|
|
 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Volunteer project: In Reykjavik you can 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. Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, space, clean air, nature, culture - and Reykjavik has them in spades. It has the features of a modern, forward-looking society which are complemented by a close connection to beautiful nature. The population of the Reykjavik Capital Area is about 200,000. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides.
In this time of the year when conditions are favorable you can see the Northern lights (Aurora borealis) glowing curtain of greenish yellow lights, dancing in the distance to a spectacular, multi-colored fusion stretching across the sky. 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 appears crystal-like on the western horizon, while mountainous moonscapes spread to the southeast.
The volunteers will have two different tasks in
this project. The group will help in the renovation of a house downtown
Reykjavik which will become a centre for culture, art and environmental issues
in the city. This place will have a very intercultural design and it will be
used by volunteers and also by local people willing to participate in different
workshops. During the project we will paint, move things and work on the
renovation of the houses. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to all the modern geothermal swimming pools in Reykjavik. "Northern lights" excursion to areas in the countryside will be organized as well. Accommodation: We will be staying in fully equipped house in the centre of 101 Reykjavik, the location can not be better. Location: Reykjavik Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 120 Euros
Volunteer project: 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 marvelous
traits of a pristine and unique landscape.
The volunteer work during this project will mostly consist in embellishing the downtown area and helping the local authorities improve the city’s look and atmosphere. Tasks will include cleaning tags and painting old houses. We will be mostly working outdoors giving a hand to the environmental department in taking care of the parks and green areas in the heart of Reykjavík. In addition to that, we might also clean the coastline in the city area. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to all the geothermal pools in Reykjavik; excursion will be organized by the hosts. Visits to museums and interesting places in Reykjavik will be organized free of charge for the volunteers. Accommodation: We will be staying in a fully equipped house in the centre of Reykjavik, the location can not be better. Location: Reykjavik Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 120 Euros
International
Photo Marathon in Reykjavik
Volunteer project: 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 marvelous
traits of a unique natural landscape.
All around the world photographers are
participating in photo marathons.
We will help with the preparation of the Photo
Marathon, hand out brochures and posters and help with the promotion of the
activities. We will than help the participants during the Marathon and
afterwards prepare the photo exhibition. A short course in photography will be
offered to the volunteers, where they will have the opportunity to improve their
skills to capture their memories in an unforgettable way. We will learn how to
think about landscape photography from capture to finished image, your ability
to create dramatic compositions will become more effortless and you'll learn
about what might be holding you back from reaching your full potential as a
photographer. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to all the geothermal swimming pools in Reykjavik and excursion will be provided by our hosts. Accommodation: We will stay in a nice house near the city centre. Location: Reykjavik Terminal: Reykjavík - Keflavík Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 150 Euros
Easter
camp in Reykjavik Volunteer project: In Reykjavik you can 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. Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, space, clean air, nature, culture - and Reykjavik has them in spades. It has the features of a modern, forward-looking society which are complemented by a close connection to beautiful nature. The population of the Reykjavik Capital Area is about 200,000. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides. In this time of the year, when conditions are favorable, you can see the Northern lights (Aurora borealis) glowing curtain of greenish yellow lights, dancing in the distance to a spectacular, multi-colored fusion stretching across the sky. 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 appears crystal-like on the western horizon, while mountainous moonscapes spread to the southeast.
The international volunteer group will create a
great atmosphere in the central area of Reykjavik with a lot of lights on houses
and in the gardens. One of the tasks is to prepare coffee and cakes for homeless
people. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to all the modern geothermal swimming pools in Reykjavik. "Northern lights" excursion to areas in the countryside will be organized as well. Accommodation: We will be staying in fully equipped house in the centre of 101 Reykjavik, the location can not be better. Location: Reykjavik Terminal: Reykjavík - Keflavík Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 150 Euros
Volunteer project: Sólheimar Eco-Village,
founded in 1930, is the first community in the world where the so-called able
and disabled people live and work together. Inspired by the theories of Rudolf
Steiner, Sólheimar has focused on cultivating both the individual and the
environment and it is the first community in Scandinavia to practice organic
farming.
The volunteers will mostly work in the Ölur Forestry Centre (the only organic reforestation centre in Iceland) and in the Sunna Organic Cultivation Centre. During the project, other tasks may arise depending on the needs of the community. The work in Ölur, and in the village as well, will mostly consist in building paths and planting trees in Southern Iceland Farm Forest. In Sunna we will be planting vegetables, eradicating weeds and other gardening work. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to the swimming pool and the fitness center. Excursions will be provided by the hosts. 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. Distance from the airport to the project site: 140 km. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 150 Euros
"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
Volunteer project: A team of international volunteers will work this year again in the natural protected reserve of Þórsmörk. Volunteers’ tasks in this project will be mainly focused on preparing the area before the summer season as this is one of the most beautiful sites of the country and therefore very popular among local and foreign visitors, hikers and nature lovers. The group of volunteers will support the administration of the reserve putting up the visitors’ area, the mountain huts and the housing facilities. We will get the houses up and running after the area has been closed in the autumn; we will be cleaning the area, furbishing the huts and the common facilities. Work might include maintenance and renovation of windows that may be affected by the frost of the past winter. Other tasks include painting and retouching of the huts, preparation of the camping site and outdoors area, arranging fences and general works in order to prepare the reserve. Language: English Leisure time: Remote places located in natural reserved areas of extreme beauty. Hikes and free time activities in the area will be arranged for the volunteers. Accommodation: Volunteers will stay in the ranger’s huts and will sleep either in bunk beds or on mattresses. A warm sleeping bag is strongly recommended. Location: The Þórsmörk natural reserve is one of the most beautiful places in Iceland, surrounded by beautiful mountains, glaciers and glacial rivers. Þórsmörk itself is situated in the south of Iceland, about 160 km from Reykjavík. For years, the only access to this special place was by a powerful jeep to cross the treacherous rivers, but that is no longer the case. Most of the tourists reach the place by specially 4x4 equipped cross-country buses. Þórsmörk is famous for its spectacular nature and is very popular to visit and go hiking. There are many hiking trails inside the area of Þórsmörk as the unique, summer 2-3 days hike “Laugavegur” to Landmannalaugar. There are also many opportunities for short treks, so it is a perfect place for nature lovers and those who enjoy being outdoors. Þórsmörk is an idyllic place of exceptional meteorological conditions hidden in the embrace of glaciers and mountains and was actually a fjord from the ocean about 12.000 years ago. The weather here is also often known to be better and less windy than in the surrounding areas - making it a great destination to go to when the weather is lousy elsewhere.
