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Island

Vermittlungsgebühren 120 EUR (+ Extra Fees)

	Auf Island kooperieren wir mit den Organisationen Worldwide Friends Iceland (WF) und See beyond Borders (SEEDS). Beide Organisationen sind seit vielen Jahren aktiv und haben ein umfangreiches Programm. Besonders ist, dass die Workcamps meistens von internationalen Campleitungen betreut werden.
Sowohl SEEDS als auch WF erheben für ihre Camps eine Extra-Gebühr, die vor Ort bezahlt werden muss, da sie weder staatliche Unterstützung noch finanzielle Mittel von ihren lokalen Partnern bekommen. Sie bieten für die meisten Camps einen Bustransfer zum Camport an und können auch Übernachtungsmöglichkeiten stellen, falls ihr früher anreisen werdet.

Island    SEEDS 012    NATURE & FUN AT THE FEET OF VATNAJEKULL    20.05.-30.05.2012    ENVI   10vols (no more female)
WORK: SEEDS volunteers will perform diverse outdoors work consisting of: Setting up fences to withhold cattle in the field and paint windows of the houses and stalls. Garden work which might include planting trees in order to make a sheltered area and help around with the spring tasks in the garden and on the land. Painting houses or facilities that need maintenance. Possibly making, marking and maintaining walking paths close to Flaajokull glacier tongue. Helping with cooking and cleaning activities. All these projects aim at the benefit of the local society and the nature of this beautiful area.
ACCOMMODATION: SEEDS volunteers 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. The group will be responsible for cooking and cleaning activities, please do not forget some traditional food/drinks from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION: The project takes place in an active Icelandic farm in south Iceland placed between the town Hofn in Hornarfjorour and the glacier lagoon Jokulsarlon where big icebergs float. Tourism has been a growing field in the area and the locals are meeting the new demands. By working under an environmental framework they get a yearly certificate from Green Globe. They focus on keeping the area clean and attractive; reduce waste of resourses and pollution by recycling, saving energy and using environmental friendly products. It is important that the nature and cultural heritage is protected and respected but at the same time accessible and interesting for visitors. The project aims at using local products and services as long as it fulfils quality standards. SEEDS volunteers are encouraged to bring in their own ideas on how to develop their environmental guidelines even further. 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 view is spectacular and the biggest national park in Europe with the largest glacier in Europe, Vatnajokull is only few kilometres away. The unique beauty of the nature, unpredictable weathers during winter and local culture have shaped the culture in the area.The Vatnajokull N.P., stretching from the south coast to the north coast of the island; it is the largest protected wilderness in Europe. It covers around 15.000 km2 (15 of the surface of Iceland), including all of Vatnajokull glacier, the former Skaftafell N.P., Jokulsargljufur N.P. and surrounding area.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:Volunteers should have a motivation for working outdoors and getting to know ways of living in rural areas in Iceland. Bring your own Sleeping Bag! Spare time activities will be organized for the volunteers by SEEDS and/or the local hosts free of charge.
TERMINAL: Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland
EXTRA FEE: 160.00 €

Island    SEEDS 020    SAFJARARBaeR - 66 DEGREES NORTH    20.05.-02.06.2012    ENVI/RENO/CONS   8vols
WORK: SEEDS volunteers will be doing mainly environmental work in this workcamp. The work is mostly outdoors and volunteers will have to be willing to work outdoors. The projects are clearing up old fences in the country side, collecting old steel and iron in the land that will either be removed or cleaned for other purposes. Volunteers will also help in cleaning out an old barn that will be bulldozed after it has been stripped of all its valuables.Other possible projects during the work camp will be planting trees and beautifying the area.
ACCOMODATION: SEEDS volunteers will stay in a farm house with 5 bedrooms in shared accommodations. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Volunteers will receive food and will cook together with the host. We will share the different duties of cooking and cleaning. Do not forget some traditional/typical food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION: The workcamp will take place in the municipality safjaroarbaer, in the Westfjords at the north-western part of Iceland. The region accounts for 10 of the country s surface but only about 7200 people live there, so it is one of the least populated areas of Europe. The Westfjords are very mountainous; the coastline is made by dozens of fjords surrounded by steep hills.Districts on the West Fjords have been merging recently in order to strengthen their administrative capabilities. The largest and most populous is safjaroarbaer with a population of 3800 in total.In the Westfjords you will be able to explore the whole range of Icelandic flora from the shore and meadows, through birch to mossy moors. On the shore, one can see birds and seals and then an occasional arctic fox around the sheep. Fishing is traditionally the main industry in the region but tourism started to be more and more important as local and foreign visitors are discovering this region in rising numbers.The farm-house/base of the project is very close to Flateyri which is a small and friendly fishing village by Enundarfjorour, located about 500 Km away from Reykjavik and with 260 inhabitants. Flateyri has been a trading post for over two centuries and a whaling station operated there until it burned down in 1901. In the past years the emphasis on alternative industries has been more visible similar to other fishing villages in Iceland. Flateyri is surrounded by spectacular mountains and above the village is Eyrarfjall which caused a devastating avalanche in 1995; defensive walls were then constructed, which tower over the town. In Flateyri there is a swimming pool, kayak rental and a beautiful sandy beach that hosts a sandcastle building competition each summer. Many small boats are equipped and run from Flateyri, characterising the village, especially during the summer.
SPECIAL REMARKS: Participation fee EUR 150 (Euros).SEEDS and/or our local hosts will organise leisure time activities for SEEDS volunteers, these may include hikes, access to the swimming pool in Flateyri, kayaks and boat fishing. Place of extreme beautiful natural surroundings with countless opportunities to hike and discover it by foot.
TERMINAL: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF121    Hveragerði – Health and Environment    21.05.-04.06.2012    ENVI/MANU   8vols
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 Natural 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.
WORK: The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where Worldwide Friends volunteers work most of the time. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly. Volunteers should bring clothes appropriate for outdoor work.
In the last years this has been the best project in our organization, almost all volunteers have been really satisfied with the work, food, accommodation and the host Jonas who is a great man to work with.
LEISURE: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. Hveragerði is known for having great areas for hiking, including a river heated by hot springs.
ACCOMMODATION: Worldwide Friends 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.
TERMINAL: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: There is a participation fee of 120 Euro for this Workcamp to be paid upon arrival to WF.

Island    SEEDS 013    NATURAL HERITAGE IN THE FAR EAST    21.05.-04.06.2012    ENVI/CONS   8vols (no more female)
PROJECT: SEEDS Volunteers will be working in the east at a Nature et Heritage centre, doing different tasks, helping the centre become as sustainable as possible.
WORK: SEEDS volunteers have been assisting this project for some years now and our main tasks will be reforestation et soil erosion prevention; we will assist in preparing vegetable gardens, care for pigs, hens, ducks, a cow and a horse i all being a part of the areas sustainability. These projects may also include traditional food and drink preparation, like smoking, curing, cheese making and even ale brewing.A new task for us will be collecting down from the eider ducks and making bird habitats. Our host is planning to build a barn and we will assist him with that. We might also build shelter and fences for the animals and clean the coastline.
ACCOMMODATION: We will stay within the reserve and will sleep in bunk beds in shared rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bags.We will receive food and be in charge of the different cooking and cleaning activities. Equipped kitchen and washing machine are available. Please bring some traditional food from your countries for the international evening.
LOCATION: The heritage and nature conservation centre and its reserve are located in a very isolated area in the East of Iceland, far from any urban centre. We have to be aware of the location remoteness, as its extreme natural beauty and wildlife. There are no public transportation services to the closest town and entertainment alternatives are in connection with the gorgeous nature; walking and hiking journeys during the free time and the creativity of the group. This project is adequate for volunteers enjoying isolated places with splendid nature and looking for peaceful surroundings as the quietness of the area. The sea and High Mountains, reaching up to 600 meters in height, border the area. You can also discover waterfalls, snowfields and reindeer i all within walking distance of the house.The reserve is managed as a conservation site for environmental education and sustainable tourism; hosting a number of environmentally important flora and fauna including one of Iceland s largest colonies of Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisaea), 600m sea cliffs hosting numbers of nesting sea birds (incl. Puffin, Kittiwake and Fulmar), herds of reindeer and it is home to the elusive arctic fox. Some other bird species include Black-tailed Godwit, Red-necked Phalarope, Golden Plover, Merlin and you may even be lucky enough to observe Europe s largest falcon the Gyr Falcon.The heritage site is very popular and over last summer the visitors included university students, environmental volunteers, professionals in nature, heritage, academia, food production and arts, hundreds of tourists and a pagan priest to mention but a few.
REQUIREMENTS: There is a participation fee of 140 Euro to be paid to SEEDS. Free time activities will include making cheese and ale, as well as enjoying the many things the exquisite nature offers us. Remote places located in natural reserve areas of extreme beauty. The group will have the opportunity to learn about the environment and culture of Iceland through working on the reserve.
EXTRA FEE: 140 Euro

Island    SEEDS 031    SANDFELL - FLJOTSDALSH    25.05.-07.06.2012    ENVI/CONS   8vols
WORK: SEEDS volunteers will be working for the second year on environmental and nature oriented tasks in this project in the East of the country. Our tasks will mainly be focused on improving the environment in and around the whole area; planting trees and doing some paint work. We will be based in a local Icelandic farm, so volunteers will have the chance also to experience how locals live and work on a daily basis.The host keeps horses, dogs and cats. The volunteers will have access to the animals and will be given guidance in taking care of and riding horses. The working plan will be flexible and it will depend on the needs of our local host, the advance of the diverse projects in the area surrounding the valley and of course on the weather conditions. Last but not least we will explore the surrounding of the location and enjoy free time activities arranged in cooperation with the local host, such as horseback riding.
ACCOMODATION AND FOOD: Volunteers will stay in shared rooms in a sleeping bag accommodation with access to kitchen and bathroom. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Volunteers will receive food and be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Do not forget some traditional/typical food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION AND LEISURE: The farm is located in beautiful landscape with mountains and walleyes. It is close to Hallormsstaoaskogur, the largest wooded area of the country that spreads over 30 ha. of land. The reforestation of the forest has been going on ever since a law for the protection was passed in 1899. The tree collection keeps an extensive variety of foreign trees and is renowned among professionals and travellers. The oldest part of the woodland is accessible with good hiking trails and explanation signs.The area offers great variety of walking paths, such as to the deepest walleye of the country and up to Sandfell where the view is quite magnificent. Riding tours up to the mountains or in the woodland is also a nice experience. Small stream runs through the land where children and adults can cool down in warm summer days.The project is located in the municipality of Fljotsdalsherao, Iceland s easternmost populous municipality; 17 km from the largest town in the Eastern Iceland i Egilsstaoir (population 2600). It is a young town, but which has become the largest town of east Iceland and offers a swimming pool, shops and museums among other main services.The East Fjords is a region of a special landscape, dominated by long, narrow fjords and steep mountains and the wild reindeers of Iceland are found here, the herd counts between three and four thousand animals.
REQUIREMENTS: English will be the official language in the camp; high proficiency is not a requirement.Participation fee EUR 120 (Euros).Volunteers should have a motivation for working with outdoors and getting to know ways of living in rural areas in Iceland. Our hosts will organize free time activities and introduce us to the local community. Volunteers will be offered to take horse-back riding and an introduction to how to treat and hold horses.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 120.00

Island    WF131    ELDFELL, THE VOLCANO IN VESTMANNAEYJAR (VESTMANNAEYJAR)    26.05.-09.06.2012    ENVI   10vols
PROJECT: The Westman Islands, or Vestmannaeyjar are without a doupt among the most beautyful places in Iceland, they consist of a group of fifteen amazing islands which are situated at a short distance off the south coast of Iceland. The islands were given this name by the nordic residents of Iceland after the Irish slaves that the norse captured that were settled there. All of the islands are the result of submarine volcanic eruptions during comparatively recent geological time. Heimaey is the largest and only inhabited island in the group, and is Icelands largest offshore island, with an area of 13,4 km². Fishing, fish processing, and subsidiary trades are the main source of income. Eldfell is a composite volcanic cone just over 200 metres high. It was formed in a huge volcanic eruption - the name means Mountain of Fire in Icelandic. This volcanic eruption is considered the largest natural disaster in Iceland in recent history.
WORK: Worldwide Friends volunteers assist the local residents in preserving the volcano cone. Volunteers fight erosion by adding soil to the slope and building fences to shelter the soil from the wind. Please note that this is a hard physical work. We will also help the locals to clean and beautify the village and surrounding area.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in an indoor community facility. Mattresses are provided, however volunteers should bring their own warm sleeping bags. Food is included for the duration of the workcamp, however everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking and cleaning. Since it is always nice to try new and different dishes, volunteers are encouraged to bring along their favorite recipes from home
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermal-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. In addition, an excursion or a boat trip can be organized by the hosting partner.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Vestmannaeyjar (VEY)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    SEEDS 017    FAR FAR AWAY ICELANDIC HERITAGE     27.05.-10.06.2012    ENVI/RENO/CONS   8vols
WORK: The work of SEEDS volunteers will be related to a beautiful Icelandic set of old turf houses that has been transformed into a museum; which is one of the best kept farmhouses from this era in the country. We have the chance to learn and adopt new skills as this project offers very diverse tasks and opportunities since maintaining a turf house requires special techniques and knowledge as the material is alive and always changing. The museum emphasizes on a realistic set up of its collection, as if the inhabitants just went out for a moment. Additionally they work on transmitting the old ways of working through events, workshops and courses. The museum is unique in the way it shows clearly how the way of living has changed drastically from around 1770 until the last inhabitants lived in the farm in the 1960 s.Many tasks will be related to the museum itself, such as cleaning and polishing the collective items, but the museum includes i.e. textile, wooden household things and other items used in Iceland in the olden days. We will be cleaning the area, maintaining the houses and preparing for the busy season ahead. The museum opens in June every year and we will assist the locals with the arrangements for the opening event which SEEDS volunteers will be invited to take part in.Other tasks may be checking, correcting and even translating information for the museum as many guests from different countries visit the museum every year. Additional work may include marking walking trails and painting fences, depending on weather conditions.
ACCOMODATION AND FOOD: Volunteers will be lodged in a local house, sleeping on mattresses on the floor. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Food will be provided and volunteers will have access to a kitchen and have to take care of their own cooking and cleaning activities. Please do not forget some traditional food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION AND LEISURE: The project takes place in the north east part of Iceland in a mountainous bay (fjord) called Vopnafjorour, the Fjord of the Weapons. A name that comes from one of the Viking settlers, Eyvindur Vopni. The fjord is renowned for its natural beauty and good weather with salmon rivers and large areas of untouched landscape. Just about 20 km away from the project is the town Vopnafjorour which is one of the warmest places in the country and warmer than most places at a similar latitude. The reason is the warm waters of the Gulf Stream that moderates the winters and makes the island habitable. The main industries of Vopnafjorour are fish processing, agriculture, and tourism and other services. Inhabitants of the fjord are 683 there of 540 who are living in the village.The county is divided into three valleys, Hofsdalur, Vesturardalur and Selardalur and in those valleys are some of the most popular fishing rivers in the country. Selardalur has natural hot springs, and next to them is a swimming pool with a hot Jacuzzi. In Iceland you may find many unique pools all over the country but the one in Selardalur is one of the most special. The area has various lakes, some of them popular for fishing, but others have gotten smaller due to soil erosion.
REQUIREMENTS: SPECIAL REMARKS / EXTRAS: Participation fee EUR 160. SEEDS and/or our local hosts will organise free time activities and sightseeing to some of the interesting attraction spots in the area. Remote and isolated site located in natural areas of extreme beauty.
EXTRA FEE: 160.00

