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Overview of Volunteer Programs in Kenya

The first thing that might pop to mind when thinking of Kenya are lions, zebras and leopards. However, this vast country has much more to offer. With 40 national parks and reserves scattered around the country, Kenya features almost every landscape and activity that you can imagine and it will suit any type of traveler’s palette.

Undeniably, safaris are the core of tourism in Kenya, but you might also venture in deeper and discover the Maasai, a semi-nomadic tribe known for its color-filled adornments. Nairobi is a great city to explore, with its bustling nightlife and unique vibes. For those who love nature, a visit to the Great Rift Valley is a must. And for those who enjoy relaxing at the beach, Kenya’s coastal area covers almost 80,000 square kilometers and remains sun-filled during most of the year!

WHY VOLUNTEER IN KENYA

By participating in volunteer work in Kenya, you’ll actively contribute to crucial projects in education, healthcare, wildlife conservation, or community development, directly improving the lives of local communities while forging deep connections with the Kenyan people. Your efforts will not only create positive change but also broaden your global perspective and understanding of diverse cultures.

Kenya’s stunning landscapes, from the iconic savannahs of Maasai Mara to the serene shores of Lake Victoria, create a backdrop for unforgettable adventures. Beyond your volunteer commitments, you can embark on thrilling safaris to witness Africa’s incredible wildlife, engage in vibrant local markets, and immerse yourself in the traditions and rituals of indigenous communities. Volunteering in Kenya is an opportunity to leave a lasting impact, explore the wonders of the African continent and gain a sense of fulfillment making a difference in the lives of others.

HIGHLIGHTS OF VOLUNTEERING IN KENYA

Here are just a few of the best things about volunteer work in Kenya:

  • Contribute to projects focused on environmental conservation, such as reforestation, wildlife rehabilitation, and promoting sustainable practices that preserve Kenya’s biodiversity.
  • Collaborate with local artisans to learn about traditional crafts such as batik, wood carving, and traditional dance, gaining insights into Kenya’s rich artistic heritage.
  • Participate in colorful festivals and celebrations that showcase Kenya’s traditions, rituals, and folklore, providing a unique window into the country’s cultural fabric.
  • Volunteering in Kenya offers personal growth, expanding your global awareness, empathy, and appreciation for the beauty of both the natural world and the communities you serve.

Our Kenya Volunteer Projects

Browse all of our volunteer projects in Kenya below. If you can’t find a suitable volunteer program, check out our main program finder to continue your search for volunteering beyond Kenya.

Volunteer Abroad
Kenya

Teaching Assistant Volunteer in Nakuru, Kenya

You will be placed in a local school in the community, assisting students and staff with English and other subjects through tasks that allow practice and creativity. Most children in rural areas in Kenya rarely have the chance to practice English outside of the school setting, despite the language being one of the official languages of Kenya.

Teaching Assistant Volunteer in Nakuru, Kenya

You will be placed in a local school in the community, assisting students and staff with English and other subjects through tasks that allow practice and creativity. Most children in rural areas in Kenya rarely have the chance to practice English outside of the school setting, despite the language being one of the official languages of Kenya. Interacting and speaking English with them can benefit their learning and increase their confidence with the language. You are welcome to provide new ideas that promote an exchange of cultures and conversations between you, fellow participants, staff and students. Volunteers are encouraged to arrange activities for your classes in an informal way, incor

Location

About Nakuru

Nakuru town located in west-central kenya lies on the north shore of Lake Nakuru and is home to approximately 500,000 inhabitants, making it one of the largest urban centers in Kenya. Once a center for European activity, this region is now associated with a flourishing manufacturing industry, busy commercial shopping centers and important agricultural initiatives.

About Gatanga Village

Gatanga Village will be your new home and will give you the chance to see authentic rural Kenya. Close by is Thika, an industrial town and Nairobi is not too far either. You can visit either during, the weekend for nights out or sightseeing. Likewise, there are many natural areas in close proximity to Gatanga, such as Ndakaini Dam, Fourteen Falls , a set of waterfalls that will leave you awestruck.

Dates & costs

The World Endeavors Volunteer in Kenya program is flexible in duration and can be tailored to last between 1 to 12 weeks. If you have the time, we recommend a stay of at least 4 weeks. Admissions are rolling, and World Endeavors volunteers can choose when they would like to start their program. Due to holidays, traditional vacation schedules, and seasonal work availability, there might be better times than others to volunteer at a specific location or in a specific project.

