Small Group Travel - Tips For Kenya

Award-Winning Initiative

We’re proud to work alongside Oceans Alive, an award-winning community initiative founded by Tilda and Des Bowden. Their vision was to create positive environmental, economic, and socio-cultural change in the Kuruwitu area.

You'll be working directly with Tilda, one of the driving forces behind the project, and will benefit from her boundless enthusiasm and deep experience. In response to rapidly declining fish stocks in the Kuruwitu Lagoon, Tilda and Des established Kenya’s first Locally Managed Marine Area (LMMA).

Their groundbreaking work has not only helped restore the lagoon’s health but has also provided the community with alternative livelihoods, reducing their dependence on fishing. Oceans Alive’s success has gained international recognition, with King Charles visiting last year and becoming a passionate supporter of the initiative.

By working with Oceans Alive, you’ll dive into a unique blend of marine, environmental, and community development projects - all interconnected to create lasting positive change in this stunning coastal region.

The Leap works alongside Oceans Alive, an award-winning community initiative founded by Tilda and Des Bowden

Accommodation + Food

ACCOMODATION
You’ll stay beachside at Bahari Hai, our volunteer house in Vipingo, just north of Mombasa and a short hop from Kilifi. This cosy retreat is simple - nothing fancy - but offers everything you need to unwind. Expect light, whitewashed rooms, a small pool, and spacious terraces to relax on. Each room comes with its own ensuite shower.

At Bahari Hai, you’ll be looked after by the wonderful Bahari family. Dolphin will ensure you're comfortable, Godfrey will cook delicious meals, and Joseph and Juma will guide your daily activities.

Ngutuni is a mid-range safari lodge but it never disappoints with regard to its game and hospitality, it’s a local gem. ‍Hildana Camp however is a spot of luxury so you finish off your adventure in style.‍
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‍FOOD
‍At Bahari Hai, you’ll be treated to delicious, home-cooked meals prepared by Godfrey, our talented cook. Expect a variety of flavourful dishes, from tender grilled meats to fresh seafood and tropical fruits. If you have any special dietary requirements, just let us know.

After a day of adventure, there’s nothing better than relaxing on the terrace with a sundowner, enjoying the serene atmosphere as the sun sets and so a ‘pay as you go bar’ will be set up to keep life simple.

image of accommodation at bahari Hai with the Leap

Kenya Essentials

Communication

While Swahili is the local language, you'll find that everyone you'll be working with speaks excellent English, including your trusted team leaders, Joseph and Juma.
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Phones + Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available at Bahari Hai, and local SIM cards can easily be purchased at the airport upon arrival, with assistance from our guides.

Weather & Travel Times

Expect hot and sunny days, with temperatures generally ranging between highs of 35°C and lows of 22°C.

It can get a bit cooler during the safari, especially in the early mornings and evenings. So take a fleece and long trousers.

Visas & Entry Requirements

Currently to enter Kenya you need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en
‍The ETA fee is USD 32.50 per traveller, plus bank and processing fees.

Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your entry date into Kenya and have at least two blank pages.

Proof of Exit
You’ll need to provide proof of onward travel, such as a return ticket or evidence of departure by air or land, upon entry into Kenya.

Flights

You’ll fly into and out of Mombasa airport, with exact dates depending on flight availability.

Please refrain from booking any flights independently - wait for our admin email, which will include your recommended flight itinerary.

We coordinate flights through Trailfinders, the UK’s most trusted travel brand, ensuring your booking is ATOL-protected for peace of mind (ATOL number T1458).

Insurance

We recommend Campbell Irvine Ltd who have designed a policy specifically with our projects in mind.

We suggest you purchase your travel insurance at the earliest opportunity, so you are covered for any insurable reasons in the unlikely event you must cancel having committed to your itinerary or paid for flights.

Vaccinations

The following vaccinations and medications are recommended as a guide, but please consult your doctor for personalised advice:

Hepatitis A
Tetanus
Typhoid
Malaria tablets

Money

ATMs are widely available along the coast and in towns, and most places operate in Kenyan Shillings, so we recommend withdrawing local currency on arrival.

Cards are accepted in some locations, but cash is handy for small purchases, tips, and market visits.

What to Pack?

Clothes

Consider the climate when packing; it’s hot and often humid. Pack lightweight and cool clothes. On safari it can get chilly at night, so you’ll need a light fleece and cotton trousers. Laundry is included at Bahari Hai.

Sports tops and shorts are what you’ll spend most of the time in
T-shirts - long and short sleeves
Swimsuits - you wear these every day so bring lots
Sun hat
UV sun rash vest - essential for snorkelling
Feel good clothes for the evenings
Reef shoes - essential
Flip-flops / sliders / crocs
1 pair of casual summer shoes for wandering about / going out
1 pair of trainers for cycle / safari

Equipment

Reusable metal water bottles
Head torch
2 x towels (quick drying microfibre ones are best)
Day rucksack
Your main bag MUST be a rucksack or soft duffel bag - no rigid suitcases
UK plug adapter - only for USA and EU leapers.
Sunglasses
1 pair of working gloves – a pair of sturdy gardening gloves will be perfect
Snorkel and mask ESSENTIAL. Please consider leaving these behind so they can be donated to Oceans Alive.
Portable phone charger
Water proof camera case
A hardback notebook and pens/pencil

Toiletries & Medical

Basic everyday toiletries
Sun cream factor 50 - REEF FRIENDLY ONLY PLEASE
Insect repellent - Jungle formula works best
Solid shampoo bars (avoid plastic where possible)
After sun
Hand sanitiser
Insect repellent
Antibacterial spray/cream for open wounds
Rehydration powders
Savlon
Antihistamines
E45/Sudocrem
Immodium
Mediplasters
Personal Medication: Bring extra supplies, know the generic names of your medication, and ensure you can manage allergies (e.g. carry an epipen if necessary).

MIDLIFE Programme

Kenya Good to know

marine conservation + community development + safari