Description

Through our partner in Kenya Love Volunteers is urgently seeking volunteers to work among the Maasai tribe in Kenya's Rift Valley region. As an international volunteer you will play a significant part in giving the local people better resources for earning a living in a changing world, as well as directly intervening to improve health and alleviate the effects of poverty.

It is not everyone, perhaps, who would choose a volunteering placement in East Africa, however this role offers a unique and unforgettable experience. To become active in a region that badly needs volunteers and where their efforts are greatly appreciated is hugely rewarding.

As a people struggling with diminished terrain on which to graze their livestock, and with their culture threatened by commercial pressure in Kenya, the Maasai are dependent on organizations which help them adapt to these new conditions. Working with them gives you an opportunity to gain a different outlook and experience, which will bring into play your wisdom and judgment. You will inevitably grow as a person as a result of your stay here.

While the more customary encounter with Kenya is holidaying and touring game reserves, volunteers see another side. By forming friendships and becoming acquainted with aspects of this culture, your travels during your free time within the country are likely to be all the richer.

Projects:
* Teaching
* Medical Placement
* Community Development

Highlights

Kenya is of course a spectacular country, a sought-after destination for international travelers, with the emphasis on wildlife. The Great Rift Valley is itself an extraordinary sight. There are three distinct reserves, the Serengeti, the Maasai Mara, and Ngorongoro Crater/Loita Hills. Each possesses wild bush and striking geographical features. Often referred to as 'golden plains', the short grass plains host wonderful wildlife, including wildebeest and topi, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, leopards, impala and, of course, lions.

This is one of the area's biggest problems - the conflict between humans and wildlife. The livelihood of the Maasai, herders of cattle and sheep, is put at risk by the presence of lions, an animal which is now preserved and encouraged to cater for the wildlife tourist.

Volunteers will soon become aware of this dilemma and may well find themselves deeply interested in the imbalances in the ecosystem, and the measures being taken to address this.

Travel Types

• Cooking
• Dancing
• Eco Tours
• Language Immersion
• Native Culture Studies
• Nature Tours
• Photography
• Safari
• Sports
• Tours
• Volunteering

Qualifications

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old at the start of the placements. A good command of English is essential. In Kenya's Maasailand, English and Swahili are spoken; a smattering of the latter language is a great advantage, especially in more rural areas.

A good level of general fitness is necessary. There will inevitably be a good deal of walking between institutions such as schools and clinics and your accommodation.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Fees for volunteer programs in Maasailand start at USD 250 for the first week

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Written materials abroad
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

Includes accommodation, food, an airport pick-up from Nairobi, orientation and 24/7 in-country support.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Age Range

18 and above

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Other
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

48 hours

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad

Year Founded

2009