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Volunteering in Kenya!

Are you looking to make a real difference in the world while volunteering abroad? Have you always wanted to explore Africa? Join our volunteer opportunities in Kenya to gain both experiences.

From its dazzling beaches on the Indian Ocean to the heights of Mount Kilimanjaro, Kenya is a land of contrasts. See the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Masai Mara National Reserve, along with the vast array of diverse wildlife you'll find in the country's national parks and conservation areas.

Eat delicious seafood and sail along the Kenyan coast. Kenya's intense colors and breathtaking landscapes will stay with you long after you leave.

Kenya is still a developing country, and almost half of its people are desperately poor, especially those living in rural areas. Government corruption and tribal favoritism are prevalent, and dramatic wealth inequality exists. Fully two-thirds of the population relies on agriculture to make a living, with its attendant uncertainty. Poor economic diversity, lack of opportunity and education, along with rapid population growth, all contribute to poverty in Kenya.

Today, Kenya needs volunteers more than ever.

When you join volunteering program in Kenya, you will make a difference by working in an orphanage, teaching English, or becoming a part of a medical project or HIV/AIDS program. You can also work in community development or cultural conservation.

Experience the traditions of the Maasai people while you help improve their lives, and the lives of other impoverished people in this captivating country.  Request information about volunteering programs and find a program that speaks to you!


Volunteering in Kenya: Programs

Are you looking for a volunteer program that best matches your passions? Global Crossroad provides several opportunities for volunteers. You can take your time looking through these programs and choose the one that fits you best.

Kenya is a nation of contrasts. On one hand it is a natural paradise, on the other it is plagued by social and economic problems with a far-reaching impact. Poverty and disease are rampant, often ripping families apart, and making children into orphans. A great many children have been orphaned by the HIV/AIDS epidemic, by extreme poverty, or other unfortunate social circumstances.

The best efforts of the Kenyan government to care for these children cannot reach them all, and orphanages are chronically over-flowing. Even at their best, these care facilities are underfunded and understaffed. In simple words, there is an immense need of volunteers in Kenya orphanages.

Global Crossroad’s Kenya orphanage volunteer program invites volunteers to lend a hand and help support local orphanages and childcare centers. The children here love interacting with volunteers, and will appreciate your presence tremendously.

Are you willing to share your love and passion for orphaned children? Go to the project page to find the complete information.

Though English is available in primary and secondary schools throughout Kenya, most schools lack the necessary resources to provide what is necessary for students to successfully learn the English language. Make no mistake; speaking English is a critical skill for Kenya people, as it opens many doors of opportunity that are otherwise closed. Nonetheless, most public schools lack qualified English teachers.

By participating in Global Crossroad’s English teaching volunteer program in Kenya, you can make a significant impact in the lives of many students. As a volunteer, your presence as a native English speaker will invaluable to those wanting to learn these skills. Not only will you be able to teach the basics, but just by having the opportunity to interact with a foreign English speaker can inspire students to advance, providing motivation to those who are keen to learn about life in other countries.

For those considering teaching careers, this is an excellent opportunity to learn the fundamentals of teaching a class, and gain some hands-on experience in a unique but professional setting. If you wish to join this program, you must be at least 18 years old. Individuals with basic or intermediate Kenyan language skills are highly preferred.

Interested to share your love and passion for orphans? Go to the project page to find pricing and complete information.

This project is ideal for those studying or pursuing a career in the field of healthcare. When you join medical volunteer program in Kenya, you will gain an eye-opening medical experience by working alongside healthcare professionals. Your main responsibilities will be to look after people who are in need of medical aid, from assessment to treatment, wherever help is needed most. The program also allows you the chance to educate locals on critical health topics which can directly empower them toward a healthier quality of life.

Want to learn more about medical volunteering in Kenya? Go to the project page to find the complete information.

HIV/AIDS is a tragic virus and voracious killer that has been devastating populations in African countries like Kenya for many years. Despite various local and international prevention efforts, the rate of the HIV infection is still rising in Kenya.

Many HIV/AIDS infected people are living a sorrowful life in Kenya. On top of the almost endless suffering of the people, the economy of Kenya itself suffers as well, with a constant loss of to the country of its work force. As a result, the demand for dedicated volunteers in Kenya is as great now as it has ever been.

