Why Travel to Kenya to Volunteer?
When you decide to volunteer in Kenya, you’ve chosen a meaningful and transformative experience that makes a positive difference for others. With so many great reasons to volunteer in Kenya, you can start by looking at ways you can help out in the community, one of which is by providing healthcare that supports local hospitals and clinics.
Beyond the community, volunteering in Kenya is also a way for you to explore and learn more about a truly fascinating country through conservation. From building sustainable practices that benefit the environment to protecting wildlife through conservation efforts, your volunteer work will contribute to the well-being of the country as a whole.
Why is Kenya a Great Place To Volunteer?
In Kenya, numerous schools, NGOs, and organizations funded by private donors are searching for trained and experienced volunteers to help out on their projects. And you’ll find that most of these community institutions have all sorts of projects going on, all at various stages of development. Some are just starting out, some are on-going, and some are almost finished. This means they always need volunteers to help them move forward.
If it makes you happy to be involved in the community or if you’re really passionate about protecting the environment, there are different ways you can help out in Kenya. For example, you could choose to volunteer in a remote village where you can help treat sick and vulnerable people at a community clinic. Or you could volunteer at a wildlife conservancy in the Greater Masai Mara area, where you can support conservation efforts. These are just a few reasons to volunteer in Kenya.
Still on the fence? No worries! Below, we’ve created a list of all the different ways you can make a difference in Kenya.
Reasons Why You Should Volunteer in Kenya
1. Meet the Friendliest People in Kenya
The Kenyan people have a reputation for being super friendly and welcoming, no matter who they meet! You’ll come across people from diverse ethnicities and tribes, including the Maasai, Swahili, Kikuyu, and Luhya, to name a few.
While volunteering, you’ll spend most of your time with the locals, both working and living alongside them. This will give you the chance to learn more about their history, culture, and daily lives. For example, you might learn about the traditional dances of the Kikuyu, the semi-nomadic lifestyle of the Samburu, or the Swahili language spoken along the coast. In other words, volunteering in Kenya is not just about giving back but also about immersing yourself in a new culture and building meaningful connections with the people you meet.
2. Experience Authentic Cultural Immersion in Kenya
Since we’re already on the topic, let’s explore how volunteering in Kenya can be a great opportunity for you to learn about and understand new cultures. The reasons to volunteer in Kenya begin with your personal decision to make a difference! When you volunteer abroad, you’re not just an outsider looking in; you become a part of the community. You’ll get to interact with the locals on a daily basis, share meals, participate in their traditions, and maybe even learn a couple of phrases in Swahili or another local language.
So, why do tourists visit Kenya? It’s because this is a side of Africa that most tourists don’t get to see. It’s an opportunity to see the world through the eyes of the Kenyan people, understand their challenges, and appreciate their way of life. Beyond the superficial tourist experiences, volunteering offers a deeper, more meaningful connection to the people and the land.
3. Discover Spectacular Landscapes in Kenya
From the iconic savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the stunning green pastures of Limuru, Kenya boasts awe-inspiring landscapes that will leave you breathless. Volunteering in Kenya only means that you get the chance to explore these natural wonders in person, with each expedition showing you a different side of the country’s natural beauty.
One of the key reasons to volunteer in Kenya is the opportunity to make a lasting impact during your visit, and that can start with joining a reforestation volunteer project in Limuru. Tree planting is crucial for maintaining the balance between man and nature. When kids and young people learn about their role in protecting nature, they are more likely to make choices that help the planet. By planting indigenous trees, you can help protect the natural beauty of Kenya’s highlands, just outside of Nairobi!
4. Swim in the Most Beautiful Beaches in Kenya
If you thought Kenya was only about the national parks and animals, you’re mistaken! The Indian Ocean is on the eastern border of Kenya, and this is where you’ll find some of the most beautiful beaches that tourists often don’t know about. These beaches have clear blue water, white sandy shores, colorful coral reefs, and quiet tropical islands that can make your trip feel like a dream!
Pack your bag for a volunteer trip in Africa and be prepared for one of the best summers ever. During weekends, you can quickly go to beaches like Nyali, Lamu, Vipingo, Bamburi, Shanzu, and others. Whether you want to relax on the sand, swim in the ocean, go snorkeling, or explore local villages in Mombasa, there’s something for everyone. Kenya’s beach culture is special and different from what you’ll find in other countries. So why do people go to Kenya? Well, experiencing this unique beach culture is definitely one of the reasons.
5. Explore Extraordinary Wildlife in Kenya
If you are in Kenya, how can you not go on thrilling wildlife safaris in the Maasai Mara National Reserve? There is, of course, the incredible wildebeest migration, but there’s a lot more in the country to make you fall in love. Apart from its stunning scenery, Kenya is home to a diverse range of wildlife, and on a big cat volunteer project, you’ll see everything from lions and leopards to elephants and rhinos. One of the reasons to volunteer in Kenya is the opportunity to be up close with these magnificent creatures.
With African Impact, you’ll stay near the famous Maasai Mara National Reserve in a special conservation area called Pardamat. This unique site uses a ‘dual-use’ conservation model, meaning that the area is used for both wildlife conservation and other purposes by the local community. So, you get a great opportunity to live and work in a very important part of the larger Maasai Mara ecosystem. This is not just a chance to see these magnificent animals up close, but also to contribute to the science that helps us understand and protect them better.
Prepare for your volunteer trip with ease, and read more about these handy big cat research tips.
6. Find Unforgettable Adventures in Kenya
Kenya is a land of adventure and endless possibilities. And with great volunteer adventures comes great responsibility! The reasons to volunteer in Kenya are numerous. The opportunities don’t just stop at immersing yourself in the rich culture of Kenya, discovering the majestic landscapes, or encountering magnificent wildlife, because there’s even more to explore.