Island    SEEDS 018    BOTANIC GARDEN IN REYKJAVK    28.05.-09.06.2012    ENVI   6vols
PROJECT: For the second year in a row SEEDS offers projects in the Botanic Garden in Reykjavik. The Botanic Garden is an outdoor collection of living plants, founded in 1961 and celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2011. The gardens 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.
WORK: SEEDS volunteers will be doing general garden work in the garden, attending the flowers, trees and other plants. Volunteers will 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 project 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.
ACCOMMODATION: We will stay in a fully equipped house in Reykjavik; sleeping in shared rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag (and pillow if you need one).Food ingredients will be provided and a kitchen will be available in the accommodation. We will share the duties of preparing and cooking meals, while lunch will be provided sometimes at the working site during working days.Please do not forget some typical food and/or drinks for the international evening, where others can try and taste some specialities from your home countries.
LOCATION: Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland, often called the nightlife capital of the north . But there is more to Reykjavik than pubs and clubs. Reykjavik 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. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides. The population of the city is over 200,000 including the metropolitan area, so two thirds of Iceland s inhabitants live here. It is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers. Visitors to Reykjavik 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 closer than 100 Km from Reykjavik, there are several spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastline and the well-known geothermal Blue Lagoon spa to visit. Reykjavik 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.
REQUIREMENTS: There is a participation fee of EUR 150 to be paid to SEEDS. Volunteers have to good working shoes and clothes, even though spring and summer is coming, it might still be cold and hats and gloves might be necessary. Tours and excursions will be arranged for SEEDS volunteers at discount fares.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    SEEDS 052    SINGVELLIR - WORLD HERITAGE SITE    28.05.-09.06.2012    ENVI/CONS   6vols
PROJECT: SEEDS has been working in the National Parks since 2007 on a number of projects including environmental workcamps, trail management and research on invasive species.
WORK: This year, for the first time SEEDS volunteers will have the unique opportunity to participate in a new project working at the only UNESCO world heritage site in Iceland that is open to visitors: The national park of Singvellir - literally Parliament Plains. Volunteers will be working in the woodlands of Singvellir, cleaning up dead branches, thinning where needed, digging up some non-native species, painting around Logberg (the Law Rock) and possibly doing other projects that are required in the national park and heritage site
ACCOMODATION AND FOOD: SEEDS volunteers will stay in a fully equipped house in Reykjavik and go back and forth each day to Singvellir. It is a sleeping bag accommodation sharing rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Volunteers will receive food and be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Equipped kitchen and washing machine are available. Please do not forget some traditional/typical food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION AND LEISURE: The UNESCO world heritage site of Singvellir is a national park and was the location of Iceland s parliament from 930 to 1798. Many of Icelands biggest moments in history happened in Singvellir, such as the adoption of Christianity around 1000 AD and the foundation of the modern Republic in 1944, therefore it is and it is an important place for many Icelanders. History is not the only reason attracting Icelanders and tourists to Singvellir it can also boast of extraordinary beauty and a complex ecological system. The area of Singvellir was established as a national park in 1930 and the area is part of a fissure zone running through Iceland, being situated on the tectonic plate boundaries of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The faults and fissures of the area make evident the rifting of the earths crust. In the last few decades, research has made it clear that Singvellir is a natural wonder on a international scale, with the geologic history and the biosystem of Lake Singvallavatn forming a unique entity, a magnificent showcase. Being able to witness the evolution and formation of new species in a place like Lake Singvallavatn is of immense value. In 2004 Singvellir was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List, which includes about 800 important cultural and natural heritage sites around the world.
SPECIAL REMARKS: Participation fee EUR 100.Volunteers have to good walking shoes and clothes, even though it is summer, it might be cold during the evenings and hats and gloves might be necessary.
NEAREST AIRPORT: KEF
EXTRA FEE: 100.00

Island    SEEDS 032    SKRIDALUR - CRAWLING VALLEY    29.05.-12.06.2012    ENVI/RENO/CONS   8vols
PROJECT: SEEDS volunteers will be working on environmental and nature oriented tasks in this project, based on an Icelandic farm in the East of the country; this is our third year of cooperation and the volunteers experiences have been very positive.
WORK: Our tasks will mainly be focused on improving the environment in and around the whole area; planting trees, cleaning out a sheeps barn, clearing old fences etc. The working plan will be very flexible and it will depend on the needs of our local host, the advance of the diverse projects in the area surrounding the valley and of course on the weather conditions. While we help to preserve the local environment, we will explore the surroundings of the location and enjoy free time activities arranged in cooperation with the local host, such as hiking and discovering the beautiful scenery.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be lodged in a farmhouse, in a shared room(s), sleeping on mattresses on the floor. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Food ingredients will be provided and a kitchen is available, volunteers will share the duties of preparing and cooking meals. Please do not forget some traditional food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION: The project is located in the municipality of Fljotsdalsherao; 17 km from the largest town in Eastern Iceland - Egilsstaoir (population 2300). It is a young town which has become the largest in the east and offers a swimming pool, shops and museums among other main services.The farm is located in beautiful landscape with mountains and valleys.
SPECIAL REMARKS: Participation fee EUR 120 (Euros). Volunteers should have a motivation for working with outdoors and getting to know ways of living in rural areas in Iceland. Place of extreme beautiful natural surroundings.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 120.00

Island    SEEDS 033    SALVATION ARMY GUESTHOUSE (1:6)    01.06.-15.06.2012    SOCI   6vols (no more female)
WORK: SEEDS volunteers will take part in a workcamp with the Salvation Army in Iceland.The Salvation Army runs since 1898 a popular guesthouse in the centre of Reykjavik. The profit from its operation goes to the charity and social work of the Salvation Army in Iceland. By staying there, guests (mainly international travellers) are helping their projects that support people in need. Volunteers will have 3 main tasks during their stay at the guesthouse in Reykjavik: -Helping the team of the guesthouse to clean the rooms and common areas, -preparing breakfast for the guests and lunch for the team and volunteers-and taking care of the laundry.The work will be mainly in the mornings and volunteers will have plenty of time in the afternoon to explore and discover the city of Reykjavik. Volunteers are also welcome to bring in ideas to improve the guesthouse as to take on projects as creating a new welcome book for the guests with travel information, history of the guesthouse, links to learn more about Iceland, etc. Volunteers could also create a welcome poster about the guesthouse which will be framed and placed at its main entrance.Additional to the main tasks, volunteers may provide support at the day shelter, which welcomes people every day, preparing food and taking care of the facilities to allow the visitors of the shelter to rest, talk, take showers and relax while watching television or playing games. The Salvation Army is an international Church movement that currently works in over 120 countries and is known for its thrift stores and charity work.In Iceland their social work is directed to support people in need or in difficult situation, mainly individuals dealing with drug or alcohol abuse, homeless, aid to refugees as with the elderly.
ACCOMODATION AND FOOD: SEEDS volunteers will stay at the Salvation Army Guesthouse or in a flat, 100 meters from the guesthouse with access to kitchen, washing machine and Wi-fi at the guesthouse. Volunteers will receive food and be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Do not forget some traditional/typical food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION AND LEISURE: Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland, often called the nightlife capital of the north . But there is more to Reykjavik than pubs and clubs. Reykjavik 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. Reykjavik 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. Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers. In the area closer than 100 Km from Reykjavik, there are several spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastline and the well-known geothermal Blue Lagoon spa to visit.
REQUIREMENTS: English will be the language in the camp; basic conversational skills are needed.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 100.00

Island    SEEDS 034    EYJAFJERUR - THE LONGEST FJORD IN ICELAND    02.06.-16.06.2012    ENVI/RENO/CONS   8vols
WORK: SEEDS volunteers will have the chance to help build the surroundings of a brand new sustainable tourist association/cooperative and community based project with about 50 locals involved. The project is being built in and around an old boarding school that needs to be altered to fit the new purposes.Volunteers will be changing the rooms in the boarding school, creating bedrooms, changing the indoor surroundings, building and maintaining walking paths, building a camping place in the area, preparing the camp site for the summer, building an outdoor education place for children to have camp fires and outdoor cooking facilities.The project will host several groups of SEEDS volunteers this year and depending on the advance of the tasks, the groups will focus more on the projects that are being run at the moment.
ACCOMODATION AND FOOD: SEEDS volunteers will be lodged in the boarding school, sleeping on a mattress on the floor. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Volunteers will receive food and be in charge of the different cooking and cleaning activities during the project. Please do not forget some traditional/typical food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION AND LEISURE: Volunteers will stay in the North of Iceland in the municipality of Dalvikurbyggo (population around 2000) and at the shores of Eyjafjorour, which is the longest fjord in Iceland. The fjord is long and narrow, it measures 60 km from mouth to bottom and its greatest width is 25 km at the fjord s mouth but for the greater part of its length it is usually 6 -10 km wide. The fjord is surrounded by mountains on both sides, in the outer part of the fjord there are no lowlands along the coast as the steep hills roll directly into the sea. Further south in the fjord there are strips of lowland along both coasts; these are wider on the west side. The ferry Saefari sails from Dalvik to the island of Grimsey, Iceland s northernmost community, which lies on the Arctic Circle. The area where SEEDS volunteers will be working and sleeping is an old boarding school located about 30 Kilometres from Dalvik, located in a large and densely populated valley (Svarfaoadalur) that lies between tall and sharp mountains. The majestic mountains that surround the area hold several small glaciers and a river runs through the valley from the mountains to the sea. In the valley, there is a Nature reserve that volunteers will have the chance to visit and enjoy. This environment provides an excellent habitat for many species of birds. In April the migratory birds start to arrive for the summer breeding season. From the project base, there are footpaths that can be easily followed through part of the reserve, we advise to wear rubber boots as part is wetland. The mountains offer great hiking options and the mountains of Trollaskagi peninsula are by many viewed as the most spectacular outdoor activity in all Iceland.
REQUIREMENTS: Participation fee EUR 120 (Euros).Volunteers have to good walking shoes and clothes, even though it is summer, it might be cold during the evenings and hats and gloves might be necessary. The camp is located in a place of extreme beautiful surroundings with countless opportunities to discover them by foot or hiking; area surrounded by stunning mountains, glaciers and rivers.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 120.00

Island    WF74    Biofuel and soap tour around Iceland    03.06.-15.06.2012    ENVI/EDU/STUDY   12vols
PROJECT: To travel around Iceland and at the same time participate in a very important environmental project!
Cooking oil and soaps are among the most harmful liquids polluting our rivers, lakes and seas. Due to the lack of information and education available these waste products are often disposed of improperly - resulting in contamination of waterways, even if disposed of in sewage systems these products can damage treatment facilities and pipes. We need to educate users and adopt proper recycling strategies to prevent environmental damage.
The Bio fuel project: Rudolph Diesel, a German engineer, introduced the diesel engine over a century ago (Nitske and Wilson, 1965). A great deal of research and development has taken place, not only in perfecting the design but also in finding an appropriate fuel. Until the oil crisis of the 1970’s the availability of inexpensive middle-distillate petroleum fuels provided little incentive for experimenting with alternative, renewable fuels for diesel engines. However, since the crisis research has expanded in the area of alternative fuels. Of all the current alternative fuels only ethanol and vegetable oils are non-fossil fuels.
Due to the high contents of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids (fats or oils) in oilseeds, one of the main end products are edible vegetable oils for human consumption and food processing. Currently much of the used cooking oil is poured into the sewer system. There are at least two reasons to work to encourage proper disposal. Oils and grease may clog pipes because they stick to the inner walls and reduce the effective diameter of the sewer pipes, in some cases this may cause sewage spills. Even if oil reaches the wastewater treatment plants it disrupts normal operations and increases both maintenance costs and the cost to purify the water.
A simple alternative is collect the used oil in a plastic bottle (for example, a big soda bottle) and place it with other waste and recycling. The bottles will be collected and properly disposed of. In the past this waste was mainly used to make animal food, however, as there is some evidence waste oils may have carcinogenic properties, animal food from used cooking oil is being prohibited by governments. Biodiesel manufacturing may be an alternative option for reusing waste cooking oil. Biodiesels from both used and unused vegetable oils have very similar properties and potential in reducing pollutant emission from the engine because both are composed of methyl esters of fatty acids. In most cases a simple pre-treatment (removal by filtration of solid particles, etherification process to reduce the content of free fatty acids) is enough for to prepare waste oil for use in diesel engines.
The Soap project: Have you ever wondered what happens to all those little bars of soap in hotels? You use them once or twice during a stay and then they're discarded the next day - In the USA alone around 1 million bars of soap a day are thrown away
Because of the fatty acids soaps are really bad for the environment and should be recycled. During the BIOFUEL and SOAP tour the volunteer will collect used soaps from hotels to be recycled and reuse afterwards.
Bar soap can reduce deaths of children from pneumonia and diarrheal disease…  which kill around 9,000 kids a day.
Worldwide Friends is organizing voluntary projects in Tierra Bomba Colombia a place with lot of misery and lack of basic needs. Recycled soap could play an important role in the daily life of the Tierra Bomba population and especially for the children. The recycled soap from our 2012 projects will be sent to Tierra Bomba and distributed to the most needy families.
The travel: During the first week volunteers will travel around Iceland collecting soaps and cooking oil. We will use a GMC truck to collect the materials and a Ford Econoline for the group of volunteers. Both cars are using cooking oil as fuel.
Please note that we will drive more than 1,700 kms around Iceland on Route #1 – the ring road. During the trip we will have the opportunity to visit some of the most beautiful places in Iceland. Waterfalls, glaciers, hot water springs and black beaches.
During the second part of the project the volunteers will learn how to recycle soap and used oil.
WORK: WF Iceland is taking action on this environmental issue by organizing work camps to collect waste oil and soap from hotels, restaurants and petrol stations all around the country. Iceland is still a clean and unpolluted area and proactive education and awareness programs will protect this environment. The first week of the project volunteers together with WF Iceland team leaders will drive around the country with a van and a truck collecting waste materials. During the second week of the camp the volunteers will learn how to process this wasted and start the first step of transforming it into renewable fuel and soaps. During this second week volunteers will also take part in some more environmental activities such as planting trees, making paths or cleaning rivers.
ACCOMMODATION: During the travel around Iceland the group will stay in tents or in community centres. During the second week the group will be located in a very nice place called Laugarás in the south of Iceland.
The food will be provided for the duration of the work camp and everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to share new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Volunteers with interest in scientific work and/or protection of nature are very much welcome to this camp. Volunteers who like outdoor work are also encouraged to apply for this camp.
TERMINAL: International Airport Reykjavík - Keflavík (KEF)
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 250€ for this workcamp – travel around Iceland included.

