Experience the Arctic Circle with a unique work exchange opportunity. Start Greenlandic dog volunteering In Norway – get all the details here:
Overview
- Location – Lakselv
- Host – Sandrine
- Duration: 21 days
- Minimum Age – 21+
- Available Spots – 2 helpers
- Weekly Hours – 25 hours
- Room Type – Double Private
- Meals – Full-board
- Nearest Airport – Banak Airport (LKL)
Are you ready for an unforgettable Arctic adventure? Visit their charming farm in Lakselv, where a family deeply passionate about nature and animals resides amidst the untamed wilderness.
There’s always plenty to do on a farm, and they would love to have you join them. Your primary responsibility will be caring for their pack of Greenlandic dogs. These magnificent creatures, closely related to wolves, have wonderful and pure souls. However, they are large and strong, requiring a certain level of strength to handle.
Helping on the ranch is physically demanding, especially during the exhausting Arctic winters, when the polar night shrouds everything in darkness for three months.
Staying with them isn’t just a leisurely holiday; it involves rigorous ranch and animal work. But rest assured, the experience will be one-of-a-kind, with ample free time to enjoy life’s pleasures.
If you’re passionate about dogs, the outdoors, and eager to learn new skills while immersing yourself in the fascinating world of mushing Greenlandics, you’ll be rewarded with lifelong memories and a profound connection with their wolf-like pack.
They value honesty, outgoing personalities, a love for big dogs, and comfort with handling meat. Nestled in nature’s embrace, the farm offers plenty of outdoor activities, from biking and mountain trekking to fishing, canoeing, and swimming. They provide most of the necessary equipment free of charge.
For moments of tranquility, you can gather around a bonfire by the river or venture to the mountains for breathtaking fjord views.
In winter, darkness pervades the day, while summer brings the enchanting midnight sun. It’s crucial that you’re not afraid of dogs, as theirs are cherished members of the family, and they treasure every moment spent with them.
The majority of your experiences here will unfold outdoors. You must embrace all weather conditions, even temperatures plummeting below -20 degrees Celsius.
Tasks
Your typical day includes watering and feeding the dogs, grooming and brushing them, cleaning and maintaining the dog yard, bicycling, walking, or skiing with the dogs, mushing with the dogs, and supervising the kennel.
You may also engage in gardening during the summer months, shoveling snow in the winter, woodcutting, assisting with work in the forest, various tasks on the farm, tending to the chickens, and maintaining their coop. Some cleaning assistance in the house may also be needed.
Accommodation
You will have your own cozy hut for accommodation. Although the hut doesn’t have a water connection, toilets and showers are conveniently located just a few meters away.
Despite this, the hut itself is modern, tidy, and features a 120 cm wide bed suitable for either a solo traveler or a couple.
Working hours typically range from 3 to 5 hours per day, with weekends off for relaxation. However, you’re welcome to join in on their private activities if you’re interested.
Given their rural location, there are ample opportunities for hiking and immersing yourself in the breathtaking natural surroundings.
Food will be provided for you, but due to their often long and unpredictable days, there may be occasions when you’ll need to prepare your meals independently.
Location
You have a couple of options for reaching them. You can fly directly to Lakselv, which is just a 10-minute drive from their location. Alternatively, you can fly to Alta or Ivalo, from where a bus can take you to Lakselv.
If you choose to fly to Lakselv, there are direct routes available from Oslo airport on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. On other days, you’ll need to connect through Tromsø to reach Lakselv. Once you arrive in Lakselv, they’ll be happy to pick you up.
Lakselv, a small village in Norway’s Finnmark region, is nestled in the heart of the Porsanger Peninsula. Known for its pristine natural beauty, Lakselv offers visitors a serene escape into the Arctic wilderness.
Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights in winter or basking in the Midnight Sun during summer, Lakselv is a destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Things to Do
In Lakselv, outdoor activities abound. In the summer, hiking and biking trails wind through stunning landscapes, offering breathtaking views of fjords and mountains. The Porsanger Fjord, one of Norway’s longest and most beautiful, is ideal for fishing, canoeing, or simply enjoying the tranquil waters.
If you visit in winter, you can experience the thrill of dog sledding, snowshoeing, or skiing across snow-covered terrains. Don’t miss the chance to witness the Northern Lights, which often dance across the sky on clear winter nights.
Local Culture
Lakselv is a gateway to understanding the Sami culture, the indigenous people of Northern Europe. You can learn about their traditions, handicrafts, and way of life at local cultural centers or by joining a Sami-guided tour. The area is also known for its rich history, including World War II sites and ancient rock carvings.
Where to Stay
Accommodations in Lakselv range from cozy cabins and lodges to modern hotels. Many lodgings offer a rustic charm that complements the natural surroundings, with options to stay close to nature, whether in a forested area or by the fjord.
When To Visit
The best time to visit Lakselv depends on your interests. Summer, from June to August, is perfect for enjoying long days and mild weather, ideal for hiking, fishing, and exploring the fjords.
Winter, from December to February, is for those seeking a true Arctic experience, with the opportunity to see the Northern Lights, go dog sledding, and enjoy the snowy landscape.
Lakselv offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Norway’s Arctic.
More Information
They welcome creative individuals who have a passion for animals and a knack for recognizing what needs to be done. Whether you’re a crafty artisan or someone with a strong sense of independence, this is the ideal environment to unleash your creativity and contribute to their endeavors.
If you’re visiting as a couple or with friends, there may be occasions when they require assistance in different areas simultaneously. This means you should be prepared to work independently from your partner or friend when necessary.
