Trees and Walking in the Westfjords

WORK/PROJECT: This is a unique, demanding and very rewarding opportunity for volunteers to gain new skills and ecological perspectives through working and living closely to the land. This project is organised with our host located in the Westfjords of Iceland.

The main project activity is tree planting at Hrafnseyri. Hrafnseyri in Arnarfjörður is the birthplace of Jón Sigurðsson and today there is a museum dedicated to him and his memory. As a part of the museum is the old turf house that Jón grew up in and the chapel that was built in his memory.

The project aim is to plant 10,000 native birch and rowan trees as part of a conservation project to restore some of the lands natural tree cover. There will be group leaders who will ensure planting is done correctly and facilitate a programme of creative-led discussions and activities, designed to create a space to help you experience a connection to the earth and sea, allow you to relax and be present, connect back to your natural rhythms, and find inspiration and insight.

The approach draws on storytelling, outdoor education, experiential learning, eco-psychology, traditional healing system and just taking time out to be still, listen and respond!

ACCOMMODATION: SEEDS participants will be staying at a community house in the Westfjords or in a tent provided by the host. Depending on the weather, we will be camping or staying inside, or a mix of both.

Food will be supplied for volunteers and they will help cook and clean in camp. Do not forget some traditional/typical food or drinks from your home country for an international evening..

LOCATION: The project is situated in the Westfjords of Iceland, which is a distinct region that very few travellers to Iceland visit. The landscape is a mixture of sea-cliffs, huge beaches, many rivers, vegetated valleys, snowy/rocky mountains and moss-covered hill sides. Camping and accommodation is situated in remote locations.

The nature in the area is untouched and almost uninhabited. The cliffs and valleys are packed with birds, the uninhabited fjords offer a moment of silence and tranquillity, and the Arctic fox proudly roams the mountains and inlets. The waterfalls are high and the streams pure.

LANGUAGE: English will be the official language and a good conversational level of English is required.

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.

Departure time will be at 7:00 in the morning from Reykjavík on the first day of the camp, June 18.

EXTRAS / SPECIAL REMARKS: The participation fee is EUR 150 (Euros). Please note that this fee is to be paid to SEEDS on arrival in either Euros or Icelandic krónas.

Volunteers need to be prepared for physical and demanding work, working and camping in a wild landscape and sometimes cold weather. Bring warm winter clothes as the project takes place outside and the weather can be very cold. You will need to bring warm under-layers, waterproofs, walking boots, a good sleeping bag, sleeping mat and gloves. Tents will be provided.  

Free time activities are mostly hiking and trekking in the area as there is no transportation available. There is also a programme of group activities volunteers will be offered.

LETTER OF INTEREST/MOTIVATION: There is an application process for those wishing to join. To apply, please submit CV/Resume and motivation letter, stating your relevant experience and reasons for wanting to join.   

Age: 18+