Your Guide to Volunteering in Dadaab Refugee Camps

Your Guide to Volunteering in Dadaab Refugee Camps

Looking to make a meaningful impact through humanitarian work in Kenya? Volunteering in the Dadaab Refugee Camps offers a unique opportunity to contribute to one of the world’s largest and most long-standing refugee settlements. Located in northeastern Kenya, the Dadaab Refugee Complex is home to over 218,000 registered refugees and asylum seekers (as of July 2020), primarily from Somalia.

The complex consists of three main camps:

• Dagahaley and Ifo (both located in Lagdera District)

• Hagadera (located in the neighboring Fafi District)

These camps were originally established to shelter refugees fleeing conflict, drought, and famine in southern Somalia. Today, they remain vital centers of humanitarian aid and research.

Whether you’re a volunteer, journalist, filmmaker, or researcher, visiting Dadaab requires special permissions. At Trek Africa Expeditions, we can assist with the process, helping you secure the necessary permits and approvals for field visits, filming, or documentary projects. Contact us for full support with planning your visit.

Why Book Your Dadaab Visit or Safari with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we organize both impact-driven trips like volunteering in Dadaab and unforgettable wildlife safaris across Kenya. We’re a trusted and highly rated travel company on platforms like TripAdvisor, known for our personalized service, expert local knowledge, and commitment to sustainable travel.

Whether you’re interested in humanitarian volunteering or witnessing the Big 5 on safari, we offer professional planning, smooth logistics, and meaningful travel experiences. We also design custom itineraries that combine Kenya with other top safari destinations like Tanzania, Botswana, and Namibia.

Popular Kenya Safari Packages That Include Big 5 Wildlife Viewing

If you’re planning a safari in Kenya, these are some of our most recommended packages for spotting the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo):

• 4-Day Kenya Wildebeest Migration Safari

• 5-Day Kenya Wildlife Adventure Safari

• 6-Day Best of Kenya Adventure Safari

• 7-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari

• 14-Day Combined Kenya and Tanzania Safari

All safaris are customizable and led by professional guides with in-depth knowledge of Kenya’s wildlife and culture.

When Is the Best Time to See the Big Five in Kenya?

Kenya offers fantastic Big 5 sightings year-round, but the dry seasons—from December to February and June to October—are the best for wildlife viewing. During these months, animals gather around water sources, making sightings more frequent and photography easier. The wet seasons (March to May and November) are greener and less crowded but can make some areas harder to access due to muddy roads.

Kenya Safari Booking Process: Step-by-Step

Ready to book your dream safari in Kenya? Here’s how it works with Trek Africa Expeditions:

1. Confirm your travel dates and send us an inquiry.

2. We’ll check availability for accommodations and park permits.

3. Once confirmed, we’ll send a draft itinerary tailored to your preferences.

4. After your approval, we’ll issue an invoice for deposit payment.

5. Once your payment is received, we’ll secure all services for your trip.

Pro tip: Book your safari 2–3 months in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the high season (June to October), to guarantee availability.

Kenya Tourist Visa Advice

All international travelers need a Kenya tourist visa. The easiest way to get it is online before arrival. The eVisa costs USD 51, and processing is usually fast. While some nationalities can get a visa on arrival, applying in advance is highly recommended to avoid delays.

Want to combine a volunteering experience in Dadaab with a safari adventure across Kenya or East Africa? Reach out to Trek Africa Expeditions—we’re here to help you plan a trip that’s not only enriching but also unforgettable.