By participating in Global Crossroad’s HIV/AIDS Kenya volunteer program, you will get the chance to work with local hospitals and medical organizations to help prevent the transmission of HIV/AIDS, and to provide support to those already infected. You will also be required to help in the promotion of adolescent reproductive health and disease awareness and prevention.

Want to share your love to HIV affected people? Go to the project page to find the complete information.

One of the most stunning countries in Africa, Kenya is full of natural wonders. From tropical beaches to spectacular scenery to rich cultures and unparalleled wildlife, Kenya has it all in abundance. In Global Crossroad's summer volunteering program in Kenya, you will meet the traditional Masai dwelling in their ancestral lands, and watch millions of wild animals in their natural habitat at Kenya's renowned game reserves.

Go to the project page to find the complete information.

Are you interested in exploring the nature-rich country of Kenya, while also lending a much needed helping hand? Kenya is a great country to volunteer and to explore. Global Crossroad’s short term volunteer abroad in Kenya program offers those interested in volunteering, engaging with local community, immersing one’s self in a new culture, and having an adventure to be able to do so in an affordable and safe way. The short term volunteer opportunity in Kenya is a way to impact others while impacting yourself in a positive and memorable way.

Go to the project page to find the complete information.

Known as "The Safari Capital of the World," Kenya's capital city of Nairobi serves as the starting point for numerous adventure-filled expeditions – from game-drives covering some of the area's most wonder-filled, wildlife-brimming parks to mountain treks ascending Africa's mighty Mount Kilimanjaro. With safaris and treks offering a multitude of opportunities in various times of the day, participants can catch a glimpse of the sun-bathed Serengeti at sunset or the cascading colors of Mount Kilimanjaro at sunrise.

Go to the project page to find the complete information.


In addition to the above projects, we also offer family Volunteering, alternative spring break, high school volunteering, college/university volunteering and many other programs. Contact Global Crossroad for further information.


Volunteering in Kenya: Dates and Prices

Dates: Volunteer In Kenya

All volunteer programs in Kenya start every Monday of each month. However, if there is travel constrains, you can start any project on any day.

Please check the program page for the available dates.

Fees: Volunteer in Kenya

Global Crossroad has the most affordable and quality volunteer opportunities in Kenya. We strive to keep our costs low. The humanitarian side of the business is our passion.

Global Crossroad's volunteer abroad in Kenya application and registration fee cost US $299. In addition to the application fee, you are required to pay a weekly program fee. You will pay your weekly fee directly to the country coordinator, who in turn will allocate it to your host family, project and other in-country support we offer to our volunteers. This way, the fees that you pay will benefit those who rightfully deserve them, and not for company profit.

    Duration All Projects
  1 week   $200
  2 Weeks   $320
  3 Weeks   $440
  4 Weeks   $560
  5 Weeks   $680
  6 Weeks   $800
  7 Weeks   $920
  8 Weeks   $1,040
  9 Weeks   $1,160
  10 Weeks   $1,280
  11 Weeks   $1,400
  12 Weeks   $1,520

Comprehensive Travel Insurance $3.49/day ( below 28 years) and $4.49/day ( above 28 years) »
Projects at Massai Land - $25 Transport Fee
How your fee is allocated?

Program fees cover:
  • Accommodation (host family)
  • Food (local food 3 times a day)
  • Program Orientation
  • In-country support
  • Personalized project
  • Pre-departure information
  • Certificate of completion
  • Fundraising ideas and letters
  • Discount for returning volunteers
Program fees exclude:
  • Visas
  • Airfare
  • Personal expenses on soft drinks and foods
  • Daily transportation
  • Airport return transfer

The program fees will cover expenses that will begin on the first day of the pro-gram to the last day of the program. If you arrive before the first day of the volun-teer abroad in Kenya program or you decide you stay beyond your program’s last day, you will be responsible for the additional expenses


Accommodations and Meals

During your volunteering work in Kenya program, Global Crossroad's weekly fees include management of volunteers' meal plans and accommodations throughout projects. You will stay with a host family. Volunteers staying with a host family usually have a single bedroom, but may occasionally share a room with another volunteer of the same gender. Our host families are chosen carefully and are esteemed community members, who have experience in the realm of hosting international travelers.

Three meals a day (breakfast, lunch and dinner) will be provided and will consist of local ingredients and feature traditional cuisine choices. Our volunteer program in Kenya meal program can accommodate vegetarian needs; however, we are not able to provide for other dietary restrictions. Food and drinks outside of mealtimes are the volunteer's responsibility. In most cases, there are restaurants and markets nearby the homes in which our volunteers stay.

