How to Work on Organic Farms Worldwide

Are you interested in learning about sustainable practices, and immersing yourself in a new culture? If so, you’re not alone. Many people are drawn to the idea of living and working on an organic farm, but they’re not sure where to start. That’s where Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms comes in. This global movement connects visitors, or WWOOFers, with organic farmers around the world, promoting a cultural and educational exchange and building a global community conscious of ecological farming and sustainability practices. We’ll walk you through the process of becoming a WWOOFer, from choosing a host country to creating a profile and arranging your stay.

What Is WWOOF?

Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is a global movement that began 50 years ago. It has grown from a small group in the 1970s to a worldwide community of hundreds of thousands of people today. As a WWOOFer, you will participate in the daily life of your host, help on the farm, learn about sustainability, experience a new culture, and meet new people. In return, you will receive free room and board during your stay.

As a host, you will open your home to receive visitors who want to connect with organic food, farming, and support the sustainability movement. WWOOF is organized nationally, so to join, you’ll need to select the country you’re interested in from the map and get growing.

Choosing a Host Country

WWOOF operates on a national basis, so the first step in your journey is to choose the country you wish to visit. This could be anywhere from Viken in Norway to Khoon Sab in Thailand. Once you’ve chosen your country, you can preview the host list for that country and choose a WWOOF host that suits you.

Remember, your membership will give you access to a specific WWOOF organization, so choose wisely. Consider factors such as the country’s culture, language, climate, and the type of farming practices you’re interested in learning about.

Creating a Profile

Once you’ve chosen your host country, the next step is to create a profile. This is your chance to introduce yourself to potential hosts, so be sure to include information about your interests, skills, and why you’re interested in WWOOFing. Remember, this is a cultural and educational exchange, so hosts will be looking for visitors who are genuinely interested in learning about organic farming and sustainable living.

Once your profile is complete, you can start contacting hosts. Be sure to communicate honestly and share your expectations for the stay. This will help ensure a positive experience for both you and your host.

Arranging Your Stay

After you’ve chosen a host and they’ve accepted your request, it’s time to arrange the details of your stay. This includes the dates of your visit, what work you’ll be doing on the farm, and any other details that need to be sorted out. Remember, communication is key. Be sure to discuss any dietary restrictions, allergies, or other special requirements you may have.

Once the details are arranged, all that’s left is to pack your bags and embark on your WWOOFing adventure. You’ll be participating in the everyday life of your host, learning new skills, and sharing your own experiences. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, learn about sustainable farming practices, and contribute to the global sustainability movement.