Day 1: Arrival & Tsavo Camp
Arrive at Mombasa airport and be greeted by the Camps International team. Begin the 3-4 hour transfer to Camp Tsavo. A warm welcome from the camp manager, followed by an essential safety briefing and facility orientation. The Project Manager will outline the week’s activities. Conclude the day by learning basic Swahili phrases around the campfire.
Day 2: Project Site Immersion & Planning
Following a restful night and breakfast, students will accompany the Camps International leaders on a visit to the various project sites. They will clearly identify the community challenges and receive a detailed briefing on their specific, well-defined objectives for the week.
Day 3-4: School Infrastructure Build
Project work begins! Students dive into improving the local school’s infrastructure. Missions include constructing vital classrooms and toilets, building essential furniture (desks), or deploying anti-erosion gabions to protect the school grounds. Daily interaction with locals and students provides a practical opportunity to practice Swahili and support local teachers in English instruction.
Day 5: Eco-Hike and Survival Training
After breakfast, trek to the Marungu Hills. This eco-hike offers stunning African vistas and a lesson in the hills’ historical value and the importance of native trees. Enjoy a unique picnic lunch in historic caves, followed by a session on essential wilderness survival skills led by a local expert. Return to camp for a relaxing evening.
Day 6: Conservation and Empowerment Projects
Learn how the community addresses human-wildlife conflict by installing deterrent fences against elephants near farmlands. Participate in an environmental workshop: making paper from elephant manure to create a sustainable community income source. In the afternoon, join the Tumaini Women’s Group to learn the art of making beaded jewelry, directly supporting their efforts to generate additional income.
Day 7: Tsavo East National Park Safari
After an early breakfast, embark on an exhilarating Big Four safari into Tsavo East National Park, seeking sightings of the elusive lion, the majestic elephant, the powerful buffalo, and the graceful leopard across the diverse landscape. This day promises unforgettable wildlife encounters and incredible photography opportunities. African Dance Workshop. Students will immerse themselves in local rhythms and learn traditional moves during a fun, energetic cultural dancing experience.
Day 8: Departure & Farewell
Time allowing, enjoy some last-minute souvenir shopping. Transfer to the airport to check in for the flight home, carrying memories of impact and discovery.
