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Global

Experience a Month Living in an Icelandic Eco-Village: Embracing Community and Sustainability

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  • Select Duration :

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  • Preferred Participation Period :

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    Recommended Participation Date: Monthly start (Monday)

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  • Participation Fee
    2,100USD
Total Amount2,100USD
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Europe/Iceland/Selfoss
  • Operation Period: Always
  • Application Period: All Year Round
  • Number of Participants: No Limitation
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Program Creator / KoreaGapYear Global
We are a social enterprise that develops Gap year programs related to Internship, Volunteering, Traveling, and Education.
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  • Learning Experience
  • Entertainment
  • Atmosphere
  • Facility
  • Safety

PROGRAM INTRODUCTION

PROJECT INTRODUCTION

 

 

Experience life within a community that thrives amidst the stunning natural beauty of Iceland!

In this project, you will become a volunteer in an Icelandic eco-village, engaging in a unique one-month experience to help build and sustain the community. Enjoy each day mingling with special people and living a joyful, fulfilling daily life.

 

 

The eco-village where this project takes place is committed to eco-friendly living and sustainable practices. The village generates necessary energy using solar, geothermal, and wind power, grows a variety of vegetables in greenhouses, and practices recycling to maintain a self-sufficient lifestyle. The café sells organic cakes, and handcrafted items made by residents serve as meaningful souvenirs for visitors. You will find the touch of the residents in every corner of the village and can feel their dedicated efforts towards environmental sustainability.

Experience a new way of life in Iceland's eco-village, leading the way in environmental stewardship!

 

The residents of the Icelandic eco-village live a life of cooperation and sharing. They are people who understand how to give and receive love, kindness, and warmth. Remarkably, nearly half of the members of this community have disabilities. Despite individual challenges, everyone diligently fulfills their roles and works together to support each other and build a sustainable life.

Living alongside passionate and loving individuals is a wonderful opportunity to experience a life of togetherness. It’s a chance to cultivate gratitude for everything around you.

 

Iceland is renowned for its diverse natural landscapes. The eco-village where this project is conducted is situated in a serene location with lush fields and forests.

Start each day with fresh air and enjoy a leisurely lifestyle with friends from around the world. Experience the happiness and fulfillment that come from building a life with your own hands, and find a renewed sense of purpose and relaxation in the midst of tranquility.

 

PROGRAM ACTIVITIES

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PROJECT ACTIVITIES

 

This project is a one-month experience where you live in an eco-village in southern Iceland and become a part of the community. Embrace a sustainable lifestyle by engaging in organic farming, utilizing geothermal energy, upcycling, and other environmentally conscious practices.

 

  • Activities will take place from 9 AM to 4 PM, five days a week, including a one-hour lunch break.
  • Workshops will be held 3 to 4 times a week, focusing on various environmental and volunteer-related topics to enhance awareness of environmental protection.

 

Main Activities Greenhouse Work - Planting, harvesting vegetables, weeding, landscaping, etc.
Village Maintenance - Painting and other necessary repairs, snow removal, etc.

* The above details are examples for understanding. The actual schedule and activities may vary depending on local conditions.

 

  • This project is highly dependent on weather conditions. Schedules may be adjusted based on local weather and conditions.

* Ever-changing Icelandic Weather!

Iceland is known for its highly variable weather, to the extent that there’s a saying, 'If you don’t like the weather in Iceland, just wait 5 minutes.'

As a result, the schedule may be adjusted based on local weather conditions. Please be flexible and open to changes for the sake of safety. With a positive attitude and by mingling with friends from around the world, you’re sure to have an enjoyable and memorable experience!

 

 

  • Enjoy a range of travel activities to experience the beauty of Iceland, such as the Golden Circle tour and South Coast tour. Explore Iceland's pristine natural environment up close with friends from around the world. Please note that additional costs may apply for activities on-site.
Activity Examples

Tours of Iceland’s natural landmarks including Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Skogafoss Waterfall, Solheimajokull Glacier, and Reynisfjara Beach (black sand beach).

* The above activities are examples for reference. Actual options may vary depending on local conditions and schedules.

 

* Experience Iceland's Unique Bathing Culture!

