing life back to the area with the spirit and the ideas of international volunteers which will be very much welcomed by the local community.
The first part of this project will consist of renovating and putting the farm in good shape. There are two buildings that we have to renovate. The first one is the main house where volunteers will live in the near future. The second house is the storage and workshops where volunteers will keep the paint and other materials.
We will also take care of the property, plant trees, grow vegetables and even fruits if it is possible.

There are a lot farms in the area, so the volunteers will have the chance to visit other farms around and learn about Icelandic farming methods. 

Language: English

Leisure time: We will explore the whole Whale fjord and the surrounding area, including a hike to the highest waterfall in Iceland.
Reasonably-priced weekend excursions will also 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: We will be staying in the farm. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag.

Location: Hvalfjörður (the Whale fjord)

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

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 150 Euro

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

 

International photo marathon in Iceland
Reykjavik          July 17 - July 28, 2012
Reykjavik          July 31 - August 10, 2012

Volunteer project: This is the fifth 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 setting up the centre, working in the garden, cleaning and painting the house where needed.

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.
It is a great opportunity to experience the midnight sun as there are 24 hours of light even if the sun sets for short periods of time.

Accommodation: The volunteers will stay in a fully equipped house at Úlfarsfell in the outskirts of Reykjavík; 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 Wolves (Úlfarsfell). 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 during the project.

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.
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. The population of the city is over 200,000 including the metropolitan area, so two thirds of Iceland’s inhabitants live here.

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

Age range: 16 and over

Extra fee: 250 Euro

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

 

Help organise an International Football Festival for kids
Reykjavik          July 19 - August 1, 2012

Volunteer project: Volunteers will be part of the team organising Rey Cup, an International football festival for kids in 4th and 5th grade. The festival is 5 days long and will be organised in Reykjavík, between July 25 and 29. The festival has been growing every year since it was first held in 2001 and this year it will include international teams from Finland, Canada and Faroe Islands and referees from Germany, Denmark and Switzerland.

Rey Cup is a great adventure in the eyes of the young people taking part; participants and volunteers take home precious memories about the days and nights they spent in Laugardalur and the neighbourhood. We will team up with local Icelandic volunteers, interested in outdoor activities and sport, the parents of the participants and others. This festival is run mainly by volunteers and the support we are giving to the event is well appreciated.

We will share all types of tasks related to the festival and the group will be split according to the needs and to give everyone the chance to try out different assignments. We might be working during the weekends, but free days will be given accordingly to the working days. Volunteers are an integral part of creating an international atmosphere in Reykjavík. The input of the volunteers will make a big difference in making the festival an impressive multicultural event.

Before starting the festival, we may help preparing the area for the festival, cleaning, painting and doing light maintenance work. During the festival, we will keep the football fields clean, help closing the fields in the evenings, help preparing breakfast for the teams. We will also help with the clearance of the area after the tournament. There's a wide variety of duties before, during and after the festival. We will have the great opportunity to mix with the locals and get to know Icelandic culture.

Language: English

Leisure time: The volunteers will have free passes to the biggest geothermal outdoor pool in Reykjavík during the project. The group will be invited to the final barbeque party in the Reykjavík Zoo. Excursions (Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, South shore, etc) will be arranged for the volunteers at discount fares.

Accommodation: We will be lodged in a local house or school in Reykjavík. We will sleep on mattresses, so 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 indicate 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.

July is the month of white nights, when the sunsets are late, sunrises are early and darkness is never complete. In the area within 100 km of Reykjavik, there are several spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastline and the well-known geothermal Blue Lagoon spa to visit.
The population of the city is over 200.000 including the metropolitan area, so two thirds of Iceland’s inhabitants live here. Reykjavík 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: 200 Euro

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

 

Monitoring and removal of invasive plant species in Vatnajökull National park
Vatnajökull National park          August 3 - August 17, 2012

Volunteer project: This project takes place in Skaftafell, which is a part of Vatnajökull National park. Vatnajökull is the largest glacier in Europe, and covers approximately 8% of Iceland; about 2/3 of the glacier is inside the park boundaries. The National Park is divided into three different areas: Skaftafell and sandur, Lakagígar, and the Vatnajökull ice sheet itself. The Skaftafell area is an oasis surrounded by sandur and glaciers. The climate is favourable as Skaftafell is sheltered by Vatnajökull and Öræfajökull glaciers. Volcanic eruptions, glaciers, glacial rivers and jokulhlaup have formed the landscape specific to the park. Approximately 250 species of higher plants can be found in Skaftafell, and over 30 species of birds nest there. Skeiðará gives name to two geological terms: “jökulhlaup” and “sandur”. Skeiðarársandur is the largest sandur in the world and the most important breeding area of the Great skua (Stercorarius skua) in the North Atlantic. There are also interesting historical sites in the National Park, for instance the old farm Sel, and the home power station below Magnúsarfoss waterfall. The National Museum of Iceland is responsible for the preservation of the old buildings in the park. Many hiking trails, fit for all hikers, have been marked, and a brochure with descriptions of the trails is available at the visitor centre. An interesting trail takes you to Svartifoss waterfall, which is famous for the basalt columns which surround it. The Skaftafellsstofa Visitor Centre hosts an exhibit about the culture, history and nature of the area.

In the National park, volunteers will be cooperating and working with the Environment agency of Iceland. The main focus of the work is on surveying, GPS mapping, data collection and the removal of invasive plant species. Although Lupin now grows throughout Iceland, efforts are being made to control its spread within national parks and nature protection areas. Alongside the actual plant removal itself, the volunteers will collect data to help monitor the extent of the problem and the success of the removal operations. This project is being developed and managed in partnership with staff from the University of Iceland.

