Christmas camp for children
Vigoa, Temeke, Tanzania December 9 - December 28, 2018
Volunteer project: In Tanzania, private and public schools have a long holiday during the month of December until early January. This is normally a most joyful time. However, not all children in the community enjoy the season due to social and economic challenges and limitations. In partnership with local schools and community members, this project has been designed to offer an opportunity for children and teenagers from all socio-economic backgrounds, ethnicity and religions to spend time together during the school holidays. Through this project we also aim to promote peace and harmony among various groups in the community.
Volunteers are expected to interact with children and teenagers at the age of 6-14 years in the following activities:
- Games: Indoor and outdoor games that will stimulate learning, team building and activeness. Local games will be introduced as well as foreign ones from the volunteers. Please bring new games to share with the kids.
- Physical activities: Action jumping, Olympic Games, etc.
- Gardening: Ornamental and vegetable planting, composting, garden tour, etc.
- Nature activities: Bird watching, Plant a tree, Tree feeder, learning about various plants, birds, animals, worms, and insects available in the area.
- Academic development: Holiday homework, various competitions aiming to motivate children’s academic development and prepare them for the new academic semester.
Special requirements: No special or particular expertise/skills required. However, a potential participant in this project should be open minded and interested in working with children and youth.
Language: English
Accommodation: Volunteers will be accommodated at the Youth hostel in the community.
Leisure activities: The project is organized in a way that provides an opportunity for participants to utilize their free time by enjoying what the region offers in terms of cultural and natural attractions. The volunteers will have an opportunity to explore Dar es Salaam: Museums, Beach and historical/cultural sites; overnight in Bagamoyo town (swimming, historical sightseeing and eco-tourism), overnight in Mikumi National Park.
Location: The project will be hosted in Vigoa community. It is located in the outskirts of Dar es Salaam, about 25km south of the city center. It has a beautiful landscape and natural attractions where some wild animals (monkeys, rabbits, birds, etc.) can still be seen. It is accessible by public and private transport from the city center. Convenient shops are available and there is signal for cell phones where internet can be accessible as well.
Terminal: Dar es Salaam, Julius Nyerere International Airport
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 250 Euro
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project who does not have sufficient funds. It has to be transferred no later than seven business days before the start of the project.
Christmas and New Year's camp for children
Adeta, Kpele, Togo December 14, 2018 - January 6, 2019
Volunteer project: The objective of the project is to help children learn about other people, cultures and lifestyles, as well as to rejoice during the New Year celebrations and offer them a chance to express themselves in new ways. Tutoring sessions will be organized to allow students who need it to catch up. So the children will have a fun and useful holiday over Christmas and New Years.
Volunteer tasks:
- Supervising the children in various activities and organizing a program of games, arts and crafts activities, sketches;
- School support;
- Organizing a day of activities for the children for the end of year celebrations.
Leisure time:
- Tourist sites to visit: The Kpimé Falls, the Danyi Plateau (visit to the Monastery of Dzogbegan and its circular wooden chapel), Mt Kloto (where it is possible to get a glimpse of Lake Volta in Ghana), the village of Kuma Konda and the château Viale, Mt Agou (the highest summit in Togo).
Possibility to discover also Northern Togo (the large towns like Atakpamé, Sokodé and Kara, the Aledjo Fault (where the road passes through the rock), the region of Tamberma, the Niamtougou falls…) and the Nangbeto Dam;
- Artisanal activities, learning the techniques of batik and sculpture;
- Cultural activities, percussion (Djembé) and dancing around the fire;
- Day with an African family: a day of immersion in the life of an African family organized around the following: animism, installation of a chief in place, traditional marriage, a day in the field.
Language: English
Accommodation: The volunteers will be accommodated in dormitories at the project site.
Location: Kpélé – Adéta is a town of around 15 000 inhabitants. The offices of the Prefecture Kpélé are established here. It is situated on the crossroads Kpalimé – Atakpamé, Notsé – Danyi. There is a Post Office, a police station, and a medical – social center. The nearest hospital is the American Baptist hospital, some 4 kms from Adéta.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 230 Euro
Airport pickup and transport to the project site is included.
