Volunteer in Kenya | The Ultimate Guide

You might have been thinking of volunteering somewhere in Africa, but don’t know where to go yet. Would you like to visit a place with a great culture; and a country to live various adventures? You are thinking to visit a place where it is always sunny. And you want to experience all this while doing something good for somebody else? Then you need to volunteer in Kenya!

Kenya is one of Africa’s most stunning locations. It is a country of internationally significant habitats where wildlife roam freely. Kenya is home of rare, unique species and the Big Five (African elephant, Cape Buffalo African leopard, and White/black rhinoceros). If you are interested on becoming a volunteer in Kenya, we will guide you on your decision and give you advice about the safety and cultural considerations to have in mind, before visiting this great country.

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[item title=”Top 6 interesting facts about Kenya”]

1. About 99% of Kenya’s population is made up of black African’s, but there are also white Kenyans.
2. Kenya is roughly the size of Texas at 362, 040 square miles.
3. Kenyans usually drink their beverages hot or at room temperature. Are you up for some hot beer?
4. Some of the oldest paleontological records of man’s history have been found in Kenya.
5. Kenya’s Great Rift Valley was formed around 20 million years ago, when the crust of the Earth was split.
6. Men in Kenya are allowed –by law- to have more than one wife.[/item]

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Fields of interest in Kenya

Kenya hosts a great number of globally important and internationally recognized species and habitats; this includes savannah rangelands and forests, as well as a variety of habitats in coastal and marine environment. Unfortunately, many of these mega faunae, such as lions or rhinos, are suffering habitat loss and this, together with indiscriminate hunting have significantly decreased the numbers of many of the wildlife that inhabit this region. If you want to volunteer in Kenya, you might want to know a little more about the riches of this beautiful country.

Fauna

Kenya’s wildlife diversity has attracted worldwide fame. Tourists visit Kenya especially for its populations of large mammals (Big Five, like I mentioned before). But Kenya has all types of fauna: from flamingos and Masai ostriches, to the majestic Eland. There are many safaris held in Kenya, mostly in the 19 national parks and game reserves, where visitors can take a look at these animals and help these reserves to continue their efforts to protect them. 

Flora

The vegetation types in Kenya vary between extremes, and it changes as climate, altitude does. On one side, the plains of the Nyika plateau, as well as large parts of north-western Kenya and the Mara river feature dry forests and savannah. On the other side, in the northern part of the country, we can find arid deserts, which foster different types of forests.

Some examples of Kenyan vegetation include the Sphagnum Moss, Rose moss, the African Juniper, the Mexican Cypress; as well as the Blood Lily, Water Lily, the Gloriosa Lily, among others. Kenya’s vegetation varies as the temperature and altitude varies and it is rich and unique.

 Health

Kenya’s health infrastructure shows a disparity between urban-rural regions, it lacks investment, and it is way too understaffed. Additionally to this, Kenya struggles against tropical diseases (especially malaria and tuberculosis), and in recent years, HIV/AIDS have also become a public health problem. The UNDP claimed in 2006 that more than 16% of adults in Kenya were infected with HIV. This diagnosis prompted Kenyan government officials to declare it a national health emergency. In the year 2004, it was announced that HIV/AIDS had surpassed malaria and tuberculosis as the leading disease killer in the country. This is the reason why Kenya’s life expectancy has dropped  dramatically, some data indicating that it dropped by about a decade.

Additionally to this, maternal mortality is also a health issue in the country. The official data indicates that, in 2010, maternal mortality for Kenya is 530 (out of 100, 000 births). However, other sources assure that this cipher is even higher: as much as 1,000 deaths per 100,000 births. The consequences are even worse for women under 24 years of age and among those living in rural regions of Kenya, because they can develop complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

Education

In 1985, the 8-4-4 system of education was introduced in Kenyan school, which basically means: 8 years of primary education, 4 years of secondary school and 4 years of university education. Kenya’s education system has certainly developed and strengthened and the country has worked hard to create a great number of public and private universities; as well as middle-level colleges. Efforts have paid off, as 85% percent of all children in Kenya attend primary school! Of the children that complete primary school, 75% complete proceed to secondary school; and 60% get to attend higher institutions of education. Another recent change that has been made in favour of education is turning making public schools free and compulsory.

