Involvement Volunteers International WHY we need you in Kenya
- Approx one-third of Kenya's population lives on less than US$1.90 p/day. Your volunteer fees are directly benefiting the local people of this region.
- School Children in this region rarely have the opportunity to interact with foreigners who speak English. Promoting these skills can have a profound impact on the children's future career prospects.
- Approx 42% of Kenya's population are below the poverty line, especially in the rural areas where this project is located.
- Volunteering in this region creates employment opportunities for the local coordinators & supplements the farmers enabling competitive opportunities for the farms involved.
WHAT does the Road Trip Kenya Involve?
- Gain an authentic experience of Kenya!
- Immerse in the country's culture, customs, and way of life
- Opportunities for engagement in community projects and activities
- Explore this amazing country!
Why Involvement Volunteers International?
- Non Profit Organisation & Charity
- Over 33 Years Expertise Globally
- Low Program Fees - From US$295
- Excellent Safety Record, In-Country 24/7 Support & Emergency Assistance
- 1 Application Fee - Multiple Countries
PROJECT NAME: 21 DAY VOLUNTEER ROAD TRIP
LOCATION: KENYA
START DATES: 1st MON OF EACH MONTH (SAT/SUN ARRIVALS)
ACCOMMODATION: VOLUNTEER HOUSE (SHARED ROOMS)
MIN DURATION: 3 WEEKS
MIN AGE: 16+
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: N/A
Overview
Embark on a captivating and enlightening 21-day journey through Kenya, where you’ll fully immerse yourself in diverse cultures and delve into the country’s captivating history through a wide range of engaging programs.
Upon your arrival in Kenya, our Lead Coordinator will extend a warm welcome at the airport and accompany you to your accommodation, where you’ll spend your initial nights, getting a taste of life in the capital city. Your coordinator will provide you with a briefing on what to anticipate during your Kenyan stay and will lead you on an afternoon excursion to the David Scheldrick orphanage, a sanctuary for rescued elephants. Subsequently, you’ll visit the Giraffe Centre, where you’ll have the opportunity to feed and spend quality time with these magnificent creatures before returning to your accommodation.
On the third day, you’ll embark on an exciting journey to the renowned Cultural Music Centre known as Bomas of Kenya. Here, you’ll be treated to a two-day immersion into the diverse music and dances representing Kenya’s numerous cultures. This experience will offer you insights into the various tribes that constitute Kenya, each with its distinct and unique dances.
Day five marks the commencement of an exhilarating Maasai Mara Game Drive, where you’ll stay for two nights in accommodation within the park. Following your safari adventures, you’ll pay a visit to Maasai villages and engage with the local inhabitants, learning about their traditions and way of life. Your exploration then leads you to Nakuru, where you’ll tour the city and witness the abundance of flamingos that call it home.
On the ninth day, you’ll partake in team-building activities and other enjoyable pursuits. The journey continues on the 10th day as you head to Naivasha for a serene boat ride on the lake, spotting hippos! The subsequent day involves a hike to the breathtaking Thompson Falls, allowing you to marvel at the waterfall’s natural beauty.
Day 12 promises an adventure as you embark on a mission to track wild giraffes on foot at a nearby conservancy, gaining insights into their families and names. Finally, on the last day, you’ll embark on a hike up a dormant volcano, traversing its uniquely formed crater floor. Join us for this journey through Kenya, where you’ll encounter a rich tapestry of cultures, history, and wildlife like never before.
In the third week, you have the opportunity to participate in a community project, enabling you to contribute to a social cause and give back to the local community. You can choose to engage in teaching, childcare, or construction and renovation projects.
What’s Included:
- Airport transfers as per the policy, including airport pickup in Nairobi.
- The presence of a dedicated program coordinator throughout your journey, offering logistical support in case of emergencies.
- Authentic Kenyan meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) based on the meal plan.
- Accommodation at hotels, homestays, and our designated facility, with shared single-gender lodging.
- Local transportation to all destinations.
- Entry fees to all attractions.
- Comprehensive pre-departure information.
- Participation in a community engagement project during your final week.
