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Island

Vermittlungsgebühren 120 EUR (+ Extra Fees)

	Auf Island kooperieren wir mit der Organisation Worlwide Friends Iceland (WF), die schon seit mehreren Jahren internationale Workcamps durchführt. Unsere zweite isländische Partnerorganisation heißt See beyond Borders (SEEDS).
Beide Organisationen erheben für die meisten ihrer Camps eine Extra-Gebühr, die vor Ort bezahlt werden muss. WF bietet für seine Camps einen Bustransfer von Reykjavik zum Camport für einen fairen Preis an.

Island    SEEDS 41    Grettir the strong - Viking festivities    01.08.-15.08.2010    ENVI/FEST   10vols
WORK & STUDY/PROJECT: SEEDS volunteers will be mainly engaged in the events connected to a festival devoted to one of the heroes of the Icelandic sagas, Grettir the strong! We will be involved preparing, participating and then taking down the festival. The area will be prepared to fit the festival, Vikings tents will be set up and a wooden playground for kids built. Areas for bow shooting and tests of strength will be arranged. We will also help around with games for the children, competitions and courses related to the Viking culture. After the festival we will help to deconstruct the Viking tents and get the area in its former shape. Apart from taking part in these activities, we will get to know the place and the history of the area and we can participate in the various courses and seminars held by the hosts during our free time.
Other tasks we may perform during the camp will be cleaning the area, making and maintaining walking paths and assisting in different tasks that might come up during the festival, therefore a great flexibility and open-minded is needed from the group of participants.
ACCOMMODATION: We will stay in a sleeping-bag accommodation with mattresses on the floor, in a local school, with access to living room area, kitchen and bathrooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Food ingredients will be provided and a kitchen will be available, we will share the duties of preparing and cooking meals. Facilities to wash your clothes are in the area.
LOCATION: The project is located in the North West of the country, on the foot of the Western Fjords peninsula, where one of the most famous Icelandic sagas took place. This area is rich in history, here the Viking battled for power and justice. Today it is a more peaceful place, with few farms, small towns and villages, rich on beautiful basalt cliffs and hot springs. The land is rich of geothermal water and it is used to heat up houses in the surrounding towns. Salmon rivers and fishing lakes are in the area so it is a popular destination for many travellers.
Iceland was badly hit with the current financial crisis, which did affect the life for foreign visitors in a positive way, making Iceland a much cheaper country to visit, the local currency greatly lost value, many goods and services cost (in EUR) just a half comparing to the year 2007.
STUDY THEME: This workcamp has an educational/awareness-rising approach to environmental, nature-protection and sustainable development topics. Apart from the leader, we will have an environmental messenger, a person dedicated to organising and developing fun, interactive and educational activities within the project.
TERMINAL: International Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).
EXTRAS: Participation fee EUR 150,- (Euros).
Volunteers applying for this project should have a motivation for working outdoors. We will be taken for an excursion for Seal watching, for a midnight boat trip and will have access to geothermal swimming pools in the area. Hikes in the surroundings will also be available. In the free time we can participate in courses and seminars held by the hosts, a great chance to get in touch with one of the greatest Icelandic sagas, Grettissaga, through work and play.

Island    WF 79    Hveragerði – health and environment    02.08.-16.08.2010    ENVI/MANU   10vols
PROJECT: Hveragerði is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavík. This friendly little community sits on top of a highly active geothermal field which provides heat for hundreds of greenhouses where fruit, flowers and vegetables are produced throughout the year. Even bananas grow in these greenhouses! The name Hveragerði means ‘hot springs garden.’ Geothermal energy is Hveragerði’s lifeblood, and you probably won’t find such a natural wonder in the middle of a populated area anywhere else in the world. A very interesting site is Gufudalur, the lovely ‘Steam Valley’ behind the town. The whole valley explodes with hot springs, geysers, mud pots, fumaroles and steaming vents. Our host is the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic which is a part of the Nature Health Association of Iceland located in Hveragerdi. The Clinic is a place of choice for all those who are in need of rehabilitation, regaining their strength or simply in need to rest. It has earned a solid reputation, both in Iceland and internationally, since its foundation in 1955 for personal and effective care of patients. It is the oldest sanatorium in Iceland and, one of the two most important rehabilitation clinics in Iceland. Every year approximately 2,000 patients and other guests enjoy the diverse rehabilitation programs. The Clinic does its best to meet the needs of all guests by enhancing their physical as well as mental well being. The basic philosophy is to build up clients’ health and improve their quality of life and well being. The approach builds self-confidence and individual awareness of the fact that only he or she is responsible for his/her own health. Mud baths, herbal baths, therapeutic massage and lymphatic drainage massage are some of the special therapies used in combination with other treatments. The association has a horticultural and environmental department with forestry and greenhouses. The volunteers will mainly work in that field.
WORK: The work will mostly be focused on forestry, gardening and greenhouse work. We will also pick some herbs for making tea. The amount and type of work will depends largely on weather conditions, therefore we have to be flexible. You should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in a very nice fully equipped flat. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. All meals will be provided and cooked by our hosts. The food in the project will mainly be vegetarian food, but two times a week we will have delicious Icelandic fish. The food in this place is very well known here in Iceland for the high standard of quality.
LANGUAGE: The language of the work camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. WF Iceland will organize a minibus to the project site for a fair prize.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 120 Euros for this work camp.

Island    SEEDS 43    Eyrarbakki - Stepping back in time    03.08.-17.08.2010    FEST/CULT   15vols
WORK/PROJECT: This project gives SEEDS volunteers the opportunity to work in cultural and environmental related tasks in Eyrarbakki, a village in the South of Iceland which is very rich in culture and history. We will work together with the locals preparing the village for and running the festival Aldamótahátíð (Turn of the century festival) which is held 13th - 15th of August; we will help preparing the town for hosting hundreds of visitors. During the events we will work in various places such as museums, the church, open country market and the coffee house. Some of us will wear old-style Icelandic costumes and participate in a welcoming team by the entrance of the festival. This creates a welcoming and ceremonial atmosphere with an international tone. We will also help in the old cars exhibition and have the opportunity to see and learn more about these antique items. We will join and perform with the street theatre and prepare events during the festival. Volunteers with artistic skills or just enthusiasm to perform are welcome to develop their ideas and the local hosts will try to include them in the schedule.
Our host will assist us organising an international evening where locals will be invited to try, taste and learn about food and traditions from our home countries. Please bring easily portable typical food from home with you for the evening.
As many events and happenings will be going on at the same time during the festival, we may work in teams in different stations at each time. We are encouraged to use the opportunity to explore and learn about the Icelandic culture and history.
ACCOMMODATION: We will live in a local townhouse in the village, partly taking care of cooking for the group and partly receiving meals from the community. Please bring your own sleeping bag.
LOCATION: The project takes place in Eyrarbakki, a small village in South Iceland. The town played an important role in trading; the towns’ prime time was from middle of the 18th century to the early 19th century. The town is renowned for its charming old houses and one of oldest house of Iceland, from 1765 is located in the town. Other old houses are there and locals have put effort and energy in maintaining and renovating them, so the town holds more to its original outlook. Few kilometres out of town is Flói Nature Reserve, a paradise for wetland birds, with a marked circular hiking trail through the marshes.
TERMINAL: Closest International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). SEEDS organises the “minibus option”, a shared transport from Reykjavík to the camps and vice-versa, which apart from being cheaper and more convenient, allows volunteers to meet fellow campers and have a relaxed trip, while stopping on the way for interesting and tourist sites.
EXTRAS / SPECIAL REMARKS: Participation fee EUR 160.
Artistic volunteers are encouraged to join! We will have free access to a nearby geothermal swimming pool and we will organise horse-back riding or kayaking for SEEDS volunteers.

Island    SEEDS 72    Lost in Iceland !    04.08.-18.08.2010    ENVI/AGRI   8vols
WORK/PROJECT: This project gives SEEDS volunteers the opportunity to work and live in an organic farm in the south of Iceland. There is an organic market run by the farm and their neighbours during the summertime. We will be assisting in harvesting vegetables and fruits to sell at the market. We will also be planting trees on the farm if we have time.
Our main task will be to work on, in and around a maze that is located on the farm. The maze is about 1.000 square meters in size and needs to be maintained properly. We will be mowing, trimming and cleaning around the hedges of the maze. This maze is one of a kind here in Iceland. There is an Icelandic saying: if you get lost in a forest in Iceland, you just have to stand up! So this workcamp provides a unique opportunity to get lost, but in a safe way.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in tents on the farm land in a very calm and isolated place, surrounded by trees. Please bring your own sleeping bag and sleeping mat. We will have access to all facilities. We will be responsible for cooking and cleaning activities. All our vegetables will be fresh and organic from the farm.
Please do not forget some traditional food from your home country for the international evening.
LOCATION: We will be staying in the south of Iceland in the municipality of Bláskógabyggð. You will find a lot of history and attractive places to visit in the neighbourhood.
The name of the municipality means blue-woods-community. The name is drawn from the colour that often appears in the woods north of Þingvellir. This area is mentioned in many of the Icelandic sagas. In the municipality you find Skálholt which is one of Iceland’s most important historic sites. Christianity was made the state religion of Iceland by law in 1000 A.D. The country’s first bishop, Ísleifur Gissurarson, ordained in 1056, settled at Skálholt, which was a centre of culture and education for 700 years. Of the bishops residing there in the middle ages, Þorlákur Þórhallsson (bishop 1178-1198), Iceland’s only saint, should be remembered.
Being close to Skálholt means that we are also close to the famous Gullfoss and Geysir, and we will surely have the opportunity to go there.
Gullfoss (golden falls) is a particularly enchanting waterfall. The River Hvítá drops over a cliff and changes direction. Two-tiered Gullfoss produces a drenching spray; so if the sun's shining, the spray becomes a canvas for a rainbow. Geysir, is very close by and started erupting in 1294, but is now essentially dormant. Strokkur (the churn), another geyser, is much more reliable. It spews water high into the air every few minutes.
So we will be surrounded by history and beautiful nature!
LANGUAGE: English will be the official language in the camp; high proficiency is not a requirement.
STUDY THEME: This workcamp has an educational/awareness-raising approach to environmental awareness, nature-protection and sustainable development topics. The group is encouraged to organise and develop fun, interactive and educational activities within the project.
TERMINAL: Closest International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF).
SEEDS organises the “minibus option”, a shared transport from Reykjavík to the camps and vice-versa. Apart from being cheaper and more convenient, this option allows volunteers to meet fellow campers and have a relaxed trip, while stopping on the way for interesting and tourist sites.
EXTRAS / SPECIAL REMARKS: Participation fee EUR 180. Volunteers applying for this project should have a motivation for working outdoors and be ready to sleep in tents.

