11 Things to Know Before You WWOOF – WWOOFer Volunteer Learn on Organic Farms

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WWOOF – If you’re looking for a more sustainable way of traveling and experiencing new cultures, then you might want to discover WWOOFing. Wwoof organizations are separate entities and national wwoof organizations are separate as well depending on where you go. Wwoofers are a community conscious of ecological farming motivated to learn to be part of wwoofing. Know about wwoofing and is wwoof worth it? 

After volunteering for five days on an Argentine chacra (small farm) — complete with ultra fresh meals and a bit of farming work in a picture perfect setting. I’ve learned a good bit about WWOOF and WWOOFing (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms). In retrospect, there are a few things I wish I would have known before going.

It’s a volunteer program that allows travelers to work on organic farms in exchange for accommodation, food, and a chance to learn about sustainable living and working on an organic farm. With wwoofing is the best way, you can spend time in different countries, meet new people, and get hands-on experience in farming and agriculture. The program is available in many countries around the world (130 countries) like the USA, Like France. Farm is located from Europe to Asia to South America, so there is definitely a destination that suits your interest.

WWOOFing can also help you save money as you won’t have to spend much on accommodation and food. Moreover, WWOOFing is an excellent opportunity to learn about sustainable living and promote eco-friendly practices. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, you can surely discover the joys of WWOOFing and make a positive impact on the environment and the local community.

If you want to travel the world, wwoofing is the best to also work around the world on many farms property. Your first wwoofing experience will introduce you to the global movement of wwoofing adventure and an opportunity to learn a new language via your wwoofing experience.

What is WWOOF?

WWOOF stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms. It is a network that connects individuals, also known as WWOOFers, with organic farms in various parts of the world. WWOOFing is a global community of people who are passionate about sustainable agriculture and living off the land. WWOOF stands for “World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms,” and it connects volunteers with host farms in over 130 countries around the world.

WWOOFers work on host farms in exchange for room and board, and they have the opportunity to learn about organic farming practices, sustainable living, and different cultures. WWOOFing is a great way to travel the world, learn new skills, and meet new people who share your passion for sustainability.

WWOOF offers a unique opportunity for individuals who want to learn about organic farming, gain hands-on experience, and travel to different parts of the world. In exchange for their work, WWOOFers receive accommodation and food from the host farms. WWOOFing is an excellent way to learn about sustainable agriculture and to get a taste of the farming lifestyle.

The program is open to people of all ages, backgrounds, and nationalities. To become a member of WWOOF, individuals must sign up on their respective country’s website and pay a membership fee. Once registered, they can search for host farms in regions they are interested in and connect with them directly. WWOOF encourages cultural exchange and respects each farm’s unique way of life and farming practices. It is an excellent way to travel sustainably, make meaningful connections, and gain valuable learning experiences.

All about WWOOFing Around the World
All about WWOOFing Around the World

WWOOFing: The Best Way to Travel the World, Live and Learn About Organic Farming

WWOOFing, or Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms, is a global community of people who are passionate about sustainable agriculture and living off the land. WWOOFers work on host farms in exchange for room and board, and they have the opportunity to learn about organic farming practices, sustainable living, and different cultures.

WWOOFing is a great way to travel the world, learn new skills, and meet new people who share your passion for sustainability. Here are a few of the benefits of WWOOFing:

  1. Learn about organic farming: WWOOFers have the opportunity to learn about organic farming practices from experienced farmers. This is a great way to learn about the different methods of growing food without using pesticides or herbicides.
  2. Meet new people: WWOOFing is a great way to meet new people from all over the world. You’ll get to meet other people who are passionate about sustainable living, and you’ll make lifelong friends.
  3. Explore new cultures: WWOOFing is a great way to explore new cultures. You’ll get to live and work on farms in different countries, and you’ll learn about the local culture and way of life.