What’s Excluded:
- Personal expenses such as beverages, room service items, laundry, telephone calls, tips, and portage at hotels or airports, as well as bottled water during road trips.
- Any additional expenses arising from disruptions in the trip program due to factors like weather conditions, illness, natural disasters, or civil disturbances.
- Liability insurance for injuries, loss of life, accidents, or loss of personal belongings. Participants must obtain appropriate insurance before joining the program.
- Camera fees, where applicable.
- Services not explicitly mentioned above.
Important Considerations:
- Please ensure you return to the accommodation by 22:30 each day.
- The hiring of vehicles independently is not permitted for participants.
- Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited at all our centres.
- Respect and adherence to our code of conduct are expected.
- Our staff is here to support and guide you to ensure a memorable trip; please follow their instructions diligently.
- Outsiders are not permitted within our centres, guest houses, or hotels.
- Kindly provide your mobile phone number during the booking process to facilitate communication, particularly at crowded airports, to ensure a smooth start to your journey.
Location
Nakuru is a city in Kenya that is located in the Great Rift Valley region. It is the fourth-largest urban area in Kenya, with a population of over 500,000 people. The city is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including Lake Nakuru National Park, which is home to a wide variety of wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and rhinos. Nakuru is also a hub for agriculture and is one of the largest producers of pyrethrum, a natural insecticide, in the world. Additionally, the city has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Nakuru Agricultural Show and the Lake Turkana Cultural Festival.
Project Tasks
- Travel around the country and do some sightseeing of amazing places!
- Immerse yourself in the lcoal culture and connect with other volunteers
- Volunteer for a week on community programs
Food & Accommodation
Accommodation in Nakuru is in our volunteer house, with 2-8 sharing a room. Hot showers, safety boxes and bed linin are provided (no wifi). All participants are expected to be environmentally aware and use all resources with restraint, especially electricity. Sometimes there are power cuts during the day, which is part of village life. There is an available water supply. You will have meals provided and rooms cleaned on the weekends, but you will also be expected to clean up after yourself and play your part in keeping the accommodation neat and organised. The location is very close to the green steds international school and is a few minutes walk to the Lake Nakuru National park Southern gate. It is around 15KM from Nakuru town.
Food served will mainly be Kenyan food, which consists of vegetables, potato, eggs, bread, pancakes (commonly known as “chapati”) and fruits such as oranges, bananas and avocados.
You will be provided 3 meals per day on the weekdays, and 2 meals per day on weekends.
What's Included
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Accommodation
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Meals
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Airport Pickup
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Local Transportation
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1 Day Orientation
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24/7 In-Country Support
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Project Materials & Equipment
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Pre-departure Expert Advice
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Preperation Tools & Checklists
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Certificate of Completion
- Application fee is one off per person (unlimited placements)
- Click Here to convert the below prices to your local currency
- Discounts may apply if travelling in a pair or group!
- All credit card /international fees included in below pricing! 🙂
Testimonials...
FAQ
This is the perfect program if you want to experience both travel, culture and volunteer work. You do not have to worry about accommodation and transport as it is all included, so great for those who don’t want the stress of having to organise everything! This can be a great way to start a longer volunteer trip if desired.
- Accommodation
- 3 meals p/day weekdays / 2 meals p/day weekends
- Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
- Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
- 1 day orientation
- Daily transportation to project
- In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
- Fundraising support
- University course credits (where applicable)
- Certificate of Completion
- Airfares
- Travel Insurance
- Tours, Souvenirs & spending money
On the Monday of your first week at this location, you will join our orientation day, to familiarise you with the surroundings as well as local culture. Your program will continue as usual from Tuesday onward throughout the rest of the week.
Schedule
● Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice and
handling of documents.
● Kenyan Do’s and Don’ts, Culture introduction and country history and Swahili Language
Lessons.
● Tour around the compound and local area; where to find local shops, and arrange a sim-card
if necessary.
● Lunch
● Trip to Nakuru town where you can buy essentials if required
Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees.
A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO). You must arrive at the meeting point by 13.00 on Saturday or Sunday. If arriving during the pickup times on the Saturday, we charge an additional fee for the extra night’s accommodation.
