Good to know

The International Volunteering Diploma

Students have the option to pursue an International Volunteering Diploma through The Centre for Global Citizenship Studies (CGCS), accredited by the National Open College Network.

This diploma adds a powerful edge to university applications and resumes, showing commitment to global responsibility and personal growth. Worth 16 UCAS points.

The diploma consists of five modules which are supported and delivered both online and, in the field by CGCS and The Leap. Each module takes about 6-8 hours of student time, all online, working at one’s own pace.

Module 1: Learn about cultural awareness, safety, and ethical responsibilities.
Module 2: Understand the motivations and skills needed for volunteering.
Module 3. Explore global citizenship, sustainable development, and the role of volunteers.
Module 4. Apply concepts in real-world settings, document experiences, and implement leadership skills. Delivered by Tilda Bowden – co-founder of OA.
Module 5: Reflect on personal growth, community impact, and future implications.

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Cost of Diploma £395, paid direct to The Leap.

This is an optional add on to the cost of the expedition, giving flexibility to the planned experience.

Accommodation + Meals

ACCOMMODATION
You'll stay beachside at Bahari Hai, our volunteer house in Vipingo, just 1.5 hours from Mombasa and a short hop from Kilifi.

Picture the whitest of sand, warm tropical water, turtles, migrating humpback whales, dolphins, and more tropical fish than you can shake a stick at. Utterly stunning.

At Bahari High, you’ll be looked after by the wonderful Bahari family. Joseph and Juma, your team leaders, will guide your daily activities. Dolphine will ensure you're comfortable, Godfrey will whip up delicious meals. The house is cosy with 2-3 bedroom bungalows, each with ensuite bathrooms, set in a lovely garden with a small pool and plenty of communal spaces.

FOOD
Godfrey will cook delicious, home-cooked meals. From flavourful stews and grilled meats to fresh seafood and tropical fruits. If you have any special dietary requirements, please let us know, as these can be easily accommodated.

Safe drinking water, tea, coffee, and fruit squash will be available throughout your stay, though any additional soft drinks will be at your own expense. There is a little shop on site.

Kenya Essentials

Team Leaders

Your experience will be led by Tilda and Des Bowden, who oversee the entire programme with warmth, energy, and years of experience in youth expeditions. In addition you’ll be guided day-to-day by Joseph and Juma—our trusted team leaders who know the community inside out and will be by your side for every activity.

Supporting the group throughout is a member of The Leap’s UK staff, who will travel out with the team and act as your dedicated pastoral lead throughout. Together, this expert team ensures you feel supported, and inspired from start to finish.

Communication

It's very easy to call or text home from Kenya. Should there be any issues, our team leaders will communicate directly with families and The Leap's UK office.

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

Hot and sunny with general temperatures between highs of 35C and lows of 22C. It is hot for the better part of the year despite heavy downpours between April and May and occasional showers towards the end of the year.

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. Entry may be denied if your passport is damaged or missing pages, so ensure it is in good condition.

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

For UK Residents: 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.

‍USA Residents: We recommend Inext who can combine with your exiting medical cover. Most Leapers buy the Platinum Policy.

Vaccinations

The following vaccinations and medications are recommended as a guide, but please consult your doctor for personalized advice:
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Hepatitis A & B
Tetanus
Typhoid
Malaria tablets (essential for the full duration)

Money

We recommend bringing a Revolut card or similar prepaid currency card and withdrawing Kenyan Shillings upon arrival in Kenya. Local ATMS nearby.

What to Pack?

Clothing & Shoes

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. With bikinis, no thongs please
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/football

Equipment

2+ reusable metal water bottles
Head torch (with sufficient batteries)
2 x towels (quick drying microfibre ones are best)
Day rucksack and bum bag
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
Waterproof camera case
A notebook and pens/pencil

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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)
Travel wash - for hand washing clothes

First Aid

Immodium
Rehydration powders
Savlon
Antihistamines
E45/Sudocrem
Mediplasters
Bite cream
Asthmatic volunteers must bring their own inhalers and make sure there is enough to last the whole trip
Volunteers with allergies must bring an epi-pen
Diabetics must bring their own insulin/equivalent medication

under 18s Programme

Under 18s Kenya Good to know

MARINE CONSERVATION + COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT + SAFARI + 16 UCAS POINTS

The International Volunteering Diploma

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Cost of Diploma £395, paid direct to The Leap.

Accommodation + Meals