Kenya volunteer work can be tough, but it's very rewarding! There are many interesting and unique opportunities for people who want to volunteer in Kenya. You can help with researching wildlife, teach about standard health practices, work at a school or an orphanage, and more.
Once you learn how to volunteer in Kenya, decide when you want to go, and figure out what you want to do, you will be well on your way to an adventure of a lifetime that makes a positive impact on the world.
Usually, you cannot volunteer in Kenya for free, as there may be a program fee or you may need to pay for flights, accommodation, and so on. On the positive side, volunteering and helping others on the weekdays then going on safari adventures at night seems like a great chance to get out there and see the world while engaging in a meaningful travel experience.
Can I volunteer in Kenya for free?
Unfortunately, you most likely will not be able to volunteer in Kenya for free. Visa costs, transportation expenses, accommodations, food, and so on will cost you. This is especially true if you are going through a provider. It is recommended to go through a provider to volunteer in Kenya.
Providers will prioritize your safety, arrange Kenya volunteer work projects, help you find housing for your time abroad, and arrange for transportation within the country. Also, providers will generally be there to answer questions before, during, and even after your experience abroad.
All of these essentials require money and work to get. Your program provider becomes the middleman so you can focus on your volunteer trip and not worry about anything else.
What kind of visa do I need to volunteer in Kenya?
As an American citizen, you will need certain permits and a visa before you enter the country. For most volunteer circumstances, you will need to get a Single Entry Visa or possibly a tourist visa to volunteer in Kenya.
Make sure you check Kenya’s government website for the most up-to-date information. You can visit eVisa.go.ke to apply for your visa online. If this stresses you out, make sure to reach out to your program provider. Usually, they have done this many times and can help you obtain your Kenya volunteer visa.
Once you get your visa, be sure to make copies and bring them with you on your trip. This will come in handy if you end up losing your passport.
4 other requirements for volunteering in Kenya
Some requirements to volunteer in Kenya include:
1. Language requirement
One key part of learning how to volunteer in Kenya? Figuring out if you meet any language requirements of your chosen program.
Kenya volunteer work may require you to speak a certain language in order to volunteer. While English is a common universal language, most likely, not everyone you meet in Kenya will be able to speak English.
Some volunteer positions may require you to be able to speak another official language of Kenya, Swahili. Just make sure to thoroughly research the volunteer program before you commit.
2. Run a background check
Kenya’s immigration services will conduct a background check before you arrive in Kenya. This will most likely happen when you apply for your visa. Remember to apply for your visa early because the background checks and paperwork may take longer than you expect.
3. You’ll need a passport
Passports are essential and absolutely required to enter Kenya or any other country for that matter. Visas and passports always go together. Therefore, you do not have to worry about leaving without one or the other.
4. Check up on your vaccinations!
Research which vaccinations are required to enter Kenya. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, some people were not allowed to enter the country without being fully vaccinated. Make sure to bring your vaccination card with you!
Aside from the COVID vaccine, there are other medicines or vaccines that you may need to take before you go. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting several vaccines before entering the country of Kenya. The list is constantly updated with the most important and highly suggested recommendations. You can see the full list at CDC.gov.
Our Online Advisor can match you with 5 volunteer programs in Kenya—it’s free!
How to volunteer in Kenya
1. Decide why you want to volunteer
First, decide why you want to go. Volunteering is not a vacation. At times the work may be difficult, frustrating, and tough. Remembering your “why” during those hard times will help push you through the process leading up to going abroad and being abroad. It can be helpful to first take a step back and set some goals for yourself and your experience.
2. Decide when and where you want to go
It’s time to get more specific about when you want to go to Kenya and decide where exactly you want to volunteer. If you’re a student, your travel timeframe may be limited to summers only—that’s helpful to consider when narrowing down your program selection.
When deciding where to go in Kenya, you should also consider your living situation; would you be okay living off the beaten path in a rural area, or do you want the conveniences of living in a big city? Details like this will definitely influence which program is the right one for you!