If arriving outside the pickup times, we charge an additional fee for any extra night’s accommodation, and for a private transfer.
Alternatively, if arriving early you could wait at the arrival’s terminal for the pickup time, book accommodation at the airport and meet us during the pickup times or make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this).
From the airport to the accommodation, it takes 3.5 hours by car.
Schedule
Week 1: Nairobi & Maasai Mara
Day 1: Monday
Upon your arrival in Nairobi, you will be transported from the airport to the accommodation center. On the following morning, Monday, you will attend an introduction session covering important topics such as local culture, safety and health precautions, transportation, and expectations for the trip. You will have the opportunity to visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, followed by a trip to the Giraffe Centre where many giraffes are cared for. In the evening, you may choose to retire for the night or engage in some board games with your team members.
Day 2 & 3: Tuesday & Wednesday
An early morning awaits as you are granted the opportunity to visit the ‘Bomas of Kenya’, a cultural music center featuring displays of traditional dances and musical performances. Members of numerous Kenyan tribes will converge at this venue to present their unique cultural expressions. Such an intricate display of talent and culture will continue throughout the next day, as each tribe showcases its diverse range of dances and musicals. Additionally, you will be able to engage with the dancers and delve further into their cultures.
Day 5 to 7: Thursday to Saturday
Experience the awe-inspiring Maasai Mara National Reserve during your next two-day excursion in Kenya. Witness a multitude of magnificent animals such as lions, rhinos, hippos, crocodiles, and wildebeests, among others, as you explore the vast plains of the Mara. Overnight accommodations at one of our camps will be provided for the duration of your stay. Enjoy an authentic cultural experience with the Maasai people, who will be performing their traditional dances and jumps, showcasing their way of life that has been passed down for generations. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable adventure in the Maasai Mara.
Week 2: Nakuru, Naivasha & Nyahururu
Day 8: Sunday
Upon your arrival at our primary lodging facility in Nakuru, you will be granted the opportunity to take a tour of the city. This will include visits to the local market, small curio shops, and a breathtaking aerial view of the city. It is worth noting that Nakuru boasts the largest population of flamingos and is commonly referred to as the “home of flamingos.”
Day 9: Monday
Get ready for an enjoyable experience! Today, you will be visiting the Fish Park Center, which offers a variety of entertaining activities. You will be divided into teams to participate in team building exercises, which will put your strength and intellectual capabilities to the test. The team that performs best will be recognized and awarded for their successful efforts. This event promises to be a unique and enjoyable day like no other.
Day 10: Tuesday
Begin your day with a one-hour drive to Lake Naivasha, where you will participate in a boat ride with your fellow team members, where you will see hippos basking and playing in the water and enjoy the peaceful lake view.
Day 11: Wednesday
Ready for another adventure? Today will be a hiking excursion to the famous Thompson Falls in Nyahururu, which is about a one-hour drive from the accommodation center. The hike will be a wonderful bonding experience for you and your team members, full of laughter and wonderful memories.
Day 12 -13: Thursday & Friday
In the wild, you will become one with the Giraffes. Visit a nearby conservancy where you will be required to track giraffes in the wild and learn their names and families. This will be done on foot as you walk through the conservancy with a ranger to identify the giraffes.
Day 14: Saturday
Today will be an early start as you continue your exploration of the famous Menengai Crater. A trained guide will accompany you through the crater’s floors and provide you with a brief history of how it came to be.
Day 15: Sunday
Today is a day for rest and relaxation. In the evening, we will hold a community engagement project briefing for the upcoming week.
Week 3
Day 16 – 20: Monday to Friday
After a two-week adventure, you will join a community project where you will be able to contribute to a social project and give back to the community. You can get involved in education, childcare, and construction and renovation projects.
Day 21: Saturday
Head to the airport for your departure.
***Mode of transportation could change due to unavoidable circumstances***
***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances. ***
There are several things to do near Nakuru, Kenya. Here are some options:
Visit Lake Nakuru National Park: This park is home to a large population of flamingos and other bird species. It’s also a great place to see lions, leopards, and rhinos.