Þórsmörk is a place of breathtaking
landscapes and a fauna of great variety. It is the home of 170
seminiferous plants as well as a variety of trees, moss and fern. The
main reason for the variety of plants and trees is probably attributed
to the fact that the area has been exempt from sheep and horsegrazing
for over 100 years. Terminal: Closest International Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. Closest bus stop is Hvolsvöllur. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 120 Euros
Renovating
a volunteer centre and improving the environment
in the east of Iceland Volunteer project: Eskifjörður is a major fishing town (population: 972) and an export harbor with direct sailing to Europe, which is located at the northern shore of the fjord Eskifjörður. It is built on a small sand spit and up the slopes of the mountain which rises above the town. Its main industries are fishing and small-scale farming. Eskifjörður became an authorized trade port in 1786 and has been a commercial center since 1798. One of the several shops in Eskifjörður, Gamlabúð, built in 1816, houses the Maritime Museum Of East Iceland. Eskifjörður town faces the mountain Hólmatindur, from the top of which you can view some of the tallest mountains in the Icelandic interior. One of the favored sights in the area is the Helgustaðanáman mine, which is one of the world’s best-known sources of Icelandic spar. The area, which is just a ten-minute drive from the town, is a nature reserve and open to all, free of charge. A swimming pool with hot pots (geothermal pools) and a sauna is located in Eskifjörður, as well as a gallery and crafts shop.
We will have two different tasks in this project.
Volunteers will renovate a house in Eskifjörður which will become a centre for
volunteers in the east of Iceland. During the workcamp we will paint, move
things and start the renovation of the house. We will also do some environmental
work. Possible tasks are for example planting trees, taking old fences down and
beautifying the town and the surrounding area. We may also clean up the
coastline and even make hiking paths. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to the local swimming pool, guided hikes with locals. Excursion or a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner. Accommodation: We will be staying in a nice community center. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will have showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre. Location: Eskifjörður Terminal: Intl. airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. The national airport in Egilsstaðir is 40 km away from the project. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 120 Euros
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. A very interesting site is Gufudalur, the lovely ‘Steam Valley’ behind the town. The whole valley explodes with 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 located in
Hveragerdi. The Clinic is a place of choice for all those who are in need of
rehabilitation, regaining their strength or simply in need to rest. It 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
sanatorium in Iceland and, one of the two most important rehabilitation clinics
in Iceland. Every year approximately 2,000 patients and other guests enjoy the
diverse rehabilitation programs.
The work will mostly be focused on forestry,
gardening and greenhouse work. We will also pick some herbs for making tea. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to the local swimming pool.
Accommodation: We will be staying
in a very nice fully equipped flat. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. Location: Hveragerði, 45 km east of Reykjavík Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 120 Euros
Volunteer project: The volunteers will be taking part in two days cycling tours with school pupils from 9th and 10th grade to Bláfjöll (the Blue Mountains range), located 35 km from Reykjavík. Each week, there will be two trips back and forth. Volunteers will visit the schools before the trips and assist the participants to assess and adjust their bicycles, check their helmets, adjust the gears and breaks and talk about cycling to the pupils. School teachers, members of the Icelandic mountain cycling club and the volunteers will lead the groups from the schools in Reykjavík to Bláfjöll. The route chosen is far away from busy roads, so safety of participants and the pleasure of the trip are kept at its most. In Bláfjöll, the volunteers and other leaders will prepare Kjötsúpa (Icelandic meat soup) for dinner and porridge for breakfast and the group will return to Reykjavík the next day, after staying overnight in one of the ski huts in the area. A car and bicycle trailer will follow each trip with luggage, food and equipment. Volunteers with driving licence will take turns in the car. Promoting outdoors, sports activities and healthy lifestyles will be the main targets of the project. School pupils will be encouraged to practice healthy activities, which reduce their vulnerability to smoking and drinking. Apart from the healthy lifestyle promotion through sport and outdoors activities, the pupils will be encouraged to work in teams. Study theme: This volunteer project has an educational/awareness-rising approach, promoting outdoors, sports activities and healthy lifestyles. Apart from the group leader, we will have an environmental messenger, a person dedicated to organising and developing fun, interactive and educational activities within the project.
