WWOOF is built on the spirit of mutual respect, cultural exchange, and shared learning. With thousands of stays happening every year, it’s heartening that most go smoothly. However, every now and then, things don’t go as planned — and it’s important we talk about it.
When Things Go Wrong
While complaints are few compared to the number of positive interactions, we have recently received reports highlighting avoidable issues such as:
-WWOOFers being asked to work 5-6 hours a day, 7 days a week.
-Stressed hosts showing verbal impatience or unkindness.
-WWOOFers not showing up, or treating the experience like a B&B stay.
-Visitors not understanding they are entering someone’s home, and rural farming life.
WWOOFing means co-existing with strangers, embracing different cultures, age groups, and perspectives. This requires tolerance, adaptability, and understanding. Mutual respect is the heart of the WWOOFing experience.
WWOOFers: Honouring Your Commitments
When you confirm a stay, please understand that hosts make real preparations — from stocking up on food to planning projects and turning away other applicants. Cancelling last-minute or failing to turn up not only causes inconvenience but also damages trust in the network.
We ask that you:
-Communicate clearly and promptly.
-Honour your commitments or give plenty of notice if plans change.
-Be prepared for farm life — it’s not always glamorous, but it’s real and rewarding.
Remember, you’re a guest in someone’s home and joining in with their everyday life. Things may be different from what you’re used to. WWOOF stays can be lively and a little messy- don’t be surprised by early mornings, muddy boots, noisy animals, or casual farm banter. That’s everyday farming life as part of the experience.
Hosts: Communicating Matters
Some WWOOFers have reached out, disappointed by a lack of responses from hosts. We understand you’re busy — but even a short reply, such as “Sorry, we’re full right now,” goes a long way.
A few tips to help manage expectations:
-We recommend 20-25 hours per week as fair. (This is negotiable between you and your WWOOFer – it could be less or a little more),
-Use your availability calendar to show when you’re open, full or unavailable.
-Consider hiding your profile during your off-season or when having an extended break. You can do this under Profile Settings in the dropdown menu. Click on Display to make yourself unavailable. You can switch to be visible again at anytime.
Stressed hosts aren’t happy hosts, so it’s important to know your limits. Hosting takes energy—giving tours of your property, explaining how things work, cooking meals, answering questions, and just being present. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or low on patience, it’s okay to take a break. A good experience starts with a kind and welcoming host.