Island    SEEDS 44    Nature reserve of Þórsmörk – hiking trails (2)    07.08.-21.08.2010    ENVI/RENO   6vols (no more male)
WORK/PROJECT: We will have the unique opportunity to work in the nature protected reserve of Þórsmörk. SEEDS Iceland will continue building the partnership with the Environmental agency of Iceland (Umhverfisstofnun) and we will be working together fixing, maintaining and marking the walking paths and hiking trails in the Þórsmörk area.
Work may be physically demanding and involve hikes to reach the sites. Well maintained paths enable people to visit these amazing areas without damaging them and this important work also helps to improve their safety. No previous experience is needed as training will be provided by experienced leaders. Tasks will be diverse, therefore flexibility and open-mind is expected. The work is to be planned with the rangers and SEEDS coordinator depending on the needs and weather conditions; we may work on shifts every day for a total of 35 hours/week.
ACCOMMODATION: We will sleep in tents. Food ingredients will be provided and a basic kitchen will be available. We will share the duties of preparing and cooking meals. A warm sleeping bag and an isolation mat are needed. Volunteers may bring their own tents if wished.
LOCATION: The Þórsmörk natural reserve is one of the most beautiful places in Iceland, surrounded by beautiful mountains, glaciers and glacial rivers. Þórsmörk itself is situated in the south of Iceland, about 160 km from Reykjavík. For years, the only access to this special place was by a powerful jeep to cross the treacherous rivers, but that is no longer the case. Most of the tourists reach the place by special cross-country buses.
Please, feel free to see the pictures from the last year, from the photo gallery of SEEDS: http://www.seedsiceland.org/pictures-iceland-en-galleries/pictures/2009/a-workcamps.html
TERMINAL: Closest International Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. Closest bus stop is Hvolsvöllur.
SEEDS organises the “minibus option”, a shared transport from Reykjavík to the camps and vice-versa, which apart from being cheaper and more convenient, allows volunteers to meet fellow campers and have a relaxed trip, while stopping on the way for interesting and tourist sites.
SPECIAL REMARKS / EXTRAS: Participation fee EUR 160,- (Euros).
Remote places located in natural reserved areas of extreme beauty. Hikes and free time activities in the area will be arranged. Volunteers need motivation to work outdoors on physically demanding jobs.

Island    WF41     Akureyri The capital of the North     10.08.-23.08.2010    ENVI/MANU   12vols
PROJECT: Akureyri is situated in north-east Iceland, in one of the longest fjords in the country and is surrounded by mountains reaching 1000-1500 m. The Arctic Circle in only 60 km north of Akureyri but still the climate is mild, with summer temperatures up to 25°C and winter temperatures in average around 0 C. Akureyri is the second largest urban area after the capital area of Reykjavík, with a population of about 17200. Akureyri is the centre of trade and services in northern Iceland. It is also a town of culture and education, building on a firm foundation. Akureyri is a popular tourist destination for short or long visits. The town offers a wide range of activities and interesting places e.g. notable museums, the world‘s most northerly botanic garden, one of Iceland’s most popular swimming facilities, the best skiing area in the country, good hiking trails and free city bus. The town is also a good base for many of Iceland’s most beautiful natural wonders as waterfalls, volcanic areas and canyons as well as exciting activities as river rafting, hiking, fishing, whale watching and horse riding.
WORK: Our work during this camp will mainly be to build and maintain hiking paths and clean up the coastline. The work available will depend on the weather condition and that’s why we have to be a bit flexible. We will be working for 6 to 8 hours a day, 5 days a week with free weekends. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though it will be nice most of the time, hopefully.
ACCOMMODATION: In the local school on mattresses on the floor, participants are asked to bring a warm sleeping bag. 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.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool, museums and the local bus. Excursions will be organized by the hosting partner.
LANGUAGE: The language of the workcamp is English.
TERMINAL: Reykjavík - Keflavík. WF Iceland will organize a bus from Reykjavik to the camp site for a fair prize. It is also possible to take a flight from Reykjavik to Akureyri.
EXTRA FEE: Xtra participation fee EUR 120,-

Island    WF 94    Hveragerði – health and environment    16.08.-30.08.2010    ENVI/MANU   10vols
PROJECT: Hveragerði is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavík. This friendly little community sits on top of a highly active geothermal field which provides heat for hundreds of greenhouses where fruit, flowers and vegetables are produced throughout the year. Even bananas grow in these greenhouses! The name Hveragerði means ‘hot springs garden.’ Geothermal energy is Hveragerði’s lifeblood, and you probably won’t find such a natural wonder in the middle of a populated area anywhere else in the world. A very interesting site is Gufudalur, the lovely ‘Steam Valley’ behind the town. The whole valley explodes with hot springs, geysers, mud pots, fumaroles and steaming vents. Our host is the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic which is a part of the Nature Health Association of Iceland located in Hveragerdi. The Clinic is a place of choice for all those who are in need of rehabilitation, regaining their strength or simply in need to rest. It has earned a solid reputation, both in Iceland and internationally, since its foundation in 1955 for personal and effective care of patients. It is the oldest sanatorium in Iceland and, one of the two most important rehabilitation clinics in Iceland. Every year approximately 2,000 patients and other guests enjoy the diverse rehabilitation programs. The Clinic does its best to meet the needs of all guests by enhancing their physical as well as mental well being. The basic philosophy is to build up clients’ health and improve their quality of life and well being. The approach builds self-confidence and individual awareness of the fact that only he or she is responsible for his/her own health. Mud baths, herbal baths, therapeutic massage and lymphatic drainage massage are some of the special therapies used in combination with other treatments. The association has a horticultural and environmental department with forestry and greenhouses. The volunteers will mainly work in that field.
WORK: The work will mostly be focused on forestry, gardening and greenhouse work. We will also pick some herbs for making tea. The amount and type of work will depends largely on weather conditions, therefore we have to be flexible. You should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in a very nice fully equipped flat. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. All meals will be provided and cooked by our hosts. The food in the project will mainly be vegetarian food, but two times a week we will have delicious Icelandic fish. The food in this place is very well known here in Iceland for the high standard of quality.
LANGUAGE: The language of the work camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. WF Iceland will organize a minibus to the project site for a fair prize.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 120 Euros for this work camp.

Island    WF31     Sólheimar - Eco village     16.08.-31.08.2010    ENVI/MANU   6vols
PROJECT: Sólheimar Eco-Village, founded in 1930, is the first community in the world where the so-called able and disabled people live and work together. Inspired by the theories of Rudolf Steiner, Sólheimar has focused on cultivating both the individual and the environment and it is the first community in Scandinavia to practice organic farming. Today, Sólheimar (the home of the sun) is a charming village of about 100 inhabitants, renowned for its international, artistic and ecological atmosphere, which prides itself on its varied cultural, social and sporting activities. The village is only a one-hour drive from Reykjavik. The volunteers have free access to the swimming pool and the gym. For additional information, visit: www.solheimar.is.
WORK: We will mostly work in the Ölur Forestry Centre (the only organic reforestation centre in Iceland) and in the Sunna Organic Cultivation Centre. During our stay, other tasks may arise depending on the needs of the community. The work in Ölur, and in the village as well, will mostly consist in building paths and planting trees in Southern Iceland Farm Forest. In Sunna we will be planting vegetables, eradicating weeds and other gardening work.
FREE TIME: We will have free access to the swimming pool and the fitness centre. Excursions will be provided by our hosts.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in a nice house with double bedrooms, each with a private bathroom. The house is fully equipped and has a big living room. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. Our host in Sólheimar offers a cooked lunch every working day. Evening and weekend meals shall be cooked by the volunteers. 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.
LANGUAGE: The language of the workcamp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 150 Euros for this workcamp.

Island    SEEDS 66    Alviðra – Environmental Education Centre    17.08.-30.08.2010    ENVI   10vols (no more female)
WORK/PROJECT: This project gives SEEDS volunteers the opportunity to work and live in an old farm which has been transformed into an environmental-education centre, Alviðra.
School kids are invited to take part in educational projects during spring and autumn in this popular place of interest. The house and the surroundings need maintenance work and we will take part in various tasks in order to fix, maintain and beautify the house and its surroundings.
We will paint and give the old stable a facelift which is worn down due to wind and rain. The fence around the main farmhouse also needs to be cleaned and re-painted. We will also do gardening work such as cutting grass in the fields, gathering it together and possibly planting trees. There is a small pet cemetery where animal owners of all ages come to bury their deceased animals and we will assist in keeping it neat and clean. Other tasks we will possibly undertake during the camp are marking and making hiking trails, light maintenance inside or outside the house.
ACCOMMODATION: We will live in a beautiful typical Icelandic farmhouse and will sleep in the loft on mattresses with sleeping bags. Please bring your own sleeping bag. The house has all facilities available. The group will be responsible for cooking and cleaning activities.
Please do not forget some typical food for the international evening, where others can try and taste some specialities from your home countries.
LOCATION: We will stay in an old farmhouse, Alviðra, 1 hour drive from Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland. The house sits under Ingólfsfjall, The Mountain of Ingólfur, with a view to Eyjafjallajökull where the volcanic eruptions started in March and April.
The place is registered as natural Icelandic heritage; the nature, vegetation and birdlife is rich in variety and quantity. Vistors can enjoy outdoor activities in a peaceful and beautiful location with a small stream and a pond nearby. Hiking trails with maps about cultural heritage can be found are spread around the area, which is a popular attraction among foreign and local visitors.
Wild blue- and crowberries grow on the land and the berry season is in late August/September. The house serves as an environmental-educational centre where students and other visitors can have a look at an extensive stone and stuffed animal collection.
The river Sogið is within walking distance which is a place of interest in itself regarding birdlife and fishing. The river is 19 km long and is the largest freshwater river in the country in terms of flow. The nearest town, Selfoss, is only 10 minutes-drive away with 6500 inhabitants, is a centre of commerce and small industries where you find a geothermal swimming pool, shops, museums, cafés and bars.
LANGUAGE: English will be the official language in the camp; high proficiency is not a requirement.
STUDY THEME: This workcamp has an educational/awareness-raising approach to environmental, nature-protection and sustainable development topics. The group is encouraged to organise and develope fun, interactive and educational activities within the project.
TERMINAL: Closest International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF).
SEEDS organises the “minibus option”, a shared transport from Reykjavík to the camps and vice-versa, which apart from being cheaper and more convenient, allows volunteers to meet fellow campers and have a relaxed trip, while stopping on the way for interesting and tourist sites.
EXTRAS / SPECIAL REMARKS: Participation fee EUR 180.
Volunteers applying for this project should have a motivation for working outdoors. We will be invited to a star watching trip with an expert and a geological mountain hike to Ingólfsfjall where we will have explanations on the volcano and other mountains in the area.

