Volunteer Programs in Mombasa, Kenya

Filter Results

Featured Provider of the Month
33 Volunteer Programs in Mombasa, Kenya
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
4.68
828
At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservatio
See All 2 ProgramsInternational Medical Aid (IMA)
4.96
168
IMA offers an opportunity to enhance your medical and healthcare knowledge with International Medical Aid's Pre-Med and Health Fellowships. Crafted for pre-med undergraduates, medical students, and high school students, these fellowships offer a unique chance to engage deeply with global health care
See All 7 ProgramsUCESCO Africa
5
3
Join UCESCO Africa as a yoga instructor volunteer to help foster self-esteem and community connection among children, women, and students in Mombasa, Kilifi, and Malindi. By teaching yoga, you'll create a safe, supportive environment for locals, enabling them to rebuild their lives and grow emotiona
See All 2 ProgramsLove Volunteers
5
1
This fantastic program offers multiple placements to volunteers, each one playing an important part in supplying quality medical care to people in need. They can work at the Shanzu Village Prison Hospital, Mombasa Central City Hospital, Mlaleo Hospital, or Utange Hospital. The Shanzu Village Priso
See All 4 ProgramsVolunteer World
0
0
Kenya is a stunning destination that offers everything from white sandy beaches and famous national parks with rich wildlife to bustling metropolitan cities. No wonder it attracts more and more visitors and volunteers every year with its long history and amazing nature. Kenya is the perfect place to
Elective Africa
4.33
12
The Elective Africa Pre-Medical Shadowing Internship is ideal for undergraduate students or those who have just finished their pre-med training. This gives you an opportunity to gain medical shadowing experience in preparation for application to medical school. At the same time, gain exposure to a h
See All 10 ProgramsGo Volunteer Africa
4.5
14
Travel to Kenya, where you will share your time and skills with the natives of a diverse country in the heart of the savannah! Go Volunteer Africa offers volunteering opportunities for people passionate about impacting the lives of people from local communities. Participate in any of our projects du
Volunteer Safari Initiative
0
0
Mombasa, renowned for its vibrant culture and stunning coastal beauty, also faces significant social challenges. Many children here are orphaned due to various circumstances, leaving them vulnerable and in dire need of support and care. As a volunteer, you will play a vital role in enhancing their
See All 3 ProgramsMarwacodi CBO
0
0
Who you will work with: You will be volunteering with MARWACODI and its leader, Olivia, who will introduce you to the programs, communities, and beneficiaries. You will work in villages and schools. The communities you will serve are mostly rural, living off small-scale agriculture, casual labour, a
See All 3 ProgramsA Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Mombasa
Projects & Placements
While Kenya has the second largest GDP on the African continent, Mombasa still suffers from its fair share of social problems stemming from poverty and inequality among its 1.2 million citizens. For this reason choosing to volunteer abroad in Mombasa within fields such as education, healthcare, human rights, and other areas of community development are all very popular options that can have a positive impact on the lives of locals.
For those who are especially interested in the environment, it is also a popular route to volunteer abroad in Mombasa within areas such as environmental conservation, animal welfare, and agriculture. The flipside to development efforts is that they can also have a negative effect on the land and its resources, making these types of volunteer placements in Mombasa a worthwhile venture.
You can usually volunteer abroad in Mombasa for as short as just one week or sometimes as long as a full year. Volunteers are needed year-round, so often it is left to the volunteer to decide when they will travel to Mombasa and for how long they will stay. Be warned; once you discover how enriching and rewarding life is as a volunteer abroad in Mombasa, you may not want to come back for a long time!
Life in Mombasa
Mombasa has been a key port city on the Arabian Sea for hundreds of years, and while it has seen many changes over the course of those centuries, it continues to thrive as such today. It is widely known for its diverse and multicultural population, with local lineages stemming from all over North Africa, the Middle East, and the Indian sub-continent.
The majority of Mombasa’s population today is made up by the Swahili and Mijikenda people. Islam is the predominant religion in the city, although Christianity and Hinduism are widely practiced as well. While many different languages are spoken throughout Mombasa, Swahili is the most popular first tongue among locals (most of the educated population can speak English as well).
Its unique array of cultural influences, pristine setting on the coastline, and large international airport additionally make Mombasa one of the most popular travel destinations in east Africa. The volunteer abroad in Mombasa will undoubtedly fall in love with upbeat pulse, unique local music, and fun nightlife which all make this one of Africa’s most popularly visited cities.
Of course you may likely also experience a degree of culture shock while you volunteer abroad in Mombasa, especially if you have never travelled to Africa before. The best way to handle this is by being as outgoing as possible and embracing all new experiences in the city. You will be amazed at how much you learn!
Costs & Affordability
While Mombasa is an affordable city by international standards, you will nevertheless want to plan a careful budget because you will not be making any income as a volunteer abroad. The good news is that many on-the-ground costs such as housing, transportation, and meals are provided for in the upfront program fees. For more ideas on how to cover the costs of your volunteer program in Mombasa, be sure to check out our fundraising page.
Accommodation & Visas
Homestays are usually the most popular form of accommodation for volunteers in Mombasa, providing a uniquely immersive experience into Kenyan culture and family life. Volunteers who prefer a more independent housing situation can often request living in a separate apartment of group housing as well. Remember that Kenya is a developing country, and so many western luxuries such as internet, hot water, and AC many not always be accounted for.
