working holiday in iceland

Help with trail maintenance during your working holiday in Iceland

Become part of a dedicated team preserving Iceland’s mountain trails. Live and work amidst stunning scenery, and create lasting friendships in a unique community of outdoor enthusiasts. Join us!

Working holiday in Iceland – requirements & tasks

Escape the everyday and embrace the simplicity of mountain life in Iceland. This project is perfect for those who cherish nature, enjoy hiking, and seek a unique experience off the beaten path.

You will contribute to vital conservation work in Iceland’s Thórsmörk! We need volunteers for trail construction, erosion control, and tree planting. 3-, 4-, and 9-week placements (team leaders needed for 9 weeks).

You will work for about 36 hours per week with weekends off.

About the location

Thórsmörk (Þórsmörk in Icelandic) is a nature reserve nestled in the southern highlands of Iceland. Renowned for its breathtaking beauty and challenging hiking trails, it’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Thórsmörk is characterized by a mountain ridge situated between the glaciers. The area is further defined by numerous valleys and gorges carved by glacial rivers, contributing to its dramatic landscape.

Thórsmörk experiences a unique microclimate. Sheltered by glaciers and mountains, it is generally warmer and wetter than other parts of Iceland. Thanks to its microclimate, Thórsmörk boasts surprisingly lush vegetation, including birch forests, ferns, and a variety of mosses. This contrasts with the more barren landscapes common in other parts of Iceland.

Requirements

Iceland’s breathtaking wilderness requires respect. To join our team, you’ll need:

  • Experience: Camping and hillwalking experience essential.
  • Gear: Warm clothing, high-quality waterproofs, and a sturdy tent are crucial.
  • Good physical condition: Being fit is required for demanding work and hiking in remote locations.
  • Right mindset: A love for wilderness and a readiness for challenging conditions.
  • Proper age: Participants must be 20+ years old with English proficiency.
  • Additional stuff: You’ll need to cover your travel to/from Thórsmörk and arrange travel insurance.

Working holiday in Iceland – what we offer

Experience community living in the heart of Iceland’s wilderness! Our basecamp in Langidalur, Thórsmörk, provides a simple but comfortable setting for your volunteer experience. Bring your own tent and enjoy shared facilities like our cozy cabin, indoor kitchen, group dining tent, drying hut, and even a hot shower!

We provide a full board every day, including weekends.

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