Cairn Restoration in the Westfjords (2:2)

WORK/PROJECT: This is a unique, demanding and 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, Wildfjords Restoration located in the Westfjords of Iceland. The main project activity is restoration of cairns in an area in the south of the Westfjords. Cairns are piles of carefully constructed rock that have historically been used to help people find their way in difficult weather conditions on mountainous walking routes. The cairns to be restored are situated in high and harsh land. A trained wilderness guide and another leader will be working with the group to ensure quality of craftsmanship and to ensure everyone's safety.

Running alongside the cairn restoration activities will be 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.

ACCOMMODATION: SEEDS participants will be camping in a remote valley in the Westfjords. When not camping, SEEDS volunteers will stay in a well-equipped hostel, close to the Latrabjarg bird cliffs.

Food will be supplied for volunteers and they will help cook and clean in camp and be in charge of cooking when staying at the hostel. Do not forget some traditional/typical food 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.

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

TERMINAL: Closest International Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). Once you've arrived in Reykjavik, you will be transferred by bus to the Westfjords.

EXTRAS / SPECIAL REMARKS: The participation fee is EUR 250 (Euros). Please note that this fee is to be paid to SEEDS on arrival in either Euros or Icelandic krónas. The fee includes the domestic transportation from Reykjavík to the camp site and back (on the first and last day of the camp). Departure time will be at 7:00 in the morning.

Volunteers need to be prepared for physical and demanding work, working and camping in a wild landscape and sometimes cold weather. Free time activities are mostly hiking and trekking in the area as there is no transportation available. Volunteers should participate in group activities.

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.

LETTER OF INTEREST/MOTIVATION: There is an application process for those wishing to join this volunteer experience. To apply, please submit an additional Motivation letter, stating your relevant experience and reasons for wanting to join and your CV/Resume. Applications will be processed within 7 days. To apply, please click 'ask for more information' and we will then contact you and provide details of how to submit.

Age: 18+