Kenya has an e-visa system in place which enables you to apply online for permission to enter the country. The specific type of visa you will need as a volunteer abroad in Mombasa may vary depending on what country you are coming from and the length of your program. You can check out our Kenyan Embassy Directory for more information regarding your situation.
Benefits & Challenges
Push Your Boundaries. Volunteering abroad in Mombasa will be a tremendous growth experience that will push the envelope on what you previously thought you knew about the world. Buckle Your Seatbelt.
Melting Pot. Mombasa is a multicultural city where you will gain exposure to a wide variety of regional influences that you may have hitherto been unfamiliar with. Ever heard of Taarab or Mwanzele music?
Make an Impact. Most volunteer projects in Mombasa are organized to aid locals tackle the challenges embedded in poverty and development. This is a great way to give back while helping an underserved population.
Popular Providers
Latest Program Reviews
Volunteering in Split
August 25, 2026by: Raphael Nacionales-Rowland - United KingdomProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
Throughout my placement in Croatia, IVHQ provided me with the relevant help and support needed to make my stay as stress free as possible. I would highly recommend this company and encourage anyone contemplating a placement.
AMAZING
August 13, 2026by: Daniel Abdulla - United KingdomProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I was, probably like some of you, a bit sceptical when initially applying due to the low price compared to other organisations. However, the experience I had was absolutely amazing and I have learnt so much about not only myself, but about different cultures and etiquettes. My program manager, Marissa, was absolutely fantastic at answer all of my questions and adjusting any mistakes I submitted onto my application such as flight number and pick-up time. Despite the huge time difference between Marissa and myself, she was able to reply to my email promptly and with extreme care - I was really at ease throughout the whole process and that made the experience a bunch better. Everything on my volunteering was as described on the program guide and there were no surprises when I landed, everything that happened during my week I was prepared for. I would really recommend this company and I want to thank them once more for the fantastic and truly life-changing experience they provided for me.
An unforgettable experience in Split!
August 12, 2026by: Nicole Boduch - AustriaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I had such a wonderful experience in Split! I met so many amazing people from different countries and made memories that I will definitely never forget. The Youth Support program gave me the opportunity to connect with the local community, experience a different culture and grow personally at the same time. The local team was very welcoming and supportive and I always felt comfortable asking questions or getting help when needed. I especially loved the international atmosphere and meeting people with completely different backgrounds and stories.besides volunteering, I had enough time to explore Split, enjoy the beautiful beaches and nature and experience Croatian culture. This experience helped me step outside my comfort zone, become more independent and see things from new perspectives. I’m really grateful for all the people I met and everything I experienced during my time here. I would definitely recommend this program to anyone who wants to travel, volunteer, meet new people and create unforgettable memories abroad. ❤️
Amazing Family Experience
August 10, 2026by: David Cannon - United StatesProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
The support and organization of IVHQ was strong and great. Traveling and volunteering with a family of five, with 3 Jr High School kids but was amazing. Very comfortable and things were laid out well, we all felt extremely safe and comfortable the entire experience.
Preparation before trip
July 30, 2026by: Yuange LiuProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
The preparation before trip was so detailed that I don’t have anything to worry about. It got everything listed and made it so much easier to tick off what I’ve done and what they need. The communication with the manager for the volunteer was so smooth and fast, and I was able to get a reply current evening or next morning (due to different timing in different countries). I wanted to change my volunteer from rural teaching to turtle reservation, it was so fast that there wasn’t any problems with the money nor arrangements, everything just went so smoothly, really impressed. The local team there really helped a lot, the driver, the leader, everyone was just so nice, even the cook and the receptionist. This volunteer as itself also helped me a lot on raising awareness for the sea turtles, learnt a lot and really hope to help them consistently. This is such a memorable trip and I hope to do these volunteers with IVHQ next summer with my friends.
More Than a Trip: A Life-Changing Experience in Jamaica
June 23, 2026by: Steph Cink - United StatesProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
My Jamaica experience was great because it allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone, connect with new people, and make meaningful memories while serving others. I loved being able to learn about the culture, build relationships with the local community, and see the impact that small acts of kindness can have. The experience challenged me to grow in my faith, gratitude, and appreciation for the opportunities I have. It was rewarding to work alongside others who shared the same passion for helping people and creating a positive difference. IVHQ does a great job of creating opportunities for volunteers to make a meaningful impact while also providing support and guidance throughout the experience. They help connect volunteers with local communities, organize programs, and make it possible for people to serve in a way that is safe and structured. I appreciated how they allowed us to experience the culture of Jamaica while still focusing on helping the community. Their organization made the trip feel purposeful and helped create an environment where volunteers could learn, serve, and grow.