If you’re interested in WWOOFing, there are a few things you need to do to get started. First, you need to join a WWOOF organization. There are WWOOF organizations in over 130 countries around the world. Once you’ve joined a WWOOF organization, you can browse through a list of host farms in your desired location.

When you find a host farm that you’re interested in, you’ll need to contact the host and arrange a stay. The host will usually ask you to fill out a short application form, and they may also want to interview you over the phone.

Once you’ve been accepted by a host farm, you’ll need to book your travel and make arrangements for your stay. WWOOF organizations can often provide you with helpful tips and advice on planning your trip.

Things to Know Before You WWOOF

Overall, the number one thing to ask yourself before you choose a volunteer program is “why do I want to do this?” Your answer, be it “I spent all my money and need to live for free until my plane ticket home” or “I want to know how to garden” or “I want a different experience,” should help you figure out what type of farm you want and how long you want to stay. If you’re considering volunteering on a farm, read this first.

How does WWOOF work?

WWOOF is an international organization that connects volunteers with organic farms. It works on the principle of volunteering, where volunteers offer their services for four to six hours a day in exchange for free room and board. The membership is mandatory to participate in WWOOFing, which is an agreement between a volunteer and a farm. The membership fee varies for each country, and it offers access to a database where farms that require volunteers can be found. The joint membership is also available for a discounted rate for couples and families.

Members could find farms of their interest, communicate with the farmers through the messaging system, and read reviews from other volunteers to make informed decisions. WWOOFing offers an excellent opportunity for volunteers to learn new skills and experience the culture of different countries while also contributing to organic farming. The farms also benefit from the work of the volunteers. On average, volunteers work for six hours, but farmers could also request more or less time depending on their needs. Overall, WWOOFing is a great way to travel, learn, and share knowledge while also having free room and board.

How to WWOOF

To WWOOF, you first need to join a WWOOF organization. There are several WWOOF organizations around the world, and each one has its own website and membership fees. Once you’ve joined a WWOOF organization, you can browse through a list of host farms in your desired location.

When you find a host farm that you’re interested in, you’ll need to contact the host and arrange a stay. The host will usually ask you to fill out a short application form, and they may also want to interview you over the phone.

Once you’ve been accepted by a host farm, you’ll need to book your travel and make arrangements for your stay. WWOOF organizations can often provide you with helpful tips and advice on planning your trip.

What to Expect When WWOOFing

WWOOFing experiences can vary greatly, depending on the host farm and the location. However, there are some things that you can generally expect when WWOOFing.

You’ll be working on a farm, so you’ll need to be prepared for hard work.
You’ll be living with the host family, so you’ll have the opportunity to learn about their culture and way of life.
You’ll be eating organic food, and you’ll have the chance to learn about sustainable farming practices.
You’ll meet other WWOOFers from all over the world, and you’ll make lifelong friends.

It’s Not All Farm Work WWOOFer

While we spent most of our time weeding the garden, preparing meals, and cleaning up, there was more to do at our farm than just garden and clean. Several people taught English lessons and the week after we left volunteers started making herbal remedies and building adobe bricks.

best places to WWOOF USA
best places to WWOOF

How do I become a WWOOFer?

Becoming a WWOOFer is a great opportunity for individuals who want to experience a unique type of travel. To become a wwoofer, the first step is to visit the wwoof organization website and select the particular WWOOF country in which you wish to work. Once that has been done, and after you have read and accepted the commitments and guidelines of the Federation of WWOOF, you may create a membership account by paying the membership fee. The fee differs from country to country, but it usually ranges from around $20 to $50. There is also the option of a joint membership with someone else for a discounted price.

After you have paid the fee, you gain access to the organization database with information about the many hosts around the world who offer their land for work exchanges. Once you have found a place you would like to WWOOF, you need to contact the host directly and arrange your stay. It is important to remember that each particular WWOOF organization functions independently. So, it is highly recommended to read the guidelines and requirements of the WWOOF organization in the country where you would like to become a WWOOFer.