Island    SEEDS 035    BORGARFJERUR EYSTRI - HIKERS PARADISE    03.06.-17.06.2012    ENVI/CONS   10vols
WORK: Volunteers will be part of a collective project to create a walkers/hikers paradise in the local environment of Borgarfjorour Eystri, a remote community in the Eastern fjords of Iceland. Creating the hikers paradise idea of the place is the main purpose of the project, when visitors come they feel that this place is ideal for hiking both in the town and in the surrounding area. We will be based at a local guesthouse, which is visited by many travellers in the summer. The work will be creating the environment this area. Volunteers will be building walking paths, cleaning up the area, creating walls from stone and turf and other projects in the environment. Volunteers will be given a chance to share some of their ideas for the area and developing them further if they wish.
ACCOMODATION AND FOOD: SEEDS volunteers will stay in a hotel/guesthouse, in shared rooms with a bathroom in each room. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Volunteers will receive food and be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Do not forget some traditional/typical food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION AND LEISURE: According to locals this is the most beautiful place on earth. The work camp will take place in a hidden treasure called Borgarfjorour Eystri, in the East fjords, 70 km northeast of Egilsstaoir, in a small community of 130 people. It is a charming location overlooking a wide fjord and backed by mountains. Inland from the fjord lays a beautiful grown valley, reaching about 10 km into the Eastern Mountains. Along it runs Fjaroara, a beautiful river with quite a few waterfalls. Not only does the area boast a spectacular landscape, a dream for every outdoor enthusiast, but the area is also the capital of puffins, elves and hiking. Borgarfjorour is by some called a hiking haven, with a good number of marked trails in an area of extreme beauty. Every summer about 10.000 pairs of puffins nest in Borgarfjorour, between 20th of April to mid August. The area is also home to an extensive population of elves i judging by the 172 local folk tales involving elves. In Borgarfjorour Eystri the beautiful mountain scenery stops your breath, mountains such as Dyrfjoll, Staoarfjall, Geitfell and Svartfell to name a few. The area is located in beautiful landscape with mountains and valleys. It is close to Hallormsstaoaskogur, the largest wooded area of the country that spreads over 30 ha. The tree collection keeps an extensive variety of foreign trees and is renowned among professionals and travellers. The oldest part of the woodland is accessible with good hiking trails and signs.One of Iceland s most beloved artists grew up there, Johannes Kjarval. In Kjarvalsstofa in community house Fjaroarborg you can see a show on Kjarval. The artist spent most of his summers in the East painting the colourful landscape of Borgarfjorour and the cove. He also painted the altar piece in the church, which is a must see for all visitors.
SPECIAL REMARKS: Participation fee EUR 150 (Euros).Volunteers should have a motivation for working outdoors and getting to know ways of living in rural areas in Iceland. Leisure time activities for SEEDS volunteers include hikes, looking at newborn lambs with the local farmers, bird watching, and playing soccer and other sports in a sporting venue close by.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    SEEDS 050    WINDOW INTO THE VIKING WORLD (1:2)    03.06.-16.06.2012    ENVI/CONS   8vols
PROJECT: For the third year in a row, SEEDS volunteers will get an introduction and a chance to try to work like the Vikings used to. We will, among other things, be building old style turf- and stonewalls using ancient tools and methods. The project´s objective is to reconstruct and keep in good shape old Viking traditional turf farmhouses.
WORK: The tasks are done using ancient tools and elements keeping the work with the same style and final details as the turf houses were originally constructed. The tools are reconstructed like the actual tools the Vikings used for similar work, since their methods still proof to be the best for this work. We will get guidance from professionals and experts, will be taught the techniques and the methods used in the old times. The concept uses Icelandic, natural local materials for the turf walls and roofs, as in the interior of the houses, using turf, soil, rocks and wood.There is a strong aspect of learning during the working process and on the social importance of the work. We will receive practical lessons in turf cutting, turf-walling and in stone construction; which are the traditional Icelandic crafts, then to produce turf material and use these skills for the work on the turf, stone walls and other constructions. There will be more and challenging tasks in the camp. We will help construct a sustainable henhouse and prepare an exhibition of old tools.The work is very interesting and fun but also physically demanding.
ACCOMODATION: We will be lodged in a house, sleeping on mattresses on the floor. Please bring your own sleeping bag. There will be an opportunity to sleep for at least some nights in the traditional Icelandic turf houses. Volunteers will receive food and be in charge of the different cooking and cleaning activities. Please do not forget some traditional/typical food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION: We will stay in the south of Iceland, around 60 km from Reykjavik. The place consists of few typical traditional farmhouses in the South-Icelandic style. Very few similar farmhouses remain in the country and these ones we will be staying and working in, are the last in the district. A dedicated effort has been made to develop and conserve the place as the farmhouse tradition embodies an important element of Icelandic history and the Icelandic way of life over centuries.The largest town in the district is Selfoss (pop. 6000). The workcamp site is located about 15 km from Selfoss. 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 Sjorsa during the last centuries. The land is covered mostly by green grass and the closeness of the ocean can be felt in the air. STUDY THEME: This project has an educational approach to building with ancient tools and techniques. We will also receive information on the historical relevance of the project and its present usefulness.
SPECIAL REMARKS: Participation fee EUR 120,- (Euros). This project is ideal for those interested in green architecture, eco-culture, design and artistic work. We will have the opportunity to spend the weekend in the city of Reykjavik.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 120.00

Island    WF01    HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT (HVERAGERDI)    04.06.-18.06.2012    ENVI/MANU   8vols
PROJECT: Hverageroi is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavik. 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 Hverageroi means hot springs garden. Geothermal energy is Hverageroi 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 Natural 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.
WORK: The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where Worldwide Friends volunteers work most of the time. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly. Volunteers should bring clothes appropriate for outdoor work.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in a fully equipped bungalow consisting of several double and private rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag, but mattresses are provided. Free wireless internet during is available during evening hours, but volunteers need to bring their own laptops if they would like to connect to it.All meals are provided and cooked by our hosts, the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic. The menu for the project is primarily vegetarian, but two times a week it includes locally-caught fish. The food at the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic is known throughout Iceland for its high quality.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. Hverageroi is known for having great areas for hiking, including a river heated by hot springs.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
TERMINAL: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF03    FARM LIFE - NATURE, ART AND RENOVATION IN FJORD O (MOSFELLSBaeR)    05.06.-17.06.2012    ENVI/RENO/ART/MANU   10vols
PROJECT: Hvalfjorour (Icelandic: Whale-fjord) is situated in the west of Iceland between Mosfellsbaer and Akranes. The fjord is approximately 30 km long and 5 km wide. It is only 30 km away from the centre of Reykjavik.The name Hvalfjorour is derived from the large number of whales which could be found and caught there. Until the 1980s, one of the biggest whaling stations in Iceland was located in this fjord. In the past the fjord also contained a large number of herring fisheries.A hiking trail to the highest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur, has its origin at the innermost end of the fjord.This fjord is one of the most beautiful fjords in Iceland and there are many farms located in the area. It will be a unique experience for our volunteers to live in a farm but still so near to the capital city.
WORK: Since the creation of Worldwide Friends, the organization has been looking for the opportunity to set up a project to renovate and work at an old Icelandic farm. The idea of renovating old spaces in the country side of Iceland and especially in areas where there isn t much population is one of the best ideas our organization could develop. In one hand we have the opportunity of giving life to an empty and old space, in the other hand we are bringing life back to the area with the spirit and the ideas of International volunteers which will be very much welcomed by the local community. It is also great that now WF will have the opportunity to start growing bio vegetables such as potatoes, carrots and other products. It is in our plans to install green houses and be able to grow in the most organic and environmental friendly way products to be used in WF kitchen afterwards.The first part of this Project will consist on renovating and putting the farm in good shape. There are two building that we have to renovate. The first one is the main house where volunteers will live in the near future. The second house is the storage and workshops where volunteers will keep the paint and other materials.We will also take care of the property, plant trees, grow vegetables and even fruits if it is possible. There are a lot farms in the area so the volunteers will have the chance to visit other farms around and therefore to learn about Icelandic farming methods.
ACCOMODATION: We will be staying in the farm. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. Food will be provided for the duration of the workcamp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LOCATION: We will explore the whole whale fjord and the surrounding area, including a hike to the highest waterfall in Iceland.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF129    EAST OF ICELAND - CLOSE TO NATURE (ESKIFJORDUR)    05.06.-18.06.2012    ENVI/MANU   15vols
PROJECT: Scoured by Ice Age glaciers, the dramatic east coast boasts long, narrow fjords with steep sides and jagged peaks which contrast with inland fertile farmlands. Natural harbours mean picture-postcard fishing villages and seemingly never-ending roads cross the region, providing beautiful sweeping views. Fjaroabyggo is an association of villages in the Eastern fjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjorour, Faskruosfjorour, Mjoifjorour, Neskaupstaour, Reyoarfjorour and Stoovarfjorour, 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.
WORK: Most of the work will consist of cleaning and beautifying the towns and the surrounding area. We will also do some other environmental tasks for example clean the coastline, plant trees or build hiking paths. Our work will also depend on weather conditions and that s why we have to be flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time. This is a perfect camp for people who like outdoor work and physical challenges.
ACCOMODATION: In a community centre called Knellan which is located in Eskifjordur. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will have access to showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre. The food will be supplied for the duration of the work camp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pool in Eskifjorour. 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.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges or steam-vents..
NEAREST AIRPORT: Egilsstaðir (EGS)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    SEEDS 026    AS FAR AS IT GETS IN THE EAST FJORDS     09.06.-19.06.2012    ENVI/CONS   10vols (no more female)
PROJECT: SEEDS volunteers will take part in environmental projects and perform diverse outdoors work consisting of:
-Marking and maintaining walking paths, putting up signs with information and images
-Setting up fences
-Collecting driftwood and chopping driftwood
-Laying fishing nets for salmon and trout
-Setting up fences to withhold cattle in the field and paint windows of the houses and stalls
-Painting houses or facilities that need maintenance
-Planting vegetables
-Other projects around the area such as farming, working with horses etc. All the projects undertaken will be for the benefits of the local society and the nature of the area.
ACCOMMODATION: SEEDS volunteers 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. The group will be responsible for cooking and cleaning activities and please do not forget some traditional food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION: The work camp will take place in the area of Borgarfjorour Eystri, in the East fjords with beautiful mountain and valleys scenery, with peaks such as Dyrfjoll, Staoarfjall, Geitfell and Svartfell to name a few. This area is by some called a hiking haven, with a good number of marked trails in an area of extreme beauty.The project base is in a farm off the beaten tourist track 60 Km north of Egilsstaoir in north-east Iceland between the two glacial rivers, Jokulsa a Bru and the Lagarfljot. The farm offers endless opportunities for excursions to discover Iceland s untouched nature. The area is a paradise for nature lovers with 30 different species of birds, lush vegetation and seals that can be seen in their natural habitat, it gives an opportunity to enjoy almost complete peace and quietness to absorb the land and nature - during the day or the light summer nights.Ever wanted to spot seals in their nature habitat, have a close encounter with a red-throated diver, and get attacked by the great Skua? If so, this is the project for you
REQUIREMENTS: Volunteers should have a motivation for working outdoors and getting to know ways of living in rural areas in Iceland; opportunity to get to know the Icelandic horse and the Icelandic farm life.We will have horseback riding as a spare time activity, fishing in the river is also possible. Other free time opportunities will be organized for the volunteers by SEEDS and/or the local hosts free of charge.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF132    ELDFELL, THE VOLCANO IN VESTMANNAEYJAR (VESTMANNAEYJAR)    09.06.-23.06.2012    ENVI   10vols
PROJECT: The Westman Islands, or Vestmannaeyjar are without a doupt among the most beautyful places in Iceland, they consist of a group of fifteen amazing islands which are situated at a short distance off the south coast of Iceland. The islands were given this name by the nordic residents of Iceland after the Irish slaves that the norse captured that were settled there. All of the islands are the result of submarine volcanic eruptions during comparatively recent geological time. Heimaey is the largest and only inhabited island in the group, and is Icelands largest offshore island, with an area of 13,4 km². Fishing, fish processing, and subsidiary trades are the main source of income. Eldfell is a composite volcanic cone just over 200 metres high. It was formed in a huge volcanic eruption - the name means Mountain of Fire in Icelandic. This volcanic eruption is considered the largest natural disaster in Iceland in recent history.
WORK: Worldwide Friends volunteers assist the local residents in preserving the volcano cone. Volunteers fight erosion by adding soil to the slope and building fences to shelter the soil from the wind. Please note that this is a hard physical work. We will also help the locals to clean and beautify the village and surrounding area.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in an indoor community facility. Mattresses are provided, however volunteers should bring their own warm sleeping bags. Food is included for the duration of the workcamp, however everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking and cleaning. Since it is always nice to try new and different dishes, volunteers are encouraged to bring along their favorite recipes from home
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermal-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. In addition, an excursion or a boat trip can be organized by the hosting partner.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Vestmannaeyjar (VEY)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    SEEDS 025    BOTANIC GARDEN IN REYKJAVK    10.06.-23.06.2012    ENVI   6vols
PROJECT: For the second year in a row SEEDS offers projects in the Botanic Garden in Reykjavik. The Botanic Garden is an outdoor collection of living plants, founded in 1961 and celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2011. The gardens 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.
WORK: SEEDS volunteers will be doing general garden work in the garden, attending the flowers, trees and other plants. Volunteers will 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 project 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.
ACCOMMODATION: We will stay in a fully equipped house in Reykjavik; sleeping in shared rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag (and pillow if you need one).Food ingredients will be provided and a kitchen will be available in the accommodation. We will share the duties of preparing and cooking meals, while lunch will be provided sometimes at the working site during working days.Please do not forget some typical food and/or drinks for the international evening, where others can try and taste some specialities from your home countries.
LOCATION: Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland, often called the nightlife capital of the north . But there is more to Reykjavik than pubs and clubs. Reykjavik 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. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides. The population of the city is over 200,000 including the metropolitan area, so two thirds of Iceland s inhabitants live here. It is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers. Visitors to Reykjavik 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 closer than 100 Km from Reykjavik, there are several spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastline and the well-known geothermal Blue Lagoon spa to visit. Reykjavik 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.
REQUIREMENTS: Participation fee EUR 150,- (Euros). Volunteers have to good working shoes and clothes, even though spring and summer is coming, it might still be cold and hats and gloves might be necessary. Tours and excursions will be arranged for SEEDS volunteers at discount fares.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    SEEDS 036    SALVATION ARMY GUESTHOUSE (2:6)    15.06.-29.06.2012    SOCI   6vols
WORK: SEEDS volunteers will take part in a work camp with the Salvation Army in Iceland.The Salvation Army runs since 1898 a popular guesthouse in the centre of Reykjavik. The profit from its operation goes to the charity and social work of the Salvation Army in Iceland. By staying there, guests (mainly international travellers) are helping their projects that support people in need.Volunteers will have 3 main tasks during their stay at the guesthouse in Reykjavik: -Helping the team of the guesthouse to clean the rooms and common areas, -preparing breakfast for the guests and lunch for the team and volunteers-and taking care of the laundry.The work will be mainly in the mornings and volunteers will have plenty of time in the afternoon to explore and discover the city of Reykjavik.Volunteers are also welcome to bring in ideas to improve the guesthouse as to take on projects as creating a new welcome book for the guests with travel information, history of the guesthouse, links to learn more about Iceland, etc. Volunteers could also create a welcome poster about the guesthouse which will be framed and placed at its main entrance.Additional to the main tasks, volunteers may provide support at the day shelter, which welcomes people every day, preparing food and taking care of the facilities to allow the visitors of the shelter to rest, talk, take showers and relax while watching television or playing games. The Salvation Army is an international Church movement that currently works in over 120 countries and is known for its thrift stores and charity work.In Iceland their social work is directed to support people in need or in difficult situation, mainly individuals dealing with drug or alcohol abuse, homeless, aid to refugees as with the elderly.
ACCOMODATION AND FOOD: SEEDS volunteers will stay at the Salvation Army Guesthouse or in a flat, 100 meters from the guesthouse with access to kitchen, washing machine and Wi-fi at the guesthouse. Volunteers will receive food and be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Do not forget some traditional/typical food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION AND LEISURE: Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland, often called the nightlife capital of the north . But there is more to Reykjavik than pubs and clubs. Reykjavik 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. Reykjavik 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. Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers. In the area closer than 100 Km from Reykjavik, there are several spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastline and the well-known geothermal Blue Lagoon spa to visit.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 120.00