Island    WF34     The community of the eastern fjords     18.08.-01.09.2010    ENVI/MANU   14vols
PROJECT: “Fjarðabyggð" is a association of different communities in the Eastfjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, Mjóifjörður, Neskaupstaður, Reyðarfjörður and Stöðvarfjörður, all tiny fishing villages with steep mountains towering just behind the houses. In this area you will see some of the features that make Iceland a unique place in the world: spectacular fjords with a rich sea life, a great variety of birdlife, and countless breathtaking hiking paths. You will explore the area during your stay in the east. Our tasks will depend on the general situation in Fjarðabyggð, the working site of this camp.
WORK: Most of the work will consist in cleaning and beautifying the towns and the surrounding area. We will also clean the coastline, plant trees and make hiking paths. Our work will 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.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool, great hiking places. An excursion or a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner.
ACCOMMODATION: In a community centre. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will take 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.
LANGUAGE: The language of the camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. The closest national airport to the camp’s site is Egilsstaðir airport which is 40 km away from the project. WF Iceland will arrange a bus trip from Reykjavik to the work camp’s site at a fair price with stops in some of the most beautiful places in Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 120 Euros for this workcamp.

Island    WF56     The community of the eastern fjords     18.08.-01.09.2010    ENVI/MANU   14vols
PROJECT: “Fjarðabyggð" is a association of different communities in the Eastfjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, Mjóifjörður, Neskaupstaður, Reyðarfjörður and Stöðvarfjörður, all tiny fishing villages with steep mountains towering just behind the houses. In this area you will see some of the features that make Iceland a unique place in the world: spectacular fjords with a rich sea life, a great variety of birdlife, and countless breathtaking hiking paths. You will explore the area during your stay in the east. Our tasks will depend on the general situation in Fjarðabyggð, the working site of this camp.
WORK: Most of the work will consist in cleaning and beautifying the towns and the surrounding area. We will also clean the coastline, plant trees and make hiking paths. Our work will 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.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool, great hiking places. An excursion or a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner.
ACCOMMODATION: In a community centre. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will take 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.
LANGUAGE: The language of the camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. The closest national airport to the camp’s site is Egilsstaðir airport which is 40 km away from the project. WF Iceland will arrange a bus trip from Reykjavik to the work camp’s site at a fair price with stops in some of the most beautiful places in Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 120 Euros for this workcamp.

Island    SEEDS 67    Forests at the foot of the ‘Icelandic Alps’     18.08.-01.09.2010    ENVI/RENO/AGRI   8vols
WORK/PROJECT: SEEDS volunteers will be working in the Western Fjords of Iceland, working with the local forestry association. Our tasks in this project will mainly be focused on improving the environment in the area; maintaining tree plantations, removing old fences and preparing materials for new ones, clearing routes for hiking paths, and possibly some garden work in the area. The working plan will be very flexible and it will depend on the needs of our local hosts, the progress already made on the diverse projects in the area surrounding the fjord and of course on the weather conditions. We will help to preserve the local environment and get practical experience of forestry and environmental maintenance in the area. Last but not least we will explore the surroundings of the location and enjoy free time activities arranged in cooperation with the local host.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be lodged in a local house, in shared room(s), sleeping on mattresses on the floor. It is essential that you bring a sleeping bag. Food will be provided and volunteers will have a kitchen to cater for themselves. Volunteers will share the duties of preparing and cooking meals.
LOCATION: The workcamp will take place in the Westfjords in the north-western part of Iceland. The region accounts for 10% of the country’s surface but only about 7200 people live there, so it is one of the least populated areas of Europe. The Westfjords are very mountainous; the coastline is made by dozens of fjords surrounded by steep hills.
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.
We will be most of the time working at Dýrafjordur, a long and wide fjord, some 32km long and up to 9km wide. It is a place rich in legends and natural beauty. The main town in the area is Thingeyri, which has a population of approximately 300, and has been home to American and Icelandic fishing fleets for hundreds of years. The town boasts a storehouse which is one of the oldest buildings in Iceland.
In Viking times Thingeyri hosted the ‘Thing’ which was a meeting between the clans of the area, held at the foot of Mt. Sandfell. This is where Thingeyri gets its name. Viking culture is still important to the town. Every year there is a Viking themed festival at which Viking themed events are held. The area between Dýrafjordur and Arnarfjordur is famous for its beautiful hiking trails. The mountains in this area are unusual for mountains in the Westfjords, and have an appearance similar to the alps, thanks to their height and unevenness, for this reason the area has become known as the Icelandic Alps. Kaldbakur (998m), which is the Westfjord’s tallest mountain, lies in the centre of this region and climbing its summit provides you with a view over the whole area.
LANGUAGE: English will be the language in the camp, but high proficiency is not a requirement.
TERMINAL: Closest International Airports: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF); nearest domestic airport (EGS). Nearest bus stop is in Egilsstaðir. The docking port for the Norröna ferry connecting Iceland with the Faroe Islands, Denmark and Europe is located in the town of Seyðisfjörður, 30 Km from Egilsstaðir.
SEEDS organises the “minibus option”, a shared transport from Reykjavík to the camps and vice-versa, which apart from being cheaper and more convenient, allows volunteers to meet fellow campers and have a relaxed trip, while stopping on the way for interesting and tourist sites.
SPECIAL REMARKS / EXTRAS: Participation fee EUR 170,- (Euros).
Excursions, hikes and free time activities will be arranged by the local contacts and SEEDS.

Island    WF40     Fjarðabyggð - close to nature     22.08.-05.09.2010    ENVI/MANU   12vols
PROJECT: “Fjarðabyggð" is an association of villages in the Eastfjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, Mjóifjörður, Neskaupstaður, Reyðarfjörður and Stöðvarfjörður, all tiny fishing villages with steep mountains towering just behind the houses. In this area you will see some of the features that make Iceland a unique place in the world: spectacular fjords with a rich sea life, a great variety of birdlife, and countless breathtaking hiking paths. You will explore the area during your stay in the east. Our tasks will depend on the general situation in Fjarðabyggð, the working site of this camp.
WORK: Most of the work will consist in cleaning and beautifying the towns and the surrounding area. We will also clean the coastline, plant trees and build hiking paths. Our chores 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.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool, great hiking places. An excursion or a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner.
ACCOMMODATION: In a community centre. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will 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.
LANGUAGE: The language of the camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. The closest national airport to the camp site is Egilsstaðir airport which is 40 km away from the project’s site. WF Iceland will arrange a bus trip from Reykjavik to the workcamp’s site at a fair price with stops in some of the most beautiful places in Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 120 Euros for this workcamp.

Island    WF53     Dalvík     23.08.-03.09.2010    ENVI   12vols
PROJECT: The community of Dalvíkurbyggð was formed in 1998 by the merger of three districts of the outer Eyjafjörður: the town of Dalvík and the rural districts of Svarfaðardalur and Árskógur. The population of Dalvík is nearly 2.000. The local economy is mostly based upon the fisheries and fish processing, in addition to various industrial and food enterprises, services, commerce and trade. Dalvík harbour is a large fishing and commercial port; the ferry Sæfari, which sails from Dalvík, serves the island of Grímsey, Iceland's northernmost community, which lies on the Arctic Circle. The mountains of Tröllaskagi (“Trolls’ Headland” – between Eyjafjörður and Skagafjörður) are renowned as one of Iceland’s most spectacular areas for outdoor activity. Hikers can find suitable walking routes at any time of year, while mountaineers can scale peaks of all shapes and sizes. The swimming pool in Dalvík is one of the best ones in Iceland and after a hard day of working the locals usually relax there for a while.
WORK: Our work during this camp will mainly be to build and maintain hiking paths and clean up the coastline. The work available will depend on the weather condition and that’s why we have to be a bit flexible. We will be working for 8 hours a day, 5 days a week with free weekends. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though it will be nice most of the time, hopefully.
ACCOMMODATION: In the local school on mattresses on the floor, participants are asked to bring a warm sleeping bag. 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.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool and museums and the local bus. Excursion or a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner.
LANGUAGE: The language of the workcamp is English.
TERMINAL: Reykjavík - Keflavík. WF Iceland will organize a bus from Reykjavik to the camp site for a fair prize.
EXTRA FEE: Xtra participation fee EUR 120,-

Island    WF51    Green army in Reykjavik     24.08.-04.09.2010    ENVI/MANU   12vols
PROJECT: In Reykjavik you can easily feel the pure energy at the heart of Iceland‘s capital city - whether it springs from the underground boiling thermal energy or radiates from the green scenery surrounding the city. Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, space, clean air, nature, culture - and Reykjavik has them in spades. Reykjavik offers both the features of a modern and innovative society and the marvelous traits of a pristine and unique landscape. The population of the Reykjavik Area is about 200,000. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula offering a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean from nearly every part of the city. The world’s northernmost capital is framed by the majestic Mt. Esja, which keeps a watchful eye on the city, and the blue waters of Faxafloi Bay. On a sunny day, the mystical Snaefellsjokull glacier towers over the western horizon, while mountainous moonscapes spread to the southeast.
WORK: Our work during this camp will mostly consist in embellishing the downtown area and helping the local authorities improve the city’s centre look and atmosphere. Tasks will include cleaning tags and painting old houses. We will also give hand to the environmental department in taking care of the parks and green areas in the heart of Reykjavík. In addition to that, we might also clean the coastline in the city area.
FREE TIME: We will have free access to all the geothermal pools in Reykjavik. Great excursions will be organized by WF Iceland for a fair prize. Visits to museums and interesting places in Reykjavik will be organized free of charge for the volunteers.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in fully equipped house in the centre of 101 Reykjavik, the location can not be better. The food will be supplied for the duration of the workcamp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning.
LANGUAGE: The language of the workcamp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 120 Euros for this workcamp.