Special requirements: Volunteers
applying for this project should have a motivation for working with people in
matters related to bikeability, cycling, sports and outdoor
Language: English Leisure time: The volunteers will be provided with passes to access free of charge the city’s seven geothermal swimming pools and thermal-water beach. Tours and excursions will be arranged for the volunteers at discount fares. Accommodation: The volunteers will stay in a fully equipped house while in Reykjavík; sleeping in shared rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Equipped kitchen and washing machine are available. In Bláfjöll, volunteers will stay in a fully equipped skiing hut in the skiing area of the range. Location: Volunteers will stay both in Reykjavík and in Bláfjöll mountain range. Reykjavík is the capital of Iceland, often called “the nightlife capital of the north”, but there is more to it 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. Its population of over 200,000 including the metropolitan area, so two thirds of Iceland’s inhabitants live here. It is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers. The Bláfjöll volcanic mountain range is located about 35 km from Reykjavík and the river Elliðaá have its source there, streaming down to the lake Helliðavatn in the eastern suburban border of the city, on the way it passes through the nature reserve area of Heiðmörk. The highest mountain reaches 600 m and since 1968 the region became a very popular skiing area among Icelanders and the favourite for skiers in the Capital area, becoming the largest skiing area in Iceland. Terminal: International Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ). Age range: 21 and over
Extra fee: 130 Euros
Volunteer project: In Reykjavik you can 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. Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, space, clean air, nature, culture - and Reykjavik has them in spades. It has the features of a modern, forward-looking society which are complemented by a close connection to beautiful nature. The population of the Reykjavik Capital Area is about 200,000. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides. In this time of the year when conditions are favorable you can see the Northern lights (Aurora borealis) glowing curtain of greenish yellow lights, dancing in the distance to a spectacular, multi-colored fusion stretching across the sky. 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 appears crystal-like on the western horizon, while mountainous moonscapes spread to the southeast. The international volunteers will visit kindergartens in Reykjavik and introduce different cultures to the kids. One of the tasks of this workcamp is to prepare games, songs and materials for those visits and we kindly ask the participants to bring materials that we can use for the preparation. We will also participate in different types of activites in the centre of Reykjavik; this time of the year the city is usually full of life. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to all the modern geothermal swimming pools in Reykjavik. "Northern lights" excursion to areas in the countryside will be organized as well. Accommodation: We will be staying in a fully equipped house in the centre of 101 Reykjavik, the location can not be better. Location: Reykjavik Terminal: Reykjavík - Keflavík Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 150 Euros
Volunteer project: 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 marvelous
traits of a unique natural landscape. During this project, we will collect volcanic stones from specific places in Iceland where nature has shaped and made really beautiful magic stones. Afterwards we will convert them into runes in our workshop in Reykjavik. There are different places around Iceland where we can collect the stones. We will explain to the volunteers the history of those places and the importance of the healing energy from the stones. We will visit the following places:
• Snæfellsnes, where you can find 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. By visiting those places we will give to the participants the opportunity to travel in Iceland and to discover and learn a lot about the magic of different parts of the island. The aim of the project is to give to the participants the opportunity to learn about the myths and legends of Runes and the old Viking religion. We will create Runes out of Icelandic volcanic magic stones and produce runes and handicrafts enough for the participant to take one set home and to leave one in the cultural and handicrafts centre in Reykjavik. The workshop will be divided in 2 parts:
Workshop 1º:
Workshop 2º: During the workshop, one of the Icelandic volunteers will show us how to use the runes and explain us about the myths and legends around the Runes and the old Viking religion. During the project, we will also visit and get guidance from one of the best artists in this field here in Iceland. This project is a great way to learn about the energy of Iceland and the legend of the Vikings. Please note that all the tools, equipments and materials are provided. Study theme: The power of the Runes and the old Viking religion Language: English Leisure time: We will have free access to all the geothermal swimming pools in Reykjavik. Accommodation: We will stay in a nice fully equipped house in the centre of Reykjavik. Beds will be provided but volunteers should bring their sleeping bags. Location: Terminal: Reykjavík - Keflavík. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 150 Euros
Maintenance
and environmental works in
a University Center in the Westfjords Volunteer project: The “Westfjords” are situated in the Northwest part of Iceland, reaching out almost to Greenland – therefore the most westerly part of Europe. The landscape here is majestic, with fjord after fjord, towering above shore and sea, each and every fjord has its own distinctive character and tiny fishing villages nestle at their foot. It is an ideal place for hikers and all nature lovers, in summer and winter alike. Seals bask on the rocks, huge colonies of seabirds are seen and the king of the skies, the white-tailed eagle may be watching over.
The project will take place in Nupur which used to
be a boarding school in the past but now it is a hotel and a University. The
cozy school buildings are surrounded by beautiful mountains with a view over the
Alps of Westfjords and the blue seas of Dyrafjordur. The international volunteers will be helping with the maintenance of the oldest building in Núpur, cleaning the coastline and beautifying the area around the center. Language: English Leisure time: Excursions and a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner, as well as guided hikes. The volunteers will have free access to the swimming pool in Þingeyri. Accommodation: In the dormitories in Núpur, everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. Location: Núpur in Dýrafjörður Terminal: International Airport Reykjavík - Keflavík (KEF). The national airport in Ísafjörður is close to the project site. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 150 Euros
Volunteer project: The international volunteers will continue the projects started last year at the surroundings of lake Reynisvatn in the outskirts of Reykjavík. The project’s goal is to establish platforms for recreational use of the local surroundings in a suburban area in Reykjavík, as well as to increase the outdoor use and improve the healthy lifestyle of the inhabitants.