Kenya has a rich history, with ancient sites to visit and stories to learn. There are vibrant cities with bustling markets, delicious food, and lively music. There are also many opportunities to get involved in volunteer projects, help local communities, or contribute to conservation efforts. So, going on an adventure in Kenya is not just about seeing new sites and having fun on the weekends (although that’s a big part of it!). It’s also about learning, helping others, and growing as a person. There’s so much to explore in Kenya, and every adventure is an opportunity to discover something new.
7. Learn New Skills in Kenya
Going on an adventure across a country is always exciting, but gaining new skills while you are abroad makes the experience even more worthwhile. For instance, you might learn how to navigate through the wilderness, pick up new phrases in Swahili, or work as a team to solve problems. All of these skills are important and can be used in many parts of your life, not just while you’re volunteering in Kenya.
Another one of the reasons to volunteer in Kenya is that you might learn how to adapt to new and unexpected situations, improve your communication skills by interacting with people from different cultures, or develop a stronger sense of empathy and understanding by helping others in need. These skills are not only beneficial for your personal growth but can also make you a more valuable team member in your professional life. Ultimately, the skills you acquire while volunteering in Kenya can have a lasting impact on your life and the lives of others.
8. Boost Your Social Confidence in Kenya
As we’ve already mentioned, life in Kenya is all about getting to know new cultures. So, visiting this part of Africa might definitely cause some culture shock once you are there. But then, imagine the beauty of communicating with people who don’t speak your language and vice versa! You’ll soon realize that emotions can convey so many messages that words often fail to express.
Why should you visit Kenya? It’ll encourage you to step out of your comfort zone to help others, which will ultimately make you a better person. You’ll discover your strengths and weaknesses, hone your skills, and put them to good use. Volunteering in Kenya will not only make you more humble and compassionate, but it will also give you a chance to live like the locals, without air conditioning or free public Wi-Fi, to name a few. You’ll be closer to nature and experience life from a different perspective.
9. Build Lifelong Friendships in Kenya
Volunteering in Kenya is a chance to connect with like-minded people from all over the world who are as committed as you are to making a positive impact. This is an incredible opportunity to broaden your perspective and gain a deeper understanding of the world. Plus, it’s a journey that helps you grow as a person.
And let’s not forget about the friendships. The people you meet while volunteering could end up being friends for life. Sharing in the struggles and successes of volunteer work creates a bond that is not easily broken. And who knows? Alongside making a difference and expanding your worldview, you might also form connections that will stay with you for the rest of your life! So, if you’re looking for reasons to volunteer in Kenya, besides making a difference and personal growth, it also offers the chance to form lifelong friendships and connections.
10. Make a Sustainable Impact in Kenya
Volunteering in Kenya can take many forms. You can join our mission to support the community and protect the environment by taking part in a reforestation volunteer project. Planting trees is more than just an immediate action; it’s a long-term investment in the sustainable future of the community, wildlife, and our planet. But your contribution doesn’t stop there.
On this project, not only will you lead school engagement workshops to educate children on the importance of environmental awareness, but you’ll also become part of women’s self-help groups. Here, you can promote healthy living and play a vital role in developing the community’s infrastructure.
How to Volunteer in Kenya?
Now that you’re on track with all the best reasons to volunteer in Kenya, let’s get into the application process! First, research the different volunteer projects available in Kenya and choose one that best fits your goals and interests. Secondly, submit your application. And lastly, prepare for your trip! Here’s our step-by-step guide to help you complete your application with ease.
Step 1: Research Volunteer Programs
We’ve created a bunch of amazing resources for you to look through that will help make your decision even easier. Read more about our missions and values, or head over to the GoAbroad website to see what previous volunteers are saying about our volunteer projects in Africa!
You can make a difference in Kenya and be part of a movement that is working towards a more equal future. Start by researching and finding volunteer opportunities in Kenya that align with your values and interests. Then join the movement and make a difference
Step 2: Apply to a Program
With so many reasons to volunteer in Kenya, you’ll be able to find the right program and apply to it within minutes!
Find our application form on the program page and follow these easy steps:
- Fill out details that outline your preferred travel start date
- Select a duration and price that suit your preferences
- Enter more personal information and contact details
- Hit apply!
If your application is successful, we will be in touch.
Step 3: Prepare For Your Trip
We know that preparing for a trip like this can be a bit overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. There are many boxes on the list to check off, and sometimes it’s hard to know where to start. That’s why we’re here to help.
Our team has a lot of experience organizing volunteer trips, and we know exactly what you need to do to get ready. We’ll guide you through the whole process, making sure you don’t forget anything important. If your application has been accepted, a journey coordinator assigned to help organize your trip will get in touch with you directly.
We assist through advice and guidance in the following areas:
- Obtaining a visa in your destination country
- Arranging travel costs and expenses
- Arranging medical insurance
- Undergoing the necessary protocols for vaccinations
If you have more questions about this, you can get in touch by filling out our contact form or giving us a call.
Why Choose African Impact Volunteer Projects in Kenya?
Volunteering in Kenya is a transformative experience that combines the joys of exploration, cultural immersion, and making a positive impact. From the warmth and hospitality of its people to the breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife, Kenya has everything to offer those seeking a purposeful and unforgettable journey.
Combining various sustainable practices, we encourage all volunteers who join our programs to immerse themselves in the local culture and gain a deeper understanding of the island and its people. Our volunteer programs in Kenya focus on community development, education, and healthcare, all essential areas of support for the local communities we work in.
SHARE ONLINE