Island    WF 95    Hveragerði – health and environment    30.08.-13.09.2010    ENVI/MANU   10vols
PROJECT: Hveragerði is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavík. This friendly little community sits on top of a highly active geothermal field which provides heat for hundreds of greenhouses where fruit, flowers and vegetables are produced throughout the year. Even bananas grow in these greenhouses! The name Hveragerði means ‘hot springs garden.’ Geothermal energy is Hveragerði’s lifeblood, and you probably won’t find such a natural wonder in the middle of a populated area anywhere else in the world. A very interesting site is Gufudalur, the lovely ‘Steam Valley’ behind the town. The whole valley explodes with hot springs, geysers, mud pots, fumaroles and steaming vents. Our host is the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic which is a part of the Nature Health Association of Iceland located in Hveragerdi. The Clinic is a place of choice for all those who are in need of rehabilitation, regaining their strength or simply in need to rest. It has earned a solid reputation, both in Iceland and internationally, since its foundation in 1955 for personal and effective care of patients. It is the oldest sanatorium in Iceland and, one of the two most important rehabilitation clinics in Iceland. Every year approximately 2,000 patients and other guests enjoy the diverse rehabilitation programs. The Clinic does its best to meet the needs of all guests by enhancing their physical as well as mental well being. The basic philosophy is to build up clients’ health and improve their quality of life and well being. The approach builds self-confidence and individual awareness of the fact that only he or she is responsible for his/her own health. Mud baths, herbal baths, therapeutic massage and lymphatic drainage massage are some of the special therapies used in combination with other treatments. The association has a horticultural and environmental department with forestry and greenhouses. The volunteers will mainly work in that field.
WORK: The work will mostly be focused on forestry, gardening and greenhouse work. We will also pick some herbs for making tea. The amount and type of work will depends largely on weather conditions, therefore we have to be flexible. You should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in a very nice fully equipped flat. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. All meals will be provided and cooked by our hosts. The food in the project will mainly be vegetarian food, but two times a week we will have delicious Icelandic fish. The food in this place is very well known here in Iceland for the high standard of quality.
LANGUAGE: The language of the work camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. WF Iceland will organize a minibus to the project site for a fair prize.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 120 Euros for this work camp.

Island    SEEDS 68    Kirkjubæjarklaustur - Archaeology & Nature     30.08.-13.09.2010    ENVI/ARCH   8vols
WORK/PROJECT: SEEDS volunteers will be working on few different projects close to Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The main task will be to work in and around a newly found archaeology site in the area. The work will be done under supervision from a professional.
We will also be working on different issues in the area, like fixing a walking path made by SEEDS volunteers in 2009, planting trees and some work on a Viking wall that was renovated by us.
We will have the chance to participate in réttir (sheep round-up). Réttir is a place where farmers and their families come together to get their sheep back for the winter. The sheep are let loose in the spring time, they wander around on the mountains and grazing areas; when fall comes the farmers go on horses to the mountains to collect and bring them to réttir, so they can be sorted and put in for the winter.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be hosted in a local house; sleeping on mattresses on the floor; please bring your own sleeping bag. Food ingredients will be provided and a kitchen will be available, volunteers will share the duties of preparing and cooking meals.
LOCATION: The working site is located about 5 km of the village Kirkjubæjarklaustur, within easy reach of the main ring road, and around 3 hours driving distance from the capital Reykjavík. Kirkjubæjarklaustur is located in the south of Iceland between Vík and Höfn. The scenery is truly spectacular, with the glacier Myrdalsjökull to the west and Europe´s largest glacier Vatnajökull, containing Iceland´s highest peak, to the east. The area is welcoming with mountains that stretch proudly towards the sky and to the south there is the infinite beauty stretching out from the sky to the sea.
The village, Kirkjubæjarklaustur, became well known in Iceland during the Lakagígar volcano eruptions in 1783. The pastor of the local church, Jón Steingrímsson, delivered what became known as the "Fire Sermon". The legend says that this sermon stopped the lava flow, and the village was spared at the last moment. The current church, constructed in 1974, was built in memory of Reverend Jón Steingrímsson.
The area is surrounded with the Landbrotsholar pseudo-craters which are some seven thousand years old. Tröllshylur is also close by and the beautiful long canyon Fjarðarárgljúfur. An attraction close by is Kirkjugólf (Churchfloor), a natural pavement of basalt. These are basalt columns in the earth, but only the top can be seen, and, as the name suggests, have the appearance of a paved church floor. This lava formation has similar origins to the Giant's Causeway in Ireland. All these attractions contribute to Kirkjubæjarklaustur being a popular place.
It cannot be forgotten that there are also homes of elves in the area, they have a village close by and some claim they have seen the hidden people living there.
LANGUAGE: English will be the official language in the camp, high proficiency is not required.
STUDY THEME: Environmental messenger in the project. S/he will be in charge of delivering ecological and global education messages to both, International volunteers and local hosts through various organised activities.
TERMINAL: Closest International Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. The closest bus station is in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
SEEDS organises the “minibus option”, a shared transport from Reykjavík to the camp location and vice-versa, apart from being cheaper and more convenient, it allows volunteers to meet fellow campers and have a relaxed trip, while stopping on the way for interesting and tourist sites.
SPECIAL REMARKS / EXTRAS: Participation fee EUR 160,- (Euros). Free time activities and excursions in the surroundings will be organized for SEEDS volunteers.

Island    WF52      Eskifjörður     04.09.-18.09.2010    ENVI/MANU   12vols
PROJECT: Eskifjörður is a beautiful fishing town (population: 972) which is located at the northern shore of the fjord Eskifjörður. It is built on a small sand spit and up the slopes of the mountain which rises above the town. Its main industries are fishing and small-scale farming. Eskifjörður became an authorized trade port in 1786 and has been a commercial centre since 1798. One of the several shops in Eskifjörður, Gamlabúð, built in 1816, houses the Maritime Museum Of East Iceland. Eskifjörður town faces the mountain Hólmatindur, from the top of which you can view some of the tallest mountains in the Icelandic interior. One of the favoured sights in the area is the Helgustaðanáman mine, which is one of the world’s best-known sources of Icelandic spar. The area, which is just a ten-minute drive from the town, is a nature reserve and open to all, free of charge. A swimming pool with hot pots (geothermal pools) and a sauna is located in Eskifjörður, as well as a gallery and crafts shop.
WORK: Our work during this camp will depends on the availability of work. Possible tasks are for example planting trees, taking old fences down and beautifying the town and the surrounding area. We may also clean up the coastline and even make hiking paths. The work available will depend on the weather condition and that’s why we have to be a bit flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though it will be nice most of the time, hopefully.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool, guided hikes with locals. Excursion or a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in a nice community centre. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will have showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre. The food will be provided for the duration of the workcamp and everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking/cleaning.
LANGUAGE: The language of the camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. The national airport in Egilsstaðir is 40 km away from the project. WF Iceland will organize a bus from Reykjavik to the workcamp site for a fair price (including lots of sightseeing on the way).
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of EUR 120 - for this workcamp.

Island    SEEDS 69    Renovating a museum in the East of Iceland    12.09.-25.09.2010    RENO   10vols
WORK & STUDY/PROJECT: SEEDS Volunteers will be working at a museum located in Egilsstaðir, the largest town in the east of Iceland. The main work will be to help in renovating the museum. The work will include registering and taking pictures of some of the artefacts, as putting some of them in storage. Some of the work might be physically demanding as some of the artefacts are big and/or heavy. The museum is being renovated and changed, that is why some things need to be put to storage, others taken out and new things brought in.
We will be active participants in helping with the renovation and changes, following a plan already made, but we will have the chance to give our ideas.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in a local housing; sleeping on mattresses on the floor; please bring your own sleeping bag.
We will receive food and be in charge of the different cooking and cleaning activities. Equipped kitchen and washing machine are available. There is not a shower in the housing, but we will have free access to the pool where we will also have the chance to rest after a hard-working day.
LOCATION: The workcamp will take place in the municipality of Fljótsdalshérað, in eastern Iceland. Total population is 3.467 (01.01.2010) and at 8.884 km², it is the largest municipality (in area) in the country. The biggest town in there is Egilsstaðir and this is where we will be staying.
Fljótsdalshérað is Iceland's easternmost populous municipality. The massive land area of this municipality stretches from Biskupsháls in the west and Héraðsflói bay in the north to the mountain ranges surrounding the central eastern fjords in the east and to Vatnajökull glacier and Öxi in the south. The wild reindeers of Iceland are found in Fljótsdalshérað, they are about five to ten thousand. The biggest forest in Iceland, Hallormstaðarskógur is also located in Fljótsdalshérað.
Fljótsdalshérað is home to a progressive, energetic society keeping with the special environment of the area. Affected by the surroundings and comfortable climate, the cordiality of locals provides a warm welcome for those visiting the municipality. There is a large range of cultural activities, as well as ambitious work in music, art, drama and varied undertakings by other organisations. Living museums sponsor exhibits and an assortment of presentations and entertaining programmes.
Famous for its natural beauty and pleasant climate, often resembling that on the Continent, Fljótsdalshérað is particularly characterised by woods, whose appearance in the environment is special for Iceland. The local society, waterfalls, lakes and rivers contribute to the many scenic attractions favourable for outdoor recreation. There are many enjoyable walking routes through forests and open areas, and trips into nearby mountain ranges are popular regardless of the time of year. Not only is the fauna varied, but there are outstanding opportunities for bird-watching, besides the unique chance to view reindeer in Iceland.
LANGUAGE: English will be the language of the camp; high proficiency is not required.
STUDY THEME: Environmental messenger in the project. S/he will be in charge of delivering ecological and global education messages to both, International volunteers and local hosts through organised activities as workshops, presentations, simulations, discussions, games on topics related to environment, nature protection and sustainability as use of resources, globalisation, millennium development goals, global warming, fair trade, recycling, consumption, etc.
TERMINAL: Closest international Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). Domestic airport is Egilsstaðir (EGS).
SEEDS organises the “minibus option”, a shared transport from Reykjavík to the camp and vice-versa, which apart from being cheaper and more convenient, allows us to meet and have a relaxed trip, while stopping on the way for interesting and tourist sites.
EXTRAS: Participation fee EUR 140,- (Euros).
Free time activities will be organized for SEEDS volunteers; free access to the local swimming pool.

