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Gap Year Programs in Kenya

Do you want to be like everybody else and pick a gap year in Europe or Asia, or do you want to stand out from the crowd and have the most memorable year of your life? Well, if you’re one of the latter, then follow our advice and sign up for a gap year in Kenya. Volunteer, study, or travel and meet the friendliest people in the world, create lifelong friendships, encounter the wildlife up close, swim in the clear waters of the Indian Ocean, or learn how to speak Swahili. You will be spoiled with choices for any kind of adventure that your heart desires. Let’s get going!
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Featured Provider of the Month

29 Gap Year Programs in Kenya

Kenya

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

9.55

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Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 9...

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AHS

African Horse Safaris

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Long Stay Safari in Kenya

Nestled in the beautiful Laikipia region of Kenya, this exclusive...

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

9.68

37

GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

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Semester at Sea

9.64

44

Semester at Sea: Global Study Abroad on a Floating Campus

Unlike traditional study abroad or tourism experiences, Semester at Sea offers a unique opportunity for deep, authentic engagement with countries and cultures around the globe. It's more than just the adventure of a lifetime. It's a transformative experience that will give you a global perspective to take on the challenges of tomorrow. Fall 2026: European, African, South American, and Asian Adventure Embark: September 9, IJmuiden, The Netherlands Disembark: Dec 22, Bangkok, Thailand Itinerary: Portugal, Morocco, Brazil, St. Helena, South Africa, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Hong Kong Spring 2027: Asia, Africa, and Europe Embark: Jan 5, Bangkok, Thailand Disembark: Apr 20, Bremerhaven, Germany Vietnam, Indonesia, Singapore, India, Kenya, South Africa, Ghana, Morocco, Scotland

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International Medical Aid (IMA)

9.94

17

Dentistry/Pre-Dentistry Shadowing & Clinical Experience

Global dental healthcare with International Medical Aid's (IMA) Dental Internships for pre-dental undergraduates, dental students, dentists, and dental hygienists, offers an extraordinary chance to work in some of the world's most underserved regions—East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. Under the mentorship of professionals, interns delve into the complexities of dental care, from public health education to community hygiene clinics, addressing dire needs where dental services are scarce. IMA, founded at Johns Hopkins University, is a not-for-profit dedicated to not just providing care but enhancing the communities we serve. We forge ethical, sustainable initiatives focused on preventing disease at its source, going beyond the conventional internship. With comprehensive support, local guidance, extensive safety training, and structured housing, interns enjoy a secure environment to grow and learn. Our program includes everything from AADSAS statement reviews to personalized admissions counseling, aiding your journey to dental school. Experience an internship and become a part of a global movement towards better dental health with IMA.

ARCC Programs

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ARCC Gap: East Africa - Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania

The East Africa gap year program explores the majesty, cultures, and challenges of three East African nations: Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. You will have unparalleled access to the region’s fascinating aspects, helping you gain unique insights and make authentic connections with community members. With a balance of work projects, adventure, immersion, and exploration, this 70-day program provides countless opportunities to learn about, support, and contribute to locally run, sustainable initiatives. In Uganda, you will collaborate with rangers and biologists to reintroduce and build a sustainable population of rhinos, which are facing extinction since 1982. In Kenya, you will shadow students at the country's first free all-female secondary school and learn to build and install solar power systems in Masai communities. Explore Masai Mara National Park to search for the “Big Five” – water buffalo, lion, rhino, elephant, and leopard – as well as to see some of Africa’s majestic wildlife. In Tanzania, you will explore the challenges and triumphs of a rural health clinic and vocational center.

Projects Abroad

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Global Leader In Meaningful Travel. Trusted By 130,000

At Projects Abroad, we’re passionate about travel with a purpose. Since being founded in 1992, more than 130,000 volunteers have traveled to over 20 destinations around the world. Our programs will make you step out of your comfort zone and engage with your new friends from around the world. These are long-term projects, led by local people and aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. By taking part in our programs, even for a short time, you will be contributing towards a sustained effort to support the communities that host us! We believe no other provider offers the safety and security to their volunteers and interns that we do. You'll receive 24-hour staff support from our trained staff, alongside a gold standard of safety planning of your trip - so you don't have to worry about a thing. Choose a project you are passionate about from working with children to medical internship, conservation, and wildlife volunteering. We offer projects starting at one week in over 20 stunning destinations across Asia, Africa, Latin America & The Caribbean, South Pacific & Europe. Ready to make a difference? Follow the link to visit our website!

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Love Volunteers

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Gap Year Adventures with Love Volunteers

Whether you want to support vulnerable communities in developing countries, help conserve the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, or protect animals in the Amazon, Love Volunteers has a program for you. With over 200 projects in 40 countries there's something for everyone! For over 7 years Love Volunteers has provided safe, affordable and ethical volunteering and gap year projects. Join a program today for a life-changing experience.

Volunteer World

8.69

16

Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

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Baret Scholars

9.43

7

Baret Scholars Gap Year Program

Before and beyond college, Baret Scholars explores 7 regions of the world, their passions, and their purpose. Baret Scholars is a global gap year program that brings together a cohort of 180 high school students from around the world to journey across 7 regions (North/South America, Europe, Africa, Middle East, India, and China/Asia), over 180 days, in a semi-structured and self-guided gap year experience. This will be their best year yet. Named after Jeanne Baret, the first woman to circumnavigate the globe, Baret Scholars provides students with a comprehensive and holistic understanding of the world, paving the way for years of fulfillment and achievement. The program serves as a foundation for their future, fostering cultural literacy, a global perspective, and a desire to create a better world.