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival.
Care and support for abandoned children in South Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam December 17 - December 29, 2018
Volunteer project: The volunteers will support an orphanage run by monks, which was built in the early 20th century and is quite famous in Ho Chi Minh City. The orphanage is now a place of charity for unlucky children and also helps treat diseases. Now the monks are taking care of and bringing up more than 100 children from the South of Vietnam. The children here have unfortunate backgrounds as many have been abandoned by their parents and relatives. Every few months, the monks find a new baby left in front of the pagoda gate. The head monk sometimes receives phone calls from hospitals requesting him to take in abandoned babies. At the moment, about 100 children live in the orphanage; their ages ranging from 5 days old to 20 years old. 60 of them are orphans that are suffering from cerebral palsy, blindness or Down syndrome. About 30-40 local children have the chance to study at the orphanage as some local teachers teach them Vietnamese in the morning.
Volunteers will spend time with the children and help to improve their English, organize games and other activities for them. Volunteers will also do some manual work, like cleaning and renovation, to improve the children's houses and classrooms. Volunteers will get closer to the children’s life and try to broaden their horizons and encourage them to learn better for a brighter future. Volunteers can also support children with disabilities in the disabled children's room.
Study theme: Disadvantaged children in Vietnam
Special requirements: Interest and motivation for working with children in difficult situation
Leisure activities: Self-organized city tour and excursions, etc.
Language: English
Accommodation: In a dormitory in Saigon, in shared rooms with bunk beds. Free Wi-Fi is available at the volunteer house.
Location: Go Vap District, Ho Chi Minh City (or Sai Gon), in the southern part of Vietnam.
Terminal: Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN), 20 minutes drive from the volunteer house
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 250 USD
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival.
Teaching English and construction support for an education center
Siem Reap, Cambodia December 17 - December 28, 2018
Volunteer project: The volunteers will work with a non-profit education center which aims at providing free alternative education for children and teenagers, providing local youth and local people chances to learn languages, computer, and to have access to global education/information through internet and a library and to have their first chance to meet and interact with different people from different cultures and backgrounds from around the world.
There are classes in the afternoon till 7 pm where students who take time off from classes at public school, learn the language with local and international volunteers as their supplementary education.
Volunteers will contribute to interactive language teachings with the children, and handy support in construction projects, enabling the convenience of both teaching and learning. The next step of the development plan for the center is going to be the office for the teachers, a garden, toilets, playgrounds for the children to use in their free time before and after classes.
Aims and activities of the project:
• Meeting and socializing with local people and children for multi-cultural learning activities and sharing
• Visiting a village to explore and experience real life of local families
• Giving hands-on support and ideas for developing the look of the education center
• Teaching English to children at the center
• Supporting community projects guided by the staff and management of the center
Language: English
Accommodation: The volunteers are going to stay in a guesthouse. Beds with mattresses, fans, pillows and blankets are provided. Wi-Fi is available, but with limited data usage. There is a local market just in front of the accommodation where you can enjoy your free time.
Location: Siem Reap province
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 225 USD
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival.
Mangrove conservation and development of coastal fishing villages
Kampot, Cambodia December 17 - December 28, 2018
Volunteer project: International volunteers will help out in two fishing communities by the sea, about 30 km from Kampot town. The children here face difficulty attending language, computer or other classes in town. The volunteer group will focus on English teaching and providing some other education activities for the children in these communities. In addition, help is needed on the mangrove field. The fishing communities have a long-term plan for mangrove reforestation. Participants in this project will support the development of the local communities while working on environmental issues and exploring the local lifestyle.
The project welcomes individuals who are passionate about the environment and hands-on conservation work. Volunteers will be working as active promoters of environmental and sea life preservation, and enjoying the natural environment at the same time.