Island    WF 96     Hveragerði – health and environment    13.09.-27.09.2010    ENVI/MANU   10vols
PROJECT: Hveragerði is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavík. This friendly little community sits on top of a highly active geothermal field which provides heat for hundreds of greenhouses where fruit, flowers and vegetables are produced throughout the year. Even bananas grow in these greenhouses! The name Hveragerði means ‘hot springs garden.’ Geothermal energy is Hveragerði’s lifeblood, and you probably won’t find such a natural wonder in the middle of a populated area anywhere else in the world. A very interesting site is Gufudalur, the lovely ‘Steam Valley’ behind the town. The whole valley explodes with hot springs, geysers, mud pots, fumaroles and steaming vents. Our host is the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic which is a part of the Nature Health Association of Iceland located in Hveragerdi. The Clinic is a place of choice for all those who are in need of rehabilitation, regaining their strength or simply in need to rest. It has earned a solid reputation, both in Iceland and internationally, since its foundation in 1955 for personal and effective care of patients. It is the oldest sanatorium in Iceland and, one of the two most important rehabilitation clinics in Iceland. Every year approximately 2,000 patients and other guests enjoy the diverse rehabilitation programs. The Clinic does its best to meet the needs of all guests by enhancing their physical as well as mental well being. The basic philosophy is to build up clients’ health and improve their quality of life and well being. The approach builds self-confidence and individual awareness of the fact that only he or she is responsible for his/her own health. Mud baths, herbal baths, therapeutic massage and lymphatic drainage massage are some of the special therapies used in combination with other treatments. The association has a horticultural and environmental department with forestry and greenhouses. The volunteers will mainly work in that field.
WORK: The work will mostly be focused on forestry, gardening and greenhouse work. We will also pick some herbs for making tea. The amount and type of work will depends largely on weather conditions, therefore we have to be flexible. You should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in a very nice fully equipped flat. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. All meals will be provided and cooked by our hosts. The food in the project will mainly be vegetarian food, but two times a week we will have delicious Icelandic fish. The food in this place is very well known here in Iceland for the high standard of quality.
LANGUAGE: The language of the work camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. WF Iceland will organize a minibus to the project site for a fair prize.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 120 Euros for this work camp.

Island    WF57     The community of the eastern fjords     13.09.-27.09.2010    ENVI/MANU   14vols
PROJECT: “Fjarðabyggð" is a association of different communities in the Eastfjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, Mjóifjörður, Neskaupstaður, Reyðarfjörður and Stöðvarfjörður, all tiny fishing villages with steep mountains towering just behind the houses. In this area you will see some of the features that make Iceland a unique place in the world: spectacular fjords with a rich sea life, a great variety of birdlife, and countless breathtaking hiking paths. You will explore the area during your stay in the east. Our tasks will depend on the general situation in Fjarðabyggð, the working site of this camp.
WORK: Most of the work will consist in cleaning and beautifying the towns and the surrounding area. We will also clean the coastline, plant trees and make hiking paths. Our work will 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.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool, great hiking places. An excursion or a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner.
ACCOMMODATION: In a community centre. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will take 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.
LANGUAGE: The language of the camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. The closest national airport to the camp’s site is Egilsstaðir airport which is 40 km away from the project. WF Iceland will arrange a bus trip from Reykjavik to the work camp’s site at a fair price with stops in some of the most beautiful places in Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 120 Euros for this workcamp.

Island    SEEDS 71    Kirkjubæjarklaustur - Archaeology & Nature (2)    13.09.-27.09.2010    ENVI/ARCH   8vols
WORK/PROJECT: SEEDS volunteers will be working on few different projects close to Kirkjubæjarklaustur. The main task will be to work in and around a newly found archaeology site in the area. The work will be done under supervision from a professional.
We will also be working on different issues in the area, like fixing and maintaining a walking path made by SEEDS volunteers in 2009, planting trees and some work on a Viking wall that was renovated by us. Other projects in the neighbourhood might also involve planting trees and cleaning old fences, making and fixing other hiking trails.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be hosted in a local house; sleeping on mattresses on the floor; please bring your own sleeping bag. Food ingredients will be provided and a kitchen will be available, volunteers will share the duties of preparing and cooking meals.
LOCATION: The working site is located about 5 Km of the village Kirkjubæjarklaustur, within easy reach of the main ring road, and around 3 hours driving distance from the capital Reykjavík.
Kirkjubæjarklaustur is located in the south of Iceland between Vík and Höfn. The scenery is truly spectacular, with the glacier Myrdalsjökull to the west and Europe´s largest glacier Vatnajökull, containing Iceland´s highest peak, to the east. The area is welcoming with mountains that stretch proudly towards the sky and to the south there is the infinite beauty stretching out from the sky to the sea.
The village, Kirkjubæjarklaustur, became well known in Iceland during the Lakagígar volcano eruptions in 1783. The pastor of the local church, Jón Steingrímsson, delivered what became known as the "Fire Sermon". The legend says that this sermon stopped the lava flow, and the village was spared at the last moment. The current church, constructed in 1974, was built in memory of Reverend Jón Steingrímsson.
The area is surrounded with the Landbrotsholar pseudo-craters which are some seven thousand years old. Tröllshylur is also close by and the beautiful long canyon Fjarðarárgljúfur. An attraction close by is Kirkjugólf (Churchfloor), a natural pavement of basalt. These are basalt columns in the earth, but only the top can be seen, and, as the name suggests, have the appearance of a paved church floor. This lava formation has similar origins to the Giant's Causeway in Ireland. All these attractions contribute to Kirkjubæjarklaustur being a popular place.
It cannot be forgotten that there are also homes of elves in the area, they have a village close by and some claim they have seen the hidden people living there.
LANGUAGE: English will be the official language in the camp, high proficiency is not required.
STUDY THEME: Environmental messenger in the project. S/he will be in charge of delivering ecological and global education messages to both, International volunteers and local hosts through organised activities as workshops, presentations, simulations, discussions, games on topics related to environment, nature protection and sustainability as use of resources, globalisation, millennium development goals, global warming, fair trade, recycling, consumption, etc..
TERMINAL: Closest International Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. The closest bus station is in Kirkjubæjarklaustur.
SEEDS organises the “minibus option”, a shared transport from Reykjavík to the camp location and vice-versa, apart from being cheaper and more convenient, it allows volunteers to meet fellow campers and have a relaxed trip, while stopping on the way for interesting and tourist sites.
SPECIAL REMARKS / EXTRAS: Participation fee EUR 160,- (Euros). Free time activities and excursions in the surroundings will be organized for SEEDS volunteers.

Island    WF90     Green army in Reykjavik     20.09.-03.10.2010    ENVI/MANU   12vols
PROJECT: In Reykjavik you can easily feel the pure energy at the heart of Iceland‘s capital city - whether it springs from the underground boiling thermal energy or radiates from the green scenery surrounding the city. Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, space, clean air, nature, culture - and Reykjavik has them in spades. Reykjavik offers both the features of a modern and innovative society and the marvelous traits of a pristine and unique landscape. The population of the Reykjavik Area is about 200,000. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula offering a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean from nearly every part of the city. The world’s northernmost capital is framed by the majestic Mt. Esja, which keeps a watchful eye on the city, and the blue waters of Faxafloi Bay. On a sunny day, the mystical Snaefellsjokull glacier towers over the western horizon, while mountainous moonscapes spread to the southeast.
WORK: Our work during this camp will mostly consist in embellishing the downtown area and helping the local authorities improve the city’s centre look and atmosphere. Tasks will include cleaning tags and painting old houses. We will also give hand to the environmental department in taking care of the parks and green areas in the heart of Reykjavík. In addition to that, we might also clean the coastline in the city area.
FREE TIME: We will have free access to all the geothermal pools in Reykjavik. Great excursions will be organized by WF Iceland for a fair prize. Visits to museums and interesting places in Reykjavik will be organized free of charge for the volunteers.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in fully equipped house in the centre of 101 Reykjavik, the location can not be better. The food will be supplied for the duration of the workcamp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning.
LANGUAGE: The language of the workcamp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 120 Euros for this workcamp.

Island    WF58     RIFF Reykjavík Int. film festival     20.09.-04.10.2010    FEST/ART   30vols
PROJECT: In Reykjavik you can easily feel the pure energy at the heart of Iceland‘s capital city - whether it springs from the underground boiling thermal energy or radiates from the green scenery surrounding the city. Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, space, clean air, nature, culture - and Reykjavik has them in spades. Reykjavik offers both the features of a modern and innovative society and the marvelous traits of a unique natural landscape. The population of the Reykjavik Area is about 200,000. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula offering a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean from nearly every part of the city. In the summer, you can sit by the harbour at midnight and watch the sun dip slightly below the horizon before it makes its way up again. The world’s northernmost capital is framed by the majestic Mt. Esja, which keeps a watchful eye on the city, and the blue waters of Faxafloi Bay. On a sunny day, the mystical Snaefellsjokull glacier towers over the western horizon, while mountainous moonscapes spread to the southeast.
WORK: We will help the organizers of the Reykjavík International Film Festival with different tasks before and during the festival. Our group of international volunteers will work closely with the team of Icelandic volunteers which are in most cases students from the Universities in Reykjavik. We will put up posters and hand out leaflets and brochures around the city before the festival starts; some of the volunteers will be asked to pick up international guests at the airport. During the festival we will sell entrance tickets and festival passes, setup the venues before and after the movies, and control the entrances if needed. There are many other chores to be done and we will have to be flexible and willing to give a helping hand whenever that is necessary. The festival is one of the most important cultural events in Reykjavik and the work of the volunteers is a crucial contribution to the event. It is interesting for the volunteers to be a part of this international project and have the opportunity to experience the amazing atmosphere. It is very important that the volunteers are interested in the topic of the festival.
FREE TIME: We will have free access to all the geothermal pools in Reykjavik and WF Iceland will offer the volunteers great excursions for a fair prize.
ACCOMMODATION: We will stay in an accommodation owned by the community. Mattresses will be provided. The food will be supplied for the duration of the work camp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair part of the cooking/cleaning.
LANGUAGE: The language of the workcamp is English.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 150 Euros for this workcamp.