Nevertheless, literacy levels in Kenya are low. And, generally, girls tend to perform better in reading English and Kiswahili (Swahili), while boys tend to perform better in math. And 5% of all children are not enrolled in school, and this is particularly bad in rural regions. Schools also struggle to offer quality in education. As a consequence, many children are older than expected for their class level. This is mainly so, because schools don’t receive governmental support on a regular basis, and schools are severly understaffed.

One of the biggest problematic in Kenya’s school system is that children are not allowed to repeat year. And, even if they fail their examinations, they pass on to the next year. This means that a lot of children, the ones who fail their examinations, are not receiving the quality in education that they should have and it is eventually harder for them to keep up with the rest of their class. 

Technology

Kenya has pioneered a mobile technology economy that competes with technologic trends in the rest of the world. Kenya’s technology services sector has shown significant growth. It grew from $14 million USD (in 2002) to around $390 million USD in 2013. Some argue that nowadays it is easier to pay a taxi fare by mobile phone in Nairobi than it is in New York.

Kenya has a its own “Silicon Valley”, locally named as “Silicon Savannah, that has attracted all types of investors. In Nairobi, it is cheaper to install mobile telephone networks and this has attracted a range of tech start-ups and venture capital firms. Kenya’s advancement has been recognized from companies like Google, Intel, Nokia, IBM and Microsoft, which have established sites in Nairobi. So what comes next for the Silicon Savannah? Some are rooting for the development of 5G technology, expected to be launched in the next decade, which not only make mobile services faster, but it will boost Kenya’s technological capabilities.

Living costs for a volunteer in Kenya

 This is just an estimate of the costs of living as a volunteer in Kenya. We tried to make an approximate estimation of what a single person might spend in US Dollars in the country, for a week. And you should be aware that costs might vary with time. So, saving money to cover your costs of being a volunteer in Kenya is key to have a happy trip!

Hotel $200	Big Mac® $n.a.	Coca-Cola® $0.53	Eating out $2.97	Rental car $390 /week
Hostel $11	Marlboro™ $1.98	Beer $1.79	Fuel $0.94	Public transport $0.50

Best time to volunteer in Kenya

Dry season (June-October)

This is best time to watch wildlife in Kenya. Generally, you can watch wildlife every time in the year, but this is the best season to see wildebeest migration. During this season, it is unlikely to rain, and the days are sunny, with clear skies. Also, there are fewer mosquitoes during this season! You might want to pack enough sun cream, though. Of course, considering that weather is great during this season, you should expect hotels to be packed and to see tourists everywhere.

Wet or “green” Season (November-May)

You will see a much greener and much beautiful scenery during this season. Also, because it is considered to be “low season” for tourism, hotels and tours can be booked at a cheaper price. During this season, a lot of animals are being born. With exception of the months March-May, it usually rains in the afternoon or the evening during this season, but it is unlikely that your day or tours get ruined because of it.

What precautions should I consider as a volunteer in Kenya?

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[item title=”Safety”]

First of all, you should be aware that there is a bigger risk of being mugged in a big city, than it’d be in small cities. You should exercise common sense, be cautious and don’t risk being pickpocketed! This is why we want to give you some travel advice, so you can travel safe and make the best out of your experience as a volunteer in Kenya:

• Avoid travel to the northeastern Kenyan counties, like Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa, the coastal counties of Tana River and Lamu, the area of Kilifi county north of Malindi, and the neighbourhood of Eastleigh in Nairobi.
• Keep your personal belongings and important travel documents with you at all times! It also makes sense to bring attested photocopies of these documents, in case you loose them!
• If you are going out, it does not make sense to take a lot of money with you, as well as jewellery or other fancy possessions. Take only the money you will need and leave everything else back home!
• If you are unfortunately robbed, do not resist robbery!
• Take care when withdrawing money form a bank or at an ATM!
• Do not use unregistered taxis! Doing so increases the risk of becoming a victim of a crime.
• Terrorist attacks involving shooting, grenades, or other explosives have occurred in the past, and potential terrorist threats (i.e.: bombings, kidnappings, and attacks on planes) are still a threat in Kenya, including the Nairobi area. The most common targets include nightclubs and bars, universities, shopping areas, etc. Please be aware of this and move around safely![/item]