Aims and activities of the project:
• Work and interaction with local children and teenagers using English language
• Assist the local community in developing their eco-tourism projects and protecting the mangrove forest and fishing area
• Maintain the mangrove forest along the seashore to prevent future flooding as sea level rises
• Collecting mangrove seeds from the mangrove forest, nursing the mangrove seeds and planting mangrove trees
• Organizing environmental education workshops for kids and teenagers in primary and secondary school
• Continue the construction of a walking path through the mangrove forest
• Learning about Cambodian culture from local people and volunteers
• Explore and experience the real life of people in the villages
• Meeting and socializing with local people and children for multi-cultural learning activities and sharing
Language: English
Accommodation: Volunteers will stay in bungalows. The accommodation is equipped with simple sleeping mattress, blankets, pillows and mosquito nets.
Location: Kampot province
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 220 USD
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival.
Support education and community improvement programs in Siem Reap
Siem Reap, Cambodia December 17 - December 28, 2018
Volunteer project: The project takes place in a rural area of Siem Reap province, by the Tonle Sap lake which provides water for farmers to grow their crops and rice, and for fishermen to earn a living from fishing. A large portion of the population in the region is poor with limited opportunities for education and work. Students drop out of school when they become older in order to make a living for their families.
The project is organized in cooperation with a local primary and secondary school. The project aims to provide opportunities for children to learn languages, computers and get access to global education and information, to create more job opportunities for villagers, and to help local school by improving facilities and materials for the education programs.
While providing community services, the volunteers will be helping local farmers and sharing their daily life. This can be a great community experience where local and international volunteers take part in social engagement and personal development activities to understand the social context as a reflection of global trends.
Aims and activities of the project:
• Work and interaction with local children and teenagers using English language
• Promoting global education among students from the primary and secondary school
• Teaching English to children from the community who attend English classes at the school
• Organizing cultural exchange activities with the students
• Learning about Cambodian culture from local people and volunteers
• Visiting villages to explore and experience real life of local communities
• Supporting agricultural activities of local families
Language: English
Accommodation: Volunteers live in a local family house with basic living conditions.
Location: Siem Reap province
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 220 USD
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival.
Merry Christmas for disadvantaged Vietnamese kids in Hanoi
Hanoi, Vietnam December 18 - December 25, 2018
Volunteer project: Christmas is a famous holiday in many countries in the world. Families are always happy to celebrate this holiday which brings hope and strengthens relationships. Although not listed as an official Vietnamese holiday, Christmas is celebrated in Vietnam since the country was part of the French Empire and there are still French influences in the Christmas traditions. Many Catholic churches have a big nativity crib scene or 'creche' with nearly life size statues of Mary, Joesph, baby Jesus, the shepherds and animals.
The international volunteers in this project will “bring” Santa Clause to orphans and disabled children, hospital patients, homeless and the poor, to share the holiday spirit and to help them build up their dreams. The volunteers will prepare performances and organize games and leisure activities for the children. The group will also make and hand out gifts to the kids, will put up decoration and take part in fundraising activities.
Leisure activities: Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam with its ancient and modern features. You can enjoy Hanoi with its many museums and parks or just take a walk in the old square. Beautiful spots nearby are Halong Bay, Ba Vi, Mai Chau, Tam Coc ... Hai Duong is another big city 60 km far from Hanoi, Ha Long Bay is at about 180 km.
Language: English
Accommodation: In a house (dormitory style). Meals are at a local restaurant near the project site. Volunteers should bring a sleeping bag.
Location: Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam.
Terminal: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 5,000,000 VND (about 220 USD)
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival.
Help a village with farming and education
Ywar Ngan, Shan, Myanmar December 19, 2018 - January 1, 2019
Volunteer project: Before the beginning of the international volunteer projects in these villages, the local people had very little or no contact at all with foreigners. The local young people need to improve their knowledge on globalization, English proficiency and cultural exchange. There’s also a need to educate the communities about agriculture and environmental awareness.
The volunteers will take part in the life of a village by helping the community in their field work. There will be various farming tasks such as planting, paddy harvesting, picking fruit and coffee, digging, etc. The volunteers will also teach children and share knowledge with the local community.