When you are ready to start planning your volunteer trip to Kenya contact us. Our experienced advisors will help you sort through any timing considerations unique to your destination or your volunteer project.

Please wait until after you are accepted into the program and you have received the confirmed arrival and departure dates before you book your flight.

First Week: $3,390 | Each Additional Week: $1,490

Eligibility

  • Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older, though exceptions to this age requirement may be made on a case-by-case basis.
  • Successful volunteers are hardworking, flexible, and open to truly immersing themselves in the culture.
  • Keep in mind that all countries have different visa restrictions for varying types of passports.

Housing

Volunteers stay in a shared volunteer house and stay in shared rooms by gender. The meals served will mainly be Kenyan food, which consists of vegetables, potatoes, eggs, bread, pancakes (commonly known as “chapati”) and fruits such as oranges, bananas and avocados.

Every World Endeavors Volunteer Project Includes

Our carefully designed international volunteer programs encompass everything necessary for your success and well-being while abroad.

YOUR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

  • Volunteer project customized to match your interests and goals and meet community needs
  • Year-round program availability
  • Flexible durations from 2 to 12 weeks

PEACE OF MIND

  • Comprehensive travel medical insurance
  • Mental Health First Aid-certified staff
  • 24/7 emergency travel assistance

ACCOMMODATION

  • Host family or shared volunteer house, depending on destination
  • Vetted and hand-selected with quality and safety in mind
  • 2 to 3 meals per day included

PREPARATION AND SUPPORT

  • Airport pickup
  • Pre-arrival and on-site orientation
  • 24/7 local support

TEAM OF EXPERTS

  • Dedicated one-on-one advisor
  • Local on-site coordinator
  • Volunteer project supervisor

RE-ENTRY AND CAREER INTEGRATION

  • Re-entry handbook and support
  • Assistance with resume updates
  • World Endeavors Alumni Network

HEALTH & SAFETY

When you feel safe and respected abroad, you will flourish. World Endeavors participants are transformed through enriching, rewarding and safe experiences around the world. We meticulously monitor travel recommendations and will only facilitate programs where we can ensure our participants’ safety. 

We take key steps to ensure our participants’ well-being, including providing a pre-trip success guide, 24/7 local support, in-country trained staff, pre and post-arrival orientation, comprehensive travel medical insurance, and Mental Health First Aid-certified staff. Please contact us if you have any specific questions or concerns.

WHAT TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME IN KENYA

In your spare time in Kenya, there are plenty of enjoyable activities and experiences to pursue. Here are some suggestions:

  • Go on Safari: Kenya is renowned for its wildlife and vast savannahs. Take a safari in popular national parks like Maasai Mara, Amboseli, or Tsavo to witness the incredible diversity of African wildlife, including the famous Big Five.
  • Experience Maasai Culture: Engage with the Maasai people and learn about their rich cultural traditions and customs. You can visit Maasai villages and experience traditional dances and rituals.
  • Trek Mount Kenya: If you enjoy outdoor adventures, consider trekking Mount Kenya, Africa’s second-highest peak. There are various routes suitable for different hiking levels.
  • Try Kenyan Cuisine: Sample local dishes like nyama choma (grilled meat), ugali (maize porridge), and chapati, as well as exotic fruits and refreshing juices.

How to choose the best volunteer program

Choosing your volunteer program is easy when you evaluate your priorities. Follow these steps to guide you toward your ideal program.

Explore a New Career

Interning abroad offers a great opportunity to explore your professional and personal interests, and help define your career path. Peruse our internship fields and past examples to find the best fit.

Choose Your Dream Destination

Finding a meaningful way to combine interning and travel to your dream location is a big incentive. Carefully consider which destinations suit your interests and international internship goals.

Improve Language Skills

Immersing yourself in a language-rich environment is the ultimate method for developing fluency. If language-learning is your goal, favor destinations that use your language of choice.

Fit your budget

Explore scholarships and financial aid to determine if these may impact your destination options. Consider the overall cost of the program and cost of living in-country to identify the optimal match.

Try our program finder to filter based on your choices.

