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.
HOW can you help?
- Learn firsthand about wildlife conservation.
- Assist the local rangers
- Be part of the team conserving the endangered Rothschild giraffe.
- Contribute to the conservation of Giraffes, Birds, Colobus Monkeys.
WHAT you can do?
- Help with ecological monitoring and conducting censuses
- Assist with tracking wildlife
- Receive training on conservation work from local specalists
- Take part in a variety of tasks around the conservation area
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: WILDLIFE CONSERVATION
LOCATION: NAKURU, KENYA
START DATES: WEEKLY (SAT/SUN ARRIVALS)
ACCOMMODATION: VOLUNTEER HOUSE (SHARED ROOMS)
MIN DURATION: 1 WEEK
MIN AGE: 16+
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Criminal background check required
Overview
Kenya is renowned for its abundant wildlife that freely roams the savanna, playing a significant role in the country’s economy, including at the grassroots level. Unfortunately, many remote communities live in close proximity to wildlife, leading to human-wildlife conflicts that displace animals from their natural habitat. To promote a healthy co-existence between wildlife and local communities, various organizations have established conservancy areas. As a participant in this program, you will work closely with our conservationist to support the conservation efforts’ objectives.
Your activities will include ecological monitoring, conducting censuses, tracking wildlife, and collaring among other activities. Throughout your work at the conservation site, you will be accompanied by a wildlife specialist who will guide you through your schedule and train you on the activities. Importantly, a local community resides within the conservancy, and meaningful interactions with the locals will help you understand their co-existence with wildlife and the impact of conservation efforts.
As a participant in the Nakuru Wildlife Conservation Program, you will play a crucial role in various activities aimed at protecting and preserving the natural environment. Here is an overview of your responsibilities:
Wildlife Conservancy:
- Introductory Game-Drive: Begin your journey with a thrilling game drive that will familiarize you with the geography of the conservation area. Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes while observing the diverse wildlife that calls this place home.
- Rothschild Giraffe Tracking and Ecological Monitoring: Join the conservation team in tracking the endangered Rothschild giraffes. Contribute to ongoing research efforts by collecting data on their behavior and habitat, helping to ensure their survival.
- Removal of Invasive Plant Species: Assist in the removal of invasive plant species that have encroached upon the grazing areas. By eliminating these plants, you will help restore the balance of the ecosystem and create a healthier habitat for wildlife.
- DC Pulse Electric Perimeter Wall Inspection: Take part in the important task of inspecting the electric perimeter wall. Check for voltage faults and clear any overgrowth that may interfere with the electric pulse. Your efforts will contribute to the security and protection of the wildlife within the conservancy.
Soysambu Wildlife Conservancy:
- Full Game-Drive Fauna and Flora Education: Embark on a comprehensive game drive within the Soysambu Wildlife Conservancy. Immerse yourself in the rich diversity of wildlife and learn about the unique flora and fauna present in the area, with a special emphasis on birds.
Dundori Tree Nursery:
- Nurturing Tree Seedlings and Assisting Local Women: At the Dundori Tree Nursery, you can learn about the processes involved in nurturing tree seedlings. Work with local women to assist them in their efforts to conserve and grow trees. Your assistance will help with reforestation and environmental sustainability.
- Hike through Dundori Forest Reserve with Tree Planting: Take a memorable hike through the enchanting Dundori Forest Reserve. Embrace the beauty of the forest by planting indigenous trees, which will have a long-term impact on the ecosystem and promote a greener environment.
Menengai Crater:
- Hiking in Menengai Crater Forest and Ecological Education: Explore the enthralling Menengai Crater Forest while learning about the unique ecosystem that thrives within. Immerse yourself in the natural surroundings while planting tree seedlings that will help preserve this amazing area.
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
• Gain invaluable, practical experience in wildlife conservation.
• Assist the local staff by providing an extra hand.
• Be part of the team conserving the endangered Rothschild giraffe.
Food & Accommodation
You will be accommodated in our volunteer house, with 2-4 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.
*Accommodation may be in our local centre or in close proximity, depending on availability and time of year.
Specialty
Projects
- Wildlife Conservation - Nakuru
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1 Week - $830
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2 Weeks - $985
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3 Weeks - $1380
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1 Month - $1895
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2 Months - $3680
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3 Months - $5460
- Private rooms cost additional $250 p/week
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
If you love being active and outdoors, and have a passion for wildlife then yes! This is a really exciting project set in one of the most stunning locations. You will be outside and active, taking in a variety of tasks and working as a team.
- 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 between 08:00 to 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.
Daily Schedule Timings:
07.00: Fuel up for the day with a delicious breakfast at the accommodation center.
07.30: Depart from your accommodation to begin your program activities.
08.00: Begin the day’s activities, which will vary depending on the location and objectives.
10.00: Take a refreshing tea break to re-energize yourself for the rest of the day’s activities.
10.30: Resume your program activities, contributing to the conservation efforts.
12.30: Break for lunch, where you’ll enjoy a packed lunch at the site, surrounded by nature.
13.00: Continue with program activities or prepare for upcoming tasks during this time.
15.00: Depart the site and return to the accommodation center, where you can relax and unwind.
19.00: Dinner will be served at the accommodation, capping off each eventful day.
Prepare to embrace your role as a wildlife conservationist as you immerse yourself in Nakuru’s incredible natural wonders. We can make a difference in preserving these vital ecosystems for future generations if we work together.
**You are expected to participate in relevant activities for a minimum of 5 hours a day**
*Schedule possible to change due to the project and community needs at the time. Volunteer flexibility and adaptability is important to a positive volunteering experience.
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.
Safety materials such as:
- Hiking boots
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Safari hat
- Comfortable clothing
- Day packs
- Insect repellents
- Water bottles
- Personal medication
- Torch
Modest or casual attire is required while in the conservancy area and when interacting in the village. It must be totally covering the knees and shoulders, (nothing revealing, tight fitting, sheer, low cut, or with any offensive/inappropriate displayed on it).
For information on holidays and any programs affected, please see the following link: KE – Holidays – All Programs
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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