As a WWOOFer, you commit to opportunity

As a WWOOFer, you commit to being a volunteer worker on an organic farm through the WWOOF organization. To do so, you must obtain a WWOOF membership and pay the membership fee to gain access to the list of organic farms available for volunteering. WWOOF stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms and it connects volunteers, or WWOOFers, with organic farmers around the world who are committed to sustainable farming practices.

By wwoofing, you are committing to participating in the daily tasks of an organic farm. This could include harvesting crops, tending to livestock, or maintaining the farm’s infrastructure. In exchange for your work on the farm, you receive room and board from the farmer. 

WWOOFing is a great way to travel and learn about sustainable farming practices. You not only get hands-on experience, but you also get to meet likeminded people who are passionate about organic agriculture. As a WWOOFer, you contribute to a movement that aims to promote organic agriculture and healthy food systems around the world.

How many hours can WWOOFers participate?

WWOOFers can participate for varying lengths of time depending on the farm where they are working. They do so in a free and voluntary manner and are not paid for their work. Typically, WWOOFers work around 4-6 hours per day, 5-6 days per week. However, these hours can differ from country to country and farm to farm. It is best to check with the national WWOOF organization and the individual farm to find out the specific requirements. The WWOOF organization helps connect volunteers with farms in exchange for room and board.

It is important for both the WWOOFer and the farm to tailor each agreement to their personal needs and abilities, ensuring that the volunteer has a positive experience and the farm receives the necessary help. WWOOFers can participate for just a few weeks or even several months, depending on the duration of the farming season and the needs of the farm. Overall, volunteering as a WWOOFer offers a unique opportunity to learn about sustainable agriculture while experiencing a new culture and way of life.

You Don’t Have to Work Long Hours

Because some farms don’t need all the volunteers they have at one time, or if you are paying for part of your stay, you don’t necessarily have to work long 8+ hour farming days. If you want to spend part of your time on the farm relaxing or hiking around the area, look for a WWOOF experience that will allow you to pay a bit. And as Kimberly mentioned in her post, at our chacra everyone got weekends off.

Volunteering on a Farm Doesn’t Always Mean Free Rent

A lot of people assume that if you volunteer on a farm you will get room and board. This isn’t always the case. Because we only stayed five days and worked 4 hour days, we contributed for meals and our room. Another couple on the farm was staying for several weeks, but didn’t want to work 8 hour days so they paid for food. Farming isn’t always lucrative, so even if you work for months with long hours you may still be asked to pay. In Argentina this could be $2-$10/day if you work full time; we paid about $20/day for room and board.

Is WWOOF a vacation, a job, or an internship?

WWOOF is a program designed to connect willing volunteers with organic farms around the world. It’s a way for people to explore and learn about farming, or just experience life in a rural setting. Whether it’s considered a vacation, a job, or an internship is up to the individual participant. WWOOFing can provide many opportunities that feel like a vacation, such as working with animals or in beautiful natural settings. However, it is also a job in the sense that participants are expected to work a certain number of hours each day.

Some may also view it as an internship since it provides hands-on experience and the opportunity to learn from experienced farmers. The experience of WWOOFing varies depending on the country in which you choose to participate. In the USA, WWOOFing often involves travelling to different farms and experiencing the different regions of the country. In France, on the other hand, participants often stay with one farm for an extended period of time, really immersing themselves in the culture and becoming a part of the farm community. Overall, WWOOF can be seen as a unique combination of vacation, job, and internship, with the WWOOF organization acting as a connector between willing volunteers and organic farms around the world.

The Longer You Stay the More You’ll See – You Can Stay for Weeks or Months

Because of timing with the rest of our trip in Argentina, we were only able to stay 5 days. I wish we could have stayed longer. Some people on our farm had been there a month and had no plans to leave anytime soon.

It may seem obvious that if you stay for a longer period of time you will get to see how the farm changes throughout the seasons. For some reason I thought this would only happen if you stayed months, but people who had been on our farm only a week were excited to see how much the basil grew. And even in our time there the newborn kittens opened their eyes.