Island    WF02    EAST OF ICELAND - CLOSE TO NATURE (ESKIFJORDUR)    17.06.-30.06.2012    ENVI   15vols
PROJECT: Scoured by Ice Age glaciers, the dramatic east coast boasts long, narrow fjords with steep sides and jagged peaks which contrast with inland fertile farmlands. Natural harbours mean picture-postcard fishing villages and seemingly never-ending roads cross the region, providing beautiful sweeping views. Fjaroabyggo is an association of villages in the Eastern fjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjorour, Faskruosfjorour, Mjoifjorour, Neskaupstaour, Reyoarfjorour and Stoovarfjorour, 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.
WORK: Most of the work will consist of cleaning and beautifying the towns and the surrounding area. We will also do some other environmental tasks for example clean the coastline, plant trees or build hiking paths. Our work will also depend on weather conditions and that s why we have to be flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time. This is a perfect camp for people who like outdoor work and physical challenges.
ACCOMODATION: In a community centre called Knellan which is located in Eskifjordur. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will have access to showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre. The food will be supplied for the duration of the work camp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pool in Eskifjorour. 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.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges or steam-vents..
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flughafen Egilsstaðir (EGS)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    SEEDS 054    WEST FJORDS and REYKJAVK: MUSIC FESTIVAL    17.06.-28.06.2012    FEST/ART/CULT   8vols
AGE LIMIT: 20-35 years
PROJECT: SEEDS volunteers will be part of the annual music festival Vio Djupio. The festival is held in the capital of the West Fjords, safjorour, around summer solstice every year. The event offers series of concerts and master classes, which are held in close cooperation with the Iceland Academy of Arts. During the last 8 years the festival has offered master classes and concerts with nation- and worldwide known artists.
WORK: We will share all types of tasks related to the festival and the group will be split according to the needs to give everyone the chance to try out different assignments. The input of volunteers will make a big difference in making the festival an impressive cultural event. The tasks include receiving guests at the airport, driving them, selling entrance tickets, controlling at the entrances in the venues, helping during the classes and concerts, guiding and assisting participants and audience, setting up the venues before and after the concerts and a wide variety of many different duties. We are an integral part of creating a special festival atmosphere in safjorour and shall be prepared for flexible time schedule (like for evenings and weekends). The last couple of days in this camp will take place in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland. We will explore the world s northernmost capital and get a glimpse of this dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources.
ACCOMODATION AND FOOD: Volunteers will stay at a local house/school; volunteers will sleep on mattresses on the floor and need to bring a warm sleeping bag. Volunteers will be provided with food and be in charge of the cooking themselves.Do not forget some traditional/typical food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION AND LEISURE: safjorour is surrounded by mountains that offer endless opportunities to enjoy nature and wilderness during all seasons. Despite its small population, the town has a rather urban, or one could say international, atmosphere. It is known throughout the country for its rich cultural life, with music and visual arts having long tradition and firm roots in the town s history.In the West fjords one travels through the whole range of Icelandic flora from the shore and meadows, through birch and willow, to mossy moors. On a stroll amidst the driftwood on the shore one can see birds and seals and then an occasional arctic fox around the deserted farmsteads.In the month of June, when the camp takes place, the sun never fully sets at this degree of latitude and the nights are as bright as the days. The bright nights are magical with almost 24 hours of sunlight and staying awake enjoying the beautiful surroundings is a unique experience.Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland, often called the nightlife capital of the north . But there is more to Reykjavik than pubs and clubs. Reykjavik also gathers the most interesting of Icelandic culture. It is an incubator of new ideas and styles which often indicates new global trends.
SPECIAL REMARKS: Participation fee EUR 140. Volunteers need to be motivated to work at the music festival and be willing to take part in all the diverse tasks connected with the project.
NEAREST AIRPORT: KEF
EXTRA FEE: 140.00

Island    SEEDS 030    MEET US - DON T EAT US    18.06.-01.07.2012    ENVI   12vols (no more female)
PROJECT: SEEDS volunteers will take part in a whale-awareness and protection project run in cooperation with IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare). This mainly consists of distributing information, conducting a survey, having people fill out postcards that will be taken to the government at the end of the work camp, talking to people and having fun in Reykjavik
WORK: The group will take turns wearing a whale costume and walk around downtown Reykjavik. One part of our project is also to let pedestrians try on the costume and take pictures. This project is fun loving, friendly and peaceful. We encourage each volunteer to come prepared with some ideas of awareness rising for this project, to discuss with the group and implement.The purpose of this project is to raise awareness among tourists (and locals) that by tasting whale meat in Icelandic restaurants they encourage whaling. The truth is that most Icelanders have never tasted whale meat and do not intend to do so. In a survey made by Gallup in 2007, 86 of those asked had not purchased whale meat in the last 12 months; however 67 where in favour of commercial whaling. This seems obscure, but explanations can be found in the nation s heritage. In Iceland we have the saying Hvalreki or Beached-Whale meaning Jack-pot . When a whale beached, the whole community had food for long time, and had indeed hit the jack-pot. Later Icelanders started whaling for the oil, that at one time was used for lighting street-lamps in cities such as Paris. This created work and foreign currency and improved life in the country at that time. Iceland was also one of the first countries in the world to ban commercial whaling. We can help Iceland to make a positive decision again, by educating the growing number of people who eat up to 40 of the whale meat consumed in the country, but at the same time say they are against whaling.
ACCOMODATION: SEEDS volunteers will stay in a fully equipped house; in a sleeping bag accommodation sharing rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Volunteers will receive food and be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Equipped kitchen and washing machine are available. Do not forget some traditional/typical food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION AND LEISURE: Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland, often called the nightlife capital of the north . But there is more to Reykjavik than pubs and clubs. Reykjavik 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. Reykjavik 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. Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers. In the area closer than 100 Km from Reykjavik, there are several spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastline and the well-known geothermal Blue Lagoon spa to visit.
REQUIREMENTS: SEEDS will provide volunteers with passes to go on free whale watching trips. Excursions (Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, South shore, etc) arranged for SEEDS at discount fares.
EXTRA FEE: 160 Euro.

Island    WF30    HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT (HVERAGERDI)    18.06.-02.07.2012    ENVI   8vols
PROJECT: Hverageroi is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavik. 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 Hverageroi means hot springs garden. Geothermal energy is Hverageroi 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 Natural 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.
WORK: The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where Worldwide Friends volunteers work most of the time. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly. Volunteers should bring clothes appropriate for outdoor work.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in a fully equipped bungalow consisting of several double and private rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag, but mattresses are provided. Free wireless internet during is available during evening hours, but volunteers need to bring their own laptops if they would like to connect to it.All meals are provided and cooked by our hosts, the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic. The menu for the project is primarily vegetarian, but two times a week it includes locally-caught fish. The food at the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic is known throughout Iceland for its high quality.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. Hverageroi is known for having great areas for hiking, including a river heated by hot springs.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF06    FARM LIFE - NATURE, ART AND RENOVATION IN FJORD O (MOSFELLSBaeR)    19.06.-01.07.2012    ENVI/RENO/ART/MANU   10vols
PROJECT: Hvalfjorour (Icelandic: Whale-fjord) is situated in the west of Iceland between Mosfellsbaer and Akranes. The fjord is approximately 30 km long and 5 km wide. It is only 30 km away from the centre of Reykjavik.The name Hvalfjorour is derived from the large number of whales which could be found and caught there. Until the 1980s, one of the biggest whaling stations in Iceland was located in this fjord. In the past the fjord also contained a large number of herring fisheries.A hiking trail to the highest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur, has its origin at the innermost end of the fjord.This fjord is one of the most beautiful fjords in Iceland and there are many farms located in the area. It will be a unique experience for our volunteers to live in a farm but still so near to the capital city.
WORK: Since the creation of Worldwide Friends, the organization has been looking for the opportunity to set up a project to renovate and work at an old Icelandic farm. The idea of renovating old spaces in the country side of Iceland and especially in areas where there isn t much population is one of the best ideas our organization could develop. In one hand we have the opportunity of giving life to an empty and old space, in the other hand we are bringing life back to the area with the spirit and the ideas of International volunteers which will be very much welcomed by the local community. It is also great that now WF will have the opportunity to start growing bio vegetables such as potatoes, carrots and other products. It is in our plans to install green houses and be able to grow in the most organic and environmental friendly way products to be used in WF kitchen afterwards.The first part of this Project will consist on renovating and putting the farm in good shape. There are two building that we have to renovate. The first one is the main house where volunteers will live in the near future. The second house is the storage and workshops where volunteers will keep the paint and other materials.We will also take care of the property, plant trees, grow vegetables and even fruits if it is possible. There are a lot farms in the area so the volunteers will have the chance to visit other farms around and therefore to learn about Icelandic farming methods.
ACCOMODATION: We will be staying in the farm. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. Food will be provided for the duration of the workcamp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LOCATION: We will explore the whole whale fjord and the surrounding area, including a hike to the highest waterfall in Iceland.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF14    RAUFARHEFN NEAR TO THE ARCTIC CIRCLE (RAUFARHOFN)    21.06.-07.07.2012    ENVI/RENO/ART   15vols
PROJECT: The village of Raufarhofn is the community that lies farthest north in Iceland. It is located in the eastern part of Melrakkasletta close to the Arctic Circle. The population of Raufarhofn is about 200 and most of the people there earn their living from fishing and fish processing. The harbor is very beautiful and partly shaped by nature itself. A wide and untouched open area surrounds the village with a lot of birds and varied vegetation.WF Iceland is currently having an historical house in Raufarhofn. During the last years we had been fixing and making the place better and to bring light into the village with the participation of International volunteers. The idea is to do outdoor and indoor painting in the South African style from the tribe NDEBELE. The paint consists of mixing all kind of bright colours separated by Black lines.
WORK: The purpose of this camp is to involve young 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 camp, volunteers 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, wildlife, light and color, local lifestyle etc. In the evenings the volunteers will gather together to share photos and the camp will culminate in a photo exhibition.In this workcamps the volunteers will also have the opportunity to share and learn through some artistic activities such as:-Participate in a percussion workshop with homemade recycled instruments.-Learn and share knowledge about how to make jewellery and handicrafts.-Create a Viking Totem out of drifted wood which we will collect from the coastline. Volunteers will also directly contribute to the environment and community of Raufarhofn. This could include picking up litter along the coastline, planting trees, weeding or helping the local environmental department with whatever needs to be done.This work camp is a way to enjoy an amazing time in Iceland with other international volunteers and to have an incredible experience where participants share their knowledge with each other while they are exploring creativity, environmental issues and intercultural learning. The camp will be as well open for new ideas of the volunteers to improve the house, to make it nicer and as well on how to make better future projects with the local community.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in an indoor community facility offering basic facilities. Beds are provided, however volunteers should bring their own warm sleeping bags. Food is included for the duration of the workcamp, however everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking and cleaning. Since it is always nice to try new and different dishes, volunteers are encouraged to bring along their favorite recipes from home
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local swimming pool. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Thorshofn (THO)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF72    ELDFELL, THE VOLCANO IN VESTMANNAEYJAR (VESTMANNAEYJAR)    23.06.-07.07.2012    ENVI   10vols
PROJECT: The Westman Islands, or Vestmannaeyjar are without a doupt among the most beautyful places in Iceland, they consist of a group of fifteen amazing islands which are situated at a short distance off the south coast of Iceland. The islands were given this name by the nordic residents of Iceland after the Irish slaves that the norse captured that were settled there. All of the islands are the result of submarine volcanic eruptions during comparatively recent geological time. Heimaey is the largest and only inhabited island in the group, and is Icelands largest offshore island, with an area of 13,4 km². Fishing, fish processing, and subsidiary trades are the main source of income. Eldfell is a composite volcanic cone just over 200 metres high. It was formed in a huge volcanic eruption - the name means Mountain of Fire in Icelandic. This volcanic eruption is considered the largest natural disaster in Iceland in recent history.
WORK: Worldwide Friends volunteers assist the local residents in preserving the volcano cone. Volunteers fight erosion by adding soil to the slope and building fences to shelter the soil from the wind. Please note that this is a hard physical work. We will also help the locals to clean and beautify the village and surrounding area.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in an indoor community facility. Mattresses are provided, however volunteers should bring their own warm sleeping bags. Food is included for the duration of the workcamp, however everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking and cleaning. Since it is always nice to try new and different dishes, volunteers are encouraged to bring along their favorite recipes from home
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermal-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. In addition, an excursion or a boat trip can be organized by the hosting partner.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Vestmannaeyjar (VEY)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    SEEDS 037    BOTANIC GARDEN IN REYKJAVK     24.06.-07.07.2012    ENVI   6vols (no more female)
PROJECT: For the second year in a row SEEDS offers projects in the Botanic Garden in Reykjavik. The Botanic Garden is an outdoor collection of living plants, founded in 1961 and celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2011. The gardens 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.
WORK: SEEDS volunteers will be doing general garden work in the garden, attending the flowers, trees and other plants. Volunteers will 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 project 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.
ACCOMMODATION: We will stay in a fully equipped house in Reykjavik; sleeping in shared rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag (and pillow if you need one).Food ingredients will be provided and a kitchen will be available in the accommodation. We will share the duties of preparing and cooking meals, while lunch will be provided sometimes at the working site during working days.Please do not forget some typical food and/or drinks for the international evening, where others can try and taste some specialities from your home countries.
LOCATION: Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland, often called the nightlife capital of the north . But there is more to Reykjavik than pubs and clubs. Reykjavik 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. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides. The population of the city is over 200,000 including the metropolitan area, so two thirds of Iceland s inhabitants live here. It is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers. Visitors to Reykjavik 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 closer than 100 Km from Reykjavik, there are several spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastline and the well-known geothermal Blue Lagoon spa to visit. Reykjavik 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.
REQUIREMENTS: Volunteers have to good working shoes and clothes, even though it is summer, it might still be cold and hats and gloves might be necessary. Tours and excursions will be arranged for SEEDS volunteers at discount fares.
EXTRA FEE: 160 €

