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Volunteer Programs in Kenya

When you think of Africa, you’re probably thinking of Kenya (or The Lion King). Simba’s kingdom is home to numerous national parks and reserves, and a landscape so diverse you can gaze upon its grandeur of snow-capped peaks, parched deserts, and tropical beaches for days. Not only is Kenya a tantalizing mixture of rare wildlife and picturesque scenery, it is a place for bold and daring volunteers to embrace their inner dauntless. To those ready to shine a light in the dark shadows of elephants’ graveyards, it’s time to volunteer in Kenya.
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112 Volunteer Programs in Kenya

Mara Leopard - Kaya
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Kaya Responsible Travel

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Maasai Mara Big Cat & Elephant Volunteering in Kenya

Maasai Mara measures 1,510 km2 in terms of land area. Such vastne...

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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

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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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International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

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

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 Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

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International Medical Aid (IMA)

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Global Health & Pre-Medicine Internships Abroad | IMA

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 in East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. Shadow doctors in underserved communities, and immerse yourself in diverse healthcare systems through our extensive network of public and private hospitals. IMA, a nonprofit organization, is deeply invested in the communities we serve, focusing on sustainable health solutions and ethical care practices. You'll be involved in community medical clinics, public health education, and first responder training, addressing the root causes of disease and illness alongside local community leaders. Beyond clinical experience, explore the beauty of your host country through cultural excursions and adventure programs during your free time. Join IMA's fellowships developed at Johns Hopkins University and step into a role that transcends traditional healthcare learning, blending clinical excellence with meaningful community service.

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Projects Abroad

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Projects Abroad in Kenya

Kenya is an enchanting East African country that spans both sides of the equator. Its incredible diversity of wildlife, landscapes, and cultures make it a great destination for volunteering. Our volunteer projects in Kenya are available for anyone interested in volunteering in the developing world, including those on a gap year, career break, or summer vacation. Projects Abroad offers Teaching, Care, Conservation & Environment, and Medicine & Healthcare projects in the town of Nanyuki. All Projects Abroad volunteers in Kenya live with local host families. This allows you to experience Kenya from a local’s perspective - a very different world from the often luxurious hotels of the safari industry.

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Love Volunteers

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Teaching in Nairobi, Kenya

This crucial program aims to help vulnerable children in Nairobi by giving them better access to a solid education. Love Volunteers partners with a school that caters to at-risk kids, many of whom are orphans or have been abandoned. They live in poverty and have already suffered much at a young age. The program hopes to create a better life for these children and help them break the poverty cycle through a solid educational foundation. Volunteers work in elementary and high schools, teaching subjects within their interests: mathematics, science, geography, social sciences, history, business education, English, art, or music. While teaching experience isn't required, it would be advantageous. The schools selected for this program usually receive little or no government funding, thus poorly resourced. Extra teaching support is vital in classrooms with several students and insufficient basic supplies. Local teachers and children greatly appreciate the assistance that volunteers give.

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Volunteer World

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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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Freepackers

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Protecting Wildlife in Kenya

Participate in wildlife conservation efforts at a local conservancy in Kenya. This program, designed for nature and adventure enthusiasts, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the conservation of giraffes, birds, colobus monkeys, and many other species. Participate in meaningful activities, including ecological monitoring, census-taking, tracking, collar placements, and other tasks. A wildlife specialist will guide you throughout your journey and provide expert training, tools, and insights into the delicate balance of ecosystems and the importance of conservation efforts. Kenya’s vast savannahs are home to diverse wildlife that plays a crucial role in its economy, making it an ideal destination for sustainable tourism and conservation initiatives. This wildlife protection project is open to individuals aged 16 and above. It's ideal for solo travelers and families with children aged 4 and up.