The construction and establishments is made
through participation of local people and international volunteers. There is a
strong aspect of learning during the working process and of the social
importance of the work. The project is initiated by a community group in the
suburban area and sponsored by the city of Reykjavík. Language: English Leisure time: The volunteers will be provided with passes to access free of charge the city’s seven geothermal swimming pools and thermal-water beach. 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. 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 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. Iceland was badly hit by the current crisis, which did affect the life for foreign visitors in a positive way, making Iceland a much cheaper country to visit. The local currency greatly lost value – many goods and services cost (in EUR) just a half comparing to the year 2007. The name Reykjavík means “smoky bay”: Given by the first settlers that arrived to the area due to the high geothermal activity and the constant rise of steam out of the hot springs around. Terminal: International Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ). Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 100 Euros
Building
hiking trails
in the Land of elves and fairies
There are many hiking trails in the area. We will make a new trail along the seaside. We will also help the locals with all kind of small projects in the local community and will clean the coastline. Language: English Leisure time: This is a paradise for hikers and hiking trips will be arranged by the local partner. Accommodation: In a fully equipped house owned by the local community, participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. Location: Borgarfjörður Eystri Terminal: Int. airport is Keflavik airport. Next national airport is Egilsstadir. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 120 Euros
Photography
and environment in the Western fjords Volunteer project: The “Westfjords” are situated in the Northwest part of Iceland, reaching out almost to Greenland – therefore the most westerly part of Europe. The landscape here is majestic, with fjord after fjord, towering above shore and sea, each and every fjord has its own distinctive character and tiny fishing villages nestle at their foot. It is an ideal place for hikers and all nature lovers, in summer and winter alike. Seals bask on the rocks, huge colonies of seabirds are seen and the king of the skies, the white-tailed eagle may be watching over.
The project will mainly take place in Nupur which
used to be a boarding school in the past but now it is a hotel and a University.
The cozy school buildings are surrounded by beautiful mountains with a view over
the Alps of Westfjords and the blue seas of Dyrafjordur.
The purpose of this project is to improve the
skills of the participants to capture their memories in an unforgettable way. We
will learn how to think about landscape photography from capture to finished
image, your ability to create dramatic compositions will become more effortless
and you'll learn about what might be holding you back from reaching your full
potential as a photographer. We will also make some videos during those two
weeks. Language: English Leisure time: We will have free access to the swimming pool and guided hikes will be provided by our hosts. Accommodation: We will stay in one of the buildings in hotel Núpur. Mattresses will be provided. Location: Núpur in Dýrafjörður, Westfjords Terminal: Reykjavík – Keflavík Int. airport Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 150 Euros
Volunteer project: Neskaupstaður is a medium sized town by Icelandic standards, has the largest population (1420 inh.) of any of the towns in the East Fjords, is almost completely self-sufficient and has grown and prospered since the early 1900's, thanks to the fishing industry. Its remoteness has led to a necessary self-sufficiency, including the town having its own bakery, dairy, supermarkets, banks, post office, school, sports hall, swimming pool, church, hospital, harbour, airstrip, hotel, jazz club, rescue centre, etc. In fact, it seems to have all the services you would expect in a larger town except an optician! To the east of the town, facing the ocean, there is a nature reserve and recreational area. The lower section of it, called Hagi, is the location of the renowned Páskahellir (Easter Cave), which is essentially a rock vault over the shore. Holes left by thick, 10-12-million-year-old tree trunks may be seen inside the vault and, as is typical in Iceland, there are various folk tales associated with the cave. Neskaupstaður is only reachable after driving through a one-way tunnel. “Fjarðabyggð” is an association of different communities in the Eastfjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, Mjóifjörður, Neskaupstaður, Reyðarfjörður and Stöðvarfjörður. The towns have a lot of things in common: They are all small fishing villages with steep mountains just behind the houses. In this area you will find most of the things that make Iceland a unique place on a global scale. The fjords are magnificent and the sea is full of life, the birdlife is very rich and you can find a great variety of hiking paths. You will get to know the area during your stay in the east and it depends on the tasks and the situation in Fjarðabyggð where you will be working during the project.
Most of the work will be cleaning and beautifying
the town and its surrounding area. We will also clean up the coastline, plant some
trees, weed and build hiking paths. Another task might also be to help getting a
community center in the neighbor village into a better shape for the following
volunteer groups arriving later this summer and staying at this place.
Language: English Leisure time: Free access to the local swimming pool, great places for hiking. Excursions such as a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner. Accommodation: In a community house in Neskaupstaður. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will have showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre nearby. Location: Neskaupstaður in Fjarðabyggð. Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. Egilsstaðir airport is 40 km away from the project. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 120 Euros
Volunteer project: Hafnarfjörður is a town
with population of 23.500 people. It is located 10 km away from the capital,
Reykjavík. Hafnarfjörður takes its name (meaning Harbour-fjord) from the area's
excellent natural harbour. The town is first named in the medieval "Book of
Settlements," and the earliest reports of voyages to Hafnarfjörður date from the
end of the 14th century. Today, Hafnarfjörður is one of the nation's largest
fishing centres and the site of Iceland's first fish wholesalers' auction
market. The Vikings settled Iceland around 874 AD and the Icelanders are very proud of those brave people who had the courage to start a life here in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. In Hafnarfjörður there is a small Viking village where the volunteer project will take place. During the annual Viking Festival, which will trake place from the 11th until the 20th of June, Icelanders and "Vikings" from abroad celebrate their heritage. The Vikings' wild and adventurous spirit lives on today, in the people of this unique country. The event is a lot of fun; there are displays of ancient arts and crafts, and large gruff men in full Viking attire demonstrate their ancient battle skills to anyone brave enough to challenge them.
The volunteers will help with the preparation
before the festival and afterwards help the organizers to run the festival. You
will receive Viking costumes to wear and different tasks to perform. Tasks will
vary and include controlling the venues, giving assistance to visitors, helping
the other Viking volunteers and staff in the kitchen or serving the meals.
Working hours are flexible and in this project it is important to be very
flexible as well. Sometimes the festival is very chaotic but the old Vikings
were also known for lack of organization so that is a part of the programme. Language: English Leisure time: Excursions and free time activities will be arranged for volunteers. The volunteers will have free access to the local swimming pool. Accommodation: Volunteers will stay in a local sports center with the other Vikings, sleeping on mattresses. Don’t forget to bring a warm sleeping bag. Location: Hafnarfjörður Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. Distance from the airport 35 km. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 150 Euros
Volunteer project: The volunteers in this
project will work in the highlands located in the North-eastern part of the
country and in the vicinity of the largest National park in Europe, the
Vatnajökull National park.