Learn more about your accommodation and meal in Kenya.


Travel and Weekend

When you volunteer in Kenya, you won’t want to miss you on seeing some of the great things in Kenya. Volunteers with Global Crossroad never have to worry about such things. Work days are typically 4-6 hours long, leaving plenty of time for exploring each day, and weekends are entirely free for travel, relaxing, or adventure.

Learn more about your free time and weekend exploration in Kenya.


Volunteering in Kenya FAQs

Have you got more questions? That sounds good to us. We have assembled a list of answers to frequent questions. Read on, and learn more about the exciting opportunities that await you.

Which airport do I need to fly in?

You need to fly to the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, Kenya. Depending upon the volunteer program in Kenya’s location you may need to fly to a different airport. These details can be managed after your placement is confirmed.

What happens if I missed flight or arrived late?

If you miss your flight or arrive late we can and will accommodate you to the best of our ability. If you are to arrive late, you need to contact the in-country coordinator and inform him or her as soon as possible. He/she will make necessary arrangements and schedule changes needed, based on the information provided.

If my assignment begins on Monday, when should I arrive? If I want to arrive earlier than then my assignment begins, where do I stay and who will organize the accommodations? Does it cost me extra?

It is always better to arrive a day before your scheduled assignment for taking part in volunteering program in Kenya. Arriving earlier gives you enough time to rest and prepare you for the program, both mentally and physically. However kindly note that if you arrive a day earlier than the scheduled date, than that day’s accommodation and meal expenses will require payment in addition to your program fees.

Who will bring me to the airport for my departure?

Global Crossroads does not provide any kind of airport drop off services for volunteers participating in Kenya volunteer programs. You will have to arrange a taxi or take a bus ride to the airport by yourself. Our in-country coordinator or staff members will be more than happy to assist you with any support for your safe departure back home.

Where are the projects located?

Most of our volunteer programs in Kenya take place in and around Nairobi, and the Massai area.

Nairobi is the capital and one of the biggest cities of Kenya. It is a city of great natural beauty. Here you can see the nation’s charms, include a vibrant cultural life, fabulous places to eat, nightlife, an ideal mix of tradition blended with a modern way of life. Nairobi is known for safari excursions, crocodile farms, and nature trails, alongside tours of the vibrant city, and locations such as the National Museum.
Massai land is a huge expanse of gently rolling grassland, home to massive herds of zebras, wildebeest, and giraffes. It has several ranches, Massai villages, and dozens of community-based conservation areas.

Is there any minimum and maximum stay? Can I extend my stay if I choose to?

Yes when you join volunteering program in Kenya, you can stay for a minimum of 1 week, to the maximum of 12 weeks.  However, this may ultimately depends on the nature of the project in which you enroll in Kenya. If for any reason you wish to extend your time in a program and therefore in Kenya, you can extend your visa. In order to do this you will need to talk to your in -country coordinator and make the necessary arrangements. Similarly, you will also have to get your visa extended from the nearest Kenyan embassy.

Will I have enough time to travel after work and in weekend?

You will have lots of time to travel after work each day, and on weekends while involved in volunteer opportunities in Kenya.However, there may be some limitations to this, depending on the project and its location.

Around Nairobi, you can spend your free time in the National Museum, Nairobi National Park, Elephant orphanage, Giraffe and Nairobi City Walking Tour and few more. Massai land, in contrast, is home to many giraffe families that can be readily observed. The land covers a whooping 1,530 square km, which is meant only for the traditional Massai people, who lead a pastoral and nomadic lifestyle.

Who will guide or support me in the project?

You will always receive adequate guidance and support while volunteering in Kenya programs. Global Crossroads  in-country coordinator and the other project staff will always be there for your help, whenever it is needed.

Can I change project if I do not like?

Yes, you can change your project if you are not satisfied with your first choice. Although 98% of our volunteers enjoy their selected program without issue, which is a strong endorsement. If, however, you want to change projects, you can contact your in-country coordinator. They will be happy to help facilitate this, limited only by whatever other placements are available for volunteers in other programs at the time.

How old should I be to take part in these projects?

You should be at least 18 years of age to take part in Global Crossraod’s Kenya volunteer opportunities.  If in case you are minor and want to take part in this volunteering programs, than an authorized permission from your parents is required. Alternately, why not consider volunteering as a family, in which case minors are welcome under their parents care and supervision.

