Masai Community Volunteering, Kenya

Key Information (3 Home Truths about Themba Travel)

1) Volunteering in Kenya is an amazing opportunity to experience the traditional Masai culture, and national parks with rich wildlife and support a good cause. Themba means ‘hope’ in the Xhosa language. You can become part of our mission to restore hope and dignity to people by sharing your skills and experience. We have selected the projects who we trust, and know that they greatly impact their surrounding communities.

2) You are going into what is likely to be a very foreign feeling environment. You will meet wonderful people, and create new connections across countries and cultures, but face some of the realities of life in Kenya. You need to have an open mind; you will also need resilience.

3) Your weekly fee covers charming, comfortable en-suite accommodation, daily transport to and from your chosen project and meals. Overall, you can expect to be comfortable and well looked after while on your Themba volunteering holiday.

About the project

Welcome to wilderness magic. Set along the ridge of a small escarpment are the endless views of the Lengishu plains of Northern Kenya, extending toward Samburu, Shaba, and the sacred Ololokwe Mountain in the Lekurruki community conservancy.

Dressed in traditional attire, the tribe is ready to welcome you. For 1-2 weeks, volunteers will be immersed in pastoral life: herding goats and cows, getting groceries from the local market, attending special occasions, and taking part in local community sports. A visit to the cultural village offers a chance to experience the dancing and singing culture of the traditional Maasai herders. You will learn about their nomadic lifestyles, brightly colored beadwork, and wraps. The ladies are open to bartering, and the men showcase their athletic prowess with sky-high jumping competitions.

This wilderness area is home to many pastoral tribes sharing space with wildlife, making the Big North a fabulous place to experience both culture and wilderness. Nestled in secluded comfort is your lodge, where you can watch the stars at night. The Lekurruki Conservancy, surrounded by three other community conservancies, is an important wildlife corridor with key species like elephants, giraffes, lions, zebras, leopards, and wild dogs. Spending time here is pure magic between community and conservation!

Your Impact

We aim to educate you about conservation issues so that you continue to be a mindful global citizen after your program. Our mission is to build conscious travellers that love nature, our wildlife and the people as we share our passion for making a difference.

We are here to help and to contribute collectively to conservation.

Contributes to United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #10: Empowering communities.

With these unique and off-the-beaten track experiences, we aim to reduce inequalities of income and involve and support local households.

Skills and Experiences required

No special skills are required. Training will be provided. All you need to have is a curiosity for wildlife, be teachable, and have a keen interest on how your stay with leave a positive impact.

Arrival & Orientation

A local English speaking guide will collect you from the airport and taken to your accommodation. Guests will arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and spend a night in the city. You will depart for Tassia Lodge the following day after breakfast. It is a 5-hour journey to Lekurruki Wildlife Conservancy in the Laikipia region.

Itinerary Overview

Alongside game drives, walking is the main activity in the area. With the Maasai plains stretching out in front of the lodge and the Mokogodo Forest only a few minutes away, the area is tempting for any walker. The forests are full of butterflies, birds and rare plants; walks up the dry riverbeds are challenging and exciting. Volunteers/guests will can help with the grilling of goats with the community, attending a traditional wedding, going to the market for groceries, herding cows and goats, arrow shooting competitions, Dance, and community sports. Volunteers also participate in preparation and cooking.

Accommodation & Location

Created out of rock and wood, the eight bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom, offer stunning views with all modern comforts yet seem to blend seamlessly into the wilderness itself. The rooms can also be adapted for families, couples and single travellers. The side of the room facing the view is completely open, giving a clear view of the wilderness and wildlife below. The large open lounge, bar and dining area is perched above the infinity edge pool that overlooks the elephant watering hole

Pricing

Duration

Project Fees:

8-14 days

£1,325 to £2,595

Already know what you want to do?

Fees include:

Fees exclude:

Let’s Plan Your Trip

Get in touch with someone who's been there.

Call us +44 793 9379 636 or email us at [email protected]

Join Our Newsletter

Subscribe to our monthly newsletter and find inspiration for your travels!