SEEDS volunteers will perform four different types of work depending on the project needs each time: a) Revegetation and erosion control using organic materials, b) Tree planting, c) Removal of old fences and d) Monitoring the survival and growth of tree plantations of former years. These tasks will be performed at several different locations in the South-west of the country. The South-west is part of the volcanic belt of Iceland, with vast lava fields and erodible volcanic soils. Additionally, the area has suffered from overgrazing of sheep for a long time. Consequently the ecological condition is rather poor and some areas have completely lost their top soil. Materials like horse manure, garden waste and the likes are the best revegetation means available. The results of the efforts made so far can already be seen at a number of sites in the South-west of the country. Documentation is available and as can be seen, the role of SEEDS volunteers has been substantial.No previous experience is necessary but the work is demanding and might require a good physical condition; it can at times be repetitive and demanding but always rewarding. As it is outdoors work, volunteers shall be ready to adapt and be flexible with the working and free-time schedule, as depending on the weather, we may not be able to perform some of the tasks or activities planned.Volunteers need to be prepared for working outdoors in sometimes isolated sites. Be prepared to experience all kinds of w
Accomodation & food:
Volunteers will be lodged in a school building with basic facilities in one of Reykjavik s neighbouring towns. Volunteers will sleep on mattresses provided, please bring a sleeping bag. There is a shower in the school and volunteers will also have free access to the local geothermal swimming pool.Food ingredients will be provided and the group will be responsible for cooking and cleaning. Do not forget some traditional/typical food, drinks, music and recipes from your country for the international evening.
Location & leisure:
The work takes place in the vicinity of Reykjavik on different locations. The main emphasis will be on erosion control in ten different sites in the South-west of Iceland, mostly in and around the Reykjanes peninsula, area marked by active volcanism under its surface with numerous hot and sulphur springs around the Kleifarvatn Lake and in the Krisuvik geothermal area. The Peninsula is famous for its wide network of hiking trails through colourful landscapes, amazing ocean cliffs, bird and whale watching sites and the Blue Lagoon. The camp happens around the summer solstice, when the sun hardly sets and the nights are almost as bright as the days. The bright nights are magical and staying awake enjoying the surroundings is a unique experience.
Requirements:
The fee includes transportation from the meeting point to the camp and back (on the first and last day), the Golden Circle and Snaefellsnes peninsula excursions (1 full day-trip each), where we will visit spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastline, the National Park of Thingvellir and much more. Other excursions (like South Shore or Hot River hike) can be arranged at discount fares for SEEDS participants n case there is additional free time. Volunteers need to be prepared for physical demanding work. Bring warm and waterproof winter clothes as the project takes place outside and the weather can get very cold.
In this project SEEDS volunteers will be mostly doing construction, repair and/or marking off hiking trails and walking paths in the East of Iceland. The main tasks will be to mark and repair walking trails and paths in an isolated area of mountains and fjords. The working area of Hjaroarhagi, Magnahellir and Laugavellir is within driving distance from Egilsstaoir which is the largest city/town in the East of the country. Well maintained paths enable people to visit these amazing areas without damaging them and this important work also helps to improve safety for visitors. Additional tasks may be cleaning or beautifying the area, like hand-picking garbage or collecting trash blown by the wind or brought by the sea to the shores and surrounds. The working day normally runs from 09:00 - 17:00 with breaks for lunch and coffee. No previous experience is necessary but the work is demanding and might require a good physical condition; it can at times be repetitive but always rewarding. As it is outdoors work, volunteers shall be ready to adapt and be flexible with the working and free-time schedule, as depending on the weather, we may not be able to perform some of the tasks or activities planned. The working plan will depend on the needs of our local host, the advance of the diverse projects in the area and of course on the weather conditions. Volunteers need to be motivated to work outdoors on physical jobs and under changeable weather. Bring warm winter clothes, under-l
Accomodation & food:
SEEDS volunteers will be hosted in a local mountain hut in the municipality, away from the town. Volunteers will sleep on mattresses on the floor in shared rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag. The house is equipped with a kitchen. Volunteers will share the duties of preparing food, cooking meals and cleaning. There is a shower and remember to bring bathing suit to bath in the natural hot spring. Do not forget some traditional/typical food, drinks, music and recipes from your home country for the international evening.
Location & leisure:
The project is in the municipality of Fljotsdalsherao, East of Iceland in a beautiful area surrounded by magnificent mountains, picturesque fjords and the sea. There are innumerable walking trails through the magnificent landscape of this area, whether over mountain passes, through valleys, or along the seashore. Participation fee EUR 300 (Euros). Please note that the fee can either be transferred in advance via bank transfer, or paid for on arrival. The participation fee does not include the transportation from Reykjavik to the camp and back but we estimate the costs about EUR 75 each way.This work camp takes place in a very remote place, located in a natural area of extreme beauty. Outdoor free time activities, for instance hikes or walks in the surroundings, will be arranged for SEEDS volunteers. Our hosts will organise some free time activities and the group will get the opportunity to bathe in the natural hot springs at Laugarvalladalur.