[item title=”Law”]

• Possession, trafficking and manufacturing of drugs are serious offences in Kenya.
• Get all proper vaccinations four to eight weeks before travelling to Kenya.
• It is illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal, as well as trading its parts. Also don’t feed or bother Kenya’s wildlife, you don’t want to do it! A lion could eat you! And that’d just mess up with your plans!
• Don’t cross the road while speaking on your phone (unless on hands free)!
• Don’t lean or sit on ledges!
• You won’t be served alcohol at bars, restaurants, etc. after 11pm.
• Smoking on the streets of Nairobi’s city centre is against the law, except in designated smoking zones!
• If attempt to leave Kenya with products made from endangered species –such as jaguar teeth, ocelot skin and turtle shell- you’ll face a steep fine and jail time.
• Homosexuality is a crime under Kenyan law and it is culturally not accepted. If you are part of the LGBTI community, please exercise caution and be aware, that this is an issue that is still taboo in Kenya.[/item]

[item title=”Social Etiquette”]Some codes of etiquette determine social behaviour expectations and are considered to be very important in Kenyan culture. Be aware that, as a volunteer in Kenya, you will need to adapt to these socially accepted interactions. These are just some of the common examples of social etiquette in Kenya:

• Every contact between people in Kenya starts with a greeting. Even if you are just shopping, small talk and shaking hands is common practice in Kenya.
• Women shake hands with each other, but they shake hands with men only in sophisticated contexts.
• Traditionally, Kenyan greeting exchanges last around a minute or two and they are performed in a formal manner. It is very polite to stop to ask people how they are doing, if their day is going ok, etc. and expect an answer.
• Hissing (“Tsss!”) is one common way to attract a stranger’s attention. Even though this practice is less common in urban areas, you might experience this often and there is no a reason to be offended by it.
• If you are asking questions, avoid answering with YES/ NO, because answering anything in the negative is often considered impolite. When making a question, try not to phrase your query in a negative form (“Aren’t you…?”, “Isn’t it…?”).
• Your host might take your hand to show you the place around, and this is normal. Don’t panic!
• Be also very aware of the “left-hand rule”: it is considered a dirty hand, so avoid using it to eat, pass food to other people or greeting.
• Unless you want to get into a fight, NEVER point at someone with your finger, because that is considered to be an obscene gesture
• Women should be aware or what they wear, and avoid body fitted clothing, as well as showing “too much skin”, especially in Muslim regions. For your safety, we recommend to dress as conservatively as possible.
• Sex between two men is prohibited in Kenya, and homosexuality is still a taboo subject. If you are travelling with your partner, avoid any public display of affection, to avoid confrontation. You might find some gay bars/nightclubs were homosexuality is tolerated, but common attitude towards it is “don’t ask, don’t tell”. [/item]

[item title=” Packing Essentials “]

• Apart from the essential travel documents, like passport, travel medical insurance information, and visa, you should also keep photocopies or scanned copies of these.
• Always carry sun cream with you! The Kenyan sun can be unforgiving!
• Keep enough cash with you! You might want to consider getting a money belt.
• Carry luggage with you that will aid, not complicate your trip, like daypacks or backpacks; as well as lightweight bags.
• Pack appropriate clothing and shoes! This means: comfortable, loose-fitting shorts, singlet-tops, flip-flops, board shorts, t-shirts, and other items you routinely wear during summer at home.
• Get appropiate shoes, if you’ll be experiencing a lot of rain, sun, etc.
• Over-the-counter medicines are cheap and available, BUT if you need to take special medication, bring enough with you, as it might be difficult to find it here!
• Be also sure to pack anti-Malarial medication, since mosquito-borne illnesses are quite common in Kenya and can restrict your ability to travel back home. Consult your doctor about the vaccinations, you’ll need to get.
• Don’t forget to bring locks for hostel lockers and also for your luggage!
• Mosquito nets that are treated with Permethrin will help ensure your safety from Mosquito bites. Also, try to buy bug sprays and Sunblock containing DEET.
• Prepare to bring clothes that are suitable for a variety of climates, as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the country.[/item]

