Safari ya Urafiki means Journey of Friendship.
This is not a volunteer trip.
It is not charity tourism.
It is not about “helping”.
Safari ya Urafiki is a conscious travel experience designed for those who wish to understand, connect and contribute with integrity.
Over seven immersive days in Kenya, participants experience the beauty of this extraordinary country while learning firsthand about the work of Rafiki Mwema Therapeutic Centre and the realities faced by the children and communities we support.
It is a journey rooted in respect, cultural humility and long-term impact.
Interested in joining us in Kenya?
Please fill in your details below if you are interested in attending a 5-day Safari ya Urafiki Tour in July or November 2026.
At this stage, we are simply gathering expressions of interest to understand how many people may like to join us. There is no commitment required yet.
We will share the full itinerary and further details with you soon.
What Makes This Different?
Safari ya Urafiki was created as a values-aligned alternative to traditional volunteerism.
Rather than placing operational demands on our Kenyan team, the program:
• Is hosted in partnership with an experienced Kenyan tourism operator
• Protects children through strict safeguarding boundaries
• Centres Kenyan leadership and expertise
Participants travel with intention under the guidance of experienced facilitators, including Kenyan staff members who share lived knowledge and context.
This is about listening. Learning. Building relationships that last.
A Glipse of the Journey
Safari ya Urafiki is a guided 5-day experience designed for those who wish to travel with purpose.
This is not voluntourism. It is conscious connection.
Participants will journey through Kenya’s extraordinary landscapes while gaining meaningful insight into the work of Rafiki Mwema. From wildlife conservation experiences in Nairobi and the Rift Valley, to time spent learning about our Rafiki Mtaani outreach program in Nakuru, this experience offers a respectful and carefully facilitated window into both Kenya’s beauty and the realities facing vulnerable children.
Highlights include:
-Safari experiences in Nairobi and Lake Nakuru
-Elephant and giraffe conservation visit
-Boat safari at Lake Naivasha
-Reflection sessions and facilitated integration
-Ethical shopping with local women-led social enterprises
Throughout the journey, participants are supported by qualified Kenyan guides and a dedicated facilitator, ensuring cultural respect, safeguarding integrity, and meaningful learning.
This experience is designed for individuals who:
-Value ethical travel
-Respect child protection boundaries
-Are open to learning and cultural humility
Our Kenyan Tourism Partner, Jimmy
For the initial pilot phase, one curated itinerary will be offered. This allows Rafiki Mwema to refine systems, uphold safeguarding standards, and ensure excellence in delivery. Additional itineraries will be developed and introduced as the program expands.
To receive the full detailed brochure and itinerary, please submit an Expression of Interest via the above EOI form. The complete program outline will be shared in the coming weeks.
Lake Naivasha excursion
Enjoying our local Game Park
Nairobi Elephant Orphanage
FAQ
Your questions, answered
We do not offer hands-on engagement that may disrupt therapeutic care or create unintended attachment harm. The wellbeing of our children is always our first priority.
During our upcoming five-day tour, participants will visit our Rafiki Mtaani program to witness the vital work being done alongside street-connected children. This experience is designed to deepen understanding, while maintaining respectful boundaries that protect the children and support the integrity of our therapeutic model.
All travel logistics are managed by our trusted tourism partner in Kenya, Jimmy, who has been part of Rafiki Mwema since its very beginning. There is truly no one better placed to share the heart and story of our work than Jimmy.
Here in Australia, Cara Rogan from Travel Managers generously volunteers her time to support our travellers. She will assist you with booking your tour and can also coordinate your international flights if required.
From your first enquiry right through to the moment you are ready to book, our dedicated volunteer Lisa will be available to answer any questions and guide you through the process
Places are limited. An application and risk-assessment process ensures alignment with our values and safeguarding policies. All participants must have a working with children check (or equivalent) before approval.
This experience is about responsibility as much as inspiration.
Pre-trip education is essential. Participants receive cultural orientation and safeguarding training. Local Kenyan professionals lead the work on the ground. Visitors come to learn, listen, and support, not to fix.
Participants should consult their GP or travel clinic for recommended vaccinations.
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be required for entry into Kenya if you are travelling from or transiting through a Yellow Fever risk country.
We recommend seeking medical advice 8–12 weeks before departure to ensure all health requirements are met.
Yes, you will need travel authorisation to enter Kenya. The process is completed online prior to departure and is generally straightforward for Australian travellers.
We will guide you through the application process when you book your trip to ensure everything is completed correctly and on time.
Traditional volunteer programs often require heavy coordination and can unintentionally disrupt local systems. This Conscious Tourism model minimises operational burden while maximising sustainable funding and respectful engagement.
It is impact without intrusion.
This experience is designed for adults due to the sensitive nature of Rafiki Mwema’s work. We recommend participants be emotionally mature and prepared for reflective engagement.
Do you have a question that isn’t answered here?
We would love to hear from you. As new questions arise, we continue to expand this section to support future guests. Please reach out with any enquiries — your curiosity helps us grow.
Email: safari@rafikimwema.com
WhatsApp: +61412378274