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. Language: English Leisure time: Remote places located in natural areas of extreme beauty to be visited. Outdoor activities as hikes in the area will be arranged for the volunteers and possibility of horse riding during the project. Accommodation: Volunteers will be lodged in a house at one of the farms, sleeping on mattresses; a sleeping bag is suggested. 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 landscape; for example untouched vastness.
With the establishment of Vatnajökull
national park, Icelanders wade into the largest nature conservation
project ever proceeded in Iceland. It is also one of the largest
creations of jobs and regional development the authorities have
commenced in this region. The land within the national park is mostly
owned by the government, but a few privately owned districts are also
part of the national park. 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. 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: 100 Euros
Volunteer project: To truly sense the remote beauty of the north-east, the charming little fishing village of Þórshöfn on the north-east coast is the right place to go. The town of Þórshöfn lies on the head of the Langanes peninsula and has 388 inhabitants. There's a variety of outdoor activity on offer, from hiking to salmon and trout fishing, and horse trekking in some of Iceland's most spectacular scenery. The Langanes Peninsula is also one of the best areas in which to enjoy Iceland's rich and varied birdlife. Þórshöfn is within driving distance of some of Iceland's most prized natural pearls, such as Myvatn, with its geothermal activity, and the waterfall Dettifoss, one of Europe's most powerful and spectacular waterfalls. This village has a good natural harbour and the inhabitants base their livelihood on fishing, fish processing and commerce. The international volunteers in the project will mainly plant trees and clean the area’s shores and beaches.
Language: English Leisure time: Free access to the gym and the local swimming pool with sauna. Excursions, such as guided hikes with locals, will be organized by the hosting partner. Accommodation: In the local school, sleeping on mattresses, participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. Location: Þórshöfn in Langanes Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 120 Euros
Volunteer project: The volunteers in this project will be part of two cultural projects in west Iceland, first half in the capital, Reykjavík, and the second half in the “capital” of the Westfjords, Ísafjörður. The project will last for 2 weeks. In the first week, the group will prepare several events for the independence day of Iceland, June 17th. It is one of the biggest holidays in Iceland, families gather in downtown Reykjavík to celebrate together.
During the second week, volunteers will work in
the annual music festival “Við Djúpið”. The festival is held in the West Fjords
of Iceland around summer solstice and it offers series of concerts and master
classes, which are held in close cooperation with the Iceland Academy of Arts.
During the last 6 years the festival has offered master classes and concerts
with nation- and worldwide known artists. Language: English Leisure time: The volunteers will be provided with passes to access free of charge the Reykjavík city’s seven geothermal swimming pools and thermal-water beach. Tours and excursions will be arranged for the volunteers at discount fares. Accommodation: Volunteers will stay at a local house/school; they will sleep on mattresses and should bring a warm sleeping bag.
Location: Reykjavík, the Icelandic
capital, has been called Europe’s hottest capital. Slick advertising
campaigns have championed the city’s famed nightlife. But there is more
to Reykjavík than pubs and clubs. The world’s northernmost capital
bridges the Atlantic, between Europe and North America, is framed by the
majestic Mt. Esja and the blue waters of Faxaflói Bay.
In the West fjords, you will travel through the
whole range of Icelandic flora from the shore and meadows, through birch and
willow, to mossy moors. On a stroll amidst the driftwood on the shore one can
see birds and seals and then an occasional arctic fox around the deserted
farmsteads. Terminal: Closest international Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. Closest bus station in town. Age range: 18 - 35 years old
Extra fee: 150 Euros. Transport from Reykjavík to Ísafjörður (one
way) is included in the fee.
Volunteer project: Eskifjörður is a major fishing town (population: 972) and an export harbour with direct sailing to Europe, which is located at the northern shore of the fjord Eskifjörður. It is built on a small sand spit and up the slopes of the mountain which rises above the town. Its main industries are fishing and small-scale farming. Eskifjörður became an authorized trade port in 1786 and has been a commercial center since 1798. One of the several shops in Eskifjörður, Gamlabúð, built in 1816, houses the Maritime Museum Of East Iceland. Eskifjörður town faces the mountain Hólmatindur, from the top of which you can view some of the tallest mountains in the Icelandic interior. One of the favored sights in the area is the Helgustaðanáman mine, which is one of the world’s best-known sources of Icelandic spar. The area, which is just a ten-minute drive from the town, is a nature reserve and open to all, free of charge. A swimming pool with hot pots (geothermal pools) and a sauna are located in Eskifjörður, as well as a gallery and a crafts shop. In this time of the year, there is almost no night in Iceland. Be ready for the daylight all around the clock. Most of the work will be cleaning and beautifying the town and the surrounding area. We will also clean up the coastline, plant some trees, make hiking paths and take old fences down. The work available will depend on the weather conditions and that’s why we have to be a bit flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though it will be nice most of the time, hopefully. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to the local swimming pool. Excursions, such as guided hikes with locals or a fishing boat trip, will be organized by the hosting partner. Accommodation: We will be staying in a nice community center. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will have showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre. Location: Eskifjörður in Fjarðabyggð Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. Egilsstaðir airport is 40 km away from the project. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 120 Euros
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, providing heat to hundreds of greenhouses where fruit,
flowers and vegetables are produced throughout the year; you can even find
bananas growing in these houses. The name Hveragerði means ‘hot springs garden’.