Language: English
Accommodation: Homestay in a house in the village.
Location: The area is peaceful and calm, with mountains, farms and rice fields around. In Shan State, there are ancient caves, waterfalls and ancient pagodas nearby.
Terminal: Yangon
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 250 USD
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival.
Protecting the Marine Turtles in La Penita
La Peñita, Nayarit, Mexico December 19 - December 31, 2018
Volunteer project: The aim of this project is to protect the endangered marine turtles working in close collaboration with the local population of La Peñita Town or as they say “the place where turtles come at night”. Volunteers, along with local people and a team of professional biologists and trained staff, will develop activities to protect the turtles, and will help to ensure the survival of the turtles for the future generations.
There are five species of turtles arriving to this area: Negra (Black Turtle), Golfina (Olive Ridley Turtle), Laud (Leatherback Turtle), Carey (Hawksbill Turtle) and more! The size of the turtles varies from 1 meter to 2.4 meters long and the weight from 40 kg to 500 kg. Every turtle makes a nest of around 150 eggs.
If you love nature, enjoy spending time in an astonishingly beautiful beaches close to a nice beach town, and are willing to witness the magic that nature had made for millions of years, this project is for you!
There is a team of up to 5 experts that will be working with the volunteers in order to show them the beauty of the turtle’s life. The turtle camp has been in operation for over 25 years now.
The main work consists in patrolling the beach at night. The working hours are from 8:00pm to 8:00am, four days per week. The volunteers will be split in two teams allowing each team to have a day of work, a day off for recovery and two days off on weekends. The goal is to find the adult turtles and collect their eggs, to move the eggs to a protected place called Vivero and release newborn baby turtles into the sea when they hatch. Volunteers will also help collecting statistical data in order to learn about the evolution of the species. Activities must be carried out at night since turtles do not go out of the ocean during the day (because of natural predators, it is safer for turtles to get out of the ocean in the dark). In collaboration with local people and biologists from La Peñita, volunteers will seek for the turtles, taking care of their eggs and the baby turtles. The work place and load depend on the number of turtles that come ashore. Every day, the biologists will define which beach will be patrolled by the volunteers depending on where more turtles arrive. The group will also take part in the reconstruction of some of the most important turtle camps in the region. Locals and experts are very friendly and working with them is always fun as they explain to the team what to do.
Language: The official language of the project is English. Some Spanish would be appreciated.
Leisure time: The volunteers will have free time during the day to do many fun and interesting activities and to discover many marvelous places around. The volunteers can learn to surf, go fishing, visit and help in shelters for protection of endangered species (crocodiles), visit local towns, get to know and enjoy the local culture. Rincón de Guayabitos is well connected by bus to localities and cities around.
Volunteers will have the opportunity to visit solitary beaches and towns with an extraordinary natural richness. Among those places are Flamingos, with its three beautiful lakes; Bucerias, with a long beach and cobblestone streets; La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, a picturesque fishing town; Destiladeras, a paradise for surfers. Volunteers will have the chance to visit the Islas Marietas - one of the most beautiful places on earth, take surfing classes and travel to Sayulita, a bohemian town ideal for camping. The beaches of Rincon de Guayabitos with crystal-clear waters and calm waves resemble a large swimming pool. Nearby, participants will find the pre-Hispanic sanctuary of Altavista and the semi-virgin beach named Chacala, the perfect site to be amazed by nature.
Accommodation: The volunteers will be hosted in a hotel in La Peñita de Jaltemba, in shared rooms with all facilities at disposal: private bathroom, Wi-Fi, air conditioning. They will have full access to two swimming pools and the beach. Three meals a day are provided at the hotel restaurant consisting of good typical Mexican food. Vegetarian meals are also available.
Location: La Peñita de Jaltemba is a small beach town with approximately 20,000 inhabitants, located on the Pacific coast of Mexico, in the state of Nayarit. It is the main service community for the popular beach resort area Rincón de Guayabitos. The closest city is Puerto Vallarta.