Accommodations Vary

We stayed in a private room on the farm, while others slept in tents. Another WWOOF from a nearby chacra told us his farm didn’t have electricity.

Fresh Food is Incredible

Kimberly and I participate in CSA farm shares and shop at farmers markets, and when I was little I managed to grow a few ears of corn and a couple of potatoes one summer. But there’s something different when you’re helping grow the food you eat. It tastes so much better.

Area Around the Farm Matters

We were lucky to be within hiking distance of a national park, lake, and waterfall. The nearest town was also within walking distance and there was a larger town (El Bolson) reachable via bus, taxi, or hitchhiking. If you’re thinking about WWOOF, I would definitely recommend considering what else is in the area.

People (and Animals) Made Our Experience

If we had just been on a farm by ourselves, the experience would have been completely different. Getting to know the other volunteers and the family who owned the farm made our time so much better. If you’re thinking about WWOOF find out who else might be there. Also, our farm had three adorable (but slightly mischievous) dogs, two cats (and three newborn kittens), and three horses. It was so much fun to see these animals interact with each other and with us.

We Spoke in English

Because they other volunteers were from English speaking countries the farm owner spoke English, we spent the majority of our time communicating in English.

Steps to go WWOOFing

 If you are interested in becoming a WWOOFer, there are a few steps you need to follow. Firstly, you will need to visit the WWOOF organization website and select the particular WWOOF you wish to join. Next, you will need to purchase a membership fee, which allows you to become a WWOOFer and access the WWOOF database. In some countries, you can purchase joint membership if you are traveling with a partner or friend.

Once you have paid the fee, you can start browsing through the many WWOOF opportunities available in your desired place. You can communicate with hosts and apply for the positions that interest you the most. It is important to note that the WWOOF organization is a federation of WWOOF organizations in various countries, and each particular WWOOF has its own requirements and guidelines for joining.

Additionally, some WWOOF opportunities may require specific skills, languages, or physical fitness levels, so it is essential to read the descriptions carefully before applying. Overall, becoming a WWOOFer can be a rewarding experience that allows you to learn about sustainable living and connect with like-minded individuals.

Become a WWOOFer Membership in Three Steps

If you are interested in sustainable living, organic farming, or just want to learn more about the agricultural lifestyle, becoming a wwoofer might be the right opportunity for you. WWOOF stands for Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms, and it is a program in which volunteers can work on a farm or homestead in exchange for accommodation and food. To become a wwoofer, you need to follow three simple steps.

  1. First, join wwoof and create a profile on the WWOOF website of the country you would like to visit.
  2. Second, search for a farm or homestead that suits your interests and availability.
  3. Third, contact the host to arrange the details of your stay.

As a wwoofer, you will have the opportunity to learn about farm work, sustainable practices, and organic farming. You might be required to help with tasks such as planting, weeding, harvesting, watering, or taking care of animals. However, you will also have time to explore the area, meet new people, and learn about the local culture. By becoming a wwoofer, you will not only have a unique experience, but you will also be contributing to a sustainable lifestyle and supporting local farmers.

Start Planning with the WWOOF International Website

I visited the Argentina WWOOF site when considering volunteer and farming options, but I wasn’t sure how helpful it would be and I didn’t want to pay the membership fee to find out. Instead I spent hours reading blogs and Googling “volunteer Argentina”, “wwoof Italy”, “wwoof Germany” and “wwoof Korea”. That’s how I eventually came across Chacra Millalen. Turns out, everyone else we volunteered with had found the chacra through the WWOOF site. I would have saved a lot of time had I used the WWOOF site in the first place.

Top Questions about WWOOFing

If you are interested in sustainable farming practices, organic food production, and experiencing different cultures, then you may be interested in volunteering as a WWOOFer.