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Key Phrases

Kenya is a multilingual country and English is considered to be one of the official languages in the country. But as a volunteer in Kenya, you might want to learn some phrases in Swahili to communicate, greet and ask for things. This can be perceived as a polite attempt to engage with local people and it is usually well-received. Other languages are spoken in Kenya, and people in rural areas usually speak their native language, but you can pretty much “survive” with some basic English and Swahili.

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Hello: Jambo/ hujambo/ Salama

How are you?: Habari gani

Fine (response): Nzuri.

Do you speak English?: Unasema kiingereza?

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Goodbye: Kwa heri /Kwa herini (more than one person)

Goodnight: Lala salama

Yes: Ndiyo

No: Hapana

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Thank you: Terima kasih (təˌrima ˈkasih)
Yes: Ya (ja)
No: Tidak (ˈtidaʔ)

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How to spend your free time as a volunteer in Kenya

At this point, you should already know what to expect as a volunteer in Kenya. It is time that we tell you all about the fun and interesting activities you’ll get to do in this beautiful country. There is certainly a lot to do and see in Kenya, so I will just mention some of the various places you should go, and some of the activities and festivals you might want to attend. Enjoy your stay in Kenya, try to help as much as you can, and have fun!

Sights

If you think about Kenya, you probably think about safaris, lions and zebras. And of course, the opportunity to watch wildlife in their natural habitat, one can also experience the whole diversity of Kenyan culture and enjoy all sorts of activities like snorkelling, diving in fish-rich coral reefs, relax on beautiful beaches and experiences the melting pot of cultures and cuisines in Mombasa and Malindi. Kenya has a lot to offer to its visitors, and this is just some of what you could experience as a volunteer in Kenya: stunning sights, crystal clear streams, natural geysers (yes! Geysers!) and hot springs. These are just some of the sights and activities we suggest you do, while you volunteer in Kenya:

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[item title=”Maasai Mara National Reserve”]It is considered to be the world’s most magnificent game reserves. It is located between Tanzania and the northern extension of the Serengeti. This National Reserve received its name after the red-cloaked Maasai people who live in the park and graze their animals here (as they have done for centuries). This park is famous for the Great Migration: when large groups of wildebeest, zebra, and Thomson’s gazelle travel to/from the Serengeti, during the months of July through October. The park is also recognize, because it offers unique sights of predators-especially in the dry months!

By the way, I inserted a picture of another cool reserve in Kenya, that you definitely need to check out, if you are looking forward to interact with giraffes, in a charming yet luxurious place. You’ll find curious giraffes checking out what’s in your plate and in your room window. A dream come true, if you ask me![/item]

[item title=”Lake Nakuru National Park”]This park is located in Central Kenya, and it is famous for its huge gatherings of pink flamingoes. The lake occupies almost a third of the park’s area and it hostes around 450 species of birds. This park also protects the largest euphorbia candelabrum forest in Africa; which are endemic to the region and make an interesting contrast to the arid landscapes.[/item]

[item title=”Lamu”]It is a small island located northeast 0f Mombasa that’s too beautiful not to visit. Lamu Old Town  is considered a World Heritage Site, by the UNESCO and it is Kenya’s oldest continually inhabited settlement. The island has its origins in the 12th century. Its architecture has Arabic, European and Indian influence, but with clearly Swahili presence. Some visitors say that visiting Lamu is like going back in time! In the island of Lamu both men and women dress in traditional attire.[/item]

