Volunteer in forest, coastal and rural environments to support communities and nature in Kenya
Volunteer in Kenya
Why volunteer in Kenya?
Infrastructure issues and limited access to water have a negative impact on education for many young people in Kenya, affecting their future prospects. Deforestation is further compromising the livelihood of rural communities and the survival of endangered endemic wildlife species.
Our 2026 Expedition in Kenya will aim to get you involved in classroom construction and overall maintenance work to improve school facilities. Also to support indigenous tree planting and on mangrove conservation.
A key part of any Raleigh Expedition is the Adventure Challenge. While you’re trekking in Kenya you’ll get the opportunity to see some incredible wildlife – including elephants, giraffe, zebra and possibly leopards and cheetahs.
Projects in Kenya
You can get involved in up to 3 phases: Community, Environmental and an Adventure Challenge. You’ll also spend time at Fieldbase for your induction, ‘changeover’ between phases and to say your goodbyes at the end.
Community Phase
Aim: To improve educational facilities for local people
Example project: Your team will get involved in classroom construction and overall maintenance work to support a School Improvement Programme. This may include mixing cement to replace the worn-out classroom floors and walls, painting, doors and window installation and desk repairs.
Environmental phase
Aim: To work on conservation initiatives protecting nature and local wildlife.
Example project: You’ll a community managed aquaculture project. Your work will involve maintaining the mangrove tree nursery, refurbishment of fish ponds, recording data about the fish, tree-planting, as well as supporting the creation of tree nurseries and nature trails.
Adventure Challenge
Led by specialist Raleigh staff and Venturer Managers, you’ll trek approximately 260 km through stunning scenery.
Example trek: Your trek routes you will have the opportunity to potentially see incredible wildlife – including elephants, giraffe, zebra and possibly leopards and cheetahs. You’ll be with a guide at all times.
Trek takes you on a journey of personal growth that will continue for the rest of your life. No matter what trekking experience you have, everyone starts and finishes trek together – come rain or shine! Supporting one another, not giving up and sharing your achievements together will be some of the most memorable and defining moments of your Expedition.
Example itinerary for Kenya
Everyone’s Raleigh Expedition is slightly different – depending on how long you stay and what time of year you go. This is an outline of what you can expect from a 10-week Expedition to Kenya. More information will be released later in 2025!
Arrive at Mombasa airport
You will be met by the country team
Induction and training (4-7 days)
Get to know your fellow Venturers and prepare for Expedition life. You’ll receive essential training on topics such as health and safety and cultural awareness.
Community Project (19 days)
Volunteering in a primary school. Your project will improve educational facilities for local people.
Debrief at Fieldbase (2-3 days)
At the end of each phase, everyone returns to Fieldbase for a few days before moving on to your next project. You’ll catch up with the rest of the Expedition team and start to prepare for your next project. Project groups will change between each phase, this is an important part of the Expedition experience.
Adventure Challenge (19 days)
On trek you’re likely to encounter some incredible wildlife – elephants, giraffe, zebra and maybe some cats. You’ll be with a guide.
Environmental Phase (19 days)
You’ll work on conservation initiatives protecting nature and local wildlife.
Final review at Fieldbase (2 days)
All Expeditions end with everyone coming together for a final few days back at Fieldbase. Catch up with friends and celebrate all you have achieved together.
Kenya Expedition gallery
Expedition lengths and times of year
We run three cycles every year and offer different Expedition lengths
10 weeks
The most immersive and popular Expedition. Take part in all three full phases.
7 weeks
Take part in two full phases – either the Community or Environmental project with the Adventure Challenge.
5 weeks
Take part in a full phase of a Community Project or Environmental Project (assigned) with a shorter trek.
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