Work

This camp has a variety of activities. However, our main activity is Beach Cleaning, as our goal is to clean the entire Icelandic coastline. We work with the local community as well helping with the reforestation of the areas nearby. Some days, when the weather conditions are not suitable, we will focus on renovation work; painting or fixing things around and inside the house. Just like us, our waste also deserves a second chance. We will upcycling garbage into art! While creating bookshelves out of driftwood or designing a chair with old tires and nets, your imagination is the limit! Our work will depend on weather conditions, which is why we must be flexible. Working hours are about 5 hours a day, 5 days a week. You should be prepared for unfriendly weather, as they say: if you don’t like the Icelandic weather, just wait 5 minutes it might change.

Partner

Worldwide Friends (WF), was founded in 2001 as a non-profit organization promoting nature and peace-oriented activities for volunteers wanting to spend some time in Iceland. Our main theme for this year is to give education about the 17 Sustainable Goals of the United Nations and to clean the whole coastline of Iceland. The main activities that we offer are workcamps, seminars, local events, and exchange programs suitable both for young people and adults.

Location

Stöðvarfjörður is known for having breath-taking hiking paths. There is a free entrance to the local swimming pool from the middle of June until the middle of September. We will also concentrate on intercultural learning and exchange. Every evening, volunteers from different countries will be in charge of presenting their country of origin and culture in an informal way. It can be a presentation, a game, theatre – the form of introduction is up to you! Therefore, we encourage you to bring along some food, photos, or anything interesting related to your country for a fun and informative evening amongst other volunteers. WF Iceland will organize reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights, such as waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, lava forests, hot springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam vents, or even icebergs. This workcamp gives you the opportunity to spend an amazing time in Iceland with other international volunteers and to have an incredible experience where participants share their knowledge with each other while exploring creativity, environmental issues, and intercultural learning.

Accomodation

Volunteers will be staying in the house of Worldwide Friends in Stöðvarfjörður. The house is approximately 480 m² and has 6 quadruple rooms, two fully equipped kitchens, several bathrooms, common areas, and workshop rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bags, but beds and sheets are provided. Wireless internet access is provided free of charge. Food is included for the duration of the work camp; however, everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking and cleaning. We provide a well-balanced and healthy variety of food products that includes a wide variety of whole grains, seasonal fruits & vegetables, pantry staples, dairy products, vegetarian/vegan options.

Meeting point

8:30:00 a. m. Reykjavik City Hall, Tjarnargata 11 (Main entrance)

Notes:

The first day of the camp is Arrival Day and the last day of the camp is Departure Day. The minibus will be at the meeting point in Reykjavik on the first day of the workcamp in the morning and arrive again at the Meeting point / BSI station in Reykjavik in the evening on the last day of the workcamp. Keep in mind that you need to arrange for your stay in Iceland before and after the workcamp. The journey to the east is about 9 hours, plus stops. You will travel along the Ring Road, which is a national road in Iceland that circles the entire country. If weather permitting, the minibus will take the north route and come back on the south route.

Work

You will also have time to put the theory about photography into practice, walking around and exploring the city. At the end of the camp, the best photographs from each participant are selected for an online exhibition on SEEDS social media. Participants should bring their own digital cameras, lenses, tripods and laptops if possible.SEEDS programme combines learning, sharing, hands-on activities, getting to know Iceland, its culture, having fun, exploring the city and stunning natural attractions in the Golden Circle or other excursions. Participants should prepare to share environmental issues from their countries and should be ready to spend time outdoors walking medium distances during activities and sightseeing. Note this project is a learning/sharing camp and not a standard workcamp. This project has a smaller work part and puts a bigger emphasis on the personal learning process than on the community impact.The camp happens around the summer solstice, when the sun hardly sets and the nights are almost as bright as the days. The nights are magical and staying awake enjoying the surroundings is a unique experience.

Partner

During this camp, participants can share their love for (and learn more about) global and local environmental issues, as well as photography. If you are interested in topics such as climate change, waste management, animal protection and sustainability and you also love taking photographs or want to develop your photography skills, then this project is for you. While developing artistic and technical photography skills, you will be focusing on environmental and sustainability issues through non-formal activities such as workshops, discussions, presentations and visits facilitated by SEEDS. One of our aims is to help create more environmentally aware consumers and travellersYou will visit local projects on environment and conservation. These may include hands-on activities or guided visits. Some examples include outdoor cleanup tasks, a community dinner or a visit to a recycling centre, a geothermal power plant, a local museum or exhibition. Some of these activities are dependent on conditions such as weather, pandemic-related restrictions, as well as availability of our partner organisations.