Requirements:
English will be the language in the camp; basic conversational skills are needed.
In Skalafell the ski slopes are turned into a bike park during summertime and mountain bike enthusiasts can nourish their passion. The main tasks will include renovation and maintenance work on the bike trails; mainly raking and scraping them up. Other possible tasks may be related to general cleaning of the area.In the Blue Mountains, the main tasks will be maintaining the slopes and preparing them for the next ski season. The city and a few sports associations run lodges and mountain huts there and they might also need some renovation jobs, such as painting and/or cleaning.The working plan is flexible and it will depend on the needs of our local hosts. No previous experience is necessary but the work is demanding and requires a good physical condition. As it is outdoors work, volunteers shall be ready to adapt and be flexible with the working and free-time schedule, as depending on the weather, we may not be able to perform some of the tasks or activities planned. The landscape is raw and volunteers need to be motivated to work outdoors and to experience isolated mountain areas. The camp happens around the summer solstice, when the sun hardly sets and the nights are almost as bright as the days. The bright nights are magical and staying awake enjoying the beautiful surroundings is a unique experience. During the time of the camp participants will have the opportunity to experience the midnight sun as there are 24 hours of light even if the sun sets for shorts periods
Accomodation & food:
SEEDS volunteers will stay in one of the ski lodges in the mountains and sleep in a sleeping bag accommodation, sharing rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Volunteers will receive food supplies and be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Do not forget some traditional/typical food, drinks, music and recipes from your country for the international evening.
Location & leisure:
The skiing areas of Blafjoll and Skalafell are both about 30 minutes drive away from the city. Blafjoll is south-west of the city and Skalafell is located to the east of Reykjavik. Both areas have great slopes for downhill skiing and snowboarding as well as tracks for cross-country skiing. Blafjoll has 16 lifts and Skalafell has 4 lifts. The sports area in Skalafell is situated between the elevations of 380 and 700 m.The Blue Mountain range stretches to the west from the mountain Vifilsfell near the main road (1) from the capital area to the South-western lowlands. The highest mountain in the range reaches 600 m and in 1968 the district became a very popular skiing resort among Icelanders. The areas are excellent for recreation, not only for alpine and cross country skiing, but outdoor activities as well such as hiking and mountain biking. Nature lovers are certain to find something they like there, but it s important to be careful crossing the rugged lava fields because of the numerous caves underneath.
Requirements:
Volunteers shall be prepared for physical outdoors work and should bring good working shoes and clothes. In the mountains, the weather can change quickly and drastically. Even if it is summer, the weather can be cold or rainy. We recommend to bring good walking shoes/boots, warm and/or waterproof clothes (underlayers, overcoats, scarves, gloves and hats) as most of the tasks and activities take place outside. The locations of the camp are remote and isolated, even though still close to the city. Free time activities in the surroundings are mostly hiking and trekking. Other excursions (South Shore, Hot River hike, Snaefellsnes or Reykjanes Peninsula) can be arranged at discount fares for SEEDS participants in case there is additional free time after work or during the weekends.
This camp allows participants to learn about global and local environmental issues, especially regarding ocean plastic pollution, as well as to contribute directly to environmental protection by cleaning the coastline. This project is based on similar projects around the world, where outstanding results have been made with volunteers. We aim to also host a public beach cleaning to get locals to join us. We hope participants will also learn how to plan their own coast cleaning projects and that they will create such events back home. Virtually every piece of plastic that was ever made still exists in some shape or form as plastic takes 500 to 1,000 years to degrade in nature. Plastic is approximately 90 of all the trash in the ocean and about 80 of that plastic comes from coastal dispersal by people. The best way to help fight this is to clean the coastlines, to avoid trash coming from the land entering the sea and to pick up trash from the sea that has washed up on shore. Participants will visit local projects focused on the environment, such as a Geothermal power plant and have a guided tour of the facilities via multimedia installations and presentations to learn about Iceland s geothermal energy utilization; and also a recycling centre where a tour of the plant is given and the activities are explained. This camp combines learning, sharing, cleaning some of the Reykjavik shores, and having fun. Participants should also use this opportunity to share something abou
Accomodation & food:
SEEDS participants will stay in a house in Reykjavik. The facilities are basic with a shower, washing machine, kitchen and everyone is expected to show consideration for their companions. We will sleep in shared rooms in a sleeping bag accommodation. Please bring your own sleeping bag.We will receive food supplies and you will be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Do not forget some traditional/typical food, drinks, recipes, music, games or movies from your country for the international evening.