World Endeavors

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Volunteer in Kenya with World Endeavors

World Endeavors offers exciting programs that allow participants to experience Kenya while contributing to the community in a meaningful way. Volunteers can choose from a variety of immersive, unique, and rewarding community engagement projects across numerous fields like our Special Education Project, Sustainable Agriculture, Empowering Village Women, and Maasai Women's Collective! Safaris are the core of tourism in Kenya, but you might also venture in deeper and discover the Maasai, a semi-nomadic tribe known for its color-filled adornments. Nairobi is a great city to explore, with its bustling nightlife and unique vibes. For those who love nature, a visit to the Great Rift Valley is a must. And for those who enjoy relaxing at the beach, Kenya’s coastal area covers almost 80,000 square kilometers and remains sun-filled during most of the year. Gatanga Village will be your new home and will give you the chance to see authentic, rural Kenya. There are many natural areas near Gatanga, such as Ndakaini Dam and Fourteen Falls, a set of waterfalls that will leave you awestruck.

ARCC Programs

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Kenya & Tanzania: Lighting Lives

Embark on a captivating journey to East Africa, exploring the stunning countries of Kenya and Tanzania. Collaborate with local communities to build and install solar power panels, supporting sustainable energy solutions. Experience incredible wildlife on safari in the iconic Tarangire National Park. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Maasai people by learning Swahili and participating in cultural traditions. Conclude your adventure with a visit to the Spice Island of Zanzibar, where you’ll explore the historic streets of Stone Town, swim in aquamarine waters, and unwind on pristine white sand beaches.

Umoja Foundation Group

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Volunteer in Kenya with Umoja Foundation Group

Volunteer with us at the Umoja Foundation Group and contribute your skills and energy to a cause that truly matters. We believe in the power of cultural exchange and collaboration, fostering an environment where volunteers can learn and grow alongside the local community. Our projects are driven by the needs and aspirations of the local people, and we seek dedicated volunteers who are open-minded, adaptable, and willing to learn. Whether you have experience in education, healthcare, community development, or simply a desire to help, we have a place for you. Volunteering with the Umoja Foundation Group will give you a deeper understanding of different cultures and perspectives while contributing to positive change. You'll work alongside our experienced team to support existing initiatives and learn from our community. If you're passionate about making a difference and are eager to broaden your horizons, we encourage you to join us and become an agent of positive change, locally and globally.

Involvement Volunteers International

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Wildlife Conservation in Kenya

Volunteer in this wildlife conservation program in Nakuru, Kenya, and assist with activities like ecological monitoring, conducting censuses, tracking wildlife, and collaring. Throughout your work at the conservation site, you will be accompanied by a wildlife specialist who will guide you through your schedule and provide training. Projects - Rothschild Giraffe Tracking and Ecological Monitoring: Join the conservation team in tracking the endangered Rothschild giraffes. Contribute to ongoing research by collecting data on their behavior and habitat, helping to ensure their survival. - Removal of Invasive Plant Species - DC Pulse Electric Perimeter Wall Inspection - Nurturing Tree Seedlings and Assisting Local Women at the Dundori Tree Nursery Located in the Great Rift Valley region, Nakuru is the fourth-largest urban area in Kenya, with a population of over 500,000. The city is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including Lake Nakuru National Park, which is home to various wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and rhinos.

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BetterMe.org

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Teaching & Community Support in Kenya

Teach, Create, and Inspire with our Non-Profit in Kisumu, Kenya! In Kisumu, many children face limited access to quality education and enrichment opportunities. Poverty, overcrowded classrooms, and a lack of resources mean students often struggle to reach their full potential. At Better Me, we partner with local schools and community programs—such as Korando Educational Center, Kisumu Children’s Remand Home, and our Mobile Library in the Nyalenda slums—to change that story. As a Better Me volunteer, you’ll support after-school activities in English, Creative Arts, Music, Swimming, and Physical Education. Whether you’re helping children build language skills, sparking creativity, or encouraging physical activity, your efforts will nurture abilities and confidence that last a lifetime. You’ll work with different age groups while collaborating with local educators to create engaging, hands-on learning experiences. This is your chance to bring in your own ideas, gain real teaching experience, and grow personally through cultural exchange, community, and unforgettable memories. Come join us!