Location

Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with nature, using renewable energy sources. The world s northernmost capital bridges the Atlantic, between Europe and North America. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic. It is an international city with a lively cosmopolitan cultural scene surrounded by beautiful nature.

Accomodation

SEEDS participants will stay in a house in Reykjavik. The facilities are basic with a kitchen, showers and a washing machine. Everyone is expected to show consideration for their companions. Participants will sleep in shared rooms or dormitories. Please bring your own sleeping bag.Volunteers will receive food supplies and will be in charge of cooking and cleaning. Please note the food SEEDS provides will be vegetarian. Do not forget to bring some traditional/typical food, drinks, recipes, music, games or movies from your country for the intercultural evening. Please be aware some items or ingredients may be expensive in Iceland and you will need to buy them yourselves or bring them from your country.

Requirements

English will be the language in the camp; intermediate conversational skills are needed.Participation fee EUR 300 (Euros). The fee can either be transferred in advance via bank transfer, or paid in cash on arrival. It includes transportation from the meeting point to the camp (on the first day), the visits available and the Golden Circle excursion. Other excursions (e.g. to the South Shore, Vesturland, Geldingadal volcano, Reykjanes and/or Snaefellsnes Peninsula) can be arranged at discount fares if there is free time after the camp workshops/sessions.

Meeting point

Meeting time will be 18:00 (6:00 pm) on May 25 at SEEDS office located at Grettisgata 3a, 101 Reykjavik. Participants that cannot arrive on time will be sent information on how to reach the camp on their own.

Notes:

Participation fee EUR 300 (Euros). The fee can either be transferred in advance via bank transfer, or paid in cash on arrival. It includes transportation from the meeting point to the camp (on the first day), the visits available, the Golden Circle excursion and the night photography and aurora hunting workshop.

Work

The forestry project starting in the summer of 2022 is very important for biodiversity and wind-shelter. The main tasks will include tree-planting, putting up fences for tree protection and doing other outdoor tasks that will be needed around the building of infrastructure in the farm. No previous experience is necessary, but the work is demanding and requires a good physical condition. As it is outdoors work, volunteers shall be ready to adapt and be flexible with the working and free-time schedule, as depending on the weather, we may not be able to perform some of the tasks or activities planned.This is an exciting opportunity for volunteers with passion, interest and stamina to be a part of the development of this unique farm and to get to know the ideology behind it.

Partner

SEEDS volunteers will be working on a forestry and farming project at a local farm in the beautiful Svarfaoardalur valley in the north of Iceland, doing nature and environment-oriented tasks. The farm is a family cooperation that started a year ago. The aim is to create a holistic organic farming with vegetables and in the future also with animals.

Location

The farm is located in Svarfaoardalur, a large and beautiful valley that is part of the Dalvikurbyggo municipality. The camp location is 3 km away from the village of Dalvik , which has a nice swimming pool and a different variety of services, and 40 km to the town of Akureyri the capital of northern Iceland . Svarfaoardalur is a wide, fertile and populated valley, dotted with quintessential farmsteads, gurgling streams and surrounded by a ring of spectacular mountain peaks. The highest mountain in the area is Dijafjallshnjukur, its summit measuring 1445m. The Svarfaoardalur Nature Reserve, Iceland s oldest wetland protection area, spans out across the valley s lower marshlands. Covering almost 8 square kilometers, this area is famous as a nesting ground for a wide variety of bird species.

Accomodation

SEEDS volunteers will sleep in beds in a house at the farm. Please bring your own sleeping bag. The host will arrange all meals and the volunteers will take shifts assisting in the kitchen. It is important that volunteers keep in mind to keep all common areas clean.The facilities are basic with a kitchen, showers and a washing machine. Everyone is expected to show consideration for their companions in the shared accommodation. Do not forget to bring some traditional/typical food, drinks, recipes, music, games or movies from your country for the intercultural evening. Please be aware some items or ingredients may be expensive in Iceland and you will need to buy them yourselves or bring them from your country.

Requirements

English will be the language in the camp; basic conversational skills are needed. Weather is unpredictable, there can be warm and sunny days but it can also be cold and/or rainy, so be prepared for all kinds of weather. We recommend bringing good walking shoes/boots, warm and/or waterproof clothes (underlayers, overcoats, scarves, gloves and hats), as most of the tasks and activities take place outside.

Meeting point

Meeting point at SEEDS office in Reykjavik at 7:00 am on May 29. Return to Reykjavik in the late evening of June 6.

Notes:

Participation fee EUR 200 (Euros). The fee can either be transferred in advance via bank transfer, or paid in cash on arrival. The participation fee does not include the transportation from Reykjavik to the camp and back, which will cost EUR 55 (Euros) one way or EUR 110 (Euros) both ways. This camp takes place in a remote place, located in a natural area of extreme beauty. SEEDS volunteers can also explore the surroundings of the location and enjoy free-time outdoor activities (like hikes or walks) arranged in cooperation with our local project host. The project takes place outside and it can be cold and/or rainy. We recommend bringing warm and waterproof clothes (underlayers, overcoats, scarves, gloves and hats), good working and walking shoes.

Work

Our host is a non-profit organization called the NLFI Rehabilitation and Health Clinic, which is a part of the Natural Health Association of Iceland. The Natural Health Association has a horticultural and environmental department, including forestry, gardening, and greenhouses, which is where Worldwide Friends volunteers work most of the time. Volunteers will help with growing tomatoes, cucumbers and making tea made of Icelandic herbs, and also doing some environmental work around the property. The nature of the work depends largely on weather conditions, which can change quickly. Volunteers should bring clothes appropriate for outdoor work, but also clothes for working inside the warm greenhouses. Working hours are usually from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and volunteers will have a coffee break in the morning and a one-hour lunch break.

Partner

Worldwide Friends (WF), was founded in 2001 as a non-profit organization promoting nature and peace-oriented activities for volunteers wanting to spend some time in Iceland. Our main theme for this year is to give education about the 17 Sustainable Goals of the United Nations and to clean the whole coastline of Iceland. The main activities that we offer are workcamps, seminars, local events, and exchange programs suitable both for young people and adults.

Location

Hveragerði is known for having great areas for hiking, including the hot river in Reykjadalur. We will also concentrate on intercultural learning and exchange. Every evening, volunteers from different countries will be in charge of presenting their country of origin and culture in an informal way. It can be a presentation, a game, theatre – the form of introduction is up to you! Therefore, we encourage you to bring along some food, photos, or anything interesting related to your country for a fun and informative evening amongst other volunteers. WF Iceland will organize reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights, such as waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, lava forests, hot springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam vents, or even icebergs. Golden Circle is Included in the camp fee! This workcamp gives you the opportunity to spend an amazing time in Iceland with other international volunteers and to have an incredible experience where participants share their knowledge with each other while exploring creativity, environmental issues, and intercultural learning.

Accomodation

Volunteers will be staying in the house of The Natural Health Association in Hveragerði. The house is within the medical compound and has 6 double rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, several bathrooms, and a common area Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bags, but beds and sheets are provided. Wireless internet access is provided free of charge. Food is included for the duration of the work camp; however, everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking and cleaning. We provide a well-balanced and healthy variety of food products that includes a wide variety of whole grains, seasonal fruits & vegetables, pantry staples, dairy products, vegetarian/vegan options.

Meeting point

8:30:00 a. m. Reykjavik City Hall, Tjarnargata 11 (Main entrance)

Notes:

The first day of the camp is Arrival Day and the last day of the camp is a working and Departure Day. The minibus will be at the meeting point in Reykjavik on the first day of the workcamp in the morning and arrive again at the Meeting point / BSI station in Reykjavik in the evening on the last day of the workcamp.

Descrizione

For the eleventh year, SEEDS volunteers will have the chance to work in this special project based in the highlands, east of Lake Mývatn and north of the Vatnajökull glacier. The area has been inhabited since the early times of settlement. Our hosts are a family, descendants of farmers from the area, trying to develop new opportunities for work and alternative jobs in this very remote area, since farming at such altitude is very difficult. They are running diverse facilities and offer services for local and foreign visitors.

Work

Volunteers will support the locals in removing the trash left by visitors and helping restore the land damaged by off-road driving. Volunteers will also help with repairing an old turf building, restoring it to its previous form and making it look similar to several other turf buildings in the surroundings. Additional work may be fixing and maintaining walking paths and making a new trail. Well-maintained paths enable people to visit the area without damaging it and this important work also helps to improve safety for visitors. Please note that the work in this camp (such as turfing) can be very physically demanding and volunteers need to be in good shape and ready to work hard. As it is outdoors work, volunteers shall be ready to adapt and be flexible with the working and free-time schedule, as, depending on the weather, we may not be able to perform some of the tasks or activities planned. The weather conditions are unpredictable and the temperature in the highlands can drop below zero in the nights. Bring warm clothing, since the work takes place outdoors.

Location

The camp is located in the highlands of Iceland, at the highest inhabited place in the country at 469 meters above sea level. The location is in the North-Eastern part of the country and in the vicinity of the largest national park in Europe - Vatnajökull National Park. Mount Herðubreið, the queen of Icelandic mountains, is located in the area. It is situated to the east of the Ódáðahraun desert and close to the Askja volcano. The desert is a large lava field originating from volcanic eruptions in the area. The Vatnajökull Park is unique; one can find glaciers, volcanoes, glacier bursts, eruptions and geothermal heat plus an extremely rare landscape. The area of the park is around 12,000 km2 and is expected to be expanded in the next few years. Under the ice cap, the glacier hides seven volcanoes and most of them are active. Vatnajökull covers about 8% of the country, and is about 1000 m thick at its maximum. Closest international airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). SEEDS offers the minibus option: shared transport from Reykjavík to the camp and back. Apart from being cheaper and convenient, it allows participants to meet and have a relaxed trip, while stopping on the way for interesting sites. The SEEDS minibus will travel one way along the northern part of the country and the other along the south coast of Iceland. In this way we will travel the whole ring road and stop at magnificent natural sights, including waterfalls, glaciers, volcano craters, hot springs, iceberg lagoons, black sand beaches, etc.

Accomodation

Volunteers will be lodged in a house at one of the farms, sleeping in shared rooms with beds, please bring your own sleeping bag. Volunteers will receive food ingredients and be in charge of cooking and cleaning activities. An equipped kitchen and a washing machine are available. Do not forget to bring some traditional/typical food or drinks from your country for the intercultural evening.

Requirements

Participation fee EUR 150 (Euros). The fee can either be transferred in advance via bank transfer, or paid in cash on arrival. The participation fee does not include the transportation from Reykjavík to the camp and back, which will cost EUR 75 (Euros) one way or EUR 150 (Euros) both ways. This work camp takes place in a very remote region, located in a natural area of extreme beauty. Free-time outdoor activities, for instance hikes or walks in the surroundings, will be arranged for SEEDS volunteers. Volunteers should be motivated to experience life in a very isolated part of Iceland. Participants should bring good, sturdy walking shoes & warm working clothes. Weather is unpredictable and it can be cold or rainy. Bring warm under layers, waterproofs, walking shoes/boots, a good sleeping bag and gloves.

Meeting point

Meeting point at SEEDS’ office in Reykjavík at 7:00 am on June 5. Return to Reykjavík in the late evening of June 18. The minibus to this camp will cost EUR 75 each way. This is about 30-40% cheaper than public transport.

Work

This camp has a variety of activities. However, our main activity is Beach Cleaning, as our goal is to clean the entire Icelandic coastline. We work with the local community as well helping with the reforestation of the areas nearby. Some days, when the weather conditions are not suitable, we will focus on renovation work; painting or fixing things around and inside the house. Just like us, our waste also deserves a second chance. We will upcycling garbage into art! While creating bookshelves out of driftwood or designing a chair with old tires and nets, your imagination is the limit! Our work will depend on weather conditions, which is why we must be flexible. Working hours are about 5 hours a day, 5 days a week. You should be prepared for unfriendly weather, as they say: if you don’t like the Icelandic weather, just wait 5 minutes it might change.

Partner

Worldwide Friends (WF), was founded in 2001 as a non-profit organization promoting nature and peace-oriented activities for volunteers wanting to spend some time in Iceland. Our main theme for this year is to give education about the 17 Sustainable Goals of the United Nations and to clean the whole coastline of Iceland. The main activities that we offer are workcamps, seminars, local events, and exchange programs suitable both for young people and adults.

Location

Stöðvarfjörður is known for having breath-taking hiking paths. There is a free entrance to the local swimming pool from the middle of June until the middle of September. We will also concentrate on intercultural learning and exchange. Every evening, volunteers from different countries will be in charge of presenting their country of origin and culture in an informal way. It can be a presentation, a game, theatre – the form of introduction is up to you! Therefore, we encourage you to bring along some food, photos, or anything interesting related to your country for a fun and informative evening amongst other volunteers. WF Iceland will organize reasonably-priced weekend excursions to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights, such as waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, lava forests, hot springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam vents, or even icebergs. This workcamp gives you the opportunity to spend an amazing time in Iceland with other international volunteers and to have an incredible experience where participants share their knowledge with each other while exploring creativity, environmental issues, and intercultural learning.

Accomodation

Volunteers will be staying in the house of Worldwide Friends in Stöðvarfjörður. The house is approximately 480 m² and has 6 quadruple rooms, two fully equipped kitchens, several bathrooms, common areas, and workshop rooms. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bags, but beds and sheets are provided. Wireless internet access is provided free of charge. Food is included for the duration of the work camp; however, everyone is expected to do their fair share of the cooking and cleaning. We provide a well-balanced and healthy variety of food products that includes a wide variety of whole grains, seasonal fruits & vegetables, pantry staples, dairy products, vegetarian/vegan options.

Meeting point

8:30:00 a. m. Reykjavik City Hall, Tjarnargata 11 (Main entrance)

Notes:

The first day of the camp is Arrival Day and the last day of the camp is Departure Day. The minibus will be at the meeting point in Reykjavik on the first day of the workcamp in the morning and arrive again at the Meeting point / BSI station in Reykjavik in the evening on the last day of the workcamp. Keep in mind that you need to arrange for your stay in Iceland before and after the workcamp. The journey to the east is about 9 hours, plus stops. You will travel along the Ring Road, which is a national road in Iceland that circles the entire country. If weather permitting, the minibus will take the north route and come back on the south route.

Work

During this camp, participants can share their love for (and learn more about) global and local environmental issues, as well as photography. If you are interested in topics such as climate change, waste management, animal protection and sustainability, and you also love taking photographs or want to develop your photography skills, then this project is for youWhile developing artistic and technical photography skills, you will be focusing on environmental and sustainability issues through non-formal activities such as workshops, discussions, presentations and visits facilitated by SEEDS. One of our aims is to help create more environmentally aware consumers and travellersYou will visit local projects on environment and conservation. These may include hands-on activities or guided visits. Some examples include outdoor cleanup tasks, a community dinner or a visit to a recycling centre, a geothermal power plant, a local museum or exhibition. Some of these activities are dependent on conditions such as weather, pandemic-related restrictions, as well as availability of our partner organisations.You will also have time to put the theory about photography into practice, walking around and exploring the city. At the end of the camp, the best photographs from each participant are selected for an online exhibition on SEEDS social media. Participants should bring their own digital cameras, lenses, tripods and laptops if possible.SEEDS programme combines learning, sharing, hands-on activities, getting to know Iceland, its culture, having fun, exploring the city and stunning natural attractions in the Golden Circle or other excursions. Participants should prepare to share environmental issues from their countries and should be ready to spend time outdoors walking medium distances during activities and sightseeing. Note this project is a learning/sharing camp and not a standard workcamp. This project has a smaller work part and puts a bigger emphasis on the personal learning process than on the community impact.The camp happens around the summer solstice, when the sun hardly sets and the nights are almost as bright as the days. The nights are magical and staying awake enjoying the surroundings is a unique experience.

Partner

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Location

Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with nature, using renewable energy sources. The world s northernmost capital bridges the Atlantic, between Europe and North America. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic. It is an international city with a lively cosmopolitan cultural scene surrounded by beautiful nature.

Accomodation

SEEDS participants will stay in a house in Reykjavik. The facilities are basic with a kitchen, showers and a washing machine. Everyone is expected to show consideration for their companions. Participants will sleep in shared rooms or dormitories. Please bring your own sleeping bag.Volunteers will receive food supplies and will be in charge of cooking and cleaning. Please note the food SEEDS provides will be vegetarian. Do not forget to bring some traditional/typical food, drinks, recipes, music, games or movies from your country for the intercultural evening. Please be aware some items or ingredients may be expensive in Iceland and you will need to buy them yourselves or bring them from your country.

Requirements

English will be the language in the camp; intermediate conversational skills are needed.

Meeting point

Participation fee EUR 300 (Euros). The fee can either be transferred in advance via bank transfer, or paid in cash on arrival. It includes transportation from the meeting point to the camp (on the first day), the visits available and the Golden Circle excursion. Meeting time will be 18:00 (6:00 pm) on June 8 at SEEDS office located at Grettisgata 3a, 101 Reykjavik. Participants that cannot arrive on time will be sent information on how to reach the camp on their own.Other excursions (e.g. to the South Shore, Vesturland, Geldingadal volcano, Reykjanes and/or Snaefellsnes Peninsula) can be arranged at discount fares if there is free time after the camp workshops/sessions. SEEDS is not a travel agency; we do not have guides and our trips are organised for volunteers to have the chance to travel together and to support SEEDS fundraising. Subject to availability and number of participants.It may be very cold and/or rainy, so we recommend bringing warm and waterproof clothes (underlayers, overcoats, scarves, gloves and hats) and good walking shoes, as some of the activities take place outdoors.

Notes:

Participation fee EUR 300 (Euros). The fee can either be transferred in advance via bank transfer, or paid in cash on arrival. It includes transportation from the meeting point to the camp (on the first day), the visits available and the Golden Circle excursion.

Descrizione

PROJECT: SEEDS volunteers will support this project for the fourteenth year in a row. We started cooperation in 2009 and the results have been very positive. The hosts are a group of locals developing the area with alternative tourism services, including running a series of huts in this isolated area in the highlands and offering services to visitors and hikers. This year there will be major changes to the area, as the facilities are being renovated and new ones are being added to those existing.

Work

WORK: This year SEEDS volunteers will work on diverse outdoor tasks connected to the renovation and building of facilities in the area. The main tasks planned are cleaning of debris in the area, finishing work related to landscaping around new structures, laying of grass mats, repair and maintenance of hiking paths. As the landscape is rough, the work can be physically demanding and might require a good physical condition. No previous experience is needed. As it is outdoor work, volunteers shall be ready to adapt and be flexible with the working and free-time schedule, as depending on the -changeable- weather, we may not be able to perform some of the tasks or activities planned. Volunteers need to be prepared for working and walking in a wild landscape in one of the most isolated areas of Iceland. Be prepared to experience all kinds of weather and bring warm winter clothes as it can get very cold in the highlands. Bring warm under-layers, waterproofs, walking shoes/boots, a good sleeping bag, hat, scarves and gloves.

Partner

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Location

LOCATION: The Icelandic highlands, or “the interior”, are a true pearl to nature lovers and outdoor people. It is accessible by 4WD cars only and most routes involve crossing rivers where there are no bridges. If you really want to get away from it all, the interior of Iceland is like nothing you have ever experienced. The mountainous centre of the island, with its rocky deserts, craggy mountain peaks, ice caps, volcanoes, hidden valleys and hot springs, is an awesome and untouched wilderness. The interior was almost totally inaccessible until recently. However, outlaws managed to hide out for years at a time in the highlands, rustling sheep and keeping away from law-abiding citizens. Folklore stories tell of both natural and supernatural beings that lie in wait for unwary highland travellers. Travellers going between the north and south of Iceland sometimes had to cross the highlands. To get to the assembly of Alþingi (parliament) each summer, delegates had to ride from every corner of the country to Þingvellir in the Southwest. Volunteers will be staying close to the glacier Hofsjökull, near the rivers Hvítá and Þjórsá. The mountains in the area that reach up to 1500 m were formed during a volcanic eruption in the later part of the ice age. The area is still dynamic and great geothermal activity takes place in the surroundings. The environment is very diverse, both in shape and colour. The mountains are weathered and have very little continuous growth, as the forces of nature, like glaciers, water flow, ice bursts etc. have been fast working in these mountain highlands.

Accomodation

ACCOMMODATION: Volunteers will be hosted in a local mountain hut, sleeping in shared rooms on mattresses on the floor. Please bring your own sleeping bag. The facilities are very basic and volunteers are expected to show consideration for their companions. Volunteers will receive food ingredients and will be in charge of cooking and cleaning. Do not forget to bring some traditional/typical food, drinks, music and recipes from your country for the international evening.

Requirements

EXTRAS / SPECIAL REMARKS: Participation fee EUR 350 (Euros). Please note that the fee can either be transferred in advance via bank transfer, or paid for on arrival. The fee includes transportation from the meeting point to the campsite & back (on the first and last day of the camp). Meeting & Departure time will be at 7:00 in the morning of June 12, at SEEDS’ Office in Reykjavík. We will return to Reykjavík on the evening of June 25. The location of the camp is remote and very isolated. Free time activities are mostly hiking and trekking in the area, as there is no transportation available, nor the possibility to organise transport to different sites. Volunteers need to be prepared for physical, demanding work. Weather is unpredictable and it can be very cold or rainy in the highlands. We recommend bringing good walking shoes/boots, warm/winter and/or waterproof clothes (underlayers, overcoats, scarves, gloves and hats) as most of the tasks and activities take place outside.

Meeting point

TERMINAL: Closest international Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).

Descrizione

SEEDS volunteers will again be working with the Reykjavík municipality in two of the main outdoors skiing and recreational areas in the capital region, Bláfjöll (or the Blue Mountains) and Skálafell. In Skálafell the ski slopes are turned into a bike park during summertime and mountain bike enthusiasts can nourish their passion. The main tasks will include renovation and maintenance work on the bike trails; mainly raking and scraping them up. Other possible tasks may be related to general cleaning of the area.

Work

In the Blue Mountains, the main tasks will be maintaining the slopes and preparing them for the next ski season. The municipality and several sports associations run lodges and mountain huts there and they may also need some renovation jobs, such as painting and/or cleaning. The working plan is flexible and it will depend on the needs of our local hosts. No previous experience is necessary, but the work is demanding and requires a good physical condition. As it is outdoor work, volunteers shall be ready to adapt and be flexible with the working and free-time schedule, as, depending on the weather, we may not be able to perform some of the tasks or activities planned. The landscape is raw and volunteers need to be motivated to work outdoors and to experience isolated mountain areas. The camp happens around the summer solstice, when the sun hardly sets and the nights are almost as bright as the days. The bright nights are magical and staying awake and enjoying the beautiful surroundings is a unique experience. During the time of the camp participants will have the opportunity to experience the midnight sun as there are 24 hours of light even if the sun does set for short periods of time.

Location

The skiing areas of Bláfjöll and Skálafell are both about 30 minutes driving away from the city. The Blue Mountains are south-west of Reykjavík and Skálafell is located to the east of the city. Both areas have great slopes for downhill skiing and snowboarding as well as tracks for cross-country skiing. Bláfjöll has 16 lifts and Skálafell has 4 lifts. The sports area in Skálafell is situated at an elevation between 380 and 700 m. The Blue Mountain range is situated near the ring road and stretches from the capital area to the south-western lowlands. The highest mountain in the range reaches 600 m and in 1968 the district became a very popular skiing resort among Icelanders. The areas are excellent for recreation, not only for alpine and cross country skiing, but for other outdoor activities as well such as hiking and mountain biking. Nature lovers are certain to find something to their liking, but it’s important to be careful crossing the rugged lava fields because of the numerous caves underneath. TERMINAL: Closest international Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).

Accomodation

SEEDS volunteers will stay in one of the ski lodges in the mountains and sleep in a shared dormitory. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Volunteers will receive food supplies and be in charge of the cooking and cleaning activities. Do not forget some traditional/typical food, drinks, music and recipes from your country for the intercultural evening.

Requirements

Participation fee EUR 200 (Euros). The fee can either be transferred in advance via bank transfer, or paid for on arrival. The fee includes the transport from Reykjavík to the campsite and back (on the first and last day of the camp). Meeting and departure time to the camp will be 16:00 (4 pm) on June 19 from the meeting point at SEEDS’ office in Reykjavík. After the camp we will return to Reykjavík in the afternoon of June 29. Volunteers shall be prepared for physical outdoors work and should bring good working shoes and clothes. In the mountains, the weather can change quickly and drastically. Even if it is summer, the weather can be cold or rainy. We recommend bringing good walking shoes/boots, warm and/or waterproof clothes (underlayers, overcoats, scarves, gloves and hats) as most of the tasks and activities take place outside. The locations of the camp are remote and isolated, even though still close to the city. Free-time activities in the surroundings are mostly hiking and trekking. Some excursions (Golden Circle, South Shore, Hot River Hike, Vesturland Trip or Snaefellsnes) can be arranged at discount fares for SEEDS participants in case there is additional free time after work or during the weekend.

Work

The Environmentally Aware and Trash Hunting project is part of a series of camps organised by SEEDS in cooperation with different partners. SEEDS works with and supports the Icelandic ministry for Environment and Natural Resources on a project to clean up the Icelandic coastline; the Blue Army, an organisation dedicated to the cause of coast cleaning; Whales of Iceland, an exhibition of life size models of whales and porpoises aiming at educating about their lives and human impact on their existence; SORPA, the organisation in charge of waste collection and management in the Reykjavik area and other local stakeholders. This camp allows volunteers to learn about global and local environmental issues through non-formal activities such as workshops, discussions, presentations and visits, as well as to contribute directly to environment protection by joining outdoor cleanup tasks. These cleanup tasks may be arranged in partnership with the abovementioned organisations or organised solely by SEEDS. We aim to also involve the local community, so some of our events may be open to the public. We hope participants will learn how to plan and do their own trash hunting projects back at home. This project is based on similar activities around the world, where outstanding results have been achieved with volunteers. One of the two options below is also included in this camp as a hands-on volunteering activity day:A day trip combining a visit to the Hellisheioi geothermal power plant, a trash hunt in the area; and the Hot River Hike, a hike up a valley filled with hot springs where one can bathe. A day trip to the Reykjanes peninsula, combined with a coastal cleanup in the area.We may also visit the SORPA facilities and attend a lecture on waste management in Reykjavik. All the activities are dependent on conditions such as weather, pandemic-related restrictions and availability of our partners.This camp combines learning, sharing, hands-on work and fun. No previous experience is needed. Volunteers should prepare to share environmental issues from their countries and be ready to spend time outdoors, walk medium distances during the cleanups, as during other activities and sightseeing. As a part of the project happens outdoors, volunteers should be ready to adapt and be flexible with the work and free-time schedule, as depending on the changeable weather, we may not be able to perform some of the activities (as) planned.

Partner

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Location

Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with nature, using renewable energy sources. The world s northernmost capital bridges the Atlantic, between Europe and North America. Reykjavik is spread across a peninsula with a panoramic view of the mountains and the Atlantic. It is an international city with a lively cosmopolitan cultural scene surrounded by beautiful nature.

Accomodation

SEEDS participants will stay in a house in Reykjavik. The facilities are basic with a kitchen, showers, and a washing machine. Everyone is expected to show consideration for their companions. Participants will sleep in shared rooms or dormitories. Please bring your own sleeping bag.Volunteers will receive food supplies and will be in charge of cooking and cleaning. Please note the food SEEDS provides will be vegetarian. Do not forget to bring some traditional/typical food, drinks, recipes, music, games or movies from your country for the intercultural evening. Please be aware some items or ingredients may be expensive in Iceland and you will need to buy them yourselves or bring them from your country.

Requirements

English will be the language in the camp; basic conversational skills are needed.

Meeting point

Participation fee EUR 300 (Euros). The fee can either be transferred in advance via bank transfer, or paid in cash on arrival. It includes transport from the meeting point to the camp (on the first day), other activities available; and one trip combined with the trash collection activity (Hot River or Reykjanes).Meeting time will be 18:00 (6:00 pm) on June 21 at SEEDS Office in Reykjavik. Participants that cannot arrive on time (later or delayed flights) will be sent information on how to reach the camp on their own.Other excursions (e.g. Golden Circle, the South Shore and/or Snaefellsnes) can be arranged at discount fares if there is additional free time after the camp workshops/sessions.It may be cold and/or rainy, so we recommend bringing warm and waterproof clothes (underlayers, overcoats, scarves, gloves and hats) and good walking shoes, as some of the activities take place outdoors.

Notes:

Participation fee EUR 300 (Euros). The fee can either be transferred in advance via bank transfer, or paid in cash on arrival. It includes transport from the meeting point to the camp (on the first day), other activities available; and one trip combined with the trash collection activity (Hot River or Reykjanes).