Conservation project at Masai Mara National Reserve. Scientists assistant volunteer. Monitor Lions, Cheetah and Hippos.

  Kenya

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks and 5-8 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: All Year

Description: Once placed at the park, a volunteer is given a work program prepared by either a senior warden or the lead scientist. The work varies from tracking, located lost elephants to to biomass analysis, animal census and data entry at the park's headquarters which are also located within the park. Projects include the counting of Hippos, Lion studies and cheetah monitoring. The Mara lacks enough computers hence a volunteer could carry a laptop to be able to make the sharing of computers easy. Other work involves animal and plant checks and general repairs. Volunteers must be prepared to get hands dirty.

Those who can't will share those that are available. The park also lacks enough vehicles. Consequently, movement with the parks is sometimes limited, making it hard for the park's staff to handle multiple projects as they would wish to. A volunteer should therefore be able to take on one assignment at a time, switching between the field and the offices.

Highlights: Masai Mara is the heartland of Africa's wildlife, the hub of tourism and the mighty kingdom of cats roamed by majestic prides of lions, paced by the elegant speed of the cheetah and shadowed by the mighty strength of the leopard. Home to a countless array of wildlife its simply staggering and anyone who visits rarely is disappointed. Herds of elephants wandering around, jackals, hyena and brightly marked lizards are just a small slice of this amazing location.

Located to the South Eastern part of Kenya, the mighty Mara's Savannah beauty cannot be described in words, pictures or on television screens; one has to see with his or her own eyes to get a glimpse of what Mother Nature ecological beauty is all about.

Qualifications: Any one looking for a close encounter within a park with great biodiversity. One needs not to be an experienced traveler to take on this project. It is suitable for the old and the young alike. Must have open mind to the variety of work and not get frustrated at the lack of funds the park has that can impact on the type of duties carried out. Some periods will be quiet where sitting under the sun is the order of the day or taking photos of the amazing wildlife that sits on your doorstep. Other days, get up close with some of the most amazing wildlife in the world as well as helping an under-funded organisation do its conservation work for everyone to enjoy.

Cost in US$: See website for latest prices.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Despite the difficulties the Kenya wildlife service have, volunteering in this environment would leave you with unforgettable memories. The landscape, the weather, the atmosphere, the sounds of animals at night and the sun sets make this a wonderful experience and adventure. Book early as places are limited due to the pressures on Kenyan resources.

Age Range: 18+

This Program is open to World Wide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Kenya Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Resume

Inspire Kenya's Mission Statement: To send groups of people to Kenya to contribute to the people and culture in a productive and meaningful way.

Year Founded: 2006