Geothermal energy is Hveragerði’s lifeblood, and it would be difficult to find
such a natural wonder in the middle of a populated area anywhere else in the
world. Very interesting is Gufudalur, the lovely ‘Steam Valley’ behind the town.
The whole valley explodes with hot springs, geysers, mud pots, fumaroles and
steaming vents. During the last weekend of June there will be a flower and agricultural exhibition in Hveragerdi held by the local community in cooperation with the Agricultural University in Iceland, flower farmers, association of architects and other. There you can find all kind of information about the Icelandic fauna. We will help the locals to prepare the exhibition and to clean and beautify the town a little bit. We will also prepare some activities and shows for the kids that will attend the exhibition. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to the local swimming pool. Excursions, such as hikes with local guides, will be arranged. The 17th of June is the National day of Iceland. The volunteers will join the locals for the celebration. We will also organize a hike during the longest day / shortest night of the year. Accommodation: In the local theatre, sleeping on mattresses, participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. Location: Hveragerði Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. Distance from the airport to the project site: 80 km. Age range: 18 - 35 years old
Extra fee: 150 Euros
Volunteer project: The area of Strandir is
a paradise for nature enthusiasts as for those who simply want to enjoy the
pleasure of experiencing a place of complete silence. There you will find
seabirds on rugged cliffs, arctic foxes in their lairs, and little fishing
villages huddled against sheer mountains where for centuries people have battled
with the forces of nature to harvest the ocean’s riches. The area is rich with heritage and here you will find a recreation of a typical Icelandic dwelling c.a. 17th century. This was at the peak of the period where people believed in witchcraft and society was rich with traditions relating to this. The museum in Bjarnarfjörður, called "the Sorcerer's abode" immerses you in those times and helps you imagine what it would be like to live in a typical Icelandic dwelling at the peak of the sorcery period.
The village Drangsnes is a small hamlet at the
head of the Steingrimsfjordur bay. Drangsnes has a population of barely 100
people. The settlement of Drangsnes started populating after 1920´s. A tall
rocky outcrop on the shore is called the old woman, or the hag, which is said to
be one of the ogresses who turned to stone when the sun came up while the trolls
were trying to separate the western fiords from the mainland by a large ditch. We will help to rebuilt two natural hotsprings and maintain hiking paths and do other environmental work in Bjarnarfjörður. The work available will depend on the weather conditions and that’s why we have to be a bit flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though it will be nice most of the time, hopefully. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to the local warm and nice outdoor swimming pool, excursions and/or boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner. The locals are very much looking forward to host the group and they will offer different free time activities to us. Accommodation: In a hostel called Laugarhóll, participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. Location: Strandir Terminal: Reykjavík - Keflavík. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 120 Euros
Volunteer project: The project participants
will be working in the restoration and renovation works at one of the most
remote light houses in the Icelandic western fjords. The work will be done at
the light house and its surrounding area. Study theme: This volunteer project has an educational/awareness-rising approach to environmental, nature-protection and sustainable development topics. Apart from the group leader, we will have an environmental messenger, a person dedicated to organising and developing fun, interactive and educational activities within the project. Special requirements: Volunteers participating in this project should not be afraid of the sea as transport by boat will be regular; previous experience is an asset but not a requirement. Language: English Leisure time: Outdoor activities such as hikes in the area will be arranged free of charge for the volunteers. Accommodation: The volunteers will stay at the location, and will take turns between sleeping inside a house and in tents outside the house. Equipped kitchen is available. If volunteers want, they can also bring their own tents and camp. Location: The lighthouse is located in the West Fjords, one of the most breathtaking and beautiful areas in the country, which is at the same time the least visited and most remote area of Iceland.
The place cannot be reached by car and
there are no roads connecting the location; it can be reached only by
boat or by foot. It is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
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. Terminal: Closest International Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 150 Euros
Volunteer project: Volunteers will be working on few different projects for the general preparation of the area before the summer: cleaning of the area after the winter, preparation of the camping site, which needs to be rearranged and done for the season when most visitors come. In the area there is an old house that has been a danger hazard; the house/ruins need to be demolished so it can be built up in its original form. Depending on the advance of the mentioned tasks from the year before, this first group of 2010 will continue demolishing the house and taking the different materials apart in order to be brought to the recycling centres. If there is enough time then the group will start helping in repairing/rebuilding this house. Study theme: This volunteer project has an educational/awareness-rising approach to environmental, nature-protection and sustainable development topics. Apart from the group leader, we will have an environmental messenger, a person dedicated to organising and developing fun, interactive and educational activities within the project. Language: English Leisure time: Remote places located in natural areas of extreme beauty will be visited. Outdoor activities as hikes in the area will be arranged free of charge for the volunteers. Accommodation: Volunteers will be hosted in a local mountain house; sleeping on mattresses; bringing a warm sleeping bag is highly recommended.