[item title=”Nairobi”]It is Kenya’s capital and its largest city. Today tourists are able to explore the city’s famous historic sites, as well as to enjoy some excellent wildlife-related attractions. Some popular attractions include the Karen Blixen Museum, (which is the restored residence of the famous Danish author Isak Dinesen); as well as the Nairobi National park, now a black rhino sanctuary; and the Giraffe Centre, where these can eat out of the visitors’ hands.[/item]

[item title=”Mount Kenya National Park”]It is the country’s highest mountain at 5,199m and it is located East of the Great Rift Valley. It offers a great sight and it is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site! The mount was formed by a series of volcanic eruptions which resulted in three peaks, which are covered by glaciers. The scenery here is breathtaking and the diversity of flora and fauna provides a great opportunity for safaris.[/item]

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Festivals

Kenya has around 70 different tribes. This means that the rich diversity of cultures makes every community in Kenya very unique in its own way. There are various cultural events that you might want to experience as a volunteer in Kenya that will give you a unique opportunity to experience Kenyan culture. Some cultural events you don’t want to miss are:

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[item title=”Lamu Cultural Festival”]Kenyans come together to celebrate both the past and the future. This festival celebrates the beliefs and traditions that represent the uniqueness of its community. As the name suggestes, it takes part in the enchanting island of Lamu! The event is usually held annually in November, and some of the activities that are featured include: traditional Swahili poetry readings, henna painting, donkey races and dhow sailing. It gives visitors the opportunity to experience various Swahili dishes and learn more about the locals simple and peaceful lifestyle.[/item]

[item title=”Lake Turkana Festival”]This festival is usually held around May and the reason why it is so particular, is because one of its objectives is to promote understanding and acceptance of different cultures; as well as the promotion of tolerance, and peaceful coexistence. During the festival, you’ll be able to attend performances and demonstrations of ten different ethnic communities which live in the Lake Turkana region. Visitors will have the chance to taste various of their traditional foods, and get a general idea of how life is in northern Kenya.[/item]

[item title=”Mombasa Carnival”]It is considered to be the most popular cultural festival in Kenya. It takes places in November in the city of Mombasa and it hosts numerous traditional activities. Mombasa has been recognized as the major cultural hub in East Africa, and it offers a mixture of Arabian and African cultures. During this festival one can enjoy the music, multicultural floats, dance performances and colourful parades. Tourists who visit Mombasa during the festival have the chance to shop for souvenirs, listen to traditional music, and enjoy delicious Kenyan dishes.[/item]

[item title=”Safari Rally”]This is one of Kenya’s most popular events, and it is enjoyed by younger and older crowds. It has been celebrated since 1953, to honour Queen Elizabeth and it is a very entertaining event. The KCB Safari Rally is part of Kenya’s culture and the sport has been long-loved by Kenyan people. It is a fast paced race that takes place through rough terrains and assortments of wildlife. It is definitely something to look forward to.[/item]

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Food

Some of the best known Kenyan foods include ugali, sukuma wiki and nyama choma, but there is certainly no singular dish that represents the complexity and diversity of Kenya. Different communities have their own, unique foods. These are just some of the foods you will be able to try out, while you volunteer in Kenya:

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[item title=”Ugali”]This is undeniably the most common Kenyan food. It is usually made from cornmeal that is added to boiling water and heated until it turns into a dense dough. It has a grainy, doughy consistency -if this makes sense to you- and it is a heavy meal. A lot of Kenyans eat it along with vegetables and/or a saucy stew. And, although I wanted to show you how it looks like, unfortunately, I couldn’t find an image of Ugali I could use. So, please enjoy this picture of corn! [/item]

[item title=”Pilau Rice”]In other words: Spiced rice! It is a perfect mixture of rice cooked with a variety of spices like cumin, cardamon, cinnamon, and cloves. It is usually eaten with meat stew and a few slices of fresh tomato and onions.[/item]

[item title=”Nyama Choma”]A Kenyan dish that always needs to be mentioned: roasted meat! Kenyans take pride on this dish. It is usually roasted goat or beef meat, but chicken (kuku choma) and fish (samaki choma) are also great and valid choices. Meat fat is usually dipped in a pile of salt for extra flavouring.[/item]

[item title=”Chapati”]Chapatis in Kenyan are very similar to those found in India. Kenyan style chapatis, though, are made with a flour dough that is wound into a coil, before it is rolled into a flat round circle. The dough is then fried on a normal skillet, so it remains moist and doughy on the interior, while its edges become crispy.[/item][/accordion]

Volunteer Requirements

-For almost every volunteer program, you should be at least 18 years old. And some programs require for the candidate to be at least 21 years old to volunteer in Kenya.