Volunteering in Thailand
June 23, 2026by: Jaz Eccleston - AustraliaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
My experience with IVHQ absolutely exceeded my expectations and was so amazing, the staff were so friendly and really created a positive and welcoming environment, i felt safe and included by all the other volunteers, my only regret is not staying longer! I will definitely be back in the future!


Teaching, Cape Town South Africa
June 12, 2026by: Veronica Cura - CanadaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
Overall I had an amazing experience with Ivhq. I volunteered in Cape Town South Africa and I have never been so in love with a place. The culture and the people are truly amazing. I volunteered in a town ship with grade three and loved every minute of it! The kids are so kind and you can tell they truly love the help you have to offer. This experience will forever have such a big impact on me and changed me as a person. I would definitely recommend this to anyone:)

Food for the soul!
May 28, 2026by: Candice Simmons - United StatesProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I have already done 3 programs with IVHQ, and this is just the beginning! Costa Rica to teach English, Fiji for childcare, and Thailand to teach. Each program has been magical! The experience is supported, from the application process through post program reflection, and everything in between. Safety, support, encouragement, insight, and perspective are all the things IVHQ provides and more! You get to meet people from around the world, and then come together for a common purpose. Already planning my next adventure, and I can't wait!

I had the best experience of my life!
May 26, 2026by: Abby Tootill - EnglandProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I havnt got any complaints from my trip through IVHQ. Every single part of the trip was perfect from the organisation to the welcoming coordinators. I’m only 17 but I felt so safe and supported through the whole process. Thank you for this opportunity!