Location: The Icelandic highlands
or “the interior” are a true pearl to all nature lovers and outdoors
people. It is accessible all year round on 4WD cars and most Highland
routes involve crossing unbridged rivers. Travellers 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 -reach up to 1500m- 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: 150 Euros
Volunteer project: 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 marvelous
traits of a unique natural landscape. Our work, during the project, will consist mostly in embellishing the downtown area and helping the local authorities improve the city’s look and atmosphere. Tasks will include cleaning tags and painting old houses. We will be mostly working outdoors giving a hand to the environmental department in taking care of the parks and green areas in the heart of Reykjavík. We will most probably split the day in order to have time for our Icelandic language course. Study part: Learn the Viking language! A language course with a professional teacher will be offered during the project. Language: The language of the project is English and of course Icelandic. Leisure time: Free access to all the geothermal pools in Reykjavik and excursions will be provided by our hosts. Accommodation: We will stay in an accommodation owned by the community. Mattresses will be provided. Location: Reykjavik Terminal: Reykjavík – Keflavík Int. airport Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 150 Euros
Volunteer project: Eskifjörður is a beautiful fishing town (population: 972), which is located at the northern shore of the fjord Eskifjörður. It is built on a small sand spit and up the slopes of the mountain which rises above the town. Its main industries are fishing and small-scale farming. Eskifjörður became an authorized trade port in 1786 and has been a commercial center since 1798. One of the several shops in Eskifjörður, Gamlabúð, built in 1816, houses the Maritime Museum Of East Iceland. Eskifjörður town faces the mountain Hólmatindur, from the top of which you can view some of the tallest mountains in the Icelandic interior. One of the favored sights in the area is the Helgustaðanáman mine, which is one of the world’s best-known sources of Icelandic spar. The area, which is just a ten-minute drive from the town, is a nature reserve and open to all, free of charge. A swimming pool with hot pots (geothermal pools) and a sauna are located in Eskifjörður, as well as a gallery and a crafts shop. Most of the work will be planting trees, taking old fences down and beautifying the town and the surrounding area. We may also clean up the coastline and even make hiking paths. The work available will depend on the weather conditions and that’s why we have to be a bit flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though it will be nice most of the time, hopefully. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to the local swimming pool. Excursions, such as guided hikes with locals or a fishing boat trip, will be organized by the hosting partner. Accommodation: We will be staying in a nice community center. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will have showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre. Location: Eskifjörður Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. Egilsstaðir airport is 40 km away from the project. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 120 Euros
Volunteer project: Do you want to travel around Iceland and at the same
time participate in a very important project?
The volunteers will do a survey for monitoring of
marine litter in several places on the coastline. We will clean certain areas
(position recorded by GPS on our “map“) in different parts of Iceland and
collect all the trash on the beach and classify it in a standard form. We will
make photos of the coastline, The marine area around Iceland is regarded as one of the cleanest of the world. Nevertheless, marine litter such as persistent organic pollutants, heavy metals or hydrocarbons is constantly contaminating Iceland‘s shore. A large-scale surface of the Icelandic coastline is concerned by this pollution and some beaches are even fully covered by trash, mainly caused by poorly managed landfills close by. Special requirements: Volunteers with good computer skills, interested in scientific work and/or photographing are very much welcome to this project. 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 also "On the move" so you will travel a lot and see beautiful places. Accommodation: The group will be stay in the accommodation of the workcamps where possible. In some places we might stay in tents which will be provided. Location: Iceland Terminal: International Airport Reykjavík - Keflavík (KEF) Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 180 Euros
Volunteer project: “Fjarðabyggð" is a association of different communities in the Eastfjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, Mjóifjörður, Neskaupstaður, Reyðarfjörður and Stöðvarfjörður, all tiny fishing villages with steep mountains towering just behind the houses. In this area you will see some of the features that make Iceland a unique place in the world: spectacular fjords with a rich sea life, a great variety of birdlife, and countless breathtaking hiking paths.
The purpose of this project is to improve the
skills of the participants to capture their memories in an unforgettable way. We
will learn how to think about landscape photography from capture to finished
image, your ability to create dramatic compositions will become more effortless
and you'll learn about what might be holding you back from reaching your full
potential as a photographer. We will also make some videos during those two
weeks. Language: English Leisure time: We will have free access to the swimming pool and guided hikes will be provided by our hosts. Accommodation: We will stay in a nice community building. Mattresses will be provided. Location: Fjarðabyggð Terminal: Reykjavík - Keflavík. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 150 Euros
Volunteer project: Hvammstangi is the most
densely populated area in the west Húnaþing County. It is a service centre for
the surrounding neighbourhood and also a school site and an administrative
centre (Bank, Post Office, Health Institute). It has a population of 580 people. Most of the volunteer activities consist of cleaning and beautifying the town and the surrounding area. The tasks can be for example: planting trees, cutting grass, weeding, painting, sweeping, fixing walking paths… We might also clean the coastline and help removing old fences. Sometimes we might also join the local youngsters (about 40 aged 15 to 25) working for the community during their holidays in different nature conservation- and environmental-oriented activities such as planting trees and construction of hiking paths. Language: English Leisure time: Possible activities could be hiking, visiting sites of interest and generally having fun and enjoying Iceland’s fantastic nature together. We will have free access to the local swimming pool and the opportunity to go bathing in an Icelandic hot tub. Accommodation: In an accommodation owned by the community. Mattresses will be provided. Location: Hvammstangi, Húnaþing County Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 120 Euros
Volunteer project: This is the sixth time
that we host this project and it has been one of the highlights each year.
