Volunteer in Kenya with Volunteering Solutions

What documents do I need to submit with my application?
You need to submit an online application at www.volunteeringsolutions.com/apply_now.htm .
Application form can also be downloaded from the website and sent by fax or post.

You need to submit a photo and your resume along with your application.

How long does it take to process my application?
The application process takes 10 working days -occasionally longer (given the time of year). However, in the event that interested participants require their application expedited due to time constraints, they are requested to contact our office prior to submitting their application.

Where are the Programs located in Kenya?
The Programs are located in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, in Ngong (Countryside suburb of Nairobi in Ngong hills), Masaai Maara and Mombasa.
The Safari Travel Programs are located in Lake Nakuru National Park, Masaai Mara and Nairobi National Park.

When do I need to arrive in Kenya for my program?
You can come one day in advance from your program starting date.

Do I need a VISA for Kenya?
Visa on Arrival is available in Kenya.You need to obtain a TOURIST VISA which is available on arrival.A 3 months VISA is granted at a fee of USD 50.

You will need to obtain a visa ahead of arrival in Nairobi if you are a national of Afghanistan , Pakistan , Armenia , Libya , Senegal , Mali , Nigeria , Azerbaijan , Somalia , Cameroon , Tajikistan , North Korea , Yemen , Iraq , Iran and Lebanon .

Which airport do I need to book my flights to?
You need to book your flights to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi (NBO).

What should I do if my flight is delayed?
Please inform your Country Coordinator and inform him of the delayed arrival time. If possible, send a mail to the coordinator and to the main office as well.

If I want to arrive earlier than my program start date, where do I stay and who will organize the accommodations?
You will be responsible for the accommodation and food, if you arrive several days earlier than your start date.(Arrive one day before start date)
You must contact the coordinator and meet at some designated place.

What will happen once I arrive in Kenya?
Our coordinator or representative will be there to meet and greet you at the airport and from there you will be taken to the project or hostel depending on the time of your arrival.

You will be given an orientation by the Coordinator on the same or next day.

If you cannot locate your coordinator or representative, please call on the number mentioned on your pre departure information.

When will I know specific details of my placement?
Once you have applied, we will send you details of your placement usually within 10 working days.

What are the accommodation arrangements like?
We provide you with accommodation from your start date to the end of the program. Accommodation will either be in a host family or arranged at your program location itself.  You will have your own room, which you might share with another volunteer. You should bring along things like, mosquito net, mosquito repellent, towels and your own soaps and shampoos.

What will be the food arrangement?
Volunteers are provided with 2 meals during weekdays and 3 meals during weekends (if volunteers are at the premises).
Foods served during your volunteer period include traditional Kenya foods like Ugali and sukuma wiki (corn meal and greens), githeri (maize and beans), Irio as well as chapatis. Kenyan meals also consist of other universal dishes such as beef, fish, rice and pasta.
French fries, burgers, sandwiches etc are available in restaurants and hotels. Breakfast usually consists of bread, eggs and at times bacon, sausage, and baked beans. Fruits and vegetables are plenty in Kenya and feature frequently in menu preparations. Kenyan-grown coffee and tea are common beverages. Dessert is generally not served in homes

What are the Laundry arrangements?
Volunteers need to wash their clothes on their own.

What is the age range to volunteer?
You must be 16 years or older to volunteer. The maximum age limit is 60 yrs. Those who are older than 60 years and are fit and in a healthy condition are also allowed to volunteer.(No insurance would be provided for those aged above 60 years).
The minimum age to volunteer in the Medical Program is 18 years.

How is the climate in Kenya?
Kenya lies directly on the equator and elevations vary from sea level at the coast to 7,000+ ft. Generally, the days are warm and pleasant and the nights are cool. Summer clothes are worn throughout the year. In some areas, nights can be chilly. In the northern region, days are quite hot. The coast is hot and humid.
There are two rainy seasons; the long rains in April and May and the short rains in November and December. The hottest periods are from January to March and August to November. The coldest months are in July and the beginning of August. Average temperatures in Kenya range from10 Celsius to 35 Celsius.

What vaccinations/immunizations are required?
No immunizations are required by law to enter Kenya. If you are traveling from a country where yellow fever is present you will need to take a yellow fever vaccination. Several vaccinations are highly recommended, they include:
 Yellow Fever
 Typhoid
 Hepatitis A & B
 Tetanus
 Rabies
 Meningitis
 Cholera
Contact your doctor several weeks before you travel and seek advice regarding the vaccinations to take.

What about Malaria in Kenya?
Make sure your doctor knows you are traveling to Kenya (don't just say Africa) so she can prescribe the right anti-malarial medication. Malaria prevention medication should be taken according to your doctor’s instructions before, during and after a visit to affected areas. Malaria is a serious tropical disease, which is spread by night-biting mosquitoes which transmit a parasite. Avoiding getting bitten is important and usually the most effective means to prevent the disease.
Long sleeved shirts and trousers should be worn in the evenings and insect repellent can be used in areas with mosquitoes. If the area you are volunteering has mosquitoes, use a mosquito net at night. The most effective are those treated with an insect repellent.
It is important to treat malaria as soon as symptoms arise. Its symptoms include chills, fevers, headache, nausea and vomiting. If you suspect you have malaria, see a doctor as soon as possible even if you have the treatment for malaria with you so that a correct diagnosis can be made.

