Primate Conservation At Diani Beach, Kenya
Country
Kenya
Duration
7-60 Days
From
US$375
Highlights
- Directly contribute to saving the Vulnerable Angolan black-and-white colobus monkey
- Assist with the care and rehabilitation of rescued primates
- Support gorilla surveys, behaviour recording, and biodiversity monitoring
- Take part in tree planting and coastal forest restoration
- Engage with local schools and communities through conservation education
- Explore the stunning Kenyan coast and its rich biodiversity
- Be part of a purpose-driven team making a tangible difference
Overview
Join this volunteer programme for a hands-on, life-changing experience on the beautiful south coast of Kenya. Based in Diani, this programme offers individuals the opportunity to actively contribute to the protection of threatened primates and coastal forest ecosystems. Whether you are a student, conservation professional, or simply passionate about wildlife, you will gain real skills, real impact, and an experience rooted in nature, service, and learning.
Project area
The programme is based in and around Diani, a coastal town in southern Kenya renowned for its stunning beaches and rich biodiversity. The surrounding coastal forests are home to several primate species, most notably the Angolan black-and-white colobus monkey (Colobus angolensis palliatus), listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. These forests face mounting pressure from habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict, making conservation efforts here both urgent and impactful.
Colobus Conservation (CC) has been working in this region since 1997, running a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre, community outreach programmes, and habitat restoration initiatives. Volunteers become an integral part of this dedicated team.
Photo Gallery
Activities
Primate Conservation & Animal Care
Volunteers assist with the day-to-day care of rescued primates at the rehabilitation centre, supporting feeding routines, observing and recording animal behaviour, and contributing to release and rehabilitation efforts for animals destined to return to the wild.
Forest & Habitat Restoration
Volunteers participate in tree planting, nursery management, and reforestation initiatives aimed at restoring the coastal forest habitats on which primates and other wildlife depend. This work also includes supporting biodiversity monitoring activities.
Education & Community Outreach
A vital part of the programme involves working with local schools and communities. Volunteers assist with conservation talks, school visits, and eco-tour guiding experiences, as well as helping create awareness materials to inspire the next generation of conservation champions.
Research & Data Collection
Volunteers support ongoing conservation research by assisting with field data collection, documentation, and reporting — contributing to the scientific evidence base that underpins Colobus Conservation’s work.
Field conditions
Volunteers are accommodated in comfortable onsite facilities in Diani. The programme runs Monday to Friday, with structured and supervised activities throughout. On arrival, volunteers receive a full orientation and are integrated into the team. The environment is welcoming, collaborative, and professionally managed by CC’s experienced staff.
Qualifications needed
No specific qualifications are required. The programme is open to students, professionals, and conservation enthusiasts aged 18 and above. A genuine passion for wildlife and conservation, combined with a willingness to engage with community and fieldwork activities, is all you need to get started.
Costs
Volunteers are asked to make a contribution to cover programme costs:
| Cost | Includes | |
|---|---|---|
| Onsite package | USD 375 per week | Accommodation, three meals per day, branded t-shirt |
| Offsite option | USD 15 per day | One meal per day, branded t-shirt |
These contributions directly support the running of the volunteer programme and Colobus Conservation’s conservation mission.
Included
- Accommodation (onsite package)
- Meals as described above
- Structured programme activities and supervision
- Orientation and team integration
- Branded Colobus Conservation t-shirt
Excluded
- International flights
- Medical and travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Personal expenses
Enquiries
Excited to join this project? Share your preferred dates, interests, and any specific needs with us!