Nestled in the imposing Sierra Madre Occidental, and washed by the waters of the Pacific Ocean, Riviera Nayarit is emerging as one of the most attractive and magic destinations of Mexico. The area extends approximately 300 kilometers along the coast, backed by mountainous jungle and facing coastal islands. There is plenty of remote backcountry for those wanting to see a more rustic side of rural Mexico. Banderas Bay, on the southern section of the Riviera Nayarit, is famous for being the destination spot of thousands of humpback whales that offer an unmatched spectacle. In addition, Puerto Vallarta is famous for its long seafront walkway and its vibrant nightlife. The Huichol Indians are the most famous ethnic group within the region. They are characterized by their eye-catching clothing, hats adorned with feathers and their colorful handcrafts, such as masks and animal figurines made of beads.
Nearest airports: Puerto Vallarta International Airport Licenciado Gustavo Diaz Ordaz, Morelia International Airport, Mexico City International Airport
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 295 Euro
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival.
Artistic volunteer project
Adeta, Kpele, Togo December 20, 2018 - January 13, 2019
Volunteer project: The objective of this project is to initiate and reinforce the capacities of volunteers wishing to be trained in the field of art. They will work together with trainers, artists and local volunteers in the various activities planned. This project is also an opportunity to support local women and help them unleash their entrepreneurial spirit.
Project activities:
• Learning the art of Batik;
• Painting (decorative pictures, canvases);
• Calabash engraving;
• Wood carving;
• Learning traditional pottery techniques;
• Making pots, jars, plates and others;
• Helping children make small gifts for sale;
• Making traditional bead and terracotta necklaces.
The volunteers will also spend a day in a pottery village and meet other artists. At the end of the project, they will exhibit and sell their artwork. The funds collected will be used to support children, environmental and sanitation projects.
Leisure time:
- Tourist sites to visit: The Kpimé Falls, the Danyi Plateau (visit to the Monastery of Dzogbegan and its circular wooden chapel), Mt Kloto (where it is possible to get a glimpse of Lake Volta in Ghana), the village of Kuma Konda and the château Viale, Mt Agou (the highest summit in Togo).
Possibility to discover also Northern Togo (the large towns like Atakpamé, Sokodé and Kara, the Aledjo Fault (where the road passes through the rock), the region of Tamberma, the Niamtougou falls…) and the Nangbeto Dam;
- Artisanal activities, learning the techniques of batik and sculpture;
- Cultural activities, percussion (Djembé) and dancing around the fire;
- Day with an African family: a day of immersion in the life of an African family organized around the following: animism, installation of a chief in place, traditional marriage, a day in the field.
Language: English
Accommodation: Volunteers will be housed in a logde. Each volunteer will have a bed with mattress.
Location: Kpélé – Adéta is a town of around 15 000 inhabitants. The offices of the Prefecture Kpélé are established here. It is situated on the crossroads Kpalimé – Atakpamé, Notsé – Danyi. There is a Post Office, a police station, and a medical – social center. The nearest hospital is the American Baptist hospital, some 4 kms from Adéta.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 230 Euro
Airport pickup and transport to the project site is included.
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival.
Christmas and New Year in the House on the Hill
Reykjavik, Iceland December 23, 2018 - January 2, 2019
Volunteer project: We will live together and create a cozy atmosphere in the House on the Hill by putting up lights and Christmas decorations. The main idea of this project is to celebrate Christmas together and to promote peace and friendship among the group through intercultural learning and exchange. We will create a Christmas postcard together. Although the House on the Hill is located on the outskirts of Reykjavik, the city centre is reachable by public transport (30-minute bus ride). It is a small but cozy house, where the group will cook and live together and enjoy a snowy time in Iceland. We have chickens, so volunteers will have to take care of them during the project. We will learn Christmas songs from each other and, if weather is good enough, we will sing on the streets of Reykjavik and other public places in town as a sign of peace and multiculturalism. On New Year’s Eve, we will organize a small party for the volunteers and we will enjoy Reykjavik´s spectacular fireworks in front of the cathedral.
