14 Volunteer Vacations Where You Can Help Animals & Explore Amazing Places
7. Donkey Sanctuary – Lamu Island, Kenya
On Lamu Island, where donkeys are a vital part of daily life, volunteers support veterinary care and education for local communities. The island is car-free, meaning donkeys carry everything from water to building materials. You’ll help with feeding, grooming, wound treatment, and even assist at mobile vet clinics. Off-hours are spent wandering coral-walled villages, exploring Swahili ruins, or sailing the Indian Ocean in traditional dhows. It’s a beautiful intersection of culture, care, and slow travel that centers working animals often overlooked by traditional conservation.