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Volunteers For Peace

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Affordable Volunteer Projects in Over 70 Countries

Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Volunteers For Peace (a Vermont-based nonprofit) can place you on a team of international volunteers who contribute to a meaningful community service project designed, planned, and hosted by local partners. We offer the most affordable projects and the best way to meet people from all over the world. Work project types vary by country but may include environmental and wildlife conservation, historic preservation, educational and language learning, archaeology, organic farming, and arts and festivals. We also have social services projects, which could involve working with children, the elderly, or refugees. Projects are designed to combine service with recreational activities and cultural exchange – whether by visiting local beaches, learning local dances, meeting local officials, or volunteering with residents at the place you’re visiting. Each project is unique, but all bring people together for the most meaningful travel experience imaginable. Please note that VFP can only place US Citizens. This is due to our agreements with our international partners.

Go Volunteer Africa

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Volunteer Work in Kenya: Go Volunteer Africa

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 during a summer trip with your family or in a gap year. Use your skills and talents to improve the lives of orphans, youth, and the underprivileged while immersing yourself in the customs and culture of Kenyans. Choose from various projects, such as health, safari volunteering, community development, medical, childcare, teaching, and environment, offered in collaboration with local partner NGOs. Your time spent with a local community will make a real difference in the lives of its members. You won’t just work in Kenya. You will also experience its beauty and diversity in various ways than any other travel opportunity. We have an exciting, action-packed adventure in store! Volunteers in Kenya must be at least 18 years old to participate.

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Andy’s Volunteers and Travel Agency

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Volunteer Teachers at Community Schools in Kenya

Andy's Volunteers and Travel Agency is dedicated to fostering educational development and community empowerment in Nairobi, Kenya. Our flagship program offers the opportunity to teach languages, mathematics, and science at local community schools where your skills are most needed. As a volunteer, you take on a critical role in enhancing the educational experiences of students, providing them with essential knowledge and skills for their future. You also have time to play with adorable kids on the field during breaks and game time. Our program is designed to support under-resourced schools, ensuring that every child has access to quality education. Previous teaching experience is generally not mandatory since you’re given access to guides and textbooks for planning before lessons. You also collaborate with class teachers. Join us in making a tangible difference in the lives of young learners and the broader community in Nairobi. The program starts with a city orientation.

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The Wandering Aardvarks

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Sports Program with Local and Street Kids

Sport unites the people of Kenya. It is a way to socialize, and almost every youth is involved in sports. Despite many locals being exceptional sports players, they are unable to reach their true potential due to inadequate training facilities and equipment. The most popular sports played in Kenya are football (soccer) and rugby. The Wandering Aardvarks has partnered with various local teams and institutions to offer the best experience for our volunteers. Join us and help the community by bringing people together and giving them a focus. The program is dependent on the time of the year. During school time, you can help teach PE and train Kenya's future star athletes in the soccer program, which runs from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. On school holidays (April, August, and December), you can help train the local teams and share your skills with as many children and youth as you can. You also have the choice to volunteer on weekends.

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Kar Geno-Center for Hope, Kenya

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Volunteer to Empower HIV-Affected Women in Tailoring, Kisumu

Join our volunteer program in Kisumu, Kenya, where you'll have the opportunity to make a real impact in the lives of women affected by HIV through a transformative tailoring initiative. Volunteers will support women in learning vital skills, from sewing to entrepreneurship, while also helping improve their business and financial literacy. You'll engage in hands-on activities, such as assisting with sewing, taking photos of products, and contributing creative ideas to enhance designs. Volunteers can also train women on financial management, online marketing, and pricing strategies, empowering them to create sustainable businesses. This program offers a unique chance to not only learn and grow alongside these resilient women but also be part of a lasting social change in a community in need.