One of the top questions about WWOOFing is what it actually means. WWOOF stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms, and WWOOFing is the act of actively volunteering at a farm associated with the WWOOF organization.

Another common question is how to find WWOOF hosts. To locate a host, WWOOFers must register for a membership and access the host list available for their chosen country. To ensure that the experience is positive, it is highly recommended that WWOOFers read member reviews of hosts before making arrangements. One must be able to adapt to farm life and work physically demanding tasks, which can be another concern.

Just as with any volunteer experience, it is important to have an open mind and be prepared to fully immerse yourself in the experience. WWOOFing can be a rewarding opportunity that allows volunteers to learn about sustainable living practices, gain new skills, and make connections with like-minded individuals. If you are interested in global travel and living sustainably, you may want to consider WWOOFing for your next adventure. 

Is WWOOF safe?

WWOOF, or World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms, is a program that connects volunteers with organic farmers across the globe. But the question is, is WWOOF safe? While WWOOFing can be an extremely rewarding and unique opportunity, it’s important to do research before committing. A good first step is to read reviews from past volunteers, as they can provide valuable insights and tips. Additionally, it’s important to thoroughly research the farm and its practices to ensure that it aligns with your values and safety standards.

While accidents can happen on any farm, WWOOF has safety guidelines in place to protect volunteers. However, it’s always important to prioritize your own safety and well-being while volunteering with WWOOF. It’s recommended to have a trusted friend or family member aware of your whereabouts and to communicate frequently with them while volunteering. Overall, WWOOFing can be a safe and enriching experience, but it’s crucial to do your due diligence beforehand to ensure a positive experience.

Is it possible to go WWOOFing with children?

It is definitely possible to go WWOOFing with children, but it can be a bit more challenging than going as a solo WWOOFer. WWOOFing is a fantastic way to experience farm life, make new friends, and learn valuable skills. However, bringing children along means that you will have to consider things like child-friendly accommodations, age-appropriate farm work, and supervision. It’s important to find the right farm and place to stay that can accommodate your family’s needs.

As a WWOOF member, you can search listings for farms that are suitable for families. Some farms may offer play areas or activities for children, while others may not be suitable at all. Before committing to a farm, be sure to communicate your needs with the host. It’s also important to note that some WWOOF hosts may not accept families due to limitations on accommodation or the type of work required. If you do happen to find a suitable farm for your family, be prepared for a unique and rewarding experience that you and your children will never forget.

What to pack for WWOOFing

If you are planning to go WWOOFing, it is important to pack appropriately to ensure a comfortable and successful experience. Firstly, make sure you have sturdy work gloves, sturdy shoes or boots, and practical clothes that can handle outdoor work and dirty tasks. You may also want to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring items such as insect repellent and a first aid kit with any necessary prescriptions. Depending on the type of WWOOFing you will be doing, you may need to pack a sleeping bag or camping gear as some hosts may only be able to provide basic accommodation.

Don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle and a refillable cooking container to reduce waste and make sure you have enough snacks and meals for the days you will be working. Finally, it is essential to be prepared mentally and emotionally for the challenges of WWOOFing and the possibility of living in close quarters with other people. Bring books, journals, or other items that will help you pass the time and keep you entertained during your downtime. Overall, your packing list should reflect both your personal needs and the expectations of the WWOOF farm you will be visiting. Regardless, be sure to keep your pack light so as not to weigh down your journey.

What is WWOOF Independents?

WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) is a global organization that connects volunteers with organic farmers and growers. WWOOFers typically work for several hours a day in exchange for food and accommodation. However, for those who prefer to be more self-sufficient and independent, there is WWOOF Independents. This program allows individuals to bypass the WWOOF host list and create their own arrangements with organic farms and gardens.