Language: English

Leisure time: In the area you will find great places for hiking. Also, some 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, geysers, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.

Accommodation: In Skaftafell, the volunteers will stay in tents or in a hut. They should bring a warm sleeping bag and a sleeping mat.

Location: Vatnajökull National park

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

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 180 Euro

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

 

Environmental work in the Land of Trolls
Reykjavik          August 7 - August 21, 2012

Volunteer project: The volunteers will join a project in a beautiful and peaceful area in the north of Iceland. Volunteers will be tearing down old fence posts around the area, planting trees and other plants, building stone walls and cleaning around a construction site in the area.
In the evenings and during the free days there will be enough time to explore the surroundings, trekking and walking. There is also the possibility to participate in activities such as yoga, meditation and a guided hiking tour around the area.
The Lodge, where we will stay, is an ancient sheep farm that's been continually inhabited from the time of the settlement of the Vikings in Iceland in circa 850AD.
Volunteers should have a motivation for working outdoors and staying in a very remote place.

Language: English

Leisure time: The camp is located in a place of extreme beauty and isolation; natural surroundings.
Additional free time activities will be organized for the volunteers, like yoga and a guided hiking tour using environmental interpretation for a deeper understanding of the value of nature and the importance of nature protection.

Accommodation: The volunteers will be hosted in a local housing in sleeping bags.

Location: The workcamp will take place in a valley at the north of Iceland in a peaceful area surrounded by mountains. Located in the heart of Tröllaskagi (“Trolls’ Headland” - between Eyjafjörður and Skagafjörður), a mountainous peninsula, where most of the mountains rise above 1000 meters and the highest one is over 1500 meters. It is the part of Iceland with the highest elevation outside the central highlands.
The area is not a continuous highland, but has deep valleys which glaciers have dug with their enormous power in the last Ice Age. The area is renowned as one of Iceland’s most spectacular areas for outdoor activity. Hikers can find suitable walking routes at any time of year, while mountaineers can scale peaks of all shapes and sizes
The local environment has many options for exploration of the flora and fauna, hiking and enjoying solitude in a beautiful surrounding. In the valley where the workcamp takes place there is hidden mountain springs, beautiful waterfalls, hanging valleys and glaciers as small canyons.
The distance to the next town and village is about 60 km to Akureyri and 30 km to Dalvík. Akureyri is often referred to as the capital of the north and it is by far the largest town outside of the Reykjavik capital area with a population of about 17.200. Akureyri is the centre of culture, education and leisure activities in north Iceland.
Dalvik is a small community with around 2000 inhabitants. The local community is based upon the fisheries and fish processing. From Dalvik the ferry Sæfari serves the island of Grímsey, Iceland’s northernmost community, which lies on the Arctic Circle. Sæfari also serves Hrísey which is out in the middle of Eyjafjörður and is often referred to as the pearl of Eyjafjörður.

Terminal: Closest International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). Domestic airport is Akureyri (AEY).

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 200 Euro

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

 

Maintenance of hiking trails in the Icelandic highlands
Highlands of Iceland, Kjölur road          August 26 - September 9, 2012

Volunteer project: Volunteers will be working on few different projects for the general preparation of the area before winter. The main focus will be to clear old fences from the area that no longer serve their purpose. Those fences are old and are now weathered down and can easily be a danger hazard for hikers and travelers in the area.
We will also be working on hiking paths, building new ones and maintaining those already in place. We will put up signs, markings and descriptive information charts around them. We will be cleaning up litter, doing maintenance and construction work on the houses and the area for winter. The work is physically demanding and the landscape is raw, but also quite rewarding.

Language: English

Leisure time: Remote and isolated site located in a natural area of extreme beauty. Free time activities are mostly outdoors. Countless opportunities to discover the area on foot or to hike in the surroundings: stunning mountain landscapes, mighty glaciers and geothermal activity.

Accommodation: Volunteers will be hosted in a local mountain house; sleeping on mattresses. Please bring your own sleeping bag.

Location: The Icelandic highlands or “the interior” are a true pearl to all nature lovers and outdoor people. It is accessible on 4WD cars and most routes involve crossing unbridged rivers.
If you really want to get away from it all, the interior of Iceland is like nothing you have ever experienced. The mountainous centre of the island, with its rocky deserts, craggy mountain peaks, ice caps, volcanoes, hidden valleys and hot springs, is an awesome and untouched wilderness. Lake Hvítárvatn on the Kjölur highland road glints icy-blue at the foot of the Langjökull glacier, and in the black sands of Sprengisandur - the arctic river.

The interior was long all but inaccessible. Outlaws hid out for years at a time in the highlands, rustling sheep and keeping away from law-abiding citizens, while folklore tells of both natural and supernatural beings who lay in wait for unwary highland travelers.

Travelers between north and south sometimes had to cross the highlands: for instance for the assembly of Alþingi (parliament) each summer, delegates had to ride from every corner of the country to Þingvellir in the southwest. Journeys across the interior were never undertaken lightly; such travel was risky and lives were often lost. Today the interior is crossed by two mountain roads, via Kjölur and Sprengisandur, which are only open in summer, after the snow has thawed in spring.

Volunteers will be staying close to the glacier Hofsjökull and near to the rivers Hvítá and Þjórsá. The mountains in the area that reach up to 1500 m, were formed during a volcanic eruption in the later part of the ice age. The area is still dynamic and great geothermal activity takes place in the surroundings. The environment is very diverse, both in shape and colour. The mountains are very weathered and have very little continuous growth, as the forces of nature, like glaciers, water flow, ice bursts etc. have been fast working in these mountain highlands.

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

Age range: 18 and over

Extra fee: 200 Euro

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

 

 

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