Africa & Asia Venture

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Gap Year Volunteering Program in Africa and Asia

Make a lasting difference using your talents, skills, and passion. Join us in this gap year volunteering program in destinations like Kenya, Malawi, India, Nepal, and Thailand. This is the perfect opportunity to become a global citizen while immersing yourself in diverse cultures. At Africa & Asia Venture (AV), we consider your skills and knowledge to put these to good use in our programs in the following areas: - Art, Drama, Music, and Dance - Community Work - Sports Coaching - Teaching Stay for as short as 5 weeks or as long as 12 weeks. You can also participate in the 16-week gap year program, which comprises 12 weeks of volunteering and 4 weeks of independent travel. If you have an alternative duration, don’t hesitate to let us know and we’ll work with you to create a tailored itinerary. Your gap year doesn’t necessarily mean a “year” out. Get in touch with our team today to discuss your preferences.

Ocean Tribe

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Divemaster Internship in Diani Beach, Kenya

Turn your love for the ocean into a professional career with Ocean Tribe’s Divemaster Internship in stunning Diani Beach, Kenya. Whether you’re starting as a beginner or already a certified diver, our flexible packages guide you step-by-step toward becoming a confident, skilled Divemaster. Train alongside experienced instructors in warm, clear waters rich with marine life, including turtles, reef sharks, and vibrant coral reefs. Gain real-world guiding and assisting experience, develop leadership skills, and build lasting connections with a global dive community. Our internships include unlimited diving, mentorship, and optional marine ecology training, plus the chance to explore Kenya’s beautiful land safaris. Start your adventure in one of Africa’s top diving destinations and open the door to a new lifestyle and career path. Dive in and make your dream a reality with Ocean Tribe!

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The Leap

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Kenya Gap Year Program with The Leap

If you're seeking a cultural hit combined with crystal clear Indian ocean, and the wildlife strewn dusty planes, then this gritty 5-week programme in Kenya will deliver. Here you will find yourself living right on the edge of the Indian Ocean, near the hip little town of Kilifi. Picture the whitest of sand, warm tropical water, turtles, migrating humpback whales, dolphins and more than 500 species of tropical fish and corals on tap. Utterly stunning. Our plan is for you to support a pioneering marine conservation project which needs your help to research and rebuild coral reefs, encourage the fishing families to stop over fishing, teach kids about conserving their environment, and help develop local housing and other income generating schemes. All interwoven into the community and conservation will be safari, volleyball on the beach, many an African sundowner, and a cruise along the river on a majestic dhow. A truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

United Planet

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Gap Year: 6-Month + Service Learning Opportunity in Kenya

Kenya is a melting pot of languages, cultures, wildlife, and landscapes. The Kenyan Highlands make up one of the most successful agricultural production regions in Africa, contributing to the country's stability. Its natural landscapes are made up of mountains, deserts, volcanic highlands, and savannas. There are wildlife habitats to explore and rural areas rich with tradition. Here, volunteers can lend a helping hand in various projects. Since United Planet is a member of the ICYE (International Cultural Youth Exchange), participants will be hosted by organizations associated with ICYE. In Kenya, your host will be ICYE Kenya. This organization exists to offer opportunities for cultural understanding between the local youth and volunteers, creating a world free from prejudices and stereotypes.

A Guide to Gap Year in Kenya

Popular Locations

To help you decide on your future destination, check out these popular locations that have enchanted former gappers in Kenya.

Nairobi. The beautiful capital of Kenya offers gap year opportunities where you can truly make a difference, and as a volunteer in orphanages and women’s rescue centers or working with street people and teaching English to children. If you’re interested in studying, you can get hands-on experience on your field of study at any one of the seven university campuses in Nairobi. When you need a break to recharge your batteries, you can hop on a safari at the Nairobi National Park, enjoy delicious food, get a taste of the African nightlife, spend time with your friends around a fire-camp, or get a little bit of shopping on (souvenirs are a MUST!).

Mombasa. Mombasa is a gorgeous cosmopolitan port city that also offers great opportunities for a gap year in Kenya. Whether you opt to volunteer in local village schools as a sports coach, teach English, math, and arts, or study one of Kenya’s many languages, you will immerse yourself in the African culture and absolutely enjoy the beautiful adventures that Mombasa has to offer. Let yourself be seduced by the laid back beach-vibe and the African lifestyle, travel around the coast where the Arab and Portuguese forts, Old Towns and ruins of Swahili outpost will tell you the fascinating history of this area.

Popular Providers

Latest Program Reviews

Life changing experience

November 24, 2025by: Luisa Rulfo - MexicoProgram: Baret Scholars Gap Year Program
10

The most eye opening experience, questioning everything you go through, you knew, discovering yourself among a cohort of brilliant and unique minds. Every virtue is welcomed and supported to the fullest. We scholars discovered the impact of the frase "If you want something you just have to do it." We unlearned and relearned how to perceive life, how to grow, how to move forward, how to relate to people, how to experience life to the fullest. I believe the knowledge I gained from this experience gave me years of lived life worth of knowledge, unreachable without something like Baret.

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