Budget about $5,700–$7,000 all in for a 10-day trip from the United States. That is $3,950–$4,250 for the expedition itself (lodging, all meals, in-country transport, guides, Maasai Mara park fees, project supplies), roughly $1,200–$1,900 for flights, $150–$300 for travel insurance, about $32 for the Kenya eTA, and around $500 in cash for tips and shopping.
This is the whole on-the-ground cost, per person, double occupancy. It covers lodging, every meal, all in-country transportation, our Kenyan guides, Maasai Mara park fees and permits, project supplies such as Garden Tower materials, and cultural activities. There is no separate program fee, application fee, or placement fee.
Booked separately through Unrivaled Travel Experiences so the group arrives together. Prices swing with the season and your departure city; booking six months out usually lands at the low end of that range.
Medical coverage is required. Trip cancellation coverage is optional but recommended. ARK Insurance in Salt Lake City handles this for many of our travelers.
The Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation costs about $32 and is applied for online at least 30 days before departure. Vaccination and medication costs depend on your doctor's recommendations and your insurance.
For tips, market shopping, and personal extras. Bring newer US bills, 2013 series or later, in a mix of denominations.
Short-term volunteers cost a host community time and resources. Our price covers your presence in full and funds the projects you work on, so the community is never subsidising your trip. The work continues year-round through our Kenyan team whether or not a group is in the country.
Placement agencies sometimes advertise lower weekly rates, but those usually exclude lodging, food, transport, and park fees. Compare the full landed cost, not the headline number.
Yes. Many travelers fundraise part of their cost, and we provide a project fundraising session 60 days before departure.
Project donations are handled separately from the expedition fee. Ask your tax advisor about your own situation.