Giraffe & Lion Conservation in Kenya

location
1 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 16 - 50+

rating  Outstanding 5  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Excellent response rate

Highlights

  • Support Wildlife conservation in Kenya and work with Savannah animals
  • Take part in workshops designed to teach you about different aspects of this Wildlife Conservation Project and the environment
  • Work with the endangered Rothschild Giraffe and lions in the conservancy

Highlights

  • Support Wildlife conservation in Kenya and work with Savannah animals
  • Take part in workshops designed to teach you about different aspects of this Wildlife Conservation Project and the environment
  • Work with the endangered Rothschild Giraffe and lions in the conservancy
  • Enjoy your free time in the peaceful rural area of the country
  • Live and work alongside a global network of volunteers - making friends for life.


  • Especially good for

    Age 16+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+
    Wheel Chairs

    About the program

    Help protect endangered animals in the Savannah. Work with conservation experts and preserve biodiversity for future generations!

    As an environmental volunteer on our Savannah Conservation Project, you’ll support the work of local conservationists to protect wildlife in the Soysambu Conservancy. Here are some of the tasks you can expect to do:

    • Research the Rothschild giraffe and other endangered animals in the savannah
    • Set up ...

    About the program

    As an environmental volunteer on our Savannah Conservation Project, you’ll support the work of local conservationists to protect wildlife in the Soysambu Conservancy. Here are some of the tasks you can expect to do:

    • Research the Rothschild giraffe and other endangered animals in the savannah
    • Set up camera traps and study animal behavior
    • Conduct community outreaches, tree planting and installing eco-stoves for communities
    • Remove invasive species
    • Maintain waterholes to ensure vital water access to wildlife

    Your work will be divided into five main categories: 

    Threatened species research

    Our primary focuses are to:

    • Research the ecology of the Rothschild's giraffe
    • Monitor lion movement in relation to livestock
    • Document lion population structure and interaction with other carnivores

    We then share this knowledge with other reserves. This is pioneering research for giraffe and big cat conservation in Africa that could determine the fate of this species and subspecies, as lion populations fall and only a couple of thousand giraffes remain in the wild. 

    Our giraffe and lion conservation work in Kenya goes a long way in maintaining a habitat where the wild animals can flourish and breed in peace. It also allows for a better kind of interaction between humans, livestock, and wildlife.

    Set up camera traps

    As most animals, especially lions, are very active by night, camera traps help us study their natural habitats, behaviours, and movements. You will be involved in setting up these cameras around the reserve. This will also serve as the perfect way to do mammal inventory. Inventory helps measure the success of our efforts, when counting a populations’ potential growth. This is important for giraffe and big cat conservation

    Community outreach 

    In addition to working in the reserve, you will also participate in a community outreach once a week on a Thursday. The outreach activities vary upon the needs of the community at the time. They could include: 

    • Teaching children about the importance of protecting the environment
    • Playing sports like football
    • Installing eco-stoves

    Invasive plant removal

    Alien plant species are a big problem in Kenya. They destroy endemic plants that provide a habitat for the local wildlife. You’ll help remove these plants. You’ll also help clear and maintain trails to make sure visitors don’t wander off the dedicated paths. This helps protect indigenous plants.

    Maintaining natural water holes for animals

    You will help maintain water holes and boreholes. This will ensure that water is constantly stored for the animals, and is vital to their survival during times of drought.



    Typical day

    You usually work five days a week. Depending on the activities, you may be required to start earlier, finish later, or work over the weekend.

    Work is divided up among all the volunteers using a weekly schedule. On a typical day, you can expect to work from 8 am to 12 pm. Then, you will have a break ...

    Typical day

    You usually work five days a week. Depending on the activities, you may be required to start earlier, finish later, or work over the weekend.

    Work is divided up among all the volunteers using a weekly schedule. On a typical day, you can expect to work from 8 am to 12 pm. Then, you will have a break with some time to eat, sleep, read and relax. After this, at around 2 pm, you will go back out to work in the afternoon, when the heat starts to abate. 

    Workdays are usually split into physical and non-physical days, both of which are crucial for savannah conservation efforts. You’ll alternate between days for digging, cutting, and general physical labor. This is followed by days for collecting data, GPS mapping, and species research. 

    Evenings are spent cooking and eating, playing games, and preparing for the following day.

    Trained local staff are on hand to supervise activities and provide support, and will accompany you wherever you go on the reserve. You will also be able to take part in workshops designed to teach you about different aspects of this Wildlife Conservation Project and the environment.

    Since you will be sharing accommodation with your fellow volunteers, you will be able to spend your evenings and weekends getting to know each other better.


    Free-time activities

    Volunteering in Kenya is the perfect opportunity to explore this extraordinary country. With such a vast array of different activities, you’re sure to find plenty of ways to fill your evenings and weekends.

    A trip to East Africa wouldn’t be complete without a safari. You can see wildlife like ...

    Free-time activities

    Volunteering in Kenya is the perfect opportunity to explore this extraordinary country. With such a vast array of different activities, you’re sure to find plenty of ways to fill your evenings and weekends.

    A trip to East Africa wouldn’t be complete without a safari. You can see wildlife like elephants, lions, and even the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe, as you explore the savannahs.

    Our projects are based in Nanyuki, which is known as the gateway to Mount Kenya. With this majestic mountain on your doorstep, it’s worth taking a day to hike around the base.

    You can spend evenings at buzzing restaurants, listening to live music and trying some of the local dishes. Kenya also has must-see markets, with bright textiles and hand-carved sculptures.