Meaningful and rewarding experience
May 05, 2026by: Thinula Karunarathne - Sri LankaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
My volunteer experience in Thailand was truly rewarding. The program was well-organized, and the staff were supportive throughout. What stood out most was the real impact—even small contributions made a difference in the local community. It also helped me grow personally by becoming more adaptable, independent, and open-minded. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone considering volunteering abroad.
More than Teaching:Kindness I would never forget
May 01, 2026by: Regina Fuentes - MexicoProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
Teaching in Ubud, Bali was one of the most beautiful and meaningful experiences of my life. I came expecting to help and give, but I ended up receiving so much more. The children were incredibly kind, respectful, and full of joy. What impacted me the most was how grateful they were for everything;even the smallest things. They would smile constantly, show affection in the purest ways, and even gift me candies as a way to say thank you. Those small gestures meant more than they probably realized. Every day felt special. Being able to connect with them, teach them, laugh with them, and see their excitement to learn was something I will never forget. The environment was welcoming, and the staff made everything smooth and supportive, allowing us to truly focus on making a difference. This experience changed my perspective in the best way possible. It reminded me how powerful kindness, gratitude, and human connection can be. I will always carry these memories with me, and I’m beyond grateful to have been part of something so real and meaningful.


Mourning my departure from Galapagos
April 22, 2026by: Maxwell Sturm - United StatesProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
The local guides informed us of a beautiful name for their islands, “The Enchanted Islands”. Given on account of their difficulty to find back in the days of ships and nautical exploration (pre-flight). Such an incredible opportunity to care for unique and endangered gentle creatures. Work was meaningful and rewarding, play time was abundant and fulfilling. One of the most beautiful places I have encountered on this Earth. IVHQ does a tremendous job preparing the traveler for what to expect.



A thorough and amazing experience
April 03, 2026by: Adriana EncarnacionProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I enjoyed meeting new people from around the world and the fact that we were in the middle of the city like a local which gave it very realistic feel. A Medical internship with Intern Abroad HQ is such a thorough and amazing experience for those who want to travel and learn in their field.
I had the time of my life!
April 03, 2026by: Jordan Washek - United StatesProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
It was by far the best volunteer experience I have done I only wish I could have stayed longer. The culture and food was so amazing and everyone was so welcoming and friendly. This experience I will remember for the rest of my life and have made so many amazing friendships.
I feel I've gained valuable lessons about my independence
March 25, 2026by: Jessica UpshawProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
Having the chance to live in a completely new environment can be scary at first, but so rewarding in the end. From my experience in Australia, I feel I've gained valuable lessons about my independence, as well as met some amazing people. Karen (my Program Manager and Intern Abroad HQ) was extremely helpful and answered all my question throughout the planning process. Thank you, Karen! Anyone who is lucky enough to have my same host mom is going to be in the BEST hands! I could not thank her enough for being so kind, thoughtful, and over-the-top accommodating.
Amazing experience
March 25, 2026by: Felipe zachariasIt was an amazing volunteer experience, and that's thanks to the UCESCO Africa team. They were so dedicated to making my time there comfortable, meaningful, and safe. I can't recommend UCESCO enough, a extreme serious group and the best family ever. I will miss you all
Wonderful Experience
March 25, 2026by: David WashingtonUCESCO Africa is an awesome organization. Each and every volunteer, staff member, and teacher assisted and made the experience very enjoyable and safe. The children I taught were enthusiastic, joyful and compassionate. The learning was made easy, by their ability to adhere to instructions and to comprehend the information being taught. I will definitely go again to teach more because the students have the capacity to do great things within this realm.
Thank you UCESCO for giving me this amazing opportunity to experience the real Kenya by teaching yoga, and welcoming me into your warm African family
March 25, 2026by: Laura SmithIt started slow which was frustrating, especially as I was not aware I was taking part in a start up project. It would have been nice to have been informed prior to my arrival, which would have prevented unnecessary negative emotions. I understand things work at a slower pace and there are no guarantees, however I appreciate good communication and honesty as I am flexible and patient, but similar to other westerners, I dislike not knowing what is going on. We are used to a faster way of life and quicker results. Regardless of this, I had an amazing time! Many valuable lessons have been learned and I return back to Scotland with a heart filled with gratitude and love. The supportive staff always made me feel so welcome, safe and comfortable. Thank you Carine in Nairobi for organising my Sim on arrival, Ofright in Mombasa and Elpina for being sweet enough to stay with me on my first night in Makupa and always cooking me lovely food. Thank you Kingsley for listening with patience and understanding to my above concerns. You truly are such an inspiration! There was plenty of free time before/after work to chill. Weekends were for exploring the beaches/resorts of Nyali with swimming pools, (nearest, 20 mins via tuk tuk) and of course safari which was an unforgettable experience! Highly recommend Steve & Richard’s Safari for a good deal. The Kenyan children are super sweet, the teenagers are eager to learn, and the vulnerable women although challenging, are the reason I love doing what I do! We can’t ever give up on them, they need your help! So, Mombasa this is just the beginning! Please keep practicing yoga and breathe. I’m excited to see how things progress in Mombasa, and to see the new rooftop yoga platform, being put to good use. For any volunteer thinking about going to Mombasa, I’m happy to answer any queries and share my recommendations and tips.
time of life
March 25, 2026by: pauline schwarz - GermanyProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
i just turned 18 and wanted to do something fun. so i looked up places to volunteer, it’s easy to find friends and explore new things, but it’s also a cheap way to travel. so i found a website where you can go volunteering in buenos aires. and i’m telling you: buenos aires is one of my fav cities now, i loved everything about the project and the people were the best i’ve met. i’ve made so many new friends from all over the world in just a short time. i experienced so many different things and saw also places you’d never go if you’d be on vacation. the accommodation was great, the breakfast was really nice and our local coordinater was really kind and chill. it was the best time on life so far!! i learned a lot about myself and grew. and that’s why i’d recommend to go alone. so please go if you’re thinking about it!! you’re not gonna regret it, i’ll promise.
Latest Interviews

