VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES IN EAST AFRICA
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1 Month +
Daily Tour
1 person
English
Your transformative journey begins as you touch down at Moi International Airport in Mombasa. Our friendly program coordinator will greet you with a warm smile and assist you with your luggage. Enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Diani, where you'll catch your first glimpses of Kenya's stunning coastline. Upon arrival at the volunteer house, settle into your accommodation and meet your fellow volunteers. The day concludes with a welcome dinner featuring local Kenyan cuisine, where you'll receive a brief introduction to the program and the exciting month ahead.
Immerse yourself in a comprehensive orientation day designed to prepare you for your role in turtle conservation. The morning begins with an in-depth presentation on the local sea turtle species, their life cycles, and the challenges they face. Expert marine biologists will guide you through the conservation techniques you'll be using, including nest monitoring, data collection, and hatchling protection protocols. After lunch, receive essential safety briefings and cultural sensitivity training. The day concludes with a tour of the project sites, including the beaches where you'll conduct patrols and the turtle rehabilitation center.
For the next 25 days, you'll be fully engaged in vital turtle conservation efforts. Your daily routine may include:
Early morning beach patrols (5:00 AM - 7:00 AM) to locate and protect new nests
Assisting with nest relocations to safer areas when necessary
Data collection and record-keeping of turtle nesting activities
Shifts at the turtle rehabilitation center, helping care for injured or sick turtles
Participating in community education programs to raise awareness about marine conservation
Conducting beach clean-ups to improve nesting habitats
Monitoring and protecting hatchlings as they make their way to the ocean
Weekends offer a mix of conservation work and free time to explore Diani's attractions, such as snorkeling in coral reefs, visiting Shimba Hills National Reserve, or simply relaxing on the beautiful beaches.
As your volunteer experience nears its end, this day is dedicated to reflection and celebration. Participate in a final morning of conservation activities, followed by a group discussion to share experiences and insights gained over the past month. In the afternoon, join a special workshop to explore ways to continue supporting marine conservation efforts back home. The evening features a farewell dinner and certificate ceremony, where you'll receive recognition for your valuable contribution to turtle conservation in Diani.
On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast with your fellow volunteers, exchanging contact information and saying goodbyes. After check-out, our coordinator will transfer you back to Moi International Airport. As you depart, you'll carry with you a month's worth of unforgettable memories, new friendships, and the satisfaction of knowing you've made a tangible difference in the lives of endangered sea turtles and the coastal ecosystem of Diani, Kenya.
If you find yourself deeply engaged in the turtle conservation efforts and wish to extend your stay in Diani, we offer flexible options to prolong your volunteer experience. To extend your program, simply approach your program coordinator at least one week before your scheduled departure date. They will discuss available options, which may include extending for an additional week or even several months, depending on project needs and accommodation availability. Extended stays often allow volunteers to take on more responsibilities, dive deeper into specific conservation aspects, or participate in special projects. Keep in mind that additional fees may apply to cover accommodation, meals, and program costs for the extended period. Extending your stay not only contributes more to the conservation efforts but also provides an opportunity for personal growth and a more immersive experience in Kenyan coastal culture.
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