Kenya Mission Trips

February 4 -13, 2027

Experience what it means to serve in Kenya with Hands 4Life. This is not a trip where you simply watch from the sidelines. Every team member will have the opportunity to use their spiritual gifts and take part in leading, serving, praying, sharing, building, or encouraging others throughout the trip.

Together, we will worship and share the Gospel with the local community, visit children and families in their homes and schools, and help rebuild the home of an elderly grandparent.

You will also help host the Hands 4Life Circle of Life celebration, bringing children and elders together for a day of fun, fellowship, and encouragement. As you serve alongside local leaders, you will see firsthand how Hands 4Life is helping children, older adults, and families in the Rachuonyo community.

The trip also includes a safari day at Ruma National Park, giving the team time to experience Kenya’s landscape and wildlife together.

This trip is an invitation to step into what God is doing in Kenya, use the gifts He has given you, and return home changed by the people you served and the purpose you found there.

 
 
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The Mission Trip Experience

Travel & Arrival

Day 1-2

Welcome to Kenya! The team will arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, where our private bus will take us to our hotel near Homa Bay and Rachuonyo.

These will be two long travel days, so once we arrive, the team will have time to rest, recover, and prepare for the full week of ministry and service ahead!

 
 

Evangelism Day

Day 3

This day is all about sharing Jesus with the local community.

The team will help host a powerful evangelism day with The Jesus Film, worship, personal testimonies, small-group conversations, and prayer.

It will be a day to step out in faith, use your voice and spiritual gifts, pray with people, and be part of what God is doing in Kenya.

Church / Circle of Life Fest

Day 4

Enjoy a day of worship, beginning with a local church service, followed by helping facilitate the Hands 4Life Circle of Life Fest.

This intergenerational community event brings children and older adults together for the Gospel, games, music, a shared meal, encouragement, and connection. It is a powerful picture of family, belonging, and the value of every generation.

 

Build Project

Day 5

The team will take part in a hands-on service project that supports the local ministry work of Hands 4Life.

This may include helping renovate a grandparent’s home, improving a living space, or meeting a need for an elder in the community. It will be a day to serve with our hands and show the love of Jesus in a very personal way.

 
 

Build or Outreach

Day 6

The team will continue serving alongside our local partners by completing the hands-on project from the day before or taking part in a new community outreach project.

This may include helping renovate a grandparent’s home, visiting families, encouraging children and elders, or meeting practical needs in the community.

 

Education Visit

Day 7

The team plans to visit the children’s school and see the education work taking place through our local partners.

This will be a day to meet students, encourage teachers, learn more about the needs, and see how education is helping children build a stronger future.

 

Return to Nairobi 

Day 8

The team will travel by private bus back to Nairobi, check into the hotel, and end the day with mission reflection and a trip recap. 

 
 
 

Safari and Departure 

Day 9-10

The team will enjoy a safari experience and see the beauty of Kenya before heading to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for the late evening flight home. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Application

Upon filling out your application, we will reach out to set up a zoom informational call with you. 

Please note: A non-refundable $300 deposit is required before submitting your application. This deposit helps secure your spot and covers initial administrative costs.

 

Payment Due Dates

  • $300 non-refundable trip reservation fee is due upon application submission. 
  • By November 4, 2026, payments toward the confirmed in-country cost must total 50%, including the $300 deposit.Upon us booking your flight, you will be required to pay the invoice we send you within 24 hours
  • The remaining confirmed in-country participant contribution is due by January 4, 2027. 
 

Passport / VISA Requirements

When do I need my passport?
  • Your passport must be valid at least 6 months past the dates of your trip.
You need at least 2 empty pages for stamps. If you travel frequently, please check your passport.
  • Whether you are applying for the first time, or applying for a renewal, please apply immediately. The process can take 12 weeks or more and all fees are the responsibility of the trip participant.
  • Visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html for more information.
  • When you have your passport, please email morgan@h4lworld.org a copy.
 
Will I need a VISA or other forms before I travel? 
  • Yes, you will need a visa to travel to Kenya. To apply for an e-visa on arrival, please visit the link below:
      • https://etakenya.go.ke
  • Before applying for your visa, make sure you have a valid passport. eTA applications for Kenya are usually processed in 3 days and there is an urgent processing service, however, it is recommended applications be submitted at least 2 weeks prior to travel to ensure adequate time for processing.
 
 
 
What vaccines do I need or should I get prior to traveling?
  • There are no required Immunizations to travel to Kenya.  
  • All international travelers should research the area they are visiting. Plan to call or visit your primary care physician or a travel medicine specialist at least 4-8 weeks prior to your departure.
  • We recommend starting your research with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. After gathering information, you can then make decisions that are best for you or your family members.
  • It is recommended to start taking anti-malaria medication before, during and after the trip. Consult the nearest International Travel Clinic for medical advice and services
*The CDC recommends that travelers be up to date with vaccinations common to those living in the United States, such as tetanus and measles/mumps/rubella.
*Hands 4Life employees are not medically trained and are unable to advise you on vaccination or medication decisions.

Fundraise for Your Mission Trip

We believe that where God guides, He provides, and that includes your mission trip! Fundraising is a powerful way to invite others into the journey with you. Whether it’s through hosting events, writing letters, or using social media, there are countless creative ways to raise support and share your heart for the mission. To help you get started, we’ve created a folder full of practical fundraising resources, templates, and tips just for you.

Click here to access the Fundraising Resources Folder. 

Team members may also choose to participate in the Red Letter Campaign.

Through this campaign, supporters can write a personal letter of prayer, Scripture, or encouragement to the person they are helping send to Kenya. Each letter will be printed, sealed in a red envelope, and given to the team member during a devotional night on the trip.

When the team member returns, they will write back and share what they experienced, where they saw God move, and how their support helped make the mission possible.

To be included in the Red Letter Campaign, email Morgan@H4Lworld.org.

 

***All donations are made to Hands 4Life in support of the Kenya Mission Trip and its charitable work. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.

How do I get to the airport?
  • You will need to get yourself to and from the airport in the United States. Hands 4Life will take care of all in-country transportation once you land.

What Do I Need to Know for the Customs Forms?

When flying into Kenya, you will receive immigration entry documents and customs declaration forms during your flight. These must be completed in blue or black ink before landing. Be prepared to provide the following information:

  • Lodging Address – This will be emailed to you 30 days prior to travel.

  • