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Very Good 4.35rating (88)
  • Life On Land

Krýsuvík-Geopark Environmental Restoration Project

location
2 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified
Volunteer project with the highest quality. This project sets unprecedented standards in quality - an unparalleled level of excellence.

Highlights

  • Located in a UNESCO Global Geopark – Experience one of Iceland’s most unique geological landscapes
  • Restore Icelandic landscapes through hands-on soil work.
  • Build practical skills through renovation and maintenance tasks.

Highlights

  • Located in a UNESCO Global Geopark – Experience one of Iceland’s most unique geological landscapes
  • Restore Icelandic landscapes through hands-on soil work.
  • Build practical skills through renovation and maintenance tasks.
  • Protect nature by supporting erosion control and land recovery.
  • Connect with international volunteers while working outdoors.
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Discover Reykjanes UNESCO Global Geopark, designated by UNESCO in 2015 for its unique geology, volcanic landscapes, and rich natural heritage.

    Project:

    This project includes a variety of activities focused on soil restoration and environmental sustainability. Worldwide Friends began restoring this site in 2023 after it had been abandoned for several years, transforming it into a welcoming home and learning environment.

    The main focus of the ...

    About the program

    Project:

    This project includes a variety of activities focused on soil restoration and environmental sustainability. Worldwide Friends began restoring this site in 2023 after it had been abandoned for several years, transforming it into a welcoming home and learning environment.

    The main focus of the project is soilwork and environmental restoration — combating erosion, nourishing the land with organic waste, and planting trees to support long-term revegetation. The site covers 300 hectares within a protected Geopark that features several hiking trails. We also monitor tree plantations from previous years and collaborate with the local municipality to maintain hiking paths and nearby protected areas.

    Greenhouse and agriculture-related tasks may also be part of the work but are secondary to the main goal of restoring and protecting the local environment.

    When weather conditions are not suitable for outdoor work, volunteers will help with renovation and maintenance tasks, such as painting or small repairs inside the house.

    Please note: Krýsuvík is remote and isolated, approximately 45 minutes from Reykjavík. The nearest town is Selfoss, but public transportation to and from Sólheimar is very limited. Volunteers should be prepared for a quiet, rural environment and plan transportation.

    Seasonal Focus:

    • March to April: Renovation activities

    • April to September: Soil work and environmental restoration

    • October to February: Renovation activities

    Please note that tasks and workshops may vary depending on the season, project needs, and weather conditions. Volunteers should be ready for physical, outdoor work and changing weather — as we say in Iceland: “If you don’t like the weather, just wait five minutes!”

    This is a perfect camp for people who like outdoor work and physical challenges. Working hours are on average 6-7 hours a day, 5 days a week.


    Participants:

    If you are healthy, motivated, and eager to work alongside a local project team, we’ll be happy to welcome you on board! In general, participants should be at least 18 years old. There is no maximum age limit for most of our workcamps, and we encourage anyone with enthusiasm for community and environmental work to join.

    Typically, the age range of volunteers is 18 to 30 years old, but older participants with a positive attitude and a willingness to contribute are equally welcome.

    Camp leaders:

    Each camp is guided by one or more camp leaders, depending on the group size. The leaders serve as the vital link between the hosting community and the group of volunteers. They help coordinate daily tasks, organize free-time activities and excursions, manage shopping and house chores, and oversee cooking sessions.

    While they take on additional responsibilities to ensure the smooth running of the camp, camp leaders are equal members of the team, working alongside volunteers and sharing in the experience.

    Most of our camp leaders come from different countries, as we proudly welcome and collaborate with international leaders from partner organizations who bring diverse perspectives and experiences to our projects.


    What to Pack

    Icelandic weather is famously unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for all conditions — sun, rain, wind, and even snow! Here’s what you should bring:

    • Waterproof hiking boots – essential for outdoor work and uneven terrain.

    • Warm and waterproof clothing – layers are key for staying comfortable outdoors.

    • Swimsuit and towel – don’t miss Iceland’s traditional pools and hot springs!

    • Indoor shoes or slippers – shoes are not worn inside the houses.

    • Raincoat or windbreaker – weather changes quickly, even in summer.

    • Personal medication & toiletries – bring any necessary prescriptions or essentials.

    • Items from your country – food, photos, or small souvenirs for intercultural evenings.

    • Hairdryer (optional) – useful, but not required.

    • Cash (ISK or EUR) – for optional excursions or personal expenses.

    • Baggage allowance: One large suitcase and one small carry-on.

    Typical day

    A typical working day has the following schedule:

    Monday to Friday

    • 8:00 Breakfast
    • 9:00-13:00 Environmental work
    • 13:00- 14:00 Lunch 
    • 14:00 - 16:00 Environmental work
    • 16:00-17:00 Free time 
    • 18:00 Workshop
    • 19:00 Dinner
    • 20:00 Leisure Activity
    Saturday & Sunday
    • Hike
    • Relax time

    Typical day

    A typical working day has the following schedule:

    Monday to Friday

    • 8:00 Breakfast
    • 9:00-13:00 Environmental work
    • 13:00- 14:00 Lunch 
    • 14:00 - 16:00 Environmental work
    • 16:00-17:00 Free time 
    • 18:00 Workshop
    • 19:00 Dinner
    • 20:00 Leisure Activity
    Saturday & Sunday
    • Hike
    • Relax time

    Free-time activities

    There’s plenty of fun waiting for you in Krýsuvík! From adventurous outdoor activities to well-known tourist attractions, this beautiful area has something for everyone. Explore scenic hiking trails through geothermal fields, lakes, beaches, and mountains; enjoy birdwatching; or take a cultural ...

    Free-time activities

    There’s plenty of fun waiting for you in Krýsuvík! From adventurous outdoor activities to well-known tourist attractions, this beautiful area has something for everyone. Explore scenic hiking trails through geothermal fields, lakes, beaches, and mountains; enjoy birdwatching; or take a cultural trip to Reykjavík — nature and adventure are always close by!

    WF Iceland organizes reasonably priced weekend or one-day excursions to some of Iceland’s most stunning natural wonders. These trips include breathtaking sights such as waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, lava fields, hot springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam vents, and even icebergs!

    • Golden Circle – included in the fee!

    • South Coast – available for an extra fee

    Please note that a minimum number of participants is required for each excursion.

    ⚠️ Safety Tips:

    • Do not hike high or steep mountains without a professional guide.

    • Stay on marked trails — geothermal areas can be dangerous.

    • Never touch hot springs!

    ✨ Bonus: The best time to see the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) in Iceland is between September and April, when the nights are dark and clear.

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Required Documents

    CV, ID and Passport

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Other Skills

    Highly motivated!

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 09:00 - 16:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    The Fees Include:

    • Comfortable transportation from Reykjavík to the project location and back

    • All ingredients for three delicious meals a day (vegetarian-friendly options encouraged)

    • Cozy hostel-style accommodation

    • Free Wi-Fi to stay connected

    • Engaging workshops and educational sessions

    • Meaningful volunteering activities

    • Access to a washing machine for your convenience


    Deposit

    The deposit is paid directly to Volunteer World. Please review the Flex Option for more information. 


    Payment Cancellation Terms  (Payment made to Worldwide Friends)

    As we start to incur costs from the time the contract is confirmed, we will apply cancellation charges as shown below from the time when written notification of the cancellation is received:

    • With a notice of more than 30th days, the cancellation will be free of charge.

    • With a notice between 30th – 14th days, 50% of the total fee will be charged.

    • With a notice of less than 14th days, 100% of the total fee will be charged.

    • Expenses due to early departure: any expenses that may occur due to early departure will be covered by the participant and not WF, no refund shall be given.

    Code of Conduct

    In order to have an adequate code of conduct during the program, the following points are established that must be complied with without exception.

    • WF is committed to ensuring an environment that is free of discrimination and to fostering a climate in which all participants can have an exceptional experience.

    • Clothing. Appropriate footwear and suitable outdoor clothing must be worn. We reserve the right to refuse participation to participants who are dressed inappropriately or with inappropriate footwear since this will put the participant’s well-being and safety at risk.

    • Non-prescription Drugs. WF reserves the right to terminate the program for participants we believe are under the influence of drugs; in such circumstances, no refund shall be given.

    • WF reserves the right to refuse participation and to cancel the stay to any participant whose conduct or manner is likely to offend, upset, or put other participants in danger. Any expenses that may occur due to early departure will be covered by the participant and not WF.


    Accommodation

    Volunteers will be staying in the Worldwide Friends house, a spacious home of approximately 600 m². The house features 10 rooms, each accommodating 4 to 6 people, a fully equipped kitchen, several bathrooms, and comfortable common areas. The house has a total capacity of 30 people.

    Note: The maximum capacity of 30 includes Camp Leaders. Actual numbers may vary depending on the season, local regulations, or other factors. The program requires a minimum of 5 volunteers plus Camp Leaders to run.

    Amenities:

    • Free wireless internet access

    • Washing machine onsite

    Note: There is no public transportation in the immediate area. The closest bus stops are approximately 20 minutes away by car (Grindavik or Hafnarfjörður).

    Food & Beverages

    Meals are included for the duration of the work camp, but everyone is expected to contribute to cooking and cleaning. It’s always fun to try new dishes, so we encourage volunteers to bring along their favorite recipes from home! We also recommend giving vegetarian meals a try during your stay.

    We provide a well-balanced and healthy variety of food, including whole grains, seasonal fruits and vegetables, pantry staples, dairy products, and plenty of vegetarian/vegan options. To help reduce our carbon footprint, we focus on sustainable meals and often encourage volunteers to explore plant-based dishes.

    Meals are prepared by participants in teams according to a weekly cooking schedule:

    • Breakfast is included and self-serve

    • Lunch and Dinner are group activities, giving everyone a chance to cook and connect

    Since we bake our own bread, feel free to share any special crusty bread recipes from home!


    Note: Alcohol consumption is permitted on this project.

    We also have a friendly cat at the house, so cat lovers can look forward to some furry company!

    Please inform us in advance if you have any food allergies or special dietary needs so we can accommodate you safely.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at Keflavik International Airport

    An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Keflavik International Airport (KEF) in Reykjavik. We assist you to find cheap flights to Iceland. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Iceland provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Iceland you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Iceland. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Arrival: Volunteers will be picked up at the following location on the first day of the Project. Golden Circle Excursion Included 

    Arrival

    The first day of the camp is Arrival Day, and the last day is Departure Day.

    Participants will be picked up at 9:00 am on the first day at Reykjavík City Hall, Tjarnargata 11, 101 Reykjavík (main entrance).

    Please arrive on time. If you are delayed or cannot reach the meeting point by 9:00 am, contact us immediately through WhatsApp, as this is our main communication channel.


    Departure

    Drop-off will be at BSI Bus Station in Reykjavík on the evening of the last day, from 19:00 hrs onwards. The exact time may vary due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

    Important:

    • The night of the last day is not included. Please arrange your own accommodation before and after the workcamp.
    • We recommend arriving in Iceland at least one day before the camp and departing at least one day after.
    • Krýsuvík is remote and has no public transportation. 
    Please note: Krýsuvík is remote and isolated, approximately 45 minutes from Reykjavík. The nearest city is hafnarfjörður, but public transportation is very limited. Volunteers should be prepared for a quiet, rural environment and plan transportation.


    The program runs from Monday to Monday every 2 weeks. Please note that the minimum stay in Sólheimar is 4 weeks.

    • March to April: Renovation activities

    • April to September: Soil work and environmental restoration

    • October to February: Renovation activities


    START DATES 2026:

    • 28 Sep- 12 Oct
    • 12 Oct- 26 Oct
    • 26 Oct- 9 Nov
    • 9 Nov- 23 Nov
    • 23 Nov- 7 Dec
    • 7 Dec- 21 Dec
    • 21 Dec- 4 Jan

    START DATES 2027: (Please note that starting next year, the meeting point will be at BSI Bus Terminal in Reykjavík on Mondays at 5:00 PM.)

    • 4 Jan- 18 Jan
    • 18 Jan- 1 Feb
    • 1 Feb- 15 Feb
    • 15 Feb- 1 Mar
    • 1 Mar- 15 Mar
    • 15 Mar- 30 Mar
    • 30 Mar- 12 Apr -Please note that this project starts and ends on a Tuesday due to a public holiday. Participants should plan their travel arrangements accordingly. Easter Monday (Annar í páskum)
    • 12 Apr- 26 Apr
    • 26 Apr- 10 May

    NOTE: From May 10th to August 30th, the dates will be reserved exclusively for the international groups we host, as this is our main accommodation for larger groups coming from different countries. During the rest of the year, volunteers will be able to apply for a minimum stay of two weeks.

    • 30 Aug- 13 Sep
    • 13 Sep- 27 Sep
    • 27 Sep- 11 Oct
    • 11 Oct- 25 Oct
    • 25 Oct- 8 Nov
    • 8 Nov- 22 Nov
    • 22 Nov- 6 Dec
    • 6 Dec- 20 Dec
    • 20 Dec- 3 Jan
    • 3 Jan- 17 Jan

    Krýsuvík is a remote and isolated project located in the countryside of the Reykjanes Peninsula, approximately 35 km from Reykjavík. There is no public transportation directly to the project, and access to nearby towns and other areas requires planning and private transportation. Please keep this in mind before applying, as the experience involves living in a quiet, rural environment with limited access to shops, services, and independent transportation. Volunteers should be comfortable with this type of remote setting and with spending most of their time within the project.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $346 per week 2 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    2 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.

    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    4.3
    Travelers’ Choice
    One of the most loved volunteer experiences, according to travelers

    Location

    Europe > Nordics > Iceland > Reykjanes Penninsula

    Meet your project coordinator

    Lorena
    88
    reviews
    4.35
    Very Good
    2001
    Founded

    Verified

      Below average response rate
    Spoken languages: Spanish, English
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