Overview
Volunteering with Colobus Monkeys in Kenya

Volunteers working on this program will assist important research on one of Kenya's most critical populations of Angolan black and white colobus monkeys. A beautiful Indian Ocean coastline setting is the base for this important project that also focuses on other wildlife including the rare Zanj elephant shrew and butterflies. Living within a traditional Swahili village allows for cultural immersion and the chance to explore all this wonderful area has to offer at the weekends. Such activities include fantastic snorkelling and scuba diving, amazing beaches and safaris.

View Film Footage, images, blogs, stories from the field, video diaries and more at the programs media centre

Being here, seeing these animals first hand, with the knowledge that the research I'm doing will help this forest and the animals that live here survive is the greatest feeling ever. Difficult to explain the the sense of accomplishment I feel , but it's incredible

Andrew Hayes, California, USA, 2008 volunteer

What Difference Does This Project Make?

The East African coastal forest ecoregion is the smallest Global Biodiversity Hotspot with the highest density of endemic vertebrate species. Facing the highest rates of extinction due to habitat loss, it is one of 11 'hyperhot' priorities for conservation. Shimoni's colobus monkey rank amongst the top three most important populations in Kenya, the forest also home to the critically endangered spotted ground thrush, Zanj elephant shrew and other vulnerable mammals, birds and plants. It is of immense cultural value, as well as a vital natural resource to surrounding communities, but lacks any form of protection. Supporting community initiatives offers the best hope of realising conservation goals

Highlights

Learn diverse survey techniques in a Global Biodiversity Hotspot, hands on volunteer work alongside experienced and enthusiastic field staff, study behaviour of the colobus monkeys; undertake critical elephant shrew research, collect data on endangered and vulnerable bird species; live by the Indian Ocean, experience swahili culture in a Historic Conservation Area; take the slave cave tour and forest night walks.

Location

Approximately 70km south of Mombasa, close to the Tanzanian penisula lies the Shimoni peninsula. A 14km dirt road brings you to Shimoni village at the southern tip, gateway to Kenya's premier marine protected area , finest coral reefs and most important dolphin populations. The stunning white beaches of Diani are an hour and half away

Field Conditions

Accommodation is basic, sleeping in a shared dormitory style thatch hut within Shimoni Reef Lodge with access to electricity, kitchen facilities, cold water showers and western style toilets. Food is prepared on a rotational basis, simple but nutritious with fresh fruit and vegetables daily