Linda Wells
Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya
I have always believed that travel becomes more meaningful when it is connected to learning and contributing to communities. As a public health lectur...

Margaret Smith
Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya
I have always had a strong desire to see the world and understand how people live in different cultures. I was born in Germany and left at a young age...

Josephine Populin
Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya
I was inspired to volunteer because I wanted to experience a different culture while contributing to a meaningful community project. I have always bel...

Saboor Zeeshan
International Medical Aid (IMA)
A goal of mine, ever since I developed an affinity for altruism and human compassion, has been to serve in underprivileged parts of the world.

XIMENA VELA ROMERO
International Medical Aid (IMA)
I have always been raised in an international context in countries like Argentina, Bolivia, Trinidad and Tobago, Spain, and the USA. Throughout my lif...

Elizabeth Bolton
International Medical Aid (IMA)
While growing up, my parents instilled in me the importance of travel and immersing myself in new cultures. They always prioritized saving for trips w...

Abbey Telesz
International Medical Aid (IMA)
I have experienced the American healthcare system and volunteered at multiple hospitals, including those in both rural and urban areas. This has allow...

Brittany Lau
International Medical Aid (IMA)
When I went on my first volunteer abroad trip in 2019 to Ecuador I gained valuable cultural insights.

Kaiman Lan
Love Volunteers
There are many reasons. For starters, I wanted to become a better person. I wanted to learn more about myself. Through my journey, I saw many lovely t...

Sarah Duff
African Adventures
I have always had a longing for places I'd never been to. The way I see it, the world is my oyster and it's just waiting to be explored. Life is one b...

Luke Newman
African Adventures
I have been concentrating on fundraising for charities in the UK over the last few years. I have seen footage on the television of deprived people liv...

Jack Mullen
Performing Arts Abroad
Going in, I hoped to use this as an opportunity to share as much of my personal experience and knowledge, and to learn all I could from those I was vo...

Ella Capek
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
I've always wanted to explore this world more and it had been my dream to volunteer abroad for a few years before I actually did it. The bigger questi...
Popular Searches
Apply for Scholarships & Deals
Submit a single application on MyGoAbroad to get exclusive discounts on travel programs!

Recent Volunteer Abroad Articles