    You can spend your free time exploring independently or travel with a group. With so many volunteers joining us throughout the year, you’re sure to make some new friends and travel buddies during your trip. 


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 16 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 16 years old on the program start date.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by Projects Abroad

    • Accommodation

    • Food (three meals a day)

    • Airport pick-up and drop-off

    • Full induction and orientation by an experienced staff member on arrival

    • Transport to and from your work placement

    • In-country support and 24-hour back-up from our team of full-time local staff

    • Emergency assistance from our international emergency response team

    • Project equipment and materials, including access to our database with thousands of resources

    • A supervisor/mentor at your work placement

    • Training and workshops from our experienced local staff

    • Regular social events and community activities with other volunteers and interns

    • Access to our local office with internet connection

    • Certification of project completion

    • Access to our alumni services and discounts

    • A cultural awareness course

    Airport Pickup at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport

    A Projects Abroad staff member will be there to welcome you when you arrive at Nairobi Airport (NBO). From the airport, you will travel on a shuttle bus to Nanyuki, and then be taken to your host family. If you arrive at the airport late at night, you will stay overnight at a guesthouse in Nairobi and take the shuttle the next day. Depending on traffic, this will be a three to four hour drive.

    Your airport transfer is included in the cost of your project fee, so you don’t have to worry about extra expenses.

    Accommodation

    You'll stay at shared accommodation with other Projects Abroad volunteers in the reserve. This is a great way to get to know your fellow volunteers and share the experience of living in African savannah together.

    The accommodation is safe, clean, and comfortable. 

    Food & Beverages

    Your program fees include three meals a day.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi. We assist you to find cheap flights to Kenya. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Kenya provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Kenya you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Kenya. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    A Projects Abroad staff member will be there to welcome you when you arrive at Nairobi Airport (NBO). From the airport, you will travel on a shuttle bus to Nanyuki, and then be taken to your host family. If you arrive at the airport late at night, you will stay overnight at a guesthouse in Nairobi and take the shuttle the next day. Depending on traffic, this will be a three to four-hour drive.

    Your airport transfer is included in the cost of your project fee, so you don’t have to worry about extra expenses.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    1 week (min. stay) 2,245€
    3 weeks 3,025€
    4 weeks 3,415€
    8 weeks 4,975€
    12 weeks (max. stay) 6,535€
    Average fees 1,394€/week

    Program fees

    1,394€ per week 1 - 12 weeks Age 16 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    1 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


    Final Payment

    Your final payment will be agreed with Projects Abroad during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


    Meet your organization

    Projects Abroad

    Outstanding 5 rating (207 reviews)

    Agency - founded in 1992

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Excellent response rate

    Coordinated by

    Bethany

    Spoken languages: English

    About the project

    For over 30 years, Projects Abroad has been the world's leading provider of international volunteer programs, internships, and life-changing travel experiences.

    Meet your organization

    For over 30 years, Projects Abroad has been the world's leading provider of international volunteer programs, internships, and life-changing travel experiences.  

    We connect passionate individuals with impactful projects that contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, fostering a better future for all.

    Why Choose Projects Abroad?

    • Impactful projects: Make a real difference in communities worldwide while gaining valuable skills and experience.
    • Responsible travel: We champion sustainable practices and ethical interactions, ensuring your journey is both enriching and responsible.
    • Safety first: Your well-being is our top priority. We provide comprehensive support and 24/7 assistance throughout your experience.
    • Trusted provider: Over 130,000 participants have trusted us with their transformative journeys.
    • Diverse opportunities: Choose from a wide range of projects in healthcare, conservation, education, and more.

    Join Projects Abroad and embark on a transformative adventure that will broaden your horizons, deepen your understanding of the world, and empower you to create lasting change.

    207 reviews · rating5

    Caroline Maher rating5

    2020 at Giraffe & Lion Conservation in Kenya

    I am the kind of person that will take every moment and try to make the best of it. I loved getting up every morning and getting in the Jeep to go do whichever job was on for the day. Some were harder than others. Just driving through the conservancy on our way to the job was amazing. Seeing the ...
    Elizabeth Edwards-Slaughter rating5

    2019 at Giraffe & Lion Conservation in Kenya

    I really loved the community work the most, which is surprising as I came here for the animals. It is so rewarding to know you are making a difference in the community and it's so fun to meet lots of different interesting people. I made some really good local friends. It was also amazing to get ...
    James Fazal rating5

    2018 at Giraffe & Lion Conservation in Kenya

    The animal monitoring sessions were definitely the highlight for me, getting close to the giraffes in particular. The staff were all so friendly and the atmosphere of the whole camp including the volunteers was great. Felt like i was leaving a ...
    Amanda Norman rating5

    2018 at Giraffe & Lion Conservation in Kenya

    I loved all of the activities we did on the project, but my favourite was the giraffe survey. The de-snaring was fascinating, but could get hot, so take plenty of water. I wish I'd stayed another week or so as would have liked to have done some of the community work, but timings didn't work. I ...
    Jodie Yarwood rating5

    2017 at Giraffe & Lion Conservation in Kenya

    I enjoyed all elements of my experience but in particular the work within the conservancy; giraffe survey, lion monitoring and the wildlife census etc. I found all these very educational whilst in the most beautiful ...
    Phoebe Coupland rating5

    2020 at Medical Intern

    The most enjoyable experience in Nepal was the Chitwan safari on one of our leisure activities that went for the weekend. In CMC hosptial working in maternity and the operation theatre, we had the amazing experience of being able to watch a lot of babies being ...

    Location

    Africa > Eastern Africa > Kenya > Soysambu

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