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.
Art
workshops
and renovation activities in Reykjavik
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
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
Hveragerði May 21
- June 4, 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 from Iceland. The food at
the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic is known throughout Iceland for its
high quality.
Location: Hveragerði, 45 km east of Reykjavík
Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 120 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 tranquillity, 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 Euros
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.
The power of the runes
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.
Cadip volunteer project review:
"I am
happy to tell you that I enjoyed the workcamp very much. It was very
well organised. We not only were able to enjoy the volunteer work, but
also had time to travel around on our days off. We had two very good
team leaders and everyone in the group got along really well with the
others. The local Icelandic people were also very kind and nice. We were
invited for BBQs and dinners, fishing, rode on a Viking Boat. These were
all great experiences. I’ve attached some of the photos taken during the
workcamp.
Thank you very much for
your help and assistance."
Ho Lun C.,
Cadip volunteer 2009
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 Euros
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.
Cadip volunteer project review:
"The
project was an amazing experience for me. Everyone I worked with in
Solheimar was great, volunteers and locals alike. The guy that led
everything, Valgeir, was great to get to know and everything was
incredibly organized. He showed us around on our first day there and
gave us a detailed tour of the village. The first four days, I worked
outside with Urn and did landscaping (painting, laying down turf, etc),
the rest of the time I worked in the forestry area or in the organic
cultivation area. The people in those 'departments' were also great and
I learned so much. During my stay there the group was invited for coffee
and tea at one of the lady's house, which was nice to see an Icelander's
house. I think doing this workcamp was one of the best experiences of my
life....getting to know people from all over Europe as well as learning
about Icelandic culture while working cannot be beat. We also had the
chance to do excursions on our free time which was organized by Valgeir
as well as some that were organized by the group itself (the group of
volunteers). I will definitely do a workcamp again in the future."
Fatemeh B.,
Cadip volunteer 2007
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.
Reforestation
activities in Solheimar Eco-village
Sólheimar August
12 - August 25, 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: 180 Euros
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 with a 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 Euros
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.
Experience
farm life in the South of Iceland
South Iceland
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 travellers 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 travellers 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 travellers 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 Euros
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 Euros
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
May 28 - June 9, 2012
Reykjavik
June 10 - June 23, 2012
Reykjavik
June 24 - July 7, 2012
Reykjavik
July 8 - July 21, 2012
Reykjavik
July 22 - August 4, 2012
Reykjavik
August 6 - August 18, 2012
Reykjavik
August 19 - September 1, 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 with a 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: 150 Euros
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.
Experience
farm life in the South of Iceland
South Iceland
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 Euros
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.
click here
for volunteer programs in other countries
FOR FULL, STARTED AND PAST PROJECTS, CLICK HERE