Island    WF19    EAST OF ICELAND - CLOSE TO NATURE (ESKIFJORDUR)    29.06.-12.07.2012    ENVI/MANU   15vols
PROJECT: Scoured by Ice Age glaciers, the dramatic east coast boasts long, narrow fjords with steep sides and jagged peaks which contrast with inland fertile farmlands. Natural harbours mean picture-postcard fishing villages and seemingly never-ending roads cross the region, providing beautiful sweeping views. Fjaroabyggo is an association of villages in the Eastern fjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjorour, Faskruosfjorour, Mjoifjorour, Neskaupstaour, Reyoarfjorour and Stoovarfjorour, 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.
WORK: Most of the work will consist of cleaning and beautifying the towns and the surrounding area. We will also do some other environmental tasks for example clean the coastline, plant trees or build hiking paths. Our work will also depend on weather conditions and that s why we have to be flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time. This is a perfect camp for people who like outdoor work and physical challenges.
ACCOMODATION: In a community centre called Knellan which is located in Eskifjordur. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will have access to showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre. The food will be supplied for the duration of the work camp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pool in Eskifjorour. 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.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges or steam-vents..
NEAREST AIRPORT: Egilsstadir (EGS)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    SEEDS 043    SALVATION ARMY GUESTHOUSE (3:6)    29.06.-13.07.2012    SOCI/MANU   6vols
WORK: SEEDS volunteers will take part in a work camp with the Salvation Army in Iceland.The Salvation Army runs since 1898 a popular guesthouse in the centre of Reykjavik. The profit from its operation goes to the charity and social work of the Salvation Army in Iceland. By staying there, guests (mainly international travellers) are helping their projects that support people in need.Volunteers will have 3 main tasks during their stay at the guesthouse in Reykjavik: -Helping the team of the guesthouse to clean the rooms and common areas, -preparing breakfast for the guests and lunch for the team and volunteers-and taking care of the laundry.The work will be mainly in the mornings and volunteers will have plenty of time in the afternoon to explore and discover the city of Reykjavik.Volunteers are also welcome to bring in ideas to improve the guesthouse as to take on projects as creating a new welcome book for the guests with travel information, history of the guesthouse, links to learn more about Iceland, etc. Volunteers could also create a welcome poster about the guesthouse which will be framed and placed at its main entrance.Additional to the main tasks, volunteers may provide support at the day shelter, which welcomes people every day, preparing food and taking care of the facilities to allow the visitors of the shelter to rest, talk, take showers and relax while watching television or playing games. The Salvation Army is an international Church movement that currently works in over 120 countries and is known for its thrift stores and charity work.In Iceland their social work is directed to support people in need or in difficult situation, mainly individuals dealing with drug or alcohol abuse, homeless, aid to refugees as with the elderly.
ACCOMODATION AND FOOD: SEEDS volunteers will stay at the Salvation Army Guesthouse or in a flat, 100 meters from the guesthouse with access to kitchen, washing machine and Wi-fi at the guesthouse. Volunteers will receive food and be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Do not forget some traditional/typical food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION AND LEISURE: Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland, often called the nightlife capital of the north . But there is more to Reykjavik than pubs and clubs. Reykjavik 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. Reykjavik 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. Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers. In the area closer than 100 Km from Reykjavik, there are several spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastline and the well-known geothermal Blue Lagoon spa to visit.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 140.00

Island    WF77    HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT (HVERAGERDI)    02.07.-16.07.2012    ENVI/MANU   8vols (no more female)
PROJECT: Hverageroi is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavik. 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 Hverageroi means hot springs garden. Geothermal energy is Hverageroi 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 Natural 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.
WORK: The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where Worldwide Friends volunteers work most of the time. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly. Volunteers should bring clothes appropriate for outdoor work.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in a fully equipped bungalow consisting of several double and private rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag, but mattresses are provided. Free wireless internet during is available during evening hours, but volunteers need to bring their own laptops if they would like to connect to it.All meals are provided and cooked by our hosts, the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic. The menu for the project is primarily vegetarian, but two times a week it includes locally-caught fish. The food at the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic is known throughout Iceland for its high quality.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. Hverageroi is known for having great areas for hiking, including a river heated by hot springs.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF07    FARM LIFE - NATURE, ART AND RENOVATION IN FJORD O (MOSFELLSBaeR)    03.07.-15.07.2012    ENVI/RENO/ART/MANU   10vols (no more female)
PROJECT: Hvalfjorour (Icelandic: Whale-fjord) is situated in the west of Iceland between Mosfellsbaer and Akranes. The fjord is approximately 30 km long and 5 km wide. It is only 30 km away from the centre of Reykjavik.The name Hvalfjorour is derived from the large number of whales which could be found and caught there. Until the 1980s, one of the biggest whaling stations in Iceland was located in this fjord. In the past the fjord also contained a large number of herring fisheries.A hiking trail to the highest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur, has its origin at the innermost end of the fjord.This fjord is one of the most beautiful fjords in Iceland and there are many farms located in the area. It will be a unique experience for our volunteers to live in a farm but still so near to the capital city.
WORK: Since the creation of Worldwide Friends, the organization has been looking for the opportunity to set up a project to renovate and work at an old Icelandic farm. The idea of renovating old spaces in the country side of Iceland and especially in areas where there isn t much population is one of the best ideas our organization could develop. In one hand we have the opportunity of giving life to an empty and old space, in the other hand we are bringing life back to the area with the spirit and the ideas of International volunteers which will be very much welcomed by the local community. It is also great that now WF will have the opportunity to start growing bio vegetables such as potatoes, carrots and other products. It is in our plans to install green houses and be able to grow in the most organic and environmental friendly way products to be used in WF kitchen afterwards.The first part of this Project will consist on renovating and putting the farm in good shape. There are two building that we have to renovate. The first one is the main house where volunteers will live in the near future. The second house is the storage and workshops where volunteers will keep the paint and other materials.We will also take care of the property, plant trees, grow vegetables and even fruits if it is possible. There are a lot farms in the area so the volunteers will have the chance to visit other farms around and therefore to learn about Icelandic farming methods.
ACCOMODATION: We will be staying in the farm. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. Food will be provided for the duration of the workcamp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LOCATION: We will explore the whole whale fjord and the surrounding area, including a hike to the highest waterfall in Iceland.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF87    Biofuel and soap tour around Iceland     07.07.-19.07.2012    ENVI/EDU/STUDY   12vols
PROJECT: To travel around Iceland and at the same time participate in a very important environmental project!
Cooking oil and soaps are among the most harmful liquids polluting our rivers, lakes and seas. Due to the lack of information and education available these waste products are often disposed of improperly - resulting in contamination of waterways, even if disposed of in sewage systems these products can damage treatment facilities and pipes. We need to educate users and adopt proper recycling strategies to prevent environmental damage.
The Bio fuel project: Rudolph Diesel, a German engineer, introduced the diesel engine over a century ago (Nitske and Wilson, 1965). A great deal of research and development has taken place, not only in perfecting the design but also in finding an appropriate fuel. Until the oil crisis of the 1970’s the availability of inexpensive middle-distillate petroleum fuels provided little incentive for experimenting with alternative, renewable fuels for diesel engines. However, since the crisis research has expanded in the area of alternative fuels. Of all the current alternative fuels only ethanol and vegetable oils are non-fossil fuels.
Due to the high contents of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids (fats or oils) in oilseeds, one of the main end products are edible vegetable oils for human consumption and food processing. Currently much of the used cooking oil is poured into the sewer system. There are at least two reasons to work to encourage proper disposal. Oils and grease may clog pipes because they stick to the inner walls and reduce the effective diameter of the sewer pipes, in some cases this may cause sewage spills. Even if oil reaches the wastewater treatment plants it disrupts normal operations and increases both maintenance costs and the cost to purify the water.
A simple alternative is collect the used oil in a plastic bottle (for example, a big soda bottle) and place it with other waste and recycling. The bottles will be collected and properly disposed of. In the past this waste was mainly used to make animal food, however, as there is some evidence waste oils may have carcinogenic properties, animal food from used cooking oil is being prohibited by governments. Biodiesel manufacturing may be an alternative option for reusing waste cooking oil. Biodiesels from both used and unused vegetable oils have very similar properties and potential in reducing pollutant emission from the engine because both are composed of methyl esters of fatty acids. In most cases a simple pre-treatment (removal by filtration of solid particles, etherification process to reduce the content of free fatty acids) is enough for to prepare waste oil for use in diesel engines.
The Soap project: Have you ever wondered what happens to all those little bars of soap in hotels? You use them once or twice during a stay and then they're discarded the next day - In the USA alone around 1 million bars of soap a day are thrown away
Because of the fatty acids soaps are really bad for the environment and should be recycled. During the BIOFUEL and SOAP tour the volunteer will collect used soaps from hotels to be recycled and reuse afterwards.
Bar soap can reduce deaths of children from pneumonia and diarrheal disease… which kill around 9,000 kids a day.
Worldwide Friends is organizing voluntary projects in Tierra Bomba Colombia a place with lot of misery and lack of basic needs. Recycled soap could play an important role in the daily life of the Tierra Bomba population and especially for the children. The recycled soap from our 2012 projects will be sent to Tierra Bomba and distributed to the most needy families.
The travel: During the first week volunteers will travel around Iceland collecting soaps and cooking oil. We will use a GMC truck to collect the materials and a Ford Econoline for the group of volunteers. Both cars are using cooking oil as fuel.
Please note that we will drive more than 1,700 kms around Iceland on Route #1 – the ring road. During the trip we will have the opportunity to visit some of the most beautiful places in Iceland. Waterfalls, glaciers, hot water springs and black beaches.
During the second part of the project the volunteers will learn how to recycle soap and used oil.
WORK: WF Iceland is taking action on this environmental issue by organizing work camps to collect waste oil and soap from hotels, restaurants and petrol stations all around the country. Iceland is still a clean and unpolluted area and proactive education and awareness programs will protect this environment. The first week of the project volunteers together with WF Iceland team leaders will drive around the country with a van and a truck collecting waste materials. During the second week of the camp the volunteers will learn how to process this wasted and start the first step of transforming it into renewable fuel and soaps. During this second week volunteers will also take part in some more environmental activities such as planting trees, making paths or cleaning rivers.
ACCOMMODATION: During the travel around Iceland the group will stay in tents or in community centres. During the second week the group will be located in a very nice place called Laugarás in the south of Iceland.
The food will be provided for the duration of the work camp and everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to share new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Volunteers with interest in scientific work and/or protection of nature are very much welcome to this camp. Volunteers who like outdoor work are also encouraged to apply for this camp.
TERMINAL: International Airport Reykjavík - Keflavík (KEF)
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 250€ for this workcamp – travel around Iceland included.