WWOOF Independents opens the door to a wider range of farms and areas, providing WWOOFers with more flexibility and freedom to choose where and how they want to volunteer. Participants can choose to work with small family farms, cooperatives, community gardens, or independent growers. WWOOFing through WWOOF Independents allows volunteers to take more control of their experience, whether that means seeking out a specific type of farm or prioritizing a certain learning experience. By giving WWOOFers more autonomy, WWOOF Independents empowers individuals to take charge of their own volunteering adventures and forge unique and meaningful connections with communities and traditions around the world.

Discover WWOOFing Tips

Here are a few tips for WWOOFing:

  • Do your research. Before you book your trip, make sure you do your research and find a host farm that is a good fit for you. Read the host’s profile carefully, and contact them to ask questions.
  • Be prepared to work hard. WWOOFing is not a vacation. You will be expected to work on the farm, and you will be expected to work hard.
  • Be open-minded. WWOOFing is a great way to learn about different cultures and different ways of life. Be open-minded and willing to experience new things.
  • Have fun! WWOOFing can be a lot of fun. Meet new people, learn new skills, and explore the world.

If you’re looking for a unique and rewarding way to travel the world, WWOOFing is a great option. With WWOOFing, you can learn about organic farming, meet new people from all over the world, and explore new cultures. So what are you waiting for? Start your WWOOFing adventure today!

Why WWOOF and World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms?

There are many reasons why people choose to WWOOF. Some people are interested in learning about organic farming, while others are looking for a way to travel the world on a budget. Still others are simply looking for a new and exciting experience.

Whatever your reason for WWOOFing, you’re sure to have a rewarding experience. WWOOFing is a great way to learn new skills, meet new people, and explore the world.

wwoof farm land with house
wwoof farm land with house

Want to learn more about WWOOFing?

Check out these books: The Practical Guide to WWOOFing, Volunteer Vacations, and Work Your Way Around the World: The Globetrotter’s Bible.

Wwoofing is an increasingly popular way to travel and experience a different culture while doing something meaningful. It stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms, and involves volunteers helping out with organic farming activities in exchange for food and accommodation.

Wwoofing can be a great way to get to know the local culture, learn about organic produce, and get some hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture. However, it’s important to make sure that you know what you’re getting into before committing to a wwoofing agreement. It’s best to tailor each agreement depending on where you go, as the rules and expectations vary from place to place.

Despite the potential challenges of wwoofing, many people find it an incredibly rewarding experience that is well worth their time and effort. With the right motivation and preparation, wwoofers can have amazing experiences while making a positive impact on local communities around the world.

We are currently planning on our next wwoof volunteer adventure and are excited to see another part of the world from this unique vantage point.

WWOOFing Stories

Wwoofing is an amazing opportunity to travel and explore the world while learning new skills and meeting people from different cultures. It is a great way to get off the beaten path and experience something new. Wwoofing stands for World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms and it is a global network of organic farms that offer volunteers the chance to work in exchange for food, accommodation, and learning about organic farming. Depending on where you go, you can learn about sustainable living, permaculture, animal husbandry, cheese-making, winemaking, beekeeping or even just helping out with daily farm chores. It’s a great way to be part of a global community conscious of ecological sustainability while getting to know yourself better in the process. Wwoofing can be a life-changing experience that is well worth your time!

Here are a few stories from people who have WWOOFed:

  1. “I WWOOFed in France for two months, and it was one of the best experiences of my life. I learned so much about organic farming, and I made some amazing friends. I would definitely recommend WWOOFing to anyone who is interested in sustainable living.” – Sarah
  2. “I WWOOFed in Germany for a week, and it was a great way to see the country and meet some locals. I worked on a dairy farm, and I learned a lot about how milk is produced. I would definitely recommend WWOOFing to anyone who is interested in learning about different cultures.” – John
  3. “I WWOOFed in the USA for a month, and it was a great way to see the country and meet some other people who are passionate about sustainability. I worked on a farm that grew organic vegetables, and I learned a lot about how to grow food without using pesticides. I would definitely recommend WWOOFing to anyone who is interested in learning about sustainable agriculture.” – Jane