Language: English
Leisure time: Reasonably-priced weekend excursions can be organised to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. Excursions include unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, geysirs, lava forests, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents, or even icebergs.
Accommodation: The volunteers will be staying in a house in Sveinsstadir which is located on the outskirts of Reykjavik. This place is like a farm in the city so you can enjoy pure nature and at the same time the city life of the capital. Volunteers need to bring their own sleeping bag, but beds/mattresses and bed linens are provided. Wireless internet access is provided free of charge.
Location: Reykjavik is a city full of energy, just waiting for you to experience it. Powered by heat from the earth below, with ever-changing weather sweeping across the landscape, its natural features are matched by the energy of its residents. Think of the qualities of a great city - fun, culture, nature, clean air - and Reykjavik has them in spades. All the advantages of a modern, forward-looking society are complemented by the beautiful natural setting. In a country of only just over 300,000 people, the Reykjavik Capital Area has a population of about 200,000. However, since it’s the only major city in the country, Reykjavik has a lot of the amenities that you would only expect to find in a much larger center elsewhere in the world.
Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital city and is centered on the Seltjarnarnes Peninsula. Come at the right time of year, and in favourable conditions you will see the city’s skyline silhouetted against the glowing, shimmering curtain of the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights. Reykjavik is framed by the majestic Mt. Esja and the blue waters of Faxafloi Bay to the north, while rugged lava-fields spread to the southeast. On a clear sunny day, the Snaefellsjokull glacier glitters on the western horizon like a crystal.
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, multicolored fusion stretching across the sky.
Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 300 Euro
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.
Renovating volunteer houses and chasing the Aurora in the East of Iceland
Fjardabyggd, Iceland December 23, 2018 - January 2, 2019
Volunteer project: In this project, volunteers will take on different tasks related to the renovation and maintenance of volunteer houses in the East of Iceland. The work depends on each volunteer's skills and knowledge, but focuses mainly on tasks such as painting, cleaning, fixing small things and basic carpentry and construction. This project is very important for the future volunteer programs in the East. If the weather conditions are good, we will also help the local community with various environmental works.
In addition, winter time in Iceland means Aurora Hunting. If you like photography, the Northern Lights and sharing an amazing time with friends from all over the world, this project is perfect for you. We will be on the lookout for Aurora Borealis at night throughout the whole project, so you will have the opportunity to take photos of this amazing and unique phenomenon. It is very important to bring your camera with you (only cameras that work in long exposure will catch those lights), so don’t forget your tripod and camera. You can also bring your laptop, as it can come in handy.
We will also concentrate on intercultural learning and exchange. Every evening, volunteers from different countries will be in charge of presenting their country and culture in an informal way. It can be a presentation, a game, theater - 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 with the other volunteers.
This project 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.
Language: English
Leisure time: Reasonably-priced weekend excursions can be organised to some of the most popular, beautiful areas and natural wonders that Iceland has to offer. The area in the East is also good for hiking.
Accommodation: The group will be staying in the volunteer houses in Stodvarfjordur or Eskifjordur. Beds are provided, but volunteers should bring their own warm sleeping bags. Wireless internet access is provided free of charge.
Location: Scoured by Ice Age glaciers, the dramatic east coast boasts long, narrow fjords with steep sides and jagged peaks which contrast with inland fertile farmlands. Natural harbours, picture perfect fishing villages and seemingly never ending roads provide beautiful sweeping views. This is one of the best places in Iceland to see the Northern lights.
“Fjarðabyggð" is an association of villages in the Eastern fjords 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.
Terminal: Flights arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), just south of Reykjavik. A minibus trip will be offered from Reykjavik to the Eastern fjords and back. On the way to the project site, we’ll travel through the south to the east of the island. On the way back, we’ll travel through the north and west to Reykjavik, if road conditions are favorable. The trip includes unique Icelandic sights such as glacial lagoons, waterfalls, volcanic and geothermal areas, glaciers, lava fields, hot-springs, rhyolite mountain ranges, steam-vents or even icebergs.
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 250 Euro
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.