Island    WF34    RAUFARHEFN NEAR TO THE ARCTIC CIRCLE (RAUFARHOFN)    15.07.-27.07.2012    ENVI/RENO/ART   14vols (no more female)
PROJECT: The village of Raufarhofn is the community that lies farthest north in Iceland. It is located in the eastern part of Melrakkasletta close to the Arctic Circle. The population of Raufarhofn is about 200 and most of the people there earn their living from fishing and fish processing. The harbor is very beautiful and partly shaped by nature itself. A wide and untouched open area surrounds the village with a lot of birds and varied vegetation.WF Iceland is currently having an historical house in Raufarhofn. During the last years we had been fixing and making the place better and to bring light into the village with the participation of International volunteers. The idea is to do outdoor and indoor painting in the South African style from the tribe NDEBELE. The paint consists of mixing all kind of bright colours separated by Black lines.
WORK: The purpose of this camp is to involve young 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 camp, volunteers 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, wildlife, light and color, local lifestyle etc. In the evenings the volunteers will gather together to share photos and the camp will culminate in a photo exhibition.In this workcamps the volunteers will also have the opportunity to share and learn through some artistic activities such as:-Participate in a percussion workshop with homemade recycled instruments.-Learn and share knowledge about how to make jewellery and handicrafts.-Create a Viking Totem out of drifted wood which we will collect from the coastline. Volunteers will also directly contribute to the environment and community of Raufarhofn. This could include picking up litter along the coastline, planting trees, weeding or helping the local environmental department with whatever needs to be done.This work camp is a way to enjoy an amazing time in Iceland with other international volunteers and to have an incredible experience where participants share their knowledge with each other while they are exploring creativity, environmental issues and intercultural learning. The camp will be as well open for new ideas of the volunteers to improve the house, to make it nicer and as well on how to make better future projects with the local community.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in an indoor community facility offering basic facilities. Beds are provided, however volunteers should bring their own warm sleeping bags. Food is included for the duration of the workcamp, however everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking and cleaning. Since it is always nice to try new and different dishes, volunteers are encouraged to bring along their favorite recipes from home
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local swimming pool. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Thorshofn (THO)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF78    HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT (HVERAGERDI)    16.07.-30.07.2012    ENVI/MANU   8vols (no more female)
PROJECT: Hverageroi is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavik. 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 Hverageroi means hot springs garden. Geothermal energy is Hverageroi 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 Natural 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.
WORK: The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where Worldwide Friends volunteers work most of the time. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly. Volunteers should bring clothes appropriate for outdoor work.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in a fully equipped bungalow consisting of several double and private rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag, but mattresses are provided. Free wireless internet during is available during evening hours, but volunteers need to bring their own laptops if they would like to connect to it.All meals are provided and cooked by our hosts, the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic. The menu for the project is primarily vegetarian, but two times a week it includes locally-caught fish. The food at the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic is known throughout Iceland for its high quality.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. Hverageroi is known for having great areas for hiking, including a river heated by hot springs.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF08    FARM LIFE - NATURE, ART AND RENOVATION IN FJORD O (MOSFELLSBaeR)    17.07.-29.07.2012    ENVI/RENO/ART/MANU   10vols (no more female)
PROJECT: Hvalfjorour (Icelandic: Whale-fjord) is situated in the west of Iceland between Mosfellsbaer and Akranes. The fjord is approximately 30 km long and 5 km wide. It is only 30 km away from the centre of Reykjavik.The name Hvalfjorour is derived from the large number of whales which could be found and caught there. Until the 1980s, one of the biggest whaling stations in Iceland was located in this fjord. In the past the fjord also contained a large number of herring fisheries.A hiking trail to the highest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur, has its origin at the innermost end of the fjord.This fjord is one of the most beautiful fjords in Iceland and there are many farms located in the area. It will be a unique experience for our volunteers to live in a farm but still so near to the capital city.
WORK: Since the creation of Worldwide Friends, the organization has been looking for the opportunity to set up a project to renovate and work at an old Icelandic farm. The idea of renovating old spaces in the country side of Iceland and especially in areas where there isn t much population is one of the best ideas our organization could develop. In one hand we have the opportunity of giving life to an empty and old space, in the other hand we are bringing life back to the area with the spirit and the ideas of International volunteers which will be very much welcomed by the local community. It is also great that now WF will have the opportunity to start growing bio vegetables such as potatoes, carrots and other products. It is in our plans to install green houses and be able to grow in the most organic and environmental friendly way products to be used in WF kitchen afterwards.The first part of this Project will consist on renovating and putting the farm in good shape. There are two building that we have to renovate. The first one is the main house where volunteers will live in the near future. The second house is the storage and workshops where volunteers will keep the paint and other materials.We will also take care of the property, plant trees, grow vegetables and even fruits if it is possible. There are a lot farms in the area so the volunteers will have the chance to visit other farms around and therefore to learn about Icelandic farming methods.
ACCOMODATION: We will be staying in the farm. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. Food will be provided for the duration of the workcamp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LOCATION: We will explore the whole whale fjord and the surrounding area, including a hike to the highest waterfall in Iceland.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF21    EAST OF ICELAND - CLOSE TO NATURE (ESKIFJORDUR)    24.07.-05.08.2012    ENVI/MANU   15vols
PROJECT: Scoured by Ice Age glaciers, the dramatic east coast boasts long, narrow fjords with steep sides and jagged peaks which contrast with inland fertile farmlands. Natural harbours mean picture-postcard fishing villages and seemingly never-ending roads cross the region, providing beautiful sweeping views. Fjaroabyggo is an association of villages in the Eastern fjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjorour, Faskruosfjorour, Mjoifjorour, Neskaupstaour, Reyoarfjorour and Stoovarfjorour, 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.
WORK: Most of the work will consist of cleaning and beautifying the towns and the surrounding area. We will also do some other environmental tasks for example clean the coastline, plant trees or build hiking paths. Our work will also depend on weather conditions and that s why we have to be flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time. This is a perfect camp for people who like outdoor work and physical challenges.
ACCOMODATION: In a community centre called Knellan which is located in Eskifjordur. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will have access to showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre. The food will be supplied for the duration of the work camp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pool in Eskifjorour. 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.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges or steam-vents..
NEAREST AIRPORT: Egilsstaðir (EGS)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF25    RAUFARHEFN NEAR TO THE ARCTIC CIRCLE (RAUFARHOFN)    25.07.-07.08.2012    ENVI/RENO/ART   14vols
PROJECT: The village of Raufarhofn is the community that lies farthest north in Iceland. It is located in the eastern part of Melrakkasletta close to the Arctic Circle. The population of Raufarhofn is about 200 and most of the people there earn their living from fishing and fish processing. The harbor is very beautiful and partly shaped by nature itself. A wide and untouched open area surrounds the village with a lot of birds and varied vegetation.WF Iceland is currently having an historical house in Raufarhofn. During the last years we had been fixing and making the place better and to bring light into the village with the participation of International volunteers. The idea is to do outdoor and indoor painting in the South African style from the tribe NDEBELE. The paint consists of mixing all kind of bright colours separated by Black lines.
WORK: The purpose of this camp is to involve young 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 camp, volunteers 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, wildlife, light and color, local lifestyle etc. In the evenings the volunteers will gather together to share photos and the camp will culminate in a photo exhibition.In this workcamps the volunteers will also have the opportunity to share and learn through some artistic activities such as:-Participate in a percussion workshop with homemade recycled instruments.-Learn and share knowledge about how to make jewellery and handicrafts.-Create a Viking Totem out of drifted wood which we will collect from the coastline. Volunteers will also directly contribute to the environment and community of Raufarhofn. This could include picking up litter along the coastline, planting trees, weeding or helping the local environmental department with whatever needs to be done.This work camp is a way to enjoy an amazing time in Iceland with other international volunteers and to have an incredible experience where participants share their knowledge with each other while they are exploring creativity, environmental issues and intercultural learning. The camp will be as well open for new ideas of the volunteers to improve the house, to make it nicer and as well on how to make better future projects with the local community.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in an indoor community facility offering basic facilities. Beds are provided, however volunteers should bring their own warm sleeping bags. Food is included for the duration of the workcamp, however everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking and cleaning. Since it is always nice to try new and different dishes, volunteers are encouraged to bring along their favorite recipes from home
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local swimming pool. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Thorshofn (THO)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF79    HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT (HVERAGERDI)    30.07.-13.08.2012    ENVI/MANU   8vols
PROJECT: Hverageroi is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavik. 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 Hverageroi means hot springs garden. Geothermal energy is Hverageroi 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 Natural 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.
WORK: The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where Worldwide Friends volunteers work most of the time. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly. Volunteers should bring clothes appropriate for outdoor work.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in a fully equipped bungalow consisting of several double and private rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag, but mattresses are provided. Free wireless internet during is available during evening hours, but volunteers need to bring their own laptops if they would like to connect to it.All meals are provided and cooked by our hosts, the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic. The menu for the project is primarily vegetarian, but two times a week it includes locally-caught fish. The food at the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic is known throughout Iceland for its high quality.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. Hverageroi is known for having great areas for hiking, including a river heated by hot springs.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF09    FARM LIFE - NATURE, ART AND RENOVATION IN FJORD O (MOSFELLSBaeR)    31.07.-12.08.2012    ENVI/RENO/ART/MANU   10vols
PROJECT: Hvalfjorour (Icelandic: Whale-fjord) is situated in the west of Iceland between Mosfellsbaer and Akranes. The fjord is approximately 30 km long and 5 km wide. It is only 30 km away from the centre of Reykjavik.The name Hvalfjorour is derived from the large number of whales which could be found and caught there. Until the 1980s, one of the biggest whaling stations in Iceland was located in this fjord. In the past the fjord also contained a large number of herring fisheries.A hiking trail to the highest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur, has its origin at the innermost end of the fjord.This fjord is one of the most beautiful fjords in Iceland and there are many farms located in the area. It will be a unique experience for our volunteers to live in a farm but still so near to the capital city.
WORK: Since the creation of Worldwide Friends, the organization has been looking for the opportunity to set up a project to renovate and work at an old Icelandic farm. The idea of renovating old spaces in the country side of Iceland and especially in areas where there isn t much population is one of the best ideas our organization could develop. In one hand we have the opportunity of giving life to an empty and old space, in the other hand we are bringing life back to the area with the spirit and the ideas of International volunteers which will be very much welcomed by the local community. It is also great that now WF will have the opportunity to start growing bio vegetables such as potatoes, carrots and other products. It is in our plans to install green houses and be able to grow in the most organic and environmental friendly way products to be used in WF kitchen afterwards.The first part of this Project will consist on renovating and putting the farm in good shape. There are two building that we have to renovate. The first one is the main house where volunteers will live in the near future. The second house is the storage and workshops where volunteers will keep the paint and other materials.We will also take care of the property, plant trees, grow vegetables and even fruits if it is possible. There are a lot farms in the area so the volunteers will have the chance to visit other farms around and therefore to learn about Icelandic farming methods.
ACCOMODATION: We will be staying in the farm. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. Food will be provided for the duration of the workcamp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LOCATION: We will explore the whole whale fjord and the surrounding area, including a hike to the highest waterfall in Iceland.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF80    EAST OF ICELAND - CLOSE TO NATURE (ESKIFJORDUR)    04.08.-17.08.2012    ENVI   15vols (no more female)
PROJECT: Scoured by Ice Age glaciers, the dramatic east coast boasts long, narrow fjords with steep sides and jagged peaks which contrast with inland fertile farmlands. Natural harbours mean picture-postcard fishing villages and seemingly never-ending roads cross the region, providing beautiful sweeping views. Fjaroabyggo is an association of villages in the Eastern fjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjorour, Faskruosfjorour, Mjoifjorour, Neskaupstaour, Reyoarfjorour and Stoovarfjorour, 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.
WORK: Most of the work will consist of cleaning and beautifying the towns and the surrounding area. We will also do some other environmental tasks for example clean the coastline, plant trees or build hiking paths. Our work will also depend on weather conditions and that s why we have to be flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time. This is a perfect camp for people who like outdoor work and physical challenges.
ACCOMODATION: In a community centre called Knellan which is located in Eskifjordur. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will have access to showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre. The food will be supplied for the duration of the work camp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pool in Eskifjorour. 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.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges or steam-vents..
NEAREST AIRPORT: Egilsstadir (EGS)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    SEEDS 074    SALVATION ARMY GUESTHOUSE (6:6)    10.08.-24.08.2012    SOCI   6vols (no more female)
WORK: SEEDS volunteers will take part in a work camp with the Salvation Army in Iceland.The Salvation Army runs since 1898 a popular guesthouse in the centre of Reykjavik. The profit from its operation goes to the charity and social work of the Salvation Army in Iceland. By staying there, guests (mainly international travellers) are helping their projects that support people in need.Volunteers will have 3 main tasks during their stay at the guesthouse in Reykjavik: -Helping the team of the guesthouse to clean the rooms and common areas, -preparing breakfast for the guests and lunch for the team and volunteers-and taking care of the laundry.The work will be mainly in the mornings and volunteers will have plenty of time in the afternoon to explore and discover the city of Reykjavik.Volunteers are also welcome to bring in ideas to improve the guesthouse as to take on projects as creating a new welcome book for the guests with travel information, history of the guesthouse, links to learn more about Iceland, etc. Volunteers could also create a welcome poster about the guesthouse which will be framed and placed at its main entrance.Additional to the main tasks, volunteers may provide support at the day shelter, which welcomes people every day, preparing food and taking care of the facilities to allow the visitors of the shelter to rest, talk, take showers and relax while watching television or playing games. The Salvation Army is an international Church movement that currently works in over 120 countries and is known for its thrift stores and charity work.In Iceland their social work is directed to support people in need or in difficult situation, mainly individuals dealing with drug or alcohol abuse, homeless, aid to refugees as with the elderly.
ACCOMODATION AND FOOD: SEEDS volunteers will stay at the Salvation Army Guesthouse or in a flat, 100 meters from the guesthouse with access to kitchen, washing machine and Wi-fi at the guesthouse. Volunteers will receive food and be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Do not forget some traditional/typical food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION AND LEISURE: Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland, often called the nightlife capital of the north . But there is more to Reykjavik than pubs and clubs. Reykjavik 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. Reykjavik 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. Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers. In the area closer than 100 Km from Reykjavik, there are several spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastline and the well-known geothermal Blue Lagoon spa to visit.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 160.00

Island    WF94    HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT (HVERAGERDI)    13.08.-27.08.2012    ENVI/MANU   8vols
PROJECT: Hverageroi is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavik. 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 Hverageroi means hot springs garden. Geothermal energy is Hverageroi 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 Natural 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.
WORK: The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where Worldwide Friends volunteers work most of the time. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly. Volunteers should bring clothes appropriate for outdoor work.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in a fully equipped bungalow consisting of several double and private rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag, but mattresses are provided. Free wireless internet during is available during evening hours, but volunteers need to bring their own laptops if they would like to connect to it.All meals are provided and cooked by our hosts, the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic. The menu for the project is primarily vegetarian, but two times a week it includes locally-caught fish. The food at the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic is known throughout Iceland for its high quality.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. Hverageroi is known for having great areas for hiking, including a river heated by hot springs.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF28    RAUFARHEFN NEAR TO THE ARCTIC CIRCLE (RAUFARHOFN)    15.08.-28.08.2012    ENVI/RENO/ART   14vols (no more female)
PROJECT: The village of Raufarhofn is the community that lies farthest north in Iceland. It is located in the eastern part of Melrakkasletta close to the Arctic Circle. The population of Raufarhofn is about 200 and most of the people there earn their living from fishing and fish processing. The harbor is very beautiful and partly shaped by nature itself. A wide and untouched open area surrounds the village with a lot of birds and varied vegetation.WF Iceland is currently having an historical house in Raufarhofn. During the last years we had been fixing and making the place better and to bring light into the village with the participation of International volunteers. The idea is to do outdoor and indoor painting in the South African style from the tribe NDEBELE. The paint consists of mixing all kind of bright colours separated by Black lines.
WORK: The purpose of this camp is to involve young 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 camp, volunteers 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, wildlife, light and color, local lifestyle etc. In the evenings the volunteers will gather together to share photos and the camp will culminate in a photo exhibition.In this workcamps the volunteers will also have the opportunity to share and learn through some artistic activities such as:-Participate in a percussion workshop with homemade recycled instruments.-Learn and share knowledge about how to make jewellery and handicrafts.-Create a Viking Totem out of drifted wood which we will collect from the coastline. Volunteers will also directly contribute to the environment and community of Raufarhofn. This could include picking up litter along the coastline, planting trees, weeding or helping the local environmental department with whatever needs to be done.This work camp is a way to enjoy an amazing time in Iceland with other international volunteers and to have an incredible experience where participants share their knowledge with each other while they are exploring creativity, environmental issues and intercultural learning. The camp will be as well open for new ideas of the volunteers to improve the house, to make it nicer and as well on how to make better future projects with the local community.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in an indoor community facility offering basic facilities. Beds are provided, however volunteers should bring their own warm sleeping bags. Food is included for the duration of the workcamp, however everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking and cleaning. Since it is always nice to try new and different dishes, volunteers are encouraged to bring along their favorite recipes from home
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local swimming pool. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Thorshofn (THO)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF40    EAST OF ICELAND - CLOSE TO NATURE (ESKIFJORDUR)    16.08.-29.08.2012    ENVI/MANU   15vols
PROJECT: Scoured by Ice Age glaciers, the dramatic east coast boasts long, narrow fjords with steep sides and jagged peaks which contrast with inland fertile farmlands. Natural harbours mean picture-postcard fishing villages and seemingly never-ending roads cross the region, providing beautiful sweeping views. Fjaroabyggo is an association of villages in the Eastern fjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjorour, Faskruosfjorour, Mjoifjorour, Neskaupstaour, Reyoarfjorour and Stoovarfjorour, 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.
WORK: Most of the work will consist of cleaning and beautifying the towns and the surrounding area. We will also do some other environmental tasks for example clean the coastline, plant trees or build hiking paths. Our work will also depend on weather conditions and that s why we have to be flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time. This is a perfect camp for people who like outdoor work and physical challenges.
ACCOMODATION: In a community centre called Knellan which is located in Eskifjordur. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will have access to showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre. The food will be supplied for the duration of the work camp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pool in Eskifjorour. 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.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges or steam-vents..
NEAREST AIRPORT: Egilsstadir (EGS)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF29    RAUFARHEFN NEAR TO THE ARCTIC CIRCLE (RAUFARHOFN)    26.08.-07.09.2012    ENVI/RENO/ART   14vols
PROJECT: The village of Raufarhofn is the community that lies farthest north in Iceland. It is located in the eastern part of Melrakkasletta close to the Arctic Circle. The population of Raufarhofn is about 200 and most of the people there earn their living from fishing and fish processing. The harbor is very beautiful and partly shaped by nature itself. A wide and untouched open area surrounds the village with a lot of birds and varied vegetation.WF Iceland is currently having an historical house in Raufarhofn. During the last years we had been fixing and making the place better and to bring light into the village with the participation of International volunteers. The idea is to do outdoor and indoor painting in the South African style from the tribe NDEBELE. The paint consists of mixing all kind of bright colours separated by Black lines.
WORK: The purpose of this camp is to involve young 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 camp, volunteers 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, wildlife, light and color, local lifestyle etc. In the evenings the volunteers will gather together to share photos and the camp will culminate in a photo exhibition.In this workcamps the volunteers will also have the opportunity to share and learn through some artistic activities such as:-Participate in a percussion workshop with homemade recycled instruments.-Learn and share knowledge about how to make jewellery and handicrafts.-Create a Viking Totem out of drifted wood which we will collect from the coastline. Volunteers will also directly contribute to the environment and community of Raufarhofn. This could include picking up litter along the coastline, planting trees, weeding or helping the local environmental department with whatever needs to be done.This work camp is a way to enjoy an amazing time in Iceland with other international volunteers and to have an incredible experience where participants share their knowledge with each other while they are exploring creativity, environmental issues and intercultural learning. The camp will be as well open for new ideas of the volunteers to improve the house, to make it nicer and as well on how to make better future projects with the local community.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in an indoor community facility offering basic facilities. Beds are provided, however volunteers should bring their own warm sleeping bags. Food is included for the duration of the workcamp, however everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking and cleaning. Since it is always nice to try new and different dishes, volunteers are encouraged to bring along their favorite recipes from home
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local swimming pool. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Thorshofn (THO)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    SEEDS 088    ORGANIC FARMING IN ICELAND (1:2)    26.08.-09.09.2012    ENVI/AGRI   6vols
WORK: SEEDS volunteers will be working at one of the few organic farms in Iceland, located in the East of the country. Our main tasks will be to harvest (by hand) vegetables, mainly potatoes, beets, beetroots and lettuce. Volunteers will also pick berries from the surrounding area. Alongside the harvesting tasks, volunteers will clean the vegetables and make them ready for consumers in the Icelandic market, as the farm sells its products at different stores and organic shops around the country. Around the farm there is a young forest that can be maintained and cleaned if the harvesting jobs are done. Volunteers need motivation to work mainly outdoors doing very physical labour and under ever changing weather conditions. Volunteers will be provided with good waterproof overalls and gloves for the work.
ACCOMODATION AND FOOD: SEEDS volunteers will be hosted in a local house; sleeping on beds or mattresses in several rooms, shared by 2-4 volunteers each. Please bring your own sleeping bag. The house is equipped with a shower, washing machine and a kitchen. Volunteers will share the duties of preparing food, cooking meals and cleaning. Please keep in mind that during this workcamp only vegetarian food will be provided, which also means eating mainly local, organic food from the farm. Do not forget some traditional/typical food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION AND LEISURE: The farm, one of the few and large organic farms in Iceland is run with the large support of volunteers; who have been helping in the project of organic locally grown crops for the last years. About 20 of the farm is used for cultivation of different crops and the rest of the land is grassland, there is a forest of about one million trees planted there since starting the farm in the 1970s. The two major crops grown are barley and potatoes, and others include parsley, kale, beetroot, lettuce, kohlrabi, carrots and cabbage. The farm is located in the municipality of Fljotsdalsherao, Iceland s easternmost populous municipality; 16 km from the largest town in the Eastern Iceland i Egilsstaoir (population 2268). Total population is about 3.408 (01.01.2012) and it is the largest municipality (in area) in the country. The wild reindeers of Iceland are found in Fljotsdalsherao, they are about ten thousand and also the biggest forest in Iceland, Hallormstaoarskogur is located within the district. The farm is located very close to Lagarfljot, the home of the mythical creature the Lagarfljot Serpent (Lagarfljotsormur) which was believed to be spotted early 2012 by a local farmer. If you get lucky you might get a glimpse of it and maybe even to be able to get a picture of the much sought after serpent. The East Fjords is a region of a special landscape, dominated by long, narrow fjords and steep mountains. This is one of the oldest regions of Iceland shaped by glaciers in the Ice Age.
PARTICIPATION FEE: EUR 150. Free time activities will be organized for SEEDS volunteers; as day trips and excursions in the area. Some of them will be free of charge; some others might require financial contribution.

