Volunteer Role
Rombo - Olowuaru Bush Project
For the first part of your programme, you will spend 2 weeks in Rombo, on the Bush Project. You will accompany both the Researcher and a local Maasai guide either by foot or in a vehicle on data collecting surveys of all animal species within set transects and blocks within the region. The aims of this project are to monitor the predator prey relationships of the animal populations, and gain understanding of human / wildlife conflict and the affect it is having on the lion population. The lions in this region have been mistreated over the years and sightings are very rare, you may not actually see a lion, but will be active in recovering fresh scat and making casts of prints for our continuing data collection. This data is crucial for the project to be able to assess the conservation needs of the lions in this area to be able to increase their confidence so that they will become more active and be visible during the day.
Amboseli Elephant Project
During your two weeks at our Research Camp in Amboseli you will be involved in the daily monitoring of elephant herd activity between Amboseli National Park and the Tanzanian border near Mount Kilimanjaro. You may be involved in the following:
- Data collection with our Research Project Leaders
- Tracking and recording elephants and other wildlife species opportunistically and on set fixed transects
- Counting and recording elephant numbers, group make up and location using GPS equipment
- Recording animal numbers of other large mammals in the vicinity
- Individual identification and family group research
This work will be done from a vehicle that will be used to follow the elephants very closely and you need to learn how to behave in their presence, for the safety of your team and that of the elephants.
This type of work will continue through the week, with the possibility of a trip to the game Park in Amboseli (at an additional cost of about $50), and another weekend trip to Loitokitok.
At the end of your programme you will be transferred back to Nairobi for a final night bed and breakfast in the Kenya Comfort Hotel, before being taken by taxi to the airport for your return flight.
What’s Included in the Programme
- Transfers to and from Nairobi International Airport
- Escorted transfer by public transport and project vehicle to camp
- First and last night accommodation at a hotel in Nairobi
- All accommodation during your stay
- All meals during your stay
- Full support and assistance from your co-ordinator throughout your time on your placement
What’s Not Included in the Programme
- Travel insurance for the duration of your placement, which should include cover for repatriation
- Flights
- Visa for entry into Kenya
Prices and Durations
Kenya Maasai Wildlife Research Volunteers - 4 weeks £1,449