3. Start your program search
Take a look through available programs to find a volunteer opportunity in Kenya that fits your interests and skills.
Once you know more about when and where you want to volunteer in Kenya, it’s the perfect time to start looking for programs. Beyond timing and location, you’ll also want to consider cost, as well as how a program affects its host community.
Longer programs will naturally be more expensive, so it could be that a two week stint is the right move for your budget. And the most important thing is to make sure your program is ethical. Remember that you’re not there for yourself—you’re there to support a local community.
4. Get help from your university
Reach out to your university for help if you need it. International education offices and study abroad departments are experienced at coordinating travel plans and assisting students in making their trips a reality. They are great resources you can use to help plan your experience abroad.
5. Check program and travel requirements
Make sure you fulfill the requirements of programs you’re interested in attending. Double-check that you meet the language requirement, are able to obtain a visa, have a valid passport, are up-to-date on vaccines, and so on. You may not be allowed to participate or even be let into the country if you ignore this step.
6. Complete your application
Cross the t’s and dot the i’s and confirm your participation and acceptance went through. It doesn’t hurt to be thorough in this part of the planning stage. Check in with your provider to make sure you have submitted your application and paid all essential fees to be considered. Don’t worry though—your assigned coordinator will definitely be on top of these details as well, so you won’t be on your own.
7. Apply for a visa or passport
After acceptance, apply for your visa and/or passport as soon as possible. Delays happen frequently and you don’t want to miss out on your trip because you forgot to get your visa or passport. Keep in mind that it can take up to 6 months to get a new or renewed passport, though the timeframe varies widely depending on the time of year you apply.
8. Book a flight!
Once you have your passport and visa secured, and your program application and fees have gone through, you’re almost there! Depending on your provider, you may be on your own in terms of booking a flight. Keep in mind that you can use a travel agent or reach out to your coordinator for advice and guidance. We also have a few tips of our own!
9. Get your vaccinations before you go
Don’t forget this crucial step. You’ll absolutely want to reach out to your provider about required vaccinations prior to booking your program if they don’t offer the information up front. In the U.S., vaccinations can cost a lot of money, so this is a step that needs to be considered in your budget and logistics. Once you know more, you’ll want to schedule an appointment with your doctor.
3 volunteer opportunities in Kenya to consider
1. Big Cat & Elephant Research in Kenya - Maasai Mara Reserve
- Highlights: This program focuses on conservation in the Maasai Mara Reserve. Volunteers will go on research drives to observe wildlife by counting game, taking note of seeing big cats, and generally helping the local community. With this program, you have the opportunity to live in the middle of the bush while experiencing true wildlife in your backyard!
- Location: Maasai Mara
- Read African Impact reviews
2. Pre Med/Health Fellowships
- Highlights: Get an international perspective while working on your pre-med studies. Volunteers will get to experience work in a hospital, support staff in medical clinics, teach lessons about public health education, and learn on the job for first responder training. This program offers intensive training on safety and infection control procedures.
- Location: Mombasa
- Read International Medical Aid reviews
3. Volunteer Work at an Orphanage in Kenya
- Highlights: This program gives you the opportunity to work with children in orphanages. You will help feed, dress, and entertain the kids to keep them active and healthy. Also, you can help cook and clean the home to help these children in need. Their stories might be heartbreaking, but as a volunteer, you can bring them joy.
- Location: Nairobi
- Read Volunteering Solutions reviews
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Meaningful volunteering is one of the best ways to see Kenya
Volunteering in Kenya is a great way to immerse yourself in this amazing place.
Kenya is a gorgeous country with beautiful reserves and amazing wildlife. Participating in a volunteer program in Kenya allows you to connect with the culture on a deeper level. It also allows you to give back and appreciate a new way to live life.
Figuring out how to volunteer in Kenya may seem overwhelming at first. However, if you take it step by step, you'll be on your way in no time!
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