Location & leisure:
Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal- and hydropower. 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.
Requirements:
Other excursions (eg. Golden Circle, South shore, Reykjanes and/or Snaefellsnes) can be arranged at discount fares in case there is additional free time after the workshops or sessions of the camp.Weather may be very cold and/or rainy, so we recommend to bring winter warm and/or waterproof clothes (overcoats, scarves, gloves and hats) as part of the project takes place outside.
SEEDS volunteers will perform four different types of work depending on the project needs each time: a) Revegetation and erosion control using organic materials, b) Tree planting, c) Removal of old fences and d) Monitoring the survival and growth of tree plantations of former years. These tasks will be performed at several different locations in the South-west of the country. The South-west is part of the volcanic belt of Iceland, with vast lava fields and erodible volcanic soils. Additionally, the area has suffered from overgrazing of sheep for a long time. Consequently the ecological condition is rather poor and some areas have completely lost their top soil. Materials like horse manure, garden waste and the likes are the best revegetation means available. The results of the efforts made so far can already be seen at a number of sites in the South-west of the country. Documentation is available and as can be seen, the role of SEEDS volunteers has been substantial.No previous experience is necessary but the work is demanding and might require a good physical condition; it can at times be repetitive and demanding but always rewarding. As it is outdoors work, volunteers shall be ready to adapt and be flexible with the working and free-time schedule, as depending on the weather, we may not be able to perform some of the tasks or activities planned.Volunteers need to be prepared for working outdoors in sometimes isolated sites. Be prepared to experience all kinds of w
Accomodation & food:
Volunteers will be lodged in a school building with basic facilities in one of Reykjavik s neighbouring towns. Volunteers will sleep on mattresses provided, please bring a sleeping bag. There is a shower in the school and volunteers will also have free access to the local geothermal swimming pool.Food ingredients will be provided and the group will be responsible for cooking and cleaning. Do not forget some traditional/typical food, drinks, music and recipes from your country for the international evening.
Location & leisure:
The work takes place in the vicinity of Reykjavik on different locations. The main emphasis will be on erosion control in ten different sites in the South-west of Iceland, mostly in and around the Reykjanes peninsula, area marked by active volcanism under its surface with numerous hot and sulphur springs around the Kleifarvatn Lake and in the Krisuvik geothermal area. The Peninsula is famous for its wide network of hiking trails through colourful landscapes, amazing ocean cliffs, bird and whale watching sites and the Blue Lagoon. The camp happens around the summer solstice, when the sun hardly sets and the nights are almost as bright as the days. The bright nights are magical and staying awake enjoying the surroundings is a unique experience.
Requirements:
The fee includes transportation from the meeting point to the camp and back (on the first and last day), the Golden Circle and Snaefellsnes peninsula excursions (1 full day-trip each), where we will visit spectacular waterfalls, geysers, impressive coastline, the National Park of Thingvellir and much more. Other excursions (like South Shore or Hot River hike) can be arranged at discount fares for SEEDS participants n case there is additional free time. Volunteers need to be prepared for physical demanding work. Bring warm and waterproof winter clothes as the project takes place outside and the weather can get very cold.
Virtually every piece of plastic that was ever made still exists in some shape or form as plastic takes 500 to 1,000 years to degrade in nature. Plastic is approximately 90 of all the trash in the ocean and about 80 of that plastic comes from coastal dispersal by people. The best way to help fight this is to clean the coastlines, to avoid trash coming from the land entering the sea and to pick up trash from the sea that has washed up on shore. Participants will visit local projects focused on the environment, such as a Geothermal power plant and have a guided tour of the facilities via multimedia installations and presentations to learn about Iceland s geothermal energy utilization; and also a recycling centre where a tour of the plant is given and the activities are explained. This camp combines learning, sharing, cleaning some of the Reykjavik shores, and having fun. Participants should also use this opportunity to share something about environmental issues in their country with the group of international participants. Included is a trip to the Hot River Hike, which is a hike up Reykjadalur valley in the vicinity of Hverageroi. The valley is filled with hot springs and there is a hot river in which one can bathe.No previous experience is necessary, participants should be ready for spending time outside, walking along the coast for the cleanup, as well as for other activities and sightseeing. As part of the project is happening outdoors, volunteers shall be ready to
Accomodation & food:
SEEDS participants will stay in a house in Reykjavik. The facilities are basic with a shower, washing machine, kitchen and everyone is expected to show consideration for their companions. We will sleep in shared rooms in a sleeping bag accommodation. Please bring your own sleeping bag.We will receive food supplies and you will be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Do not forget some traditional/typical food, drinks, recipes, music, games or movies from your country for the international evening.