Island    WF141      Multi kulti camp in the eastern fjords     26.09.-08.10.2010    ENVI/KIDS/EDU/ART   12vols
PROJECT: “Fjarðabyggð" is an association of villages in the Eastfjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, Mjóifjörður, Neskaupstaður, Reyðarfjörður and Stöðvarfjörður, all tiny fishing villages with steep mountains towering just behind the houses. In this area you will see some of the features that make Iceland a unique place in the world: spectacular fjords with a rich sea life, a great variety of birdlife, and countless breathtaking hiking paths. You will explore the area during your stay in the east. Our tasks will depend on the general situation in Fjarðabyggð, the working site of this camp.
WORK: We will visit kindergartens and schools in the villages and introduce different cultures to the kids. One of the tasks of this workcamp is to prepare games, songs and materials for those visits and we kindly ask the participants to bring materials that we can use for the preparation. It is also possible that we will do some environmental work if the weather condition will allow us.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool, great hiking places. An excursion or a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner.
ACCOMMODATION: In a community centre. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will 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.
LANGUAGE: The language of the camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. The closest national airport to the camp site is Egilsstaðir airport which is 40 km away from the project’s site. WF Iceland will arrange a bus trip from Reykjavik to the workcamp’s site at a fair price with stops in some of the most beautiful places in Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 150 Euros for this workcamp.

Island    WF127    Hveragerði – health and environment    27.09.-11.10.2010    ENVI/MANU   10vols
PROJECT: Hveragerði is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavík. This friendly little community sits on top of a highly active geothermal field which provides heat for hundreds of greenhouses where fruit, flowers and vegetables are produced throughout the year. Even bananas grow in these greenhouses! The name Hveragerði means ‘hot springs garden.’ Geothermal energy is Hveragerði’s lifeblood, and you probably won’t find such a natural wonder in the middle of a populated area anywhere else in the world. A very interesting site is Gufudalur, the lovely ‘Steam Valley’ behind the town. The whole valley explodes with hot springs, geysers, mud pots, fumaroles and steaming vents. Our host is the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic which is a part of the Nature Health Association of Iceland located in Hveragerdi. The Clinic is a place of choice for all those who are in need of rehabilitation, regaining their strength or simply in need to rest. It has earned a solid reputation, both in Iceland and internationally, since its foundation in 1955 for personal and effective care of patients. It is the oldest sanatorium in Iceland and, one of the two most important rehabilitation clinics in Iceland. Every year approximately 2,000 patients and other guests enjoy the diverse rehabilitation programs. The Clinic does its best to meet the needs of all guests by enhancing their physical as well as mental well being. The basic philosophy is to build up clients’ health and improve their quality of life and well being. The approach builds self-confidence and individual awareness of the fact that only he or she is responsible for his/her own health. Mud baths, herbal baths, therapeutic massage and lymphatic drainage massage are some of the special therapies used in combination with other treatments. The association has a horticultural and environmental department with forestry and greenhouses. The volunteers will mainly work in that field.
WORK: The work will mostly be focused on forestry, gardening and greenhouse work. We will also pick some herbs for making tea. The amount and type of work will depends largely on weather conditions, therefore we have to be flexible. You should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in a very nice fully equipped flat. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. All meals will be provided and cooked by our hosts. The food in the project will mainly be vegetarian food, but two times a week we will have delicious Icelandic fish. The food in this place is very well known here in Iceland for the high standard of quality.
LANGUAGE: The language of the work camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. WF Iceland will organize a minibus to the project site for a fair prize.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 120 Euros for this work camp.

Island    WF91    Green army in Reykjavik     05.10.-18.10.2010    ENVI/MANU   12vols
PROJECT: In Reykjavik you can easily feel the pure energy at the heart of Iceland‘s capital city - whether it springs from the underground boiling thermal energy or radiates from the green scenery surrounding the city. Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, space, clean air, nature, culture - and Reykjavik has them in spades. Reykjavik offers both the features of a modern and innovative society and the marvelous traits of a pristine and unique landscape. The population of the Reykjavik Area is about 200,000. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula offering a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean from nearly every part of the city. The world’s northernmost capital is framed by the majestic Mt. Esja, which keeps a watchful eye on the city, and the blue waters of Faxafloi Bay. On a sunny day, the mystical Snaefellsjokull glacier towers over the western horizon, while mountainous moonscapes spread to the southeast.
WORK: Our work during this camp will mostly consist in embellishing the downtown area and helping the local authorities improve the city’s centre look and atmosphere. Tasks will include cleaning tags and painting old houses. We will also give hand to the environmental department in taking care of the parks and green areas in the heart of Reykjavík. In addition to that, we might also clean the coastline in the city area.
FREE TIME: We will have free access to all the geothermal pools in Reykjavik. Great excursions will be organized by WF Iceland for a fair prize. Visits to museums and interesting places in Reykjavik will be organized free of charge for the volunteers.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in fully equipped house in the centre of 101 Reykjavik, the location can not be better. The food will be supplied for the duration of the workcamp and everyone is expected to do his/her fair share of the cooking/cleaning.
LANGUAGE: The language of the workcamp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 120 Euros for this workcamp.

Island    WF142      Eskifjörður     07.10.-20.10.2010    ENVI/MANU   12vols
PROJECT: Eskifjörður is a beautiful fishing town (population: 972) which is located at the northern shore of the fjord Eskifjörður. It is built on a small sand spit and up the slopes of the mountain which rises above the town. Its main industries are fishing and small-scale farming. Eskifjörður became an authorized trade port in 1786 and has been a commercial centre since 1798. One of the several shops in Eskifjörður, Gamlabúð, built in 1816, houses the Maritime Museum Of East Iceland. Eskifjörður town faces the mountain Hólmatindur, from the top of which you can view some of the tallest mountains in the Icelandic interior. One of the favoured sights in the area is the Helgustaðanáman mine, which is one of the world’s best-known sources of Icelandic spar. The area, which is just a ten-minute drive from the town, is a nature reserve and open to all, free of charge. A swimming pool with hot pots (geothermal pools) and a sauna is located in Eskifjörður, as well as a gallery and crafts shop.
WORK: Our work during this camp will depends on the availability of work. Possible tasks are for example planting trees, taking old fences down and beautifying the town and the surrounding area. We may also clean up the coastline and even make hiking paths. The work available will depend on the weather condition and that’s why we have to be a bit flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though it will be nice most of the time, hopefully.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool, guided hikes with locals. Excursion or a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in a nice community centre. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will have showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre. The food will be provided for the duration of the workcamp and everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking/cleaning.
LANGUAGE: The language of the camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. The national airport in Egilsstaðir is 40 km away from the project. WF Iceland will organize a bus from Reykjavik to the workcamp site for a fair price (including lots of sightseeing on the way).
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of EUR 120 - for this workcamp.

Island    WF59     Iceland airwaves music festival in Reykjavik     11.10.-25.10.2010    FEST/ART   25vols
PROJECT: In Reykjavik you can easily feel the pure energy at the heart of Iceland‘s capital city - whether it springs from the underground boiling thermal energy or radiates from the green scenery surrounding the city. Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, space, clean air, nature, culture - and Reykjavik has them in spades. Reykjavik offers both the features of a modern and innovative society and the marvellous traits of a unique natural landscape. In October you can also see the northern lights glow when the sky is clear in the chilly night. The population of the Reykjavik Area is about 200,000. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula offering a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean from nearly every part of the city. Iceland Airwaves is an annual music event that started out in 1999 as a talent show for foreign record executives. Since then, Airwaves has grown and blossomed and is now an integral part of the cultural life in Reykjavík. The fruits of the festival's labour have been ripening and today many Icelandic artists such as Quarashi, Minus, Sigur Ros, Apparat Organ Quartet, Trabant, Leaves and others have made their way to the International music scene. Airwaves festival attracts approximately 2.000 people annually from abroad (more than half from the music industry). Visitors come to sample the fresh sounds, or in search of new talents, others seeking inspiration or simply on a quest for adventure on the Arctic Circle. Further information on: www.icelandairwaves.com.
WORK: We will help the organizers of the festival carry out many tasks, such as preparing the venues before and after the concerts, helping with the controls outside of the festival area and assisting guests at the venues’ entrance: for example, we’ll serve them hot drinks while they stand in line in the cold Icelandic night, a gesture that will be greatly appreciated. Those of you with driving license will most likely be asked to pick up some of the international guests at the airport. Before and after the festival we will help Reykjavik environmental department maintaining the green areas in Reykjavik.
FREE TIME: We will have free access to all the geothermal pools in Reykjavik and excursions will be provided by our hosts. Excursions will also be organized.
ACCOMMODATION: We will stay in a house owned by the local community. 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.
LANGUAGE: The language of the work camp is English.
TERMINAL: International airport Keflavik (KEF), Reykjavík.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 150€ for this workcamp.

Island    WF 97    Hveragerði – health and environment    11.10.-25.10.2010    ENVI/MANU   10vols
PROJECT: Hveragerði is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavík. This friendly little community sits on top of a highly active geothermal field which provides heat for hundreds of greenhouses where fruit, flowers and vegetables are produced throughout the year. Even bananas grow in these greenhouses! The name Hveragerði means ‘hot springs garden.’ Geothermal energy is Hveragerði’s lifeblood, and you probably won’t find such a natural wonder in the middle of a populated area anywhere else in the world. A very interesting site is Gufudalur, the lovely ‘Steam Valley’ behind the town. The whole valley explodes with hot springs, geysers, mud pots, fumaroles and steaming vents. Our host is the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic which is a part of the Nature Health Association of Iceland located in Hveragerdi. The Clinic is a place of choice for all those who are in need of rehabilitation, regaining their strength or simply in need to rest. It has earned a solid reputation, both in Iceland and internationally, since its foundation in 1955 for personal and effective care of patients. It is the oldest sanatorium in Iceland and, one of the two most important rehabilitation clinics in Iceland. Every year approximately 2,000 patients and other guests enjoy the diverse rehabilitation programs. The Clinic does its best to meet the needs of all guests by enhancing their physical as well as mental well being. The basic philosophy is to build up clients’ health and improve their quality of life and well being. The approach builds self-confidence and individual awareness of the fact that only he or she is responsible for his/her own health. Mud baths, herbal baths, therapeutic massage and lymphatic drainage massage are some of the special therapies used in combination with other treatments. The association has a horticultural and environmental department with forestry and greenhouses. The volunteers will mainly work in that field.
WORK: The work will mostly be focused on forestry, gardening and greenhouse work. We will also pick some herbs for making tea. The amount and type of work will depends largely on weather conditions, therefore we have to be flexible. You should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in a very nice fully equipped flat. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. All meals will be provided and cooked by our hosts. The food in the project will mainly be vegetarian food, but two times a week we will have delicious Icelandic fish. The food in this place is very well known here in Iceland for the high standard of quality.
LANGUAGE: The language of the work camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. WF Iceland will organize a minibus to the project site for a fair prize.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 120 Euros for this work camp.