Will I receive training before the start of the project?

Yes, training is always provided to you before you actually begin your volunteer programs in Kenya. This training is organized by our in-house country coordinator in support of the field staff. The goal of our project training is to make you comfortable with the new environment, local culture and customs, the language, and the people’s sentiments as well.

Who manages the volunteer programs in Kenya?
Global Crossroads volunteer s in-country Coordinator in Kenya manages the volunteers in Kenya, and our projects. He/she is completely responsible for assigning various projects for all participating volunteers, based on their qualification, skills, and areas of interest.

Is there dress code in the project?

No there is no specific dress code for participating in volunteering in Kenya opportunities program. Here you will find followers of both Christianity and Islam, so you may need to integrate and adjust your dress code accordingly, as per your project location. Even though there are no strict laws regarding clothing, please note that shorts, miniskirts, and other types of revealing clothing is socially unacceptable in Kenya. You will need to respect the culture and traditions of the local society at all times while volunteering in Kenya. 

Why pay to volunteer abroad?

Yes, you need to pay for volunteering programs. These fees sustain our projects. The payments that you make help to maintain the office functions, including the administration tasks, rent, computers, staff salaries, and other required supplies for daily operations.

Why are Global Crossroads fees so much more affordable than other volunteer organizations?

Global Crossroads does not operate for profit, therefore the fees is always more affordable than other volunteer programs in Kenya. We do not involve any kind of middlemen in the projects. Also we work with a network of local partners that allows us to maintain the standard and the quality of the program without additional costs.

Can I get help to raise fund?

Yes you always get help in raising funds while joining our volunteer programs. Global Crossroads supports you in your efforts through various ongoing volunteering campaigns. Similarly it works in coordination with other organizations that are involved in raising funds. You will team up with these organizations and raise funds for the projects that you work in.

For more readings
Cost/Money Matter
Why do I need to pay to volunteer?
Program fee

Is it safe to travel to Kenya?

Yes, Traveling to Kenya is gnerally safe, but certain precautions are necessary. It is always advisable for you to check with your own national advisory board in your home country before joining volunteer work in Kenya. There are many travel advisory boards worldwide that provide advice, depending upon the situations in each country. Here are the links that provide detailed travel information for various nations:

Kindly make note of the following  links to collect more travel information:
British Foreign Office Advice  
American State Department Advice
Australian Government Advice
Canadian Government Advice

Your safety is of paramount importance for us, and we want you to complete your volunteering project successfully, and go back home without a scratch, just good memories.

What are safety measures you take for me during my Kenya volunteer program?

Global Crossroads considers your safety a top priority. The moment you arrive at the airport, you are picked up directly, and transferred to your desired destination. Here, a brief orientation is held for your safety. The orientation is organized at our country office and is given by our in-country coordinator to make you aware of all important details, particularly those affecting your safety.

Orientation: The orientation program familiarizes you with the project, relevant trip details, and any relevant details. We will inform you about Kenyan culture, religious tolerance, customs, and the sentiments of the people here. The orientation will provide you with confidence, and help you to know what to expect in your new environment.

What Vaccination Do I need to take?

Travelling to Kenya, as with many other international destinations, will naturally require some vaccinations for your safety. We strongly suggest you to follow the center for disease control’s traveler's health recommendations Check out this list of recommended vaccinations by CDC for Kenya. Currently these include MMR, chickenpox, and the flu shot. You should also carry vaccinations for Hepatitis A and Typhoid.

For more readings
Vaccination
Health and Safety

Do I need a visa to work as a volunteer?  

To take part in our volunteer opportunities in Kenya, you need to obtain a tourist visa. You can apply for a tourist visa from your nearest Kenyan embassy.

Can I extend my visa while I am in the country? Can you help me on this?

To extend a visa in Kenya, you will have to visit your nearest Kenyan embassy in person. To get all the information in details you can also make use of the following link on and do the needful.

How do I contact with Global Crossroads local coordinator?

Yes you can always contact your Kenya in-country coordinator by email or telephone. The details for this person will be available in your final placement packet sent to you in advance. You are welcome and even encouraged to make contact with your country coordinator about the project in advance. This allows you to better prepare yourself for entering a different country, and to understand its culture before participating in our Kenya volunteering programs.

Page updated: 30th August, 2019