Take a hot air balloon ride: Get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning scenery around Nakuru with a hot air balloon ride. This is a popular activity that offers amazing views of the Great Rift Valley and Lake Nakuru.
Hike Menengai Crater: This dormant volcano is a popular hiking destination. The views from the top are breathtaking, and the hike itself is challenging but doable for most people.
Visit Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site: This museum and archaeological site offers a glimpse into the prehistoric history of the area. You can see ancient tools and artifacts, and learn about the early human settlements in the region.
Explore Hell’s Gate National Park: This park is named for its geothermal activity and is a great place to see natural hot springs and geysers. You can also hike through the park’s stunning scenery and see wildlife like baboons, zebras, and giraffes.
Go on a safari: There are several safari options near Nakuru, including drives through Lake Nakuru National Park and private conservancies that offer a more intimate wildlife viewing experience.
Additional Requirements
In order to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants in the program, certain measures have been put in place, particularly for specific age groups. Those who are older are required to obtain medical clearance, as this acts as a precautionary measure to ascertain their physical ability to partake in potentially strenuous activities. Similarly, participants who are under 18 years old must have a signed parental consent form, as this guarantees that their parents or guardians are aware of their involvement and approve of their participation. Due to the length and active nature of the program, it is essential for all participants to possess a decent level of fitness, since a significant portion of the activities will take place outdoors under the heat of the sun. By adhering to these requirements, the program organizers can maintain an enjoyable and safe environment for everyone involved.
Additional Equipment
- Medicines you may require: if you have to take specific medicines on a regular basis, bring them along Otherwise, be aware that most basic medicines and even antibiotics are available in India for which you should have a doctor’s prescription.
- First-aid kit should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Band-Aids/plasters, tape, antihistamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking
- Mosquito repellents/mosquito nets
- Hiking shoes or trainers
- Please bring a rucksack (backpack), avoid trolleys and suitcase to make you travel comfortable
- Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders such as Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders
- Cash, credit and debit cards
- Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
- Flashlight/torch
- Fleece top/sweater
- Locks for bags
- Outlet adapter
- Toiletries – Preferably biodegradable
Kenya is a stunning country, featuring almost every terrain and climate from desert, beach, cities and forests.
There is something for every traveler here, particularly for wildlife lovers. It has over 40 National parks throughout the country and holds the some of the world’s most loved and endangered animals. Here you will find lions, leopards, elephants, hippos and so much more! Kenya is famous for its incredible safaris, which are the countries main source of tourism.
Also well known is the semi nomadic Maasai tribe- a hugely symbolic tribe known for its colourful adornments and traditional clothing. Kenya is a nature lovers paradise, with a visit to the Great Rift Valley being a must. For those who enjoy a gentler pace then Kenya also offers some beautiful beaches, its coast stretching almost 80,000 kilometres.
The beach is also sunny for most of the year! The capital, Nairobi is the fifth largest city in Africa, with unique vibes and a vibrant nightlife. This bustling and cosmopolitan city will throw you into Kenyan way of life and be an interesting eye opener.
Kenya is a huge country with its climate changing from tropical along the coast, to arid in the northern regions and then mild inland temperatures.
Kenya receives a large amount of sunshine year-round but generally, the hottest months are between February and March while the coldest months are July to mid-August. The “long rains” start from March to June, while the “short rains” are between October and December.
Due to Kenya being a major hub for migration over the years, it has now become one of the most culturally diverse countries with many different languages spoken.
There are over 40 different ethnic groups in Kenya, including Luo, Kamba, Maasai and more. Each have their own of mother tongue, although Swahili remains the most widely spoken language. You will also find ethnic groups from European, Arab, Indian and Pakistani, who migrated to the country in the 19th century.
Religions such as Christianity and Islam are widely spread, however many local people still believe in the ancestral world, where the dead have a bearing on the living. Today, the majority of Kenya’s culture, dress, music and food has taken strong influence from other parts of Africa, India, Europe and the United States.
In certain parts of the country however, many local communities hold onto their traditional lifestyle and customs. They still wear the clothes, animal skins and jewellery as they did centuries before. Many remote tribes remain completely isolated and indigenous.
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