Island    WF143      Multi kulti camp in the eastern fjords     19.10.-01.11.2010    ENVI/KIDS/EDU/ART   12vols
PROJECT: “Fjarðabyggð" is an association of villages in the Eastfjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, Mjóifjörður, Neskaupstaður, Reyðarfjörður and Stöðvarfjörður, all tiny fishing villages with steep mountains towering just behind the houses. In this area you will see some of the features that make Iceland a unique place in the world: spectacular fjords with a rich sea life, a great variety of birdlife, and countless breathtaking hiking paths. You will explore the area during your stay in the east. Our tasks will depend on the general situation in Fjarðabyggð, the working site of this camp.
WORK: We will visit kindergartens and schools in the villages and introduce different cultures to the kids. One of the tasks of this workcamp is to prepare games, songs and materials for those visits and we kindly ask the participants to bring materials that we can use for the preparation. It is also possible that we will do some environmental work if the weather condition will allow us.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool, great hiking places. An excursion or a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner.
ACCOMMODATION: In a community centre. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will 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.
LANGUAGE: The language of the camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. The closest national airport to the camp site is Egilsstaðir airport which is 40 km away from the project’s site. WF Iceland will arrange a bus trip from Reykjavik to the workcamp’s site at a fair price with stops in some of the most beautiful places in Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 150 Euros for this workcamp.

Island    WF 98     Hveragerði – health and environment    25.10.-08.11.2010    ENVI/MANU   10vols
PROJECT: Hveragerði is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavík. This friendly little community sits on top of a highly active geothermal field which provides heat for hundreds of greenhouses where fruit, flowers and vegetables are produced throughout the year. Even bananas grow in these greenhouses! The name Hveragerði means ‘hot springs garden.’ Geothermal energy is Hveragerði’s lifeblood, and you probably won’t find such a natural wonder in the middle of a populated area anywhere else in the world. A very interesting site is Gufudalur, the lovely ‘Steam Valley’ behind the town. The whole valley explodes with hot springs, geysers, mud pots, fumaroles and steaming vents. Our host is the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic which is a part of the Nature Health Association of Iceland located in Hveragerdi. The Clinic is a place of choice for all those who are in need of rehabilitation, regaining their strength or simply in need to rest. It has earned a solid reputation, both in Iceland and internationally, since its foundation in 1955 for personal and effective care of patients. It is the oldest sanatorium in Iceland and, one of the two most important rehabilitation clinics in Iceland. Every year approximately 2,000 patients and other guests enjoy the diverse rehabilitation programs. The Clinic does its best to meet the needs of all guests by enhancing their physical as well as mental well being. The basic philosophy is to build up clients’ health and improve their quality of life and well being. The approach builds self-confidence and individual awareness of the fact that only he or she is responsible for his/her own health. Mud baths, herbal baths, therapeutic massage and lymphatic drainage massage are some of the special therapies used in combination with other treatments. The association has a horticultural and environmental department with forestry and greenhouses. The volunteers will mainly work in that field.
WORK: The work will mostly be focused on forestry, gardening and greenhouse work. We will also pick some herbs for making tea. The amount and type of work will depends largely on weather conditions, therefore we have to be flexible. You should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in a very nice fully equipped flat. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. All meals will be provided and cooked by our hosts. The food in the project will mainly be vegetarian food, but two times a week we will have delicious Icelandic fish. The food in this place is very well known here in Iceland for the high standard of quality.
LANGUAGE: The language of the work camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. WF Iceland will organize a minibus to the project site for a fair prize.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 120 Euros for this work camp.

Island    WF 92     Art and environmental education in Reykjavik     27.10.-09.11.2010    ENVI/EDU   12vols
PROJECT: In Reykjavik you can experience easily the pure energy at the heart of Iceland’s capital city - whether from the boiling thermal energy underground, the natural green energy within the city and around it. Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, space, clean air, nature, culture - and Reykjavik has them in spades. It has the features of a modern, forward-looking society which are complemented by a close connection to beautiful nature. The population of the Reykjavik Capital Area is about 200,000. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides. In the summer, you can sit by the harbour at midnight and watch the sun dip slightly below the horizon before it makes its way up again. The world’s northernmost capital is framed by the majestic Mt. Esja, which keeps a watchful eye on the city, and the blue waters of Faxafloi Bay. On a sunny day, the mystical Snaefellsjokull glacier appears crystal-like on the western horizon, while mountainous moonscapes spread to the southeast.
WORK: Every year the volunteers of Veraldarvinir are visiting schools in Reykjavik to teach the children about the importance of taking care of the nature and to be environmentally friendly. One of the tasks of this workcamp is to prepare games and materials for those visits, we will than go to several schools during the workcamp and involve the kids in our programme. We will also clean the coastline with the kids and afterwards help them to make sculptures out of the garbage.
FREE TIME: Free access to all the modern geothermal swimming pools in Reykjavik, excursion to the Golden circle will be organized by WF Iceland.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in full equipped house in the centre of 101 Reykjavik, the location can not be better. 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.
LANGUAGE: Basic English is required.
TERMINAL: Reykjavík - Keflavík.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee EUR 150 –

Island    WF144      Eskifjörður     31.10.-13.11.2010    ENVI/MANU   12vols
PROJECT: Eskifjörður is a beautiful fishing town (population: 972) which is located at the northern shore of the fjord Eskifjörður. It is built on a small sand spit and up the slopes of the mountain which rises above the town. Its main industries are fishing and small-scale farming. Eskifjörður became an authorized trade port in 1786 and has been a commercial centre since 1798. One of the several shops in Eskifjörður, Gamlabúð, built in 1816, houses the Maritime Museum Of East Iceland. Eskifjörður town faces the mountain Hólmatindur, from the top of which you can view some of the tallest mountains in the Icelandic interior. One of the favoured sights in the area is the Helgustaðanáman mine, which is one of the world’s best-known sources of Icelandic spar. The area, which is just a ten-minute drive from the town, is a nature reserve and open to all, free of charge. A swimming pool with hot pots (geothermal pools) and a sauna is located in Eskifjörður, as well as a gallery and crafts shop.
WORK: Our work during this camp will depends on the availability of work. Possible tasks are for example planting trees, taking old fences down and beautifying the town and the surrounding area. We may also clean up the coastline and even make hiking paths. The work available will depend on the weather condition and that’s why we have to be a bit flexible. Please keep in mind that the work might be physically hard and you should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though it will be nice most of the time, hopefully.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool, guided hikes with locals. Excursion or a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in a nice community centre. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will have showers at the local swimming pool and sports centre. The food will be provided for the duration of the workcamp and everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking/cleaning.
LANGUAGE: The language of the camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (Reykjavík), KEF. The national airport in Egilsstaðir is 40 km away from the project. WF Iceland will organize a bus from Reykjavik to the workcamp site for a fair price (including lots of sightseeing on the way).
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of EUR 120 - for this workcamp.

Island    WF 99     Hveragerði – health and environment    08.11.-22.11.2010    ENVI/MANU   10vols
PROJECT: Hveragerði is a small town of about 1,700 inhabitants that lies some 45 km east of Reykjavík. This friendly little community sits on top of a highly active geothermal field which provides heat for hundreds of greenhouses where fruit, flowers and vegetables are produced throughout the year. Even bananas grow in these greenhouses! The name Hveragerði means ‘hot springs garden.’ Geothermal energy is Hveragerði’s lifeblood, and you probably won’t find such a natural wonder in the middle of a populated area anywhere else in the world. A very interesting site is Gufudalur, the lovely ‘Steam Valley’ behind the town. The whole valley explodes with hot springs, geysers, mud pots, fumaroles and steaming vents. Our host is the Rehabilitation and Health Clinic which is a part of the Nature Health Association of Iceland located in Hveragerdi. The Clinic is a place of choice for all those who are in need of rehabilitation, regaining their strength or simply in need to rest. It has earned a solid reputation, both in Iceland and internationally, since its foundation in 1955 for personal and effective care of patients. It is the oldest sanatorium in Iceland and, one of the two most important rehabilitation clinics in Iceland. Every year approximately 2,000 patients and other guests enjoy the diverse rehabilitation programs. The Clinic does its best to meet the needs of all guests by enhancing their physical as well as mental well being. The basic philosophy is to build up clients’ health and improve their quality of life and well being. The approach builds self-confidence and individual awareness of the fact that only he or she is responsible for his/her own health. Mud baths, herbal baths, therapeutic massage and lymphatic drainage massage are some of the special therapies used in combination with other treatments. The association has a horticultural and environmental department with forestry and greenhouses. The volunteers will mainly work in that field.
WORK: The work will mostly be focused on forestry, gardening and greenhouse work. We will also pick some herbs for making tea. The amount and type of work will depends largely on weather conditions, therefore we have to be flexible. You should be prepared for unfriendly weather, even though, hopefully, it will be nice most of the time.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in a very nice fully equipped flat. Participants are asked to bring a sleeping bag. All meals will be provided and cooked by our hosts. The food in the project will mainly be vegetarian food, but two times a week we will have delicious Icelandic fish. The food in this place is very well known here in Iceland for the high standard of quality.
LANGUAGE: The language of the work camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. WF Iceland will organize a minibus to the project site for a fair prize.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 120 Euros for this work camp.