What if I get sick while volunteering in Kenya?
Health care services in Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, Eldoret, Kisumu and other major towns are good and up to date.
A Flying Doctors Service is available to provide medical evacuation from remote areas to Nairobi hospitals in cases of emergency.

Is it safe to drink the tap water in Kenya?
It is generally recommended that you drink bottled water during your volunteer stay in Kenya both in Nairobi and whilst upcountry or on a safari. You can buy bottled water from any supermarket and most shops in Kenya.
The most common water-borne diseases in Kenya are typhoid, cholera and dysentery.

Is it safe to volunteer in Kenya?
Kenya is one of the safest countries in Africa. We ensure you are placed in safe environment and you will be very well looked after while volunteering in Kenya. The Kenyan people are very warm and friendly towards foreigners.

Is it safe to go shopping in Nairobi?
Nairobi is a major metropolitan area and the largest city in Kenya. Like any big city, it has criminal elements. Common criminal incidents involve snatching of purses, watches and jewellery.
It is safe to shop in most sections of the city. We shall recommend and guide you regarding appropriate areas to shop and visit during your volunteer orientation and training. While out, do not wear any expensive clothing and jewellery; leave all your jewellery at home. Avoid dark alleys and take a taxi at night.

What other safety issues should I be aware of?
There is real poverty in Kenya and you are likely to be more fortunate than most local people you meet. You will probably attract souvenir hawkers as well as street children and beggars in smaller towns. Be sure to take some precautions such as:

More safety issues will be discussed at your orientation.

What clothing is appropriate? Any cultural restrictions?
Bring along some comfortable, casual and semi-casual clothing: sweat shirts, shorts, jeans, skirts and any other clothing that you would ordinarily wear. Include warm clothing for nights, especially if you volunteer in July and August. Avoid flashy items.
When out in the community, it is good to follow local etiquette. Female volunteers need to wear pants and/or long skirts. Dressing in Nairobi is quite liberal. However, approach it with cultural sensitivity in mind and you will be fine. Please ask when you are not sure what is and is not appropriate.
Footwear can be hiking boots, old sports shoes or open-toed sandals.

What do I need to pack?
Volunteers need to bring their own towels, face towels and other personal effects. Volunteers are responsible for their own laundry.
It is safe to bring your laptop, cameras, video cameras, hair dryers, shavers and other electrical products.
Other suggested items:

What about the electricity supply for laptops, hairdryers etc?
Before traveling to Kenya, you need to know the type of electric plug and socket in your destination and also the voltage of the electric power, the frequency (Hertz) and any special requirements like fuses or earth connections that may interfere with the use of your equipment.
The electricity supply in Kenya is 220/240 volts/50 Hz (240V 50 Hz D & G). The electric sockets are three-pin square (British-type).
Remember that simple adapters do not convert voltage or frequency. Incorrect use may keep you from using your equipment, damage it and even cause personal injuries. Using a plug adapter just changes the shape of the prongs. Countries with different voltages and frequencies may use similar plugs. Check to need if you need a power converter and not
If you are planning on visiting just Kenya, a single-entry visa is all you need. If your travel plans include visiting Uganda or Tanzania to climb Mount Kilimanjaro or visit the Serengeti, then you will need a multiple-entry visa if you wish to re-enter Kenya again.

What is the Kenya currency?
The currency in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling. The shilling comprises 100 cents. Coins are in denominations of 50c, 1, 5, 10, 20 and 40 shillings. Bank notes are in denominations of 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1,000 shillings.
Importation of foreign currency is unlimited and does not have to be declared on arrival.
The value of the shilling fluctuates. Check the value of the shilling with a currency converter just before you go. Do not change too much money at one time and use the banks not the money changers.

Major credit cards such as MasterCard and Visa are accepted. American Express, Discover, Solo, Switch and Diners Club are often not accepted. ATMs will mostly accept MasterCard, Visa and Visa Electron cards.
Major credit cards are accepted at supermarkets and expensive restaurants and hotels. However, it is advisable to carry some cash.

What hours will I volunteer every day?
Volunteers usually work for 5-6 hours a day depending on their program. You will have weekend off so you can go to travel on weekends. However some organizations will need you to work on some Saturdays as well.

Are we able to do any sightseeing or travelling in weekends?
You will usually have 2 free days per week, you can utilize this time for anything you like. All costs are at the volunteer's expense.
We also provide Safari Programs to Masai Mara , Lake Nakuru National Park and Nairobi National Park. Volunteers can take the Safari during weekends or during the end of their Volunteering Program.

Do I need travel insurance?
Volunteering Solutions provides comprehensive Travel and Medical Insurance to all the Volunteers below 60 years.