Makuyu Education Initiative

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Share Your Time with Kids at the Makuyu Education Initiative

Travel to Kenya, where you can make a difference in the lives of underprivileged children and still have time to explore beautiful places. Become a volunteer at the Makuyu Education Initiative, a children’s home started in 2011. Your participation in our project involves learning about our children and gaining insight into their lives. Identify their academic strengths and weaknesses, and provide tutoring to those who require assistance with their homework. You will also help with other tasks, such as the following: - Taking photos/videos for fundraising purposes - Assisting with health checkups - Improving meal plans to ensure proper nutrition - Handling other duties around the school You have the freedom to incorporate and work around your ideas as well! So, don’t hesitate to let us know what you would like to plan and implement in the program.

A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Kenya

Locations

Volunteer opportunities in Kenya are plentiful in both metropolitan and rural areas. Cities usually offer more placements options and a greater variety of organizations, but if you're interested in nature, explore volunteer programs in the savannahs and deltas.

Volunteers who choose Nairobi will find they truly have the power to make a difference. Over half of the population resides in slums, meaning that there are many social and economic problems challenging the local people. A number of NGOs and nonprofits with a foothold in Nairobi work closely with local community members to develop projects and programs that have the ability to make lasting changes in a variety of social spheres. When you need a break from saving the world, you can enjoy a safari at Nairobi National Park or rugby match at the Impala grounds. After working up an appetite, head to the Carnivore for dinner you will never forget!

Mombasa also suffers from its fair share of social problems, making room for a plethora of volunteer opportunities. On a sunny note, this city is lodged along the lush, palm-fringed coastline of the Indian Ocean, offering a laid-back beach vibe that is swimming with fun activities! Spend your free time exploring the beaches or snorkeling and diving in one of the protected marine parks and reserves.

For those looking to get out of the city and experience the beauty of a savannah sunset, the rural areas of Kenya offer many volunteer opportunities as well. Kenya’s many conservancies bring tourism together with community development and wildlife conservation in a near-perfect marriage. If you’re interested in environmental or wildlife sciences, be sure to give the plains and rural areas a look. After a hard day of volunteering in Kenya, jump on a piki piki and ride off into the sunset. Kenya is home to some of the most spectacular wildlife and national parks in the world that are just begging to be awed. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

The most popular places to volunteer in Kenya are Nairobi, Mombasa, and rural areas for conservation efforts and community development. However, depending on your volunteer project, you could end up in many different parts of Kenya.

It's difficult to volunteer in Kenya for free. Volunteer projects charge a fee so that they can continue to operate and make an impact in Kenya. You may be able to secure a scholarship to volunteer abroad, or you can fundraise through FundMyTravel.

Yes, Kenya is safe to volunteer! As with anywhere in the world though, you'll need to use common sense and practice caution in order to stay safe, especially when traveling alone.

Visit UN Volunteers to see if they're accepting volunteers in Kenya. It should be noted that UN Volunteers only accept volunteers who have applicable skills for a placement, such as nursing or construction.

You'll enter Kenya on a tourist eVisa and then apply for a Volunteer Permit once you're in the country. The process and price for both the eVisa and Volunteer Permit may vary depending on your nationality.

Latest Program Reviews

A life changing experience

December 13, 2025by: Irene Neal - CanadaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
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I was looking for an escape from my comfortable lifestyle at home in Canada. I wanted to share my passion helping others less fortunate than myself. I searched international volunteering programs, have volunteered in four countries in 2025, and can truly say these experiences have changed my life. How do you feel when an elderly person in a old people's home in Zambia begs you to stay with them and share stories and smiles? What happens to you when the school children in Ghana hug you so tight you lose your breath? What overtakes your mind when you introduce positive ideas to women in an impoverished village in Sri Lanka, and see them take possession of new personal empowerment? Let me tell you. It grabs you by the heart and nourishes your soul. It makes you want to come back again and again. Which is exactly what I plan to do in 2026.

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