In Iceland, where bathing culture thrives with naturally occurring hot springs, nudity is quite common. You'll often see Icelanders bathing in hot springs without any clothing. Of course, you can also choose to wear a swimsuit if you prefer.

Though Icelandic culture may seem unfamiliar at first, embracing the local lifestyle with an open mind will deepen your understanding and connection with the country.

 

Additional Information

  • This project runs on specific dates throughout the year, and participants can choose an activity period between 4 and 12 weeks.
  • The project operates year-round, with start dates set for the first Monday of each month. Please contact us in advance for details.

 

English Proficiency Required ★★☆☆☆

  • Basic communication in English is required to interact with local staff and volunteers from around the world. Even if your English isn’t perfect, as long as you’re willing to overcome challenges and participate actively, you’re welcome!

Physical Fitness Required ★★☆☆☆

  • The project involves outdoor activities and adapting to Iceland’s unpredictable weather. It’s advisable to assess your fitness level before participating.

 

PROGRAM INCLUSIONS

SUPPORT

 

   Local Orientation    Online Orientation    Online Consultation    Local Institution Completion Certificate
   KGY Certification    Pre-Departure Care    KGY Consultation   KGY Mission
  24hr Emergency Care   Flight Ticket Booking Assistance   Real-Time Consultation Service  KGY Note Book
   Project and Participation Costs    KGY Mission Scholarship    OT Documents    Local Accommodation
   Round-trip Pickup Service Local Meals (Various Ingredients) Dedicated Local Manager  Local Activity Coordination
   Environmental Workshop     Golden Circle Tour   Supportive Camp Leader  

 

 

Detailed Support

■ Accommodation and Meals

  • Dormitory-style accommodation where you can interact and relax comfortably with volunteers from around the world.
  • Delicious local meals prepared with local ingredients and ingredients provided.
  • Common spaces to meet and socialize with international friends.

■ Project Activities

  • Safe pickup service to and from accommodation (round-trip, at designated meeting points in Reykjavik).
  • Comprehensive local orientation to help you adapt to life in Iceland.
  • A reliable local manager for support.
  • 24/7 emergency contact for immediate support in case of issues.
  • Travel tips to help you live like a local.

■ Care Services

  • Participant Dispatch Procedures: Project registration and dispatch process.
  • Orientation: Various information to ensure a successful gap year.
  • OT Materials: Guidelines for those traveling abroad for the first time.
  • Gap Year Notebook: A notebook to reflect on yourself during the gap year (▶ More Details)
  • Gap Year Mission

■ Certificates and Recommendations

  • Certificate of Volunteering from the local organization.
  • Participation Certificate and Activity Completion Certificate from Korea Gap Year.

* Certificates and recommendations from the local organization will be issued upon the participant's request after the project ends. Also, the format and issuance of these documents may vary according to the local organization’s requirements.

* Certificates and recommendations will be issued after the project is properly completed and feedback is submitted.

 

Exclusions

  • Round-trip airfare.
  • Other local expenses (overnight stays, dining out, transportation, etc.).
  • Individual travel insurance.

* Please book your airfare and transportation after final confirmation of the project participation and departure schedule.

PROGRAM PROVIDER INTRODUCTION

INSTITUTION INTRODUCTION

 

 

Our organization, established in 2001, is a non-profit dedicated to nature conservation and international exchange. We believe that by collaborating and building communities with people from different countries and cultures, we gain the strength to understand each other more deeply and work towards a common goal. We run various volunteer programs open to people from around the world, providing opportunities for many to actively participate in activities aimed at protecting the natural environment.

 

ACCOMMODATION

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ACCOMMODATION INTRODUCTION

 

 

Double Rooms / In-Room Bathrooms / Lunch Provided / Shared Kitchen / Free Wi-Fi

 

The on-site accommodation consists of four double rooms, each with its own bathroom. Volunteers from around the world will share the kitchen and other common spaces.

Breakfast is to be prepared individually, while lunch is provided in the cafeteria.

The organization will provide fresh and nutritious ingredients for dinner. Volunteers will prepare meals together in the shared kitchen, allowing them to share their recipes and enjoy a pleasant time.

Bed and sheets are provided, but volunteers should bring their own sleeping bags.

Free Wi-Fi is available at the accommodation.