New Year in the Desert
Zagora, Morocco December 26, 2018 - January 2, 2019
Volunteer project: The program is an opportunity for the participants to explore Moroccan culture, especially the one from the south of Morocco and the Sahara Desert, which fascinates everyone who comes to visit. The volunteers will have the opportunity not only to visit the Desert, but also to enjoy the local culture and to get immersed into it, participating in different activities. The main aim of the project is to promote interculturality. Cultural visits will be organised to places in South Morocco (excursion to the oasis of Zagora and to the mountain, visiting an old kasbah, a historical library and a museum). An excursion to the Sahara Desert will be also organised in the end of December for the volunteers to celebrate the New Year in the Desert.
The group will take part in some voluntary activities and a pottery course. The volunteer tasks include painting and gardening in a local school.
The participants will learn about the Moroccan artisan techniques of making pottery. They will get knowledge about how to make pottery articles, from working and preparing the earth to decorating the articles. This activity doesn't require individual skills but it demands your motivation to overcome the difficulties. All the materials needed for this activity will be provided.
The volunteers will learn how to cook some delicious Moroccan food. They will also spend time and organize activities for 400 local children in Zagora.
Language: English or French
Accommodation: The volunteers will be hosted in a youth center or in a family house, depending on availability.
Location: Zagora is a beautiful town in the south of Morocco, near the Algerian border. Zagora is about 750 km from Rabat and about 250 km in the south of Ouarzazate.
The town of Zagora sits at the foot of Anti-Atlas Mountains and on the shore of the Draa Valley in South Eastern Morocco. Zagora’s allure is mainly attributed to the great Draa Valley, which is still a home for several of Morocco’s tribes. The name Zagora is derived from “Tazagort,” a mountain by the shore of Draa Valley overlooking the city.
Zagora gathers a number of minority groups, including numerous Amazigh tribes from Ait Atta clan, and black African groups who emigrated from Sub-Saharan Africa, along with the Caravans. Arabs have also settled in Zagora, coming from Marrakech since the medieval times.
Zagora’s historical monuments and natural features are what enchants foreign guests the most. The region still preserves numerous Kasbahs and old fortresses that mark bygone era. In addition, the Sahara desert landscapes of sand dunes and “Hamadas” is also worth discovering.
The artistic characteristics of Zagora lay in crafts, as well as folklore. Zagora is home of old pottery factories. Clay dishes are exclusively made in Tamegroute, featuring green colored productions and displayed in local and national exhibitions. Reed is also used to make crafts.
Folklore in Zagora reflects the cultural identity of the joint communities. Both Amazighs and Arabs of the area, perform different artistic shows, varying from Ahidous to Regba and Hassani rhythms.
Terminal: Marrakech, Ouarzazate or Casablanca airport, Zagora Bus Station
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 220 Euro
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project who does not have sufficient funds. It is due upon arrival.
Photo marathon and Aurora hunting in Iceland
Reykjavik, Iceland December 27, 2018 - January 5, 2019
Volunteer project: This is the 11th year that series of International Photo marathons are organized! Throughout the year, participants from all over the world come to Iceland for an immersive photography related learning camp. The coordinators help the participants to develop their unique photographic skills through workshops and feedback sessions on technical settings, compositional considerations as well as developing conceptual frameworks which progress the participants' individual style.
When the workshops end, we select some of our best pictures from the project and prepare those images for an informal group exhibition in a local independent cinema.
Participants should bring with them their own digital cameras, lenses and laptops if possible. They should be prepared for walking and visually exploring the city streets and working within a flexible time schedule. Participants will be photographing in their free time outside of workshop hours with images to be discussed at group feedback sessions.
Please note that this project is more of a learning/sharing camp and not a regular workcamp. We may be able to organize some outdoor voluntary service activities but this depends on the weather conditions.
