WWOOFing is one of the most rewarding ways to explore Canada, meet new people, and gain hands-on farming experience. From planting vegetables in Quebec to tending sheep on the Prairies or harvesting fruit in British Columbia, WWOOF Canada connects volunteers with farms that are eager to share their knowledge and lifestyle.
If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and dive in, here’s a step-by-step guide to getting started.
Step 1: Learn About WWOOFing
Before you begin, it helps to get familiar with what WWOOFing is all about. Start by reading through the Become a WWOOFer page, which lays out the basics of the program. Next, browse the WWOOFer Welcome Package resources, with a diversity of articles and videos on a variety of WWOOF topics. Finally, find answers to your remaining burning questions at the monthly WWOOFing 101 webinar.
Step 2: Become a WWOOF Canada Member
Membership is your key to the community. Head to the Sign-up page on wwoof.ca and purchase your membership.* This will give you access to the host community list and the ability to contact farms across the country.
Once you’ve joined, complete your WWOOFer profile. Share a short description of yourself, your WWOOFing plans, and the farming practices or experiences that interest you most. A thoughtful, complete profile makes it easier for hosts to see if you’ll be a good fit.
*If you need to apply for a visa, it’s a good idea to get your approval before you get your membership
Step 3: Find Hosts That Inspire You
With your membership in hand, it’s time to explore the host community list. Use filters to search by location, type of farm, or agricultural practices. Carefully review host profiles, paying attention to descriptions, reviews from past WWOOFers, and photos.
When you find farms that interest you, favourite them so you can return to the list easily. Aim to select three to five hosts that you’d like to contact.
Step 4: Reach Out to Hosts
Once you’ve narrowed your list, read each profile carefully again and send personalized introductory messages to your chosen hosts — introduce yourself, explain why their farm caught your attention, and mention what you hope to learn.
Once you start a dialogue, ask good questions about their daily routine, expectations, and accommodations. This can be done through messages, but experienced WWOOFers know it’s best done during a video call where you can meet the host face-to-face.
Finally, don’t forget to Confirm your Visit Request with the host you’ve chosen, and politely cancel any requests with hosts who weren’t the right fit. This keeps communication clear and respectful for everyone.
Step 5: Make Your Travel Plans
After Confirming with your host, it’s time to sort out the other logistics. Arrange transportation to and from the farm (ex. booking flights, bus transportation), clarify any additional details, and confirm arrival times. Some WWOOFers also reach out to others in the WWOOFer Community List to coordinate ride-shares or plan meetups.
Step 6: Pack Your Bags
Pack clothes and footwear suitable for farm work, along with any personal items you’ll need for the length of your stay. Bring travel funds and extra spending money, along with your ID. And make sure that you have your visa organized. But a positive, flexible attitude is your most important “gear”—WWOOFing is about learning, sharing, and being part of a community.
Step 7: Dive Into the Experience
When you arrive, jump in with curiosity and enthusiasm. You might be planting seeds, weeding gardens, milking goats, or cooking meals. Every farm is different, and that’s part of the joy. By giving your energy and time, you’ll receive not only food and accommodation but also skills, friendships, and memories that last long after your stay.
Why WWOOF in Canada?
WWOOFing in Canada isn’t just about volunteering—it’s about being part of a movement. You’ll support small farms, gain hands-on agricultural skills, and connect with people who care deeply about the land and food. At a time when Canada faces a farmer succession crisis, WWOOFing offers young Canadians a first taste of farm life and the possibility of a future in sustainable agriculture.
Whether you’re looking for an affordable way to travel, a meaningful gap year, or simply a new adventure close to home, WWOOFing opens the door.