SEARCH

Recent Volunteer Abroad Testimonials

Nadia SVolunteer in Argentina

I did a volunteer program in Argentina and I had a wonderful time! I loved the organization that I was placed with and I received great support from start to finish by the World Endeavors team. The program has such great flexibility when it comes to start/finish dates, location options and volunteer opportunities; it's gave me the ability to truly make the experience my own. I'd highly recommend it and will definitly be doing it again.

Autumn RVolunteer in Costa Rica

Amazing experience from start to finish! Everyone involved in the process both here in the states and while abroad was fantastic and readily available when I had any questions!

Arielle TVolunteer in Fiji

I loved every bit of it. I thought it was perfectly balanced between work and having time to go off and explore and hang out with friends I made. I loved the program coordinator, who was one of the ones staying at the house and went off to school with us. I didn’t really have any expectations going in but was completely blown away.

Shannon MVolunteer in Ghana

The World Endeavors program allowed me to venture into a culture and community other than my own and gain the world of experience by doing so. Never in a million years would I have imagined traveling and meeting such amazing souls, and seeing the world through different eyes. I am grateful for the opportunity, and encourage any and all persons to take a trip no matter how long with the program. The advisors are with you every step of the way and will be sure to have u prepared before departure and while you are in your country of choice.

Sara PVolunteer in India

This summer I went to Jaipur, India, to work in a lower income neighborhood with women and children to better their conditions. The experience has been incredible both on the professional side and on the emotional one. The whole experience has fullfilled my soul with many memories and much more knowledge! Thanks to World Endeavors which has helped me with every single detail before, during and after my trip!

Jay CVolunteer in Nepal

After Culture Week, I have been at the monastery for a week. So far, I am having a great time. I have been teaching, taking part in daily rituals, and learning about Buddhism and its philosophical endeavors. It has been lovely!

Kenya FAQs

How to Apply for a Kenya Visa?

The application for a Kenyan visa can be done online through the eVisa system or submitted through the Kenyan embassy or consulate in your country. You must provide personal information, passport details, travel plans, proof of funds, and other relevant documents. Once all the information has been provided, you can pay the visa fee and apply.

Suppose you’re going to Kenya through a World Endeavors program. In that case, our advisors will provide you with all the details on visa requirements, documents you should prepare, and everything else you need to apply for a Kenyan visa smoothly.

Is Kenya Safe for Tourists?

Kenya is generally considered safe for tourists. It’s a popular travel destination known for its wildlife, landscapes, and cultural experiences. However, as with any travel destination, taking certain precautions is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

How Many Tribes Are There in Kenya?

Kenya is known for being one of the most diverse nations in the world. Although only 42 tribes are officially recognized in Kenya, they have over 150 ethnic groups.

What Should You Wear in Kenya?

Due to Kenya’s hot and humid climate, lightweight, breathable fabric such as cotton and linen is ideal for clothing. Shorts, skirts, and t-shirts are some of the best options for men and women, as well as hats and sunglasses for protection against the sun. Additionally, it is essential to be aware of religious customs and dress modestly when visiting sacred sites.

Where is Kenya?

Kenya is located in East Africa, bordered by the Indian Ocean to the southeast and several countries to the north, west, and south. It shares its borders with Ethiopia to the north, Somalia to the east, South Sudan to the northwest, Uganda to the west, and Tanzania to the south. The capital city of Kenya is Nairobi.

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Our Top Volunteer Abroad Destinations

World Endeavors volunteers support communities in several destinations in Africa, the Americas, Asia and Oceania. Our programs are located in a variety of sites, including urban and rural, economically developed and developing, and English-speaking and non-English speaking.

How to apply for a Volunteer Abroad Program

You’ve decided to volunteer abroad – congratulations! Applying for your World Endeavors program is easy and stress-free. We can’t wait to get you on your way!

STEP 1
EXPLORE & ASK

Research and compare. If you can’t decide on a program, we can guide you toward the best fit.

STEP 2
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION

Fill out our online application form to share all your relevant details with our team.

STEP 3
ENROLL & PREPARE

Receive your official acceptance and enroll. We’ll give you all the info you need to get ready!

STEP 4
START YOUR ADVENTURE!

You’ve researched, planned and saved. Now you’re ready. It’s time to PUT YOURSELF OUT THERE!