Island    WF95    HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT (HVERAGERDI)    27.08.-10.09.2012    ENVI/MANU   8vols
PROJECT: Hverageroi is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavik. 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 Hverageroi means hot springs garden. Geothermal energy is Hverageroi 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 Natural 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.
WORK: The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where Worldwide Friends volunteers work most of the time. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly. Volunteers should bring clothes appropriate for outdoor work.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in a fully equipped bungalow consisting of several double and private rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag, but mattresses are provided. Free wireless internet during is available during evening hours, but volunteers need to bring their own laptops if they would like to connect to it.All meals are provided and cooked by our hosts, the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic. The menu for the project is primarily vegetarian, but two times a week it includes locally-caught fish. The food at the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic is known throughout Iceland for its high quality.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. Hverageroi is known for having great areas for hiking, including a river heated by hot springs.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF52    EAST OF ICELAND - CLOSE TO NATURE (ESKIFJORDUR)    28.08.-10.09.2012    ENVI/MANU   15vols
PROJECT: Scoured by Ice Age glaciers, the dramatic east coast boasts long, narrow fjords with steep sides and jagged peaks which contrast with inland fertile farmlands. Natural harbours mean picture-postcard fishing villages and seemingly never-ending roads cross the region, providing beautiful sweeping views. Fjaroabyggo is an association of villages in the Eastern fjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjorour, Faskruosfjorour, Mjoifjorour, Neskaupstaour, Reyoarfjorour and Stoovarfjorour, 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.
WORK: Most of the work will consist of cleaning and beautifying the towns and the surrounding area. We will also do some other environmental tasks for example clean the coastline, plant trees or build hiking paths. Our work will also depend on weather conditions and that s why we have to be flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time. This is a perfect camp for people who like outdoor work and physical challenges.
ACCOMODATION: In a community centre called Knellan which is located in Eskifjordur. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will have access to showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre. The food will be supplied for the duration of the work camp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LOCATION AND LEISURE: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pool in Eskifjorour. 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.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges or steam-vents..
NEAREST AIRPORT: Egilsstaðir (EGS)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF11    FARM LIFE - NATURE, ART AND RENOVATION IN FJORD O (MOSFELLSBAER)    28.08.-09.09.2012    ENVI/RENO/ART/MANU   10vols
PROJECT: Hvalfjorour (Icelandic: Whale-fjord) is situated in the west of Iceland between Mosfellsbaer and Akranes. The fjord is approximately 30 km long and 5 km wide. It is only 30 km away from the centre of Reykjavik.The name Hvalfjorour is derived from the large number of whales which could be found and caught there. Until the 1980s, one of the biggest whaling stations in Iceland was located in this fjord. In the past the fjord also contained a large number of herring fisheries.A hiking trail to the highest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur, has its origin at the innermost end of the fjord.This fjord is one of the most beautiful fjords in Iceland and there are many farms located in the area. It will be a unique experience for our volunteers to live in a farm but still so near to the capital city.
WORK: Since the creation of Worldwide Friends, the organization has been looking for the opportunity to set up a project to renovate and work at an old Icelandic farm. The idea of renovating old spaces in the country side of Iceland and especially in areas where there isn t much population is one of the best ideas our organization could develop. In one hand we have the opportunity of giving life to an empty and old space, in the other hand we are bringing life back to the area with the spirit and the ideas of International volunteers which will be very much welcomed by the local community. It is also great that now WF will have the opportunity to start growing bio vegetables such as potatoes, carrots and other products. It is in our plans to install green houses and be able to grow in the most organic and environmental friendly way products to be used in WF kitchen afterwards.The first part of this Project will consist on renovating and putting the farm in good shape. There are two building that we have to renovate. The first one is the main house where volunteers will live in the near future. The second house is the storage and workshops where volunteers will keep the paint and other materials.We will also take care of the property, plant trees, grow vegetables and even fruits if it is possible. There are a lot farms in the area so the volunteers will have the chance to visit other farms around and therefore to learn about Icelandic farming methods.
ACCOMODATION: We will be staying in the farm. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. Food will be provided for the duration of the workcamp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LOCATION: We will explore the whole whale fjord and the surrounding area, including a hike to the highest waterfall in Iceland.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF32    RAUFARHEFN NEAR TO THE ARCTIC CIRCLE (RAUFARHOFN)    05.09.-17.09.2012    ENVI/RENO/ART   14vols
PROJECT: The village of Raufarhofn is the community that lies farthest north in Iceland. It is located in the eastern part of Melrakkasletta close to the Arctic Circle. The population of Raufarhofn is about 200 and most of the people there earn their living from fishing and fish processing. The harbor is very beautiful and partly shaped by nature itself. A wide and untouched open area surrounds the village with a lot of birds and varied vegetation.WF Iceland is currently having an historical house in Raufarhofn. During the last years we had been fixing and making the place better and to bring light into the village with the participation of International volunteers. The idea is to do outdoor and indoor painting in the South African style from the tribe NDEBELE. The paint consists of mixing all kind of bright colours separated by Black lines.
WORK: The purpose of this camp is to involve young 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 camp, volunteers 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, wildlife, light and color, local lifestyle etc. In the evenings the volunteers will gather together to share photos and the camp will culminate in a photo exhibition.In this workcamps the volunteers will also have the opportunity to share and learn through some artistic activities such as:-Participate in a percussion workshop with homemade recycled instruments.-Learn and share knowledge about how to make jewellery and handicrafts.-Create a Viking Totem out of drifted wood which we will collect from the coastline. Volunteers will also directly contribute to the environment and community of Raufarhofn. This could include picking up litter along the coastline, planting trees, weeding or helping the local environmental department with whatever needs to be done.This work camp is a way to enjoy an amazing time in Iceland with other international volunteers and to have an incredible experience where participants share their knowledge with each other while they are exploring creativity, environmental issues and intercultural learning. The camp will be as well open for new ideas of the volunteers to improve the house, to make it nicer and as well on how to make better future projects with the local community.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in an indoor community facility offering basic facilities. Beds are provided, however volunteers should bring their own warm sleeping bags. Food is included for the duration of the workcamp, however everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking and cleaning. Since it is always nice to try new and different dishes, volunteers are encouraged to bring along their favorite recipes from home
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local swimming pool. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Thorshofn (THO)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    SEEDS 100    ORGANIC FARMING IN ICELAND (2:2)    08.09.-22.09.2012    ENVI/AGRI   6vols
WORK: SEEDS volunteers will be working at one of the few organic farms in Iceland, located in the East of the country. Our main tasks will be to harvest (by hand) vegetables, mainly potatoes, beets, beetroots and lettuce. Volunteers will also pick berries from the surrounding area. Alongside the harvesting tasks, volunteers will clean the vegetables and make them ready for consumers in the Icelandic market, as the farm sells its products at different stores and organic shops around the country.Around the farm there is a young forest that can be maintained and cleaned if the harvesting jobs are done. Volunteers need motivation to work mainly outdoors doing very physical labour and under ever changing weather conditions. Volunteers will be provided with good waterproof overalls and gloves for the work.
ACCOMODATION AND FOOD: SEEDS volunteers will be hosted in a local house; sleeping on beds or mattresses in several rooms, shared by 2-4 volunteers each. Please bring your own sleeping bag. The house is equipped with a shower, washing machine and a kitchen. Volunteers will share the duties of preparing food, cooking meals and cleaning. Please keep in mind that during this workcamp only vegetarian food will be provided, which also means eating mainly local, organic food from the farm. Do not forget some traditional/typical food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION AND LEISURE: The farm, one of the few and large organic farms in Iceland is run with the large support of volunteers; who have been helping in the project of organic locally grown crops for the last years. About 20 of the farm is used for cultivation of different crops and the rest of the land is grassland, there is a forest of about one million trees planted there since starting the farm in the 1970s. The two major crops grown are barley and potatoes, and others include parsley, kale, beetroot, lettuce, kohlrabi, carrots and cabbage. The farm is located in the municipality of Fljotsdalsherao, Iceland s easternmost populous municipality; 16 km from the largest town in the Eastern Iceland i Egilsstaoir (population 2268). Total population is about 3.408 (01.01.2012) and it is the largest municipality (in area) in the country. The wild reindeers of Iceland are found in Fljotsdalsherao, they are about ten thousand and also the biggest forest in Iceland, Hallormstaoarskogur is located within the district. The farm is located very close to Lagarfljot, the home of the mythical creature the Lagarfljot Serpent (Lagarfljotsormur) which was believed to be spotted early 2012 by a local farmer. If you get lucky you might get a glimpse of it and maybe even to be able to get a picture of the much sought after serpent. The East Fjords is a region of a special landscape, dominated by long, narrow fjords and steep mountains. This is one of the oldest regions of Iceland shaped by glaciers in the Ice Age.
REQUIREMENTS: Free time activities will be organized for SEEDS volunteers; as day trips and excursions in the area. Some of them will be free of charge; some others might require financial contribution.
EXTRA FEE: 150 Euro.

Island    WF197    EAST OF ICELAND - CLOSE TO NATURE (ESKIFJORDUR)    09.09.-22.09.2012    ENVI   15vols
PROJECT: Scoured by Ice Age glaciers, the dramatic east coast boasts long, narrow fjords with steep sides and jagged peaks which contrast with inland fertile farmlands. Natural harbours mean picture-postcard fishing villages and seemingly never-ending roads cross the region, providing beautiful sweeping views. Fjaroabyggo is an association of villages in the Eastern fjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjorour, Faskruosfjorour, Mjoifjorour, Neskaupstaour, Reyoarfjorour and Stoovarfjorour, 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.
WORK: Most of the work will consist of cleaning and beautifying the towns and the surrounding area. We will also do some other environmental tasks for example clean the coastline, plant trees or build hiking paths. Our work will also depend on weather conditions and that s why we have to be flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time. This is a perfect camp for people who like outdoor work and physical challenges.
ACCOMODATION: In a community centre called Knellan which is located in Eskifjordur. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will have access to showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre. The food will be supplied for the duration of the work camp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pool in Eskifjorour. 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.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges or steam-vents..
NEAREST AIRPORT: Egilsstadir (EGS)
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    SEEDS 099    WINDOW INTO THE VIKING WORLD (2:2)    09.09.-22.09.2012    ENVI/RENO/CONS   8vols
PROJECT: For the third year in a row, SEEDS volunteers will get an introduction and a chance to try to work like the Vikings used to We will, among other things, be building old style turf- and stonewalls using ancient tools and methods. The project s objective is to reconstruct and keep in good shape old Viking traditional turf farmhouses.
WORK: The tasks are done using ancient tools and elements keeping the work with the same style and final details as the turf houses were originally constructed. The tools are reconstructed like the actual tools the Vikings used for similar work, since their methods still proof to be the best for this work. We will get guidance from professionals and experts, will be taught the techniques and the methods used in the old times. The concept uses Icelandic, natural local materials for the turf walls and roofs, as in the interior of the houses, using turf, soil, rocks and wood.There is a strong aspect of learning during the working process and on the social importance of the work. We will receive practical lessons in turf cutting, turf-walling and in stone construction; which are the traditional Icelandic crafts, then to produce turf material and use these skills for the work on the turf, stone walls and other constructions. There will be more and challenging tasks in the camp. We will be doing some maintenance work, prepare the site for the winter and we will assist in the harvesting of honey.The work is very interesting and fun but also physically demanding.
ACCOMODATION: We will be lodged in a house, sleeping on mattresses on the floor. Please bring your own sleeping bag. There will be an opportunity to sleep for at least some nights in the traditional Icelandic turf houses. Volunteers will receive food and be in charge of the different cooking and cleaning activities. Please do not forget some traditional/typical food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION: We will stay in the south of Iceland, around 60 km from Reykjavik. The place consists of few typical traditional farmhouses in the South-Icelandic style. Very few similar farmhouses remain in the country and these ones we will be staying and working in, are the last in the district. A dedicated effort has been made to develop and conserve the place as the farmhouse tradition embodies an important element of Icelandic history and the Icelandic way of life over centuries.The largest town in the district is Selfoss (pop. 6000). The workcamp site is located about 15 km from Selfoss. 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 Sjorsa during the last centuries. The land is covered mostly by green grass and the closeness of the ocean can be felt in the air.
SPECIAL REMARKS: Participation fee EUR 160,- (Euros).
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 160.00