On the first weekend of August, Icelanders celebrate the 1874 grant of Icelandic sovereignty with a huge festival in the town on Heimaey. The population moves into a tent city in the Herjolfsdalur, a short distance west of town, for an extended weekend of bonfires, dance, and song. This festival is the most popular one in Iceland. The volunteers will help with the preparation of the festival, helping to run it and of course taking part in it and afterwards help to clean the area. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to the local swimming pool. Excursion or a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner. Accommodation: In the Community and Sport center of Heimaey. Participants are asked to bring their sleeping bags. Location: Heimaey, Westman Islands Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. Age range: 18 - 35 years old
Extra fee: 150 Euros
Volunteer project: Akureyri is situated in
north-east Iceland, in one of the longest fjords in the country and is
surrounded by mountains reaching 1000-1500 m. The Arctic Circle in only 60 km
north of Akureyri but still the climate is mild, with summer temperatures up to
25°C. The project participants will build and maintain hiking paths, and will help cleaning up the coastline. The work available will depend on the weather conditions and that’s why we have to be a bit flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though it will be nice most of the time, hopefully. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to the local swimming pool, museums and the local bus. Excursions will be organized by the hosting partner. Accommodation: In the local school, on mattresses, participants are asked to bring a warm sleeping bag. Location: Akureyri Terminal: Reykjavík - Keflavík. You can get to the project site by bus. It is also possible to take a flight from Reykjavik to Akureyri. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 120 Euros
Volunteer project: The community of Dalvíkurbyggð was formed in 1998 by the merger of three districts of the outer Eyjafjörður: the town of Dalvík and the rural districts of Svarfaðardalur and Árskógur. The population of Dalvík is nearly 2.000. The local economy is mostly based upon the fisheries and fish processing, in addition to various industrial and food enterprises, services, commerce and trade. Dalvík harbour is a large fishing and commercial port; the ferry Sæfari, which sails from Dalvík, serves the island of Grímsey, Iceland's northernmost community, which lies on the Arctic Circle. The mountains of Tröllaskagi (“Trolls’ Headland” – between Eyjafjörður and Skagafjörður) are 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 swimming pool in Dalvík is one of the best ones in Iceland and after a hard day of working the locals usually relax there for a while.
Our work during this project will mainly be to
build and maintain hiking paths and clean up the coastline. The work available
will depend on the weather conditions and that’s why we have to be a bit
flexible. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to the local swimming pool and museums and the local bus. Excursion or a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner. Accommodation: In the local school, on mattresses. Participants are asked to bring a warm sleeping bag. Location: Dalvík Terminal: Reykjavík - Keflavík. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 120 Euros
Volunteer project: 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 marvelous
traits of a unique natural landscape.
We will help the organizers of the Reykjavík
International Film Festival with different tasks before and during the festival.
Our group of international volunteers will work closely with the team of
Icelandic volunteers who are in most cases students from the Universities in
Reykjavik. The festival is one of the most important cultural events in Reykjavik and the work of the volunteers is a crucial contribution to the event. It is interesting for the volunteers to be a part of this international project and have the opportunity to experience its amazing atmosphere. It is very important that the volunteers are interested in the topic of the festival. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to all the geothermal pools in Reykjavik will be provided by our hosts. Excursions will also be organized. Accommodation: In an accommodation owned by the community. Mattresses will be provided. Location: Reykjavik Terminal: International airport Keflavik (KEF), Reykjavík Age range: 18 - 35 years old
Extra fee: 150 Euros
Volunteer project: “Fjarðabyggð" is an association of villages in the Eastfjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, Mjóifjörður, Neskaupstaður, Reyðarfjörður and Stöðvarfjörður, all tiny fishing villages with steep mountains towering just behind the houses. In this area you will see some of the features that make Iceland a unique place in the world: spectacular fjords with a rich sea life, a great variety of birdlife, and countless breathtaking hiking paths. You will explore the area during your stay in the east. We will visit kindergartens and schools in the villages and introduce different cultures to the kids. One of the tasks of this volunteer project is to prepare games, songs and materials for those visits and we kindly ask the participants to bring materials that we can use for the preparation. It is also possible that we will do some environmental work if the weather conditions will allow us. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to the local swimming pool, great hiking places. An excursion or a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner. Accommodation: In a community center. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. Access to showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre. Location: Fjarðabyggð Terminal: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. The closest national airport is Egilsstaðir airport which is 40 km away from the project’s site. Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 150 Euros
Iceland Airwaves is an annual music event that
started out in 1999 as a talent show for foreign record executives. Since then,
Airwaves has grown and blossomed and is now an integral part of the cultural
life in Reykjavík. The fruits of the festival's labour have been ripening and
today many Icelandic artists such as Quarashi, Minus, Sigur Ros, Apparat Organ
Quartet, Trabant, Leaves and others have made their way to the international
music scene.
We will help the organizers of the festival carry
out many tasks, such as preparing the venues before and after the concerts,
helping with the controls outside of the festival area and assisting guests at
the venues’ entrance: for example, we’ll serve them hot drinks while they stand
in line in the cold Icelandic night, a gesture that will be greatly appreciated.
Those of you with driving license will most likely be asked to pick up some of
the international guests at the airport. Language: English Leisure time: Free access to all the geothermal pools in Reykjavik will be provided by our hosts. Excursions will also be organized. Accommodation: We will stay in a house owned by the local community. Please, bring your sleeping bag. Location: Reykjavik Terminal: International airport Keflavik (KEF), Reykjavík Age range: 18 - 35 years old
Extra fee: 150 Euros
Iceland projects slideshow:
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| © 2010 Canadian Alliance for Development Initiatives and Projects | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Renovating
a cultural centre and learning
percussion
in
Reykjavik
activities.
Being an experienced cyclist is not a requirement. Volunteers will be provided
bicycles but those who want to bring their own can do so.
Volunteer project: The northernmost Fjord
in the Eastfjords is called Borgarfjörður Eystri, where also the small fishing
village with the same name is situated on. It is located in a dramatic spot, in
between rhyolite peaks and the Dyrfjöll Mountains (1136 m). The area is very
famous for stories of elves. Locals even believe that the queen of Icelandic
Elves lived in the town. Álfaborg (Elf Rock), a small nature reserve is a
tourist highlight of the area until now. Close to the town, you can also find
the Islet Hafnarhólmi, a puffin colony with 10,000 pairs. Iceland’s best known
artist Jóhannes S Kjarval grew up close to Borgarfjörður Eystri and took much of
his inspiration from the area. 
Volunteer project:
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 marvelous traits of a unique natural landscape. In October you can also
see the northern lights glow when the sky is clear in the chilly night.
click here
for volunteer programs in other countries