-You must have at least an intermediate level of English knowledge; but  some programs require advanced English-knowledge.

– If you have visited/ or come from one of the countries under the yellow fever belt, you will have to present a health declaration. And, for some of the programs, a criminal background check is required (ie: children care).

– To be enrolled or have been already finish at High School or University studies; some programs require to have a studies on Social Sciences, Social Work, Community Development, Medicine, Women Studies, etc.

-You need to send a CV and an application form for some of the programs.

-You need to commit with the program you choose to volunteer with. This means: do respect the schedule given to you!

Do I need a Visa to volunteer in Kenya?

You have arrived to the boring part of this guide: the part where you need to think about the documentation you need to volunteer in Kenya! But you better get over with it quickly, so you can move on with your plans. Luckily for you, we made all the necessary research you need to get a Visa as a volunteer in Kenya, so you don’t have to –although you probably should!

To volunteer in Kenya you will need to apply for a Special pass from the immigration department, the Permit Class I in addition to the Entry Visa. Please note that the Single Entry Visa (tourist Visa) alone does not allow anyone to engage in any form of employment whether for pay or not.

Documentation:

• A passport with at least 6 months validity, which has at least two (2) blank pages for visa (amendment and endorsement pages cannot be used for visa).
• Two (2) recent colour passport size photographs Note: Do not staple the photographs on the form.
• Two (2) completed and signed application forms. The application form can be downloaded here.
• Letter of invitation from the social organization you are working with as a volunteer in Kenya. The organization needs to describe the purpose of your visit and guarantee all transportation and living expenses that will incur during your stay.
• Purchased and confirmed return flight itinterary and ticket.
• Applicants under 18 years of age should attach a notarized copy of birth certificate. Additionally to this, a notarized letter of consent signed by non-travelling legal guardian must be attached if the applicant under 18 years of age travels without the legal guardian.
• If you apply from your country of residence, provide a copy of residence/student Visa. This is to confirm that you are staying in your residence country legally.
• You need to get vaccinated against yellow fever. It is mandatory, and it is especially required if applicant had previously travelled to areas/ countries infected by yellow fever.
• Non-refundable Visa fee of approx. $45 USD.

If you wish to volunteer in Kenya, you’ll additionally require authorization from the Director of Immigration Services in Nairobi (P.O. Box 30191, Nairobi Kenya). This can be done by your contact/host in Kenya.

Next step: Get a permit to do volunteer work! For the permit, you will need:

• A dully filled and signed Form 25 online form. You will have to print out the form at the end of the application.
• A detailed and signed cover letter from the employer/organization, addressed to the Director of Immigration Services.
• Copy of your [valid] national passport.
• Documents in foreign languages should be translated into English by either the Embassy, Public Notary or authorized/recognized institution.
• Copy of any previous permit(s) and or pass(es( held.
• Copy of registration certificate of the organization.
• Certiied copies of academic and professional certificates of the applicant.
• Certificate of registration of the organization.
• Apply online here.

If you still have doubts concerning the documentation you need to volunteer in Kenya, do not hesitate to approach the Kenyan Embassy or Consulate nearest to you! And if you have other questions concerning these and other topics, please visit Kenya’s tourism site and get all the answers you need! You are set!

How to find opportunities to volunteer in Kenya

Explore programs to volunteer in Kenya and find your very own volunteer opportunity abroad on Volunteer World. Featuring more than 500 volunteer programs and over 600 social projects in 70+ countries, Volunteer World is a one-stop resource for volunteer abroad opportunities. This platform is all about bringing simplicity and transparency to the international volunteer industry.