Location & leisure:
Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal- and hydropower. 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.
Requirements:
English will be the language in the camp; basic conversational skills are needed.Other excursions (eg. Golden Circle, South shore, Reykjanes and/or Snaefellsnes) can be arranged at discount fares in case there is additional free time after the workshops or sessions of the camp.Weather may be very cold and/or rainy, so we recommend to bring winter warm and/or waterproof clothes (overcoats, scarves, gloves and hats) as part of the project takes place outside.
SEEDS volunteers will be doing general park maintenance and assisting the horticultural staff attending the collection of perennials, alpines, trees and shrubs in the garden. The garden organizes guided tours and events throughout the summer and some groups of volunteers will assist in the preparation and practical work related to these events. These special events are all related to the general aim and work of the garden and some of them are carried out with a short notice. The work can be repetitive as general gardening tasks tend to be and most of it is outdoors. The project starts early every weekday, working hours are from 8:00 - 15:00, except on Friday when work finishes at 12:00 as a part of an ongoing research into shortening the working week. Volunteers have to be motivated to join early in the morning, but they will have more free time in the afternoon. No previous experience is necessary. As it is outdoors work, volunteers shall be ready to adapt and be flexible with the working and free-time schedule, as depending on the weather, we may not be able to perform some of the tasks or activities planned.
Accomodation & food:
SEEDS volunteers will stay in an equipped house, in a beautiful setting in the Botanical Gardens of Reykjavik, which are located about 4 kilometres from the centre of the city. Volunteers will be sleeping in shared rooms/dorms in a sleeping bag accommodation. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Please note that volunteers from other projects will also be staying in the same house. Volunteers will receive food supplies and be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Do not forget some traditional/typical food and/or drinks from your home country for the international evening.
Location & leisure:
Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources such as geothermal power. About two thirds of the population of Iceland live in Reykjavik including the metropolitan area, or over 200,000 people. 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 Ocean on almost all sides. Visitors experience easily the pure energy at the heart of Iceland s capital, 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.
Requirements:
Other excursions (South Shore, Hot River hike, Snaefellsnes or Reykjanes Peninsula) can be arranged at discount fares for SEEDS participants in case there is additional free time after work or during the weekends. Participants in this camp will have a free pass to access one of the largest swimming pools in Iceland, situated within walking distance from the camp s accommodation. Weather is unpredictable and it can be cold or rainy, be prepared to experience all kinds of weather. We recommend to bring good walking shoes/boots, warm and/or waterproof clothes (underlayers, overcoats, scarves, gloves and hats) as most of the tasks and activities take place outside.
This camp allows participants to learn about global and local environmental issues, especially regarding ocean plastic pollution, as well as to contribute directly to environmental protection by cleaning the coastline. This project is based on similar projects around the world, where outstanding results have been made with volunteers. We aim to also host a public beach cleaning to get locals to join us. We hope participants will also learn how to plan their own coast cleaning projects and that they will create such events back home. Virtually every piece of plastic that was ever made still exists in some shape or form as plastic takes 500 to 1,000 years to degrade in nature. Plastic is approximately 90 of all the trash in the ocean and about 80 of that plastic comes from coastal dispersal by people. The best way to help fight this is to clean the coastlines, to avoid trash coming from the land entering the sea and to pick up trash from the sea that has washed up on shore. Participants will visit local projects focused on the environment, such as a Geothermal power plant and have a guided tour of the facilities via multimedia installations and presentations to learn about Iceland s geothermal energy utilization; and also a recycling centre where a tour of the plant is given and the activities are explained. This camp combines learning, sharing, cleaning some of the Reykjavik shores, and having fun. Participants should also use this opportunity to share something abou
Accomodation & food:
SEEDS participants will stay in a house in Reykjavik. The facilities are basic with a shower, washing machine, kitchen and everyone is expected to show consideration for their companions. We will sleep in shared rooms in a sleeping bag accommodation. Please bring your own sleeping bag.We will receive food supplies and you will be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Do not forget some traditional/typical food, drinks, recipes, music, games or movies from your country for the international evening.
Location & leisure:
Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal- and hydropower. 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.
Requirements:
Other excursions (eg. Golden Circle, South shore, Reykjanes and/or Snaefellsnes) can be arranged at discount fares in case there is additional free time after the workshops or sessions of the camp.Weather may be very cold and/or rainy, so we recommend to bring winter warm and/or waterproof clothes (overcoats, scarves, gloves and hats) as part of the project takes place outside.
« I can say that the best things about the workcamp and this whole experience were the chance of making a real difference to the lives of very needy children. This is an extremely valuable project where volunteers can have a massive impact. Also the possibility of learning a huge amount about a country so different from our own. I learnt ten times as much by carrying out a workcamp than I would ever do backpacking. »
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