Contact: koreagapyear@gmail.com, KakaoTalk @GapYear

 

PROGRAM LOCATION INTRODUCTION

LOCATION INTRODUCTION

 

Location:   Iceland

Embark on a journey to Iceland, a land that preserves its pristine natural beauty! Every year, numerous travelers from around the world visit Iceland to experience its diverse nature. Create your own special memories in Iceland, a place where even just gazing at the breathtaking landscapes can leave you speechless.

 

Recommended Destinations

01 Blue Lagoon

One of Iceland's most popular attractions, the Blue Lagoon is a massive spa where you can enjoy a relaxing hot spring bath. Located about 20 minutes from Keflavík Airport, many tourists visit the Blue Lagoon either when they arrive in Iceland or before they leave. Experience healing for both body and mind in the milky blue hot spring waters!

 

02 Reykjavik

Reykjavik, one of the few cities in Iceland surrounded by vast nature, is the capital of Iceland. Despite being the busiest city, its compact size makes it easy to explore on foot. Enjoy various delights such as visiting lakes and churches, spending evenings at bars with live music, or signing up for different tours and activities. Enjoy the city of Iceland to the fullest!

 

03 Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Located in western Iceland, Snæfellsnes, meaning 'peninsula of the snow-capped mountain,' derives its name from a volcano capped with ice. Known for its volcanic landscapes, glaciers, waterfalls, and coastlines, it's often referred to as a miniature Iceland. Enjoy the charm of its small and serene fishing villages! The Snæfellsnes Peninsula is also featured in the film "Journey to the Center of the Earth."

 

Participation Duration and Fees

SCHEDULE AND PRICES

 

■ Projects start on specified dates during the year.

■ The minimum participation period for this project is 4 weeks.

■ The costs below include project fees, accommodation, meals, and round-trip pickup service.

 

Duration Participation Fee
4 weeks 2,510,000
6 weeks 3,550,000
8 weeks 4,580,000
10 weeks 5,620,000
12 weeks 6,660,000

 

■ Eligibility and Requirements

  • Healthy adults aged 18 and over
  • Able to communicate in basic English
  • Interested in experiencing a communal living environment
  • Eager to create change with their own hands
  • Looking to heal amidst Iceland's nature
  • Prepared to adapt flexibly to various situations

 

 

 Gap Year Mission Scholarship (▶ Learn More)

 

 Installment Payment Information

For those who find it difficult to pay the full amount upfront, you can make an initial payment of 500,000 KRW. The remaining balance should be paid within 2 weeks. Once the initial payment is made, the process for confirming project participation will begin, and availability and spots will be checked. Early reservation is crucial for securing your desired dates and duration! (Refunds are not possible once participation is confirmed)

* Please note that if the start date is approaching, the schedule for the remaining balance payment may vary.

 

 Early Bird Discounts and Urgent Application Information

We recommend applying for all Gap Year projects at least 3 months before the project start date due to the standard procedures and preparation time. Applications should be submitted no later than 2 months before the project start date. However, if you need to apply urgently, you can pay an additional fee for the urgent application service to expedite the process. We will assist with the fastest processing possible.

* While we strive to expedite the process, there is always a basic amount of time required for communication with local agencies and confirmation of participation. All procedures will be carried out in the same manner as for regular participants, so those using the urgent application service must actively cooperate with the Gap Year Operations Team.

** Those who apply more than 180 days before the start date will receive an Early Bird discount.

*** The urgent application service can be selected from the options above. For inquiries regarding the urgent application service, please contact koreagapyear@gmail.com.

 

  

- Provided Services: Automatic application for Gap Year Mission and Notes / Full materials provided upon confirmation of participation / Additional urgent staffing / Support for document preparation if needed, etc.

* For those having difficulty calculating dates, please refer to Naver Date Calculator >> Naver Date Calculator

** Note: In cases of extremely urgent applications, there may be no available spots due to local circumstances, and the refund policy will apply as per Gap Year regulations. Also, any issues arising from participant non-cooperation will be the responsibility of the participant.

 

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Should you have any other inquiries, please don't hesitate to contact us via email (program@koreagapyear.com).
You can counsel with one of our staff in English or Korean.

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