Embark on the adventure of a renovation project in Iceland in winter! It's a chance to see the Northern Lights! All assignments in Iceland here
Geopark erosion control project at Krýsuvík
Our partner offers volunteer missions at various sites in Iceland to protect biodiversity and promote peace and volunteerism. The main objective of the projects is to raise awareness among local and international young people about sustainable development in their daily lives. The Krýsuvík renovation and northern lights project takes place in the Geopark during winter. This geothermal and volcanic area is located in southwestern Iceland, on the Reykjanes Peninsula, about 35 km from Reykjavik. The name Krýsuvík means "Krýsa's bay," named after a character from a local folk tale. This Geopark has been recognized by UNESCO since 2015. The project aims to combat erosion by revegetating the land with organic waste and planting trees over an area of 300 hectares. As the Geopark is crisscrossed by hiking trails, the project may also involve maintaining these trails.
Renovation and Northern Lights
In winter, weather conditions do not allow for outdoor work. Volunteers therefore help with renovation or maintenance tasks, such as painting or minor repairs inside the house.
By joining this project, you will become part of a team supervised by qualified site managersand will play a practical role in creating new community facilities, restoring buildings, and strengthening local infrastructure.
Painting, cleaning, carpentry...
The tasks assigned will be tailored to each participant's profile. They will mainly involve repair, painting, and cleaning work, as well as an introduction to the basics of carpentry and construction. Depending on the needs, you may also be asked to restore furniture, maintain outdoor areas, sort and organize equipment, or reuse materials in a recycling initiative for the benefit of the center.
A construction site for everyone
Your commitment plays a key role in the continuity of the project. You will be able to measure the results of your involvement in concrete terms, by continuing the work carried out by previous teams and contributing to the sustainable development of the site. Tasks are defined according to the real priorities of the community, which means that the program may evolve. This project is particularly suited to people who enjoy outdoor work and physically demanding activities.
Winter, the ideal time to observe the Northern Lights
The experience is not limited to the construction site: the Icelandic winter is also the ideal time to observe the Northern Lights. Photography enthusiasts, curious travelers, and those who enjoy meeting people from around the world will find this a unique adventure. Throughout the trip, we will keep an eye out for the right conditions to try to see and photograph this spectacular phenomenon. We recommend bringing a camera capable of long exposures and a tripod to get the best results.
- Working days generally last between 5 and 7 hours on weekdays, with breaks for lunch and coffee. However, these hours are subject to change depending on the weather.
Dates
2 weeks during the cold season
- January 19, 2026 to February 2, 2026
- February 2, 2026 to February 16, 2026
- February 16, 2026 to March 2, 2026
- March 2, 2026 to March 16, 2026
- November 9, 2026 to November 23, 2026
- November 23, 2026 to December 7, 2026
- December 7, 2026 to December 21, 2026
Rate
- 600 € every 2 week
- Included in price
- Pick-up at City Hall in Reykjavík at 9:00 a.m.
- Excursion to the Golden Circle
- Round trip from Reykjavík to Krysuvík
- Return to BSI bus station at 6:00 p.m.
- Hosting
- Meals
- Environmental workshops
Not included in the price
Air tickets
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
- A volunteer experience in an international environment
- Improve your English
- Discover the fabulous Reykjanes Peninsula and Iceland, land of ice and fire
- Get involved in a project with a positive impact on the environment
- Watch the northern lights!
- From age 18
- 2 weeks minimum
- English B1 (beginner-intermediate)
Housing
Volunteers are housed in our partner's volunteer house. The house has a surface area of approximately 600 m² and has 10 bedrooms, each sleeping 3 to 4 people. It has a fully equipped kitchen, several bathrooms, and common areas. The house can accommodate 30 people. Volunteers must bring their own sleeping bags, but beds and sheets are provided. Wireless internet access is free of charge.
Food
Food is included, but meals and dishes are made together, taking turns.
Arrival
Arrival at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), south of Reykjavik. Meeting point is City Hall in Reykjavik at 9 a.m.
The Krýsuvík region has a lot to offer! From hiking trails to a variety of landscapes (geothermal zone, lake, beach, mountains), birdwatching or cultural visits to Reykjavik, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to getting closer to nature!
Our partner organizes reasonably-priced day or weekend excursions to discover the wonders of Iceland.
All reviews of Worldwide Friends missions
About the association
Our partner is an Icelandic non-profit organization founded in 2001, dedicated to protecting the environment, promoting peace, and encouraging volunteerism. Its team works to protect biodiversity, but also focuses on the circular economy and education based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) defined by the UN. Worldwide Friends organizes short- and long-term volunteer missions in Iceland. Through volunteering, the association protects nature and promotes peace by bringing together volunteers of different nationalities to work together.