Island    WF96     HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT (HVERAGERDI)    10.09.-24.09.2012    ENVI/MANU   8vols
PROJECT: Hverageroi is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavik. 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 Hverageroi means hot springs garden. Geothermal energy is Hverageroi 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 Natural 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.
WORK: The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where Worldwide Friends volunteers work most of the time. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly. Volunteers should bring clothes appropriate for outdoor work.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in a fully equipped bungalow consisting of several double and private rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag, but mattresses are provided. Free wireless internet during is available during evening hours, but volunteers need to bring their own laptops if they would like to connect to it.All meals are provided and cooked by our hosts, the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic. The menu for the project is primarily vegetarian, but two times a week it includes locally-caught fish. The food at the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic is known throughout Iceland for its high quality.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. Hverageroi is known for having great areas for hiking, including a river heated by hot springs.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF12    FARM LIFE - NATURE, ART AND RENOVATION IN FJORD O (MOSFELLSBAER)    11.09.-23.09.2012    RENO   10vols
PROJECT: Hvalfjorour (Icelandic: Whale-fjord) is situated in the west of Iceland between Mosfellsbaer and Akranes. The fjord is approximately 30 km long and 5 km wide. It is only 30 km away from the centre of Reykjavik.The name Hvalfjorour is derived from the large number of whales which could be found and caught there. Until the 1980s, one of the biggest whaling stations in Iceland was located in this fjord. In the past the fjord also contained a large number of herring fisheries.A hiking trail to the highest waterfall in Iceland, Glymur, has its origin at the innermost end of the fjord.This fjord is one of the most beautiful fjords in Iceland and there are many farms located in the area. It will be a unique experience for our volunteers to live in a farm but still so near to the capital city.
WORK: Since the creation of Worldwide Friends, the organization has been looking for the opportunity to set up a project to renovate and work at an old Icelandic farm. The idea of renovating old spaces in the country side of Iceland and especially in areas where there isn t much population is one of the best ideas our organization could develop. In one hand we have the opportunity of giving life to an empty and old space, in the other hand we are bringing life back to the area with the spirit and the ideas of International volunteers which will be very much welcomed by the local community. It is also great that now WF will have the opportunity to start growing bio vegetables such as potatoes, carrots and other products. It is in our plans to install green houses and be able to grow in the most organic and environmental friendly way products to be used in WF kitchen afterwards.The first part of this Project will consist on renovating and putting the farm in good shape. There are two building that we have to renovate. The first one is the main house where volunteers will live in the near future. The second house is the storage and workshops where volunteers will keep the paint and other materials.We will also take care of the property, plant trees, grow vegetables and even fruits if it is possible. There are a lot farms in the area so the volunteers will have the chance to visit other farms around and therefore to learn about Icelandic farming methods.
ACCOMODATION: We will be staying in the farm. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. Food will be provided for the duration of the workcamp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LOCATION: We will explore the whole whale fjord and the surrounding area, including a hike to the highest waterfall in Iceland.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF16    Biofuel and soap tour around Iceland    15.09.-27.09.2012    ENVI/EDU/STUDY   12vols
PROJECT: To travel around Iceland and at the same time participate in a very important environmental project!
Cooking oil and soaps are among the most harmful liquids polluting our rivers, lakes and seas. Due to the lack of information and education available these waste products are often disposed of improperly - resulting in contamination of waterways, even if disposed of in sewage systems these products can damage treatment facilities and pipes. We need to educate users and adopt proper recycling strategies to prevent environmental damage.
The Bio fuel project: Rudolph Diesel, a German engineer, introduced the diesel engine over a century ago (Nitske and Wilson, 1965). A great deal of research and development has taken place, not only in perfecting the design but also in finding an appropriate fuel. Until the oil crisis of the 1970’s the availability of inexpensive middle-distillate petroleum fuels provided little incentive for experimenting with alternative, renewable fuels for diesel engines. However, since the crisis research has expanded in the area of alternative fuels. Of all the current alternative fuels only ethanol and vegetable oils are non-fossil fuels.
Due to the high contents of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids (fats or oils) in oilseeds, one of the main end products are edible vegetable oils for human consumption and food processing. Currently much of the used cooking oil is poured into the sewer system. There are at least two reasons to work to encourage proper disposal. Oils and grease may clog pipes because they stick to the inner walls and reduce the effective diameter of the sewer pipes, in some cases this may cause sewage spills. Even if oil reaches the wastewater treatment plants it disrupts normal operations and increases both maintenance costs and the cost to purify the water.
A simple alternative is collect the used oil in a plastic bottle (for example, a big soda bottle) and place it with other waste and recycling. The bottles will be collected and properly disposed of. In the past this waste was mainly used to make animal food, however, as there is some evidence waste oils may have carcinogenic properties, animal food from used cooking oil is being prohibited by governments. Biodiesel manufacturing may be an alternative option for reusing waste cooking oil. Biodiesels from both used and unused vegetable oils have very similar properties and potential in reducing pollutant emission from the engine because both are composed of methyl esters of fatty acids. In most cases a simple pre-treatment (removal by filtration of solid particles, etherification process to reduce the content of free fatty acids) is enough for to prepare waste oil for use in diesel engines.
The Soap project: Have you ever wondered what happens to all those little bars of soap in hotels? You use them once or twice during a stay and then they're discarded the next day - In the USA alone around 1 million bars of soap a day are thrown away
Because of the fatty acids soaps are really bad for the environment and should be recycled. During the BIOFUEL and SOAP tour the volunteer will collect used soaps from hotels to be recycled and reuse afterwards.
Bar soap can reduce deaths of children from pneumonia and diarrheal disease… which kill around 9,000 kids a day.
Worldwide Friends is organizing voluntary projects in Tierra Bomba Colombia a place with lot of misery and lack of basic needs. Recycled soap could play an important role in the daily life of the Tierra Bomba population and especially for the children. The recycled soap from our 2012 projects will be sent to Tierra Bomba and distributed to the most needy families.
The travel: During the first week volunteers will travel around Iceland collecting soaps and cooking oil. We will use a GMC truck to collect the materials and a Ford Econoline for the group of volunteers. Both cars are using cooking oil as fuel.
Please note that we will drive more than 1,700 kms around Iceland on Route #1 – the ring road. During the trip we will have the opportunity to visit some of the most beautiful places in Iceland. Waterfalls, glaciers, hot water springs and black beaches.
During the second part of the project the volunteers will learn how to recycle soap and used oil.
WORK: WF Iceland is taking action on this environmental issue by organizing work camps to collect waste oil and soap from hotels, restaurants and petrol stations all around the country. Iceland is still a clean and unpolluted area and proactive education and awareness programs will protect this environment. The first week of the project volunteers together with WF Iceland team leaders will drive around the country with a van and a truck collecting waste materials. During the second week of the camp the volunteers will learn how to process this wasted and start the first step of transforming it into renewable fuel and soaps. During this second week volunteers will also take part in some more environmental activities such as planting trees, making paths or cleaning rivers.
ACCOMMODATION: During the travel around Iceland the group will stay in tents or in community centres. During the second week the group will be located in a very nice place called Laugarás in the south of Iceland.
The food will be provided for the duration of the work camp and everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to share new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Volunteers with interest in scientific work and/or protection of nature are very much welcome to this camp. Volunteers who like outdoor work are also encouraged to apply for this camp.
TERMINAL: International Airport Reykjavík - Keflavík (KEF)
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 250€ for this workcamp – travel around Iceland included.

Island    WF127    HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT (HVERAGERDI)    24.09.-08.10.2012    ENVI/MANU   8vols
PROJECT: Hverageroi is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavik. 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 Hverageroi means hot springs garden. Geothermal energy is Hverageroi 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 Natural 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.
WORK: The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where Worldwide Friends volunteers work most of the time. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly. Volunteers should bring clothes appropriate for outdoor work.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in a fully equipped bungalow consisting of several double and private rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag, but mattresses are provided. Free wireless internet during is available during evening hours, but volunteers need to bring their own laptops if they would like to connect to it.All meals are provided and cooked by our hosts, the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic. The menu for the project is primarily vegetarian, but two times a week it includes locally-caught fish. The food at the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic is known throughout Iceland for its high quality.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. Hverageroi is known for having great areas for hiking, including a river heated by hot springs.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF141    Water, Nature, and Sustainable Energy in the south of Iceland    29.09.-12.10.2012    ENVI/STUDY   15vols
PROJECT: Iceland is a country extremely rich in water resources. Frequent rainfall, snow, and ice melt feed lakes, cold-water springs, and rivers all over the island, some of which is used to generate electricity in hydro-power plants. The country is situated on the mid-Atlantic ridge, and there is constant volcanic activity beneath the surface of many parts of the island. As a result, many natural underground water reservoirs are heated geothermally, and where this water comes to the surface it forms hotsprings and geysirs. Heat from these geothermal water reservoirs is used for making electricity and to heat buildings. Iceland is the only western country that obtains all of its electricity needs from emission-free and sustainable natural resources in the form of geothermal and hydro power.
South Iceland contains many of Iceland’s foremost natural treasures. Many of the nation’s best-known historical sites are in South Iceland, such as Þingvellir and Skálholt. In the area you can find strong rivers, hot springs, Geysir, glaciers and waterfalls.
Iceland is a country extremely rich in water resources. Strong rivers and big lakes with fresh water can be found all around the island and under the surface there are huge cold water springs fed from high in the mountains by gradual filter of rainfall, snow and ice melt.
Situated on the mid-Atlantic ridge, there is constant, volcanic activity beneath the surface in various parts of the island.  As a result, there are huge amounts of hot water reservoirs in the ground.  This geothermal water is used for heating and electricity. There is also a lot of cold water coming from the mountains and glaciers, that water is used to create energy in hydropower plants.
Iceland is the only western country that produces all its electricity from emission-free and sustainable natural resources in the form of geothermal and hydro power. Iceland’s electricity production is an environment friendly product from the country’s natural resources. In most parts of the world, increased needs for electricity are met by burning greater quantities of polluting fossil fuels. In Iceland this is done with geothermal steam and hydropower.
We will go for several visits to different places related to the study theme of the project and of course to enjoy the nature.
WORK: The activities are divided between the morning and the afternoon. In the morning, Worldwide Friends 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, geysirs, waterfalls, and companies that make major use of water and electricity, such as aluminum smelters.
STUDY THEME: Water, nature and sustainable energy.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in a nice place called Laugarás located in the south of Iceland. Beds will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. 
The food will be supplied for the duration of the work camp and everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LANGUAGE: An intermediate knowledge of English is required for this workcamp.
TERMINAL: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of EUR 250– This fee covers also the transportation and extra accommodation costs of several trips and visits in the south of Iceland, a total driving distance of nearly 1.500km over several days. This travel required in order to effectively carry out the study/visit program of the workcamp.

Island    WF97    HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT (HVERAGERDI)    08.10.-22.10.2012    ENVI/MANU   8vols
PROJECT: Hverageroi is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavik. 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 Hverageroi means hot springs garden. Geothermal energy is Hverageroi 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 Natural 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.
WORK: The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where Worldwide Friends volunteers work most of the time. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly. Volunteers should bring clothes appropriate for outdoor work.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in a fully equipped bungalow consisting of several double and private rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag, but mattresses are provided. Free wireless internet during is available during evening hours, but volunteers need to bring their own laptops if they would like to connect to it.All meals are provided and cooked by our hosts, the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic. The menu for the project is primarily vegetarian, but two times a week it includes locally-caught fish. The food at the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic is known throughout Iceland for its high quality.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. Hverageroi is known for having great areas for hiking, including a river heated by hot springs.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF128    Water, Nature, and Sustainable Energy in the south of Iceland    14.10.-28.10.2012    ENVI/STUDY   15vols
PROJECT: Iceland is a country extremely rich in water resources. Frequent rainfall, snow, and ice melt feed lakes, cold-water springs, and rivers all over the island, some of which is used to generate electricity in hydro-power plants. The country is situated on the mid-Atlantic ridge, and there is constant volcanic activity beneath the surface of many parts of the island. As a result, many natural underground water reservoirs are heated geothermally, and where this water comes to the surface it forms hotsprings and geysirs. Heat from these geothermal water reservoirs is used for making electricity and to heat buildings. Iceland is the only western country that obtains all of its electricity needs from emission-free and sustainable natural resources in the form of geothermal and hydro power.
South Iceland contains many of Iceland’s foremost natural treasures. Many of the nation’s best-known historical sites are in South Iceland, such as Þingvellir and Skálholt. In the area you can find strong rivers, hot springs, Geysir, glaciers and waterfalls.
Iceland is a country extremely rich in water resources. Strong rivers and big lakes with fresh water can be found all around the island and under the surface there are huge cold water springs fed from high in the mountains by gradual filter of rainfall, snow and ice melt.
Situated on the mid-Atlantic ridge, there is constant, volcanic activity beneath the surface in various parts of the island. As a result, there are huge amounts of hot water reservoirs in the ground. This geothermal water is used for heating and electricity. There is also a lot of cold water coming from the mountains and glaciers, that water is used to create energy in hydropower plants.
Iceland is the only western country that produces all its electricity from emission-free and sustainable natural resources in the form of geothermal and hydro power. Iceland’s electricity production is an environment friendly product from the country’s natural resources. In most parts of the world, increased needs for electricity are met by burning greater quantities of polluting fossil fuels. In Iceland this is done with geothermal steam and hydropower.
We will go for several visits to different places related to the study theme of the project and of course to enjoy the nature.
WORK: The activities are divided between the morning and the afternoon. In the morning, Worldwide Friends 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, geysirs, waterfalls, and companies that make major use of water and electricity, such as aluminum smelters.
STUDY THEME: Water, nature and sustainable energy.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in a nice place called Laugarás located in the south of Iceland. Beds will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag.
The food will be supplied for the duration of the work camp and everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking/cleaning. It would be nice to try new and different dishes, so please remember to bring along recipes from your own countries.
LANGUAGE: An intermediate knowledge of English is required for this workcamp.
TERMINAL: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of EUR 250– This fee covers also the transportation and extra accommodation costs of several trips and visits in the south of Iceland, a total driving distance of nearly 1.500km over several days. This travel required in order to effectively carry out the study/visit program of the workcamp.

Island    WF98    HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT (HVERAGERDI)    22.10.-05.11.2012    ENVI/MANU   8vols
PROJECT: Hverageroi is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavik. 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 Hverageroi means hot springs garden. Geothermal energy is Hverageroi 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 Natural 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.
WORK: The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where Worldwide Friends volunteers work most of the time. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly. Volunteers should bring clothes appropriate for outdoor work.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in a fully equipped bungalow consisting of several double and private rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag, but mattresses are provided. Free wireless internet during is available during evening hours, but volunteers need to bring their own laptops if they would like to connect to it.All meals are provided and cooked by our hosts, the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic. The menu for the project is primarily vegetarian, but two times a week it includes locally-caught fish. The food at the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic is known throughout Iceland for its high quality.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. Hverageroi is known for having great areas for hiking, including a river heated by hot springs.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF99    HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT (HVERAGERDI)    05.11.-19.11.2012    ENVI/MANU   8vols
PROJECT: Hverageroi is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavik. 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 Hverageroi means hot springs garden. Geothermal energy is Hverageroi 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 Natural 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.
WORK: The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where Worldwide Friends volunteers work most of the time. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly. Volunteers should bring clothes appropriate for outdoor work.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in a fully equipped bungalow consisting of several double and private rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag, but mattresses are provided. Free wireless internet during is available during evening hours, but volunteers need to bring their own laptops if they would like to connect to it.All meals are provided and cooked by our hosts, the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic. The menu for the project is primarily vegetarian, but two times a week it includes locally-caught fish. The food at the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic is known throughout Iceland for its high quality.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. Hverageroi is known for having great areas for hiking, including a river heated by hot springs.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00

Island    WF177    HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT (HVERAGERDI)    19.11.-03.12.2012    ENVI/MANU   8vols
PROJECT: Hverageroi is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavik. 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 Hverageroi means hot springs garden. Geothermal energy is Hverageroi 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 Natural 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.
WORK: The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where Worldwide Friends volunteers work most of the time. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly. Volunteers should bring clothes appropriate for outdoor work.
ACCOMODATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers stay in a fully equipped bungalow consisting of several double and private rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag, but mattresses are provided. Free wireless internet during is available during evening hours, but volunteers need to bring their own laptops if they would like to connect to it.All meals are provided and cooked by our hosts, the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic. The menu for the project is primarily vegetarian, but two times a week it includes locally-caught fish. The food at the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic is known throughout Iceland for its high quality.
LOCATION: Worldwide Friends volunteers have free access to the local geothermally-heated swimming pools. Traditionally, natural pools have played an important social role in Icelandic culture. Most Icelandic pools offer indoor and outdoor swimming, as well as hot tubs and saunas or steam rooms. Hverageroi is known for having great areas for hiking, including a river heated by hot springs.WF Iceland will also organise reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
NEAREST AIRPORT: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik, Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: 150.00