Coastal Forest Biodiversity Conservation Volunteers
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About the project
Coastal Forest Biodiversity Conservation Volunteers
📝 Detailed information
🏢 About the local organisation
KVSO is a non-profit and a community based organization established in 2015 in Kenya to promote peace, global citizenship and community development and cultural exchange through international volunteering programs by empowering young people to advance community development and strengthen multicultural understanding increase cooperation between Kenyan communities and people living in developed world through a range of development programs. We have partnerships with various organizations within Kenya and abroad to enhance our work and encourage cultural exchange and corporation.
💼 What the programme involves
The World Heritage Volunteers (WHV) programme “Conservation and Restoration of the Coastal Forests of Kenya” is an international environmental action camp designed to protect and restore two of Kenya’s most ecologically significant forest ecosystems: Arabuko Sokoke Forest in Kilifi County and Shimba Hills National Reserve in Kwale County. These forests, listed on Kenya’s Tentative World Heritage List, are globally recognized for their exceptional biodiversity, hosting endemic and endangered species such as the Clarke’s weaver, the golden-rumped elephant shrew, and numerous rare tree species.
The programme brings together local and international volunteers to participate in structured conservation activities that support forest restoration, biodiversity monitoring, and public environmental education. Volunteers engage in both hands-on ecological work (tree planting, habitat restoration, human-wildlife conflict mitigation) and awareness-raising activities (school outreach, eco-tourism promotion, digital campaigns).
The programme also strengthens collaboration between stakeholders including the Kenya Forest Service, National Museums of Kenya, UNESCO Regional Office, and local community groups. Through participatory approaches, the action camp enhances community ownership, promotes sustainable livelihoods, and reinforces global advocacy for the protection of the Coastal Forests of Kenya.
🏠 Accommodation on site
Volunteers will be accommodated in shared volunteer housing or community-based guest facilities located near the project areas of Arabuko Sokoke and Shimba Hills. The accommodation is simple but safe, providing essential amenities such as beds, mosquito nets, basic sanitation facilities, and communal cooking areas. Electricity may be limited in some locations, and volunteers are encouraged to bring power banks for personal use.
Living conditions are designed to immerse participants in the local environment while maintaining safety and comfort. Accommodation places volunteers close to forest sites, allowing easy access for early-morning fieldwork such as biodiversity monitoring or tree-planting sessions.
🍲 Food
Meals will be prepared either by community cooks or by volunteers under guidance. Food is predominantly local Kenyan cuisine, consisting of staples such as rice, vegetables, beans, chapati, ugali, fish, and fresh tropical fruits. Vegetarian options are readily available, and volunteers with special dietary needs should communicate these in advance.
Food is sourced locally to support community farmers and reduce the project’s environmental footprint. Drinking water is purified or boiled, ensuring safe consumption throughout the stay.
📍 About the location
The project takes place in two critical forest ecosystems along Kenya’s coast:
Arabuko Sokoke Forest (Kilifi County) – the largest remaining dry coastal forest in East Africa, home to rare species such as the Clarke’s weaver and the golden-rumped elephant shrew.
Shimba Hills (Kwale County) – a unique combination of forest, grassland, and wildlife habitats, known for its high plant diversity and the endangered sable antelope.
Both forests are recognized as conservation hotspots due to their ecological importance, vulnerability to human activities, and cultural significance. Volunteers will work closely with forest rangers, community groups, and conservation experts within these landscapes.
🎒 Leisure activities
During their free time, volunteers may explore several cultural and natural attractions near the project areas. Possible activities include:
Guided forest walks and bird-watching excursions
Visits to local villages to experience Swahili culture
Trips to nearby beaches such as Watamu and Diani
Exploring the Gede Ruins, a Swahili archaeological heritage site
Cultural exchange events with youth and community groups
Leisure activities are flexible and designed to help volunteers relax while learning more about the coastal region’s ecology and heritage.
⚠️ Requirements
Volunteers must:
Be 18 years or older
Have good physical health for outdoor activities
Be able to communicate in English
Show interest in environment, biodiversity, or community development
Commit to participating in at least 80% of project activities
Have travel insurance covering the full duration of the action camp
Respect local culture, environmental guidelines, and safety protocols
🤝 Meeting point
The official meeting point for all volunteers is the KVSO Offices, from where participants will receive their orientation before being transported to the project location. KVSO staff will coordinate arrivals, provide essential briefings, and facilitate introductions among volunteers. Airport pick-up from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or Kisumu International Airport can be arranged for those arriving from abroad.
ℹ️ Additional information
This WHV project emphasizes long-term sustainability by integrating conservation science, community participation, and youth empowerment. Volunteers will acquire practical environmental skills, contribute to global biodiversity databases, and support eco-tourism initiatives that reduce pressure on natural resources. The programme also strengthens partnerships with key institutions to ensure the continued protection of the Coastal Forests of Kenya long after the action camp ends.
Interested in this project? Create your account and apply online.
Sign in to apply📅 Available sessions
Coastal Forest Biodiversity Conservation Volunteers
01/09/2026 at 08:00 → 14/09/2026 at 17:00
ℹ️ Key information
Age required
18–99 years old
Solidarity donation
380.00 EUR
French tax residents may be eligible for a tax reduction of up to 66% of their costs (membership, plane tickets, solidarity donation).
📍 Location
International Building, 00100 Mama Ngina St, Nairobi, Kenya
Kenya
🌍 Location info
Local currency
Kenyan Shilling (KES / KSh)
Exchange rate
1 KES = 0.006892 EUR
Rate as of 31/05/2026
Timezone
East Africa Time
Local time: 21:49 (12/11/2026)
🛡️ Before you leave
✅ Features
🏠 Accommodation
🗣️ Languages spoken