Island    WF 93    Art and environmental education in Reykjavik    10.11.-23.11.2010    ENVI/EDU   12vols
PROJECT: In Reykjavik you can experience easily the pure energy at the heart of Iceland’s capital city - whether from the boiling thermal energy underground, the natural green energy within the city and around it. Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, space, clean air, nature, culture - and Reykjavik has them in spades. It has the features of a modern, forward-looking society which are complemented by a close connection to beautiful nature. The population of the Reykjavik Capital Area is about 200,000. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides. In the summer, you can sit by the harbour at midnight and watch the sun dip slightly below the horizon before it makes its way up again. The world’s northernmost capital is framed by the majestic Mt. Esja, which keeps a watchful eye on the city, and the blue waters of Faxafloi Bay. On a sunny day, the mystical Snaefellsjokull glacier appears crystal-like on the western horizon, while mountainous moonscapes spread to the southeast.
WORK: Every year the volunteers of Veraldarvinir are visiting schools in Reykjavik to teach the children about the importance of taking care of the nature and to be environmentally friendly. One of the tasks of this workcamp is to prepare games and materials for those visits, we will than go to several schools during the workcamp and involve the kids in our programme. We will also clean the coastline with the kids and afterwards help them to make sculptures out of the garbage.
FREE TIME: Free access to all the modern geothermal swimming pools in Reykjavik, excursion to the Golden circle will be organized by WF Iceland.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in full equipped house in the centre of 101 Reykjavik, the location can not be better. 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.
LANGUAGE: Basic English is required.
TERMINAL: Reykjavík - Keflavík.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee EUR 150 –

Island    WF145      Multi kulti camp in the eastern fjords     12.11.-25.11.2010    ENVI/KIDS/EDU/ART   12vols
PROJECT: “Fjarðabyggð" is an association of villages in the Eastfjords of Iceland. It includes the towns of Eskifjörður, Fáskrúðsfjörður, Mjóifjörður, Neskaupstaður, Reyðarfjörður and Stöðvarfjörður, all tiny fishing villages with steep mountains towering just behind the houses. In this area you will see some of the features that make Iceland a unique place in the world: spectacular fjords with a rich sea life, a great variety of birdlife, and countless breathtaking hiking paths. You will explore the area during your stay in the east. Our tasks will depend on the general situation in Fjarðabyggð, the working site of this camp.
WORK: We will visit kindergartens and schools in the villages and introduce different cultures to the kids. One of the tasks of this workcamp is to prepare games, songs and materials for those visits and we kindly ask the participants to bring materials that we can use for the preparation. It is also possible that we will do some environmental work if the weather condition will allow us.
FREE TIME: Free access to the local swimming pool, great hiking places. An excursion or a boat trip will be organized by the hosting partner.
ACCOMMODATION: In a community centre. Mattresses will be provided and everyone is asked to bring his/her own warm sleeping bag. We will 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.
LANGUAGE: The language of the camp is English.
TERMINAL: Intl. Airport: Keflavík (KEF), Reykjavík. The closest national airport to the camp site is Egilsstaðir airport which is 40 km away from the project’s site. WF Iceland will arrange a bus trip from Reykjavik to the workcamp’s site at a fair price with stops in some of the most beautiful places in Iceland.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee of 150 Euros for this workcamp.

Island    SEEDS 84     Advent and Christmas in Reykjavík (1)    26.11.-10.12.2010    SOCI   25vols
WORK/PROJECT: In December the city gets busy with people preparing for Christmas. SEEDS volunteers join the festive atmosphere and support the Reykjavík branch of the Icelandic Red Cross handing out hot chocolate in the city centre as a way of fundraising for its projects.
We will help in the preparation by putting up the chocolate stations, decorating the tables, making the chocolate and taking it to the different stations around the city. At the end of the day, we will assist in taking down the stations and leaving the areas clean.
In this time of the year many families struggle to make ends meet and need to reach out for support of any kind. The Red Cross organises food donations to them and we will assist them during this busy time. The tasks will be to put food packages together, organise and classify the food in stock and other related tasks.
Volunteers with artistic skills, such as singing, juggling, playing music are encouraged to apply for this camp as they will have the chance to perform during the chocolate handout and help to create a nice and friendly atmosphere.
ACCOMMODATION: We will stay in a fully equipped house in Reykjavík; sleeping in shared rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag.
We will receive food and be in charge of the different cooking and cleaning activities.
LOCATION: Reykjavík is the capital of Iceland, often called “the nightlife capital of the north”. But there is more to Reykjavík than pubs and clubs. Reykjavík also gathers the most interesting of Icelandic culture. It is an incubator of new ideas and styles which often indicates new global trends. It is an International city with a lively Cosmopolitan cultural scene.
The world’s northernmost capital bridges the Atlantic, between Europe and North America. Reykjavík is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides.
The population of the city is over 200,000 including the metropolitan area, so two thirds of Iceland’s inhabitants live here. It is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers.
In December the city is lighten up with Christmas lights in “every window”. During this month the changes to see spectacular Northern lights (aurora borealis) are high.
The warm geothermal swimming pools offer a great way of relaxation; dipping into a hot pot, surrounded by snow and stars shining above is an experience not to miss.
Iceland was badly hit with the contemporary financial crisis, which did affect the life for foreign visitors in a positive way, making Iceland a much cheaper country for to visit, the local currency greatly lost value – many goods and services cost (in EUR) just a half comparing to year 2007.
LANGUAGE: English will be the official language in the camp; high proficiency is not a requirement.
TERMINAL: Closest International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF).
EXTRAS / SPECIAL REMARKS: Participation fee EUR 160,- (Euros).
Volunteers have to bring warm clothes, hats, gloves and scarves as part of the project takes place outside. SEEDS will provide volunteers with passes to access free of charge the city’s seven geothermal swimming pools. This may sound a bit strange, since the weather is so cold, but the hot tubs as the pools in Reykjavík are in use the year round.
Tours and excursions will be arranged for SEEDS volunteers at discount fares.

Island    WF100    Multi kulti camp in Reykjavík     04.12.-17.12.2010    KIDS/ART/CULT   15vols
PROJECT: In Reykjavik you can experience easily the pure energy at the heart of Iceland’s capital city - whether from the boiling thermal energy underground, the natural green energy within the city and around it. Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, space, clean air, nature, culture - and Reykjavik has them in spades. It has the features of a modern, forward-looking society which are complemented by a close connection to beautiful nature. The population of the Reykjavik Capital Area is about 200,000. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides. In this time of the year when conditions are favourable you can see the Northern lights (Aurora borealis) glowing curtain of greenish yellow lights, dancing in the distance to a spectacular, multi-coloured fusion stretching across the sky. The world’s northernmost capital is framed by the majestic Mt. Esja, which keeps a watchful eye on the city, and the blue waters of Faxafloi Bay. On a sunny day, the mystical Snaefellsjokull glacier appears crystal-like on the western horizon, while mountainous moonscapes spread to the southeast.
WORK: We will visit kindergartens in Reykjavik and introduce different cultures to the kids. One of the tasks of this workcamp is to prepare games, songs and materials for those visits and we kindly ask the participants to bring materials that we can use for the preparation. We will also participate in different types of activities in the centre of Reykjavik but this time is usually full of live in the city.
FREE TIME: Free access to all the modern geothermal swimming pools in Reykjavik, ‘Northern lights’ excursion to areas in the country side will be organized by WF Iceland.
ACCOMMODATION: We will be staying in fully equipped house in the centre of 101 Reykjavik, the location can not be better.
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.
LANGUAGE: Basic English is required.
TERMINAL/ REGION: Reykjavík - Keflavík.
EXTRA FEE: There is an extra participation fee EUR 150 –

Island    SEEDS 85     Advent and Christmas in Reykjavík (2)    10.12.-24.12.2010    SOCI   25vols
WORK/PROJECT: In December the city gets busy with people preparing for Christmas. SEEDS volunteers join the festive atmosphere and support the Reykjavík branch of the Icelandic Red Cross handing out hot chocolate in the city centre as a way of fundraising for its projects.
We will help in the preparation by putting up the chocolate stations, decorating the tables, making the chocolate and taking it to the different stations around the city. At the end of the day, we will assist in taking down the stations and leaving the areas clean.
In this time of the year many families struggle to make ends meet and need to reach out for support of any kind. The Red Cross organises food donations to them and we will assist them during this busy time. The tasks will be to put food packages together, organise and classify the food in stock and other related tasks.
Volunteers with artistic skills, such as singing, juggling, playing music are encouraged to apply for this camp as they will have the chance to perform during the chocolate handout and help to create a nice and friendly atmosphere.
ACCOMMODATION: We will stay in a fully equipped house in Reykjavík; sleeping in shared rooms. Please bring your own sleeping bag.
We will receive food and be in charge of the different cooking and cleaning activities.
LOCATION: Reykjavík is the capital of Iceland, often called “the nightlife capital of the north”. But there is more to Reykjavík than pubs and clubs. Reykjavík also gathers the most interesting of Icelandic culture. It is an incubator of new ideas and styles which often indicates new global trends. It is an International city with a lively Cosmopolitan cultural scene.
The world’s northernmost capital bridges the Atlantic, between Europe and North America. Reykjavík is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean on almost all sides.
The population of the city is over 200,000 including the metropolitan area, so two thirds of Iceland’s inhabitants live here. It is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal power and glacial rivers.
In December the city is lighten up with Christmas lights in “every window”. During this month the changes to see spectacular Northern lights (aurora borealis) are high.
The warm geothermal swimming pools offer a great way of relaxation; dipping into a hot pot, surrounded by snow and stars shining above is an experience not to miss.
Iceland was badly hit with the contemporary financial crisis, which did affect the life for foreign visitors in a positive way, making Iceland a much cheaper country for to visit, the local currency greatly lost value – many goods and services cost (in EUR) just a half comparing to year 2007.
LANGUAGE: English will be the official language in the camp; high proficiency is not a requirement.
TERMINAL: Closest International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF).
EXTRAS / SPECIAL REMARKS: Participation fee EUR 160,- (Euros).
Volunteers have to bring warm clothes, hats, gloves and scarves as part of the project takes place outside. SEEDS will provide volunteers with passes to access free of charge the city’s seven geothermal swimming pools. This may sound a bit strange, since the weather is so cold, but the hot tubs as the pools in Reykjavík are in use the year round.
Tours and excursions will be arranged for SEEDS volunteers at discount fares. Volunteers wishing to stay longer, for Christmas are welcome to do so!