Voluntary work in Iceland

Information & guidance about volunteering projects in Iceland

A jumble of extraordinary natural sites, cinematic landscapes and a supercharged splendor of culture that makes voluntary work in Iceland an experience unlike anywhere else. The small European country is located where the North American plate and the Eurasian plate meet in an often violent intersection that has resulted in 30 active volcanoes, glaciers cutting through mountains and hot springs gush. Shaped by its Viking heritage, Icelandic culture is full of twists and turns that combined with the unique geology and geography of the landscape will captivate the heart of any volunteer.

Where to volunteer in Iceland

An incredible landscape that will delight anyone who chooses to travel for voluntary work in Iceland, there are plenty of locations that will amaze volunteers alongside offering great volunteering opportunities. A tiny country with a population of less than 400,000 citizens, half of these inhabitants live in the capital and largest city of Reykjavik, while the rest are based in more rural settings surrounded by mountains, fjords, and rivers. Reykjavik is the world’s most northern capital; at 64 degrees latitude, the city is believed to have been established as the first settlement in 870 AD by Norsemen. Known as one of the cleanest and safest cities in the world, the capital still suffers from problems faced by developed countries all over the world, creating demand for volunteering in Iceland working in drug abuse rehabilitation, with the elderly and disadvantaged youth.

Akureyri, nicknamed the capital of the north, is known as the second city of Iceland; most likely known as a town in a larger country, with a population of just 18,600 offer flowered filled public gardens in summer and Iceland’s best skiing opportunities come winter. A relaxed attitude that accompanies the cool cafes, quality restaurants and galleries makes Akureyri a great location for voluntary work in Iceland.

Offering a more rural experience to the cities, Skaftafell is a preservation area in southeast Iceland and part of Vatnajökull National Park, where volunteers can gain an authentic Icelandic experience. Carved by millennia of glacier movements and erupting volcanoes makes for stunning scenery in this destination that was once a farming settlement.

Volunteering projects in Iceland

Voluntary work in Iceland means opening the door to incredibly unique opportunities that you couldn’t dream up; imagine volunteering on a dog sledding team or helping with organic food production in the village of Sólheimar. There are also more traditional ways to volunteer in Iceland, such as work camps that frequently have a set project to be completed, and work as a great way to gain both practical experience and immerse yourself in the Icelandic culture. They are also a great way to ensure you have a structured project, as well as having the opportunity to meet like minded travelers!

Voluntary work in Iceland is popular for the fantastic environmental projects – with 10% of the island nation covered by glaciers, and filled with geological activity from gushing geysers to rumbling volcanoes, there is plenty of work that can be done to preserve Iceland’s natural beauty. With the locals being some of the most environmentally dedicated populations, you will be surrounded by like minded environmentalists meaning you get the most out of the experience!

Projects volunteering with Iceland’s youth include big brother/big sister programs, camps, after school programs, tutoring, and education programs also make up great opportunities for voluntary work in Iceland, for those interested in community development and interested in careers in areas such as childcare.