In this project we will organize a night photography and Aurora hunting (Northern lights) workshop in the countryside in the close vicinity of Reykjavik. This will take place during late evening and possibly into the night. We will choose a night according to the Aurora forecast by the Icelandic meteorological office. It is possible that we do not see any northern lights during the trip but we will in any case organise the night photography workshop. Please note, we cannot guarantee that you will see northern lights as solar activity is irregular and it depends on weather and meteorological conditions.
The project combines learning, sharing, exploring Reykjavík, hunting for Aurora and having fun. Participants should also use this opportunity to share something about their own culture, such as food, music, and films with the international group.
Language: English
Leisure time: Some excursions (e.g. Golden Circle, South Shore, Hot River hike or Reykjanes and/or Snæfellsnes Peninsula) can be arranged at discount fares for the participants. Local leisure activities will also be offered such as cinema and flea market.
Accommodation: The participants will stay in an equipped house in Reykjavík, about 4 km from the center of the city. The facilities are basic with a shower, kitchen and a washing machine. The group will sleep in shared rooms. Please bring your sleeping bag.
Location: Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal- and hydropower. 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. Reykjavik is an international city with a lively cosmopolitan cultural scene surrounded with beautiful nature.
Terminal: Closest international Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 350 Euro
The fee includes transportation from the meeting point to the project site and back (on the first and last day), as well as the night photography and Aurora hunting (Northern lights) workshop.
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.
Environmental awareness workshop
Reykjavik, Iceland December 27, 2018 - January 4, 2019
Volunteer project: The Environmental awareness workshop allows participants to share and learn about global and local issues through theory and practice. If you are concerned, for example, about climate change, waste management, animal protection, sustainable solutions and other environmental topics, then this project is the one for you. Local Icelandic environmental issues as well as issues from the participants’ countries will be addressed.
Please note that this project is a learning/sharing camp, in which everybody is expected to contribute their own knowledge and experience, and not a standard workcamp. The main focus of the project is to learn about different aspects of environmental and sustainability issues through a selection of workshops, discussions and visits. Topics may include issues like renewable energy, food waste, and sustainable practices such as collaborative consumption or veganism. The over 2 million tourists coming to Iceland every year leave a mark on the country. This project will help you to be an environmentally aware traveller and consumer.
Participants also get the chance to visit local projects focused on the environment, such as a visit to a local recycling centre where a tour of the plant is given and the activities are explained. The group will also visit a Geothermal power plant and have a guided tour of the facilities via interactive multimedia installations, wall displays and presentations to learn about Iceland's geothermal energy utilization.
The participants may also get a chance to improve the local environment through hands-on activities. In most cases, the project includes a day or two of voluntary service but in some cases it will not be possible, as the weather does not always allow activities to take place outdoors.
This is a project that combines learning, sharing, exploring Reykjavik and having fun. Participants should also use this opportunity to share something about environmental issues in their home country with the group. Participants should be ready to walk around the city for different activities, visits and sightseeing.
Language: English
Leisure time: Some excursions (e.g. Aurora Borealis/Northern lights, South Shore or Reykjanes) can be arranged for the volunteers at discount fares.
Accommodation: Participants will stay in a house in Reykjavík. The facilities are basic with showers, kitchen, washing machine and everyone is expected to show consideration for their companions. Participants will sleep in shared rooms in a sleeping bag accommodation. Please bring your own sleeping bag.
Location: Reykjavik is a dynamic, modern city which lives in harmony with beautiful nature, using renewable energy sources - geothermal- and hydropower. 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.
Reykjavik is often called “the nightlife capital of the north”, but there is more than pubs and clubs. It also gathers the most interesting of Icelandic culture. It is an incubator of new ideas and styles which often indicate new global trends. It is an international city with a lively cosmopolitan cultural scene surrounded with beautiful nature.
Terminal: Closest international Airport: Keflavík/Reykjavík (KEF). Bus station: Central Reykjavík (BSÍ).
Age range: 18 and over
Extra fee: 350 Euro
The fee includes transportation from the meeting point to the project site and back (on the first and last day), as well as the visits to the Geothermal power plant, the recycling centre and the Golden Circle excursion.
The extra fee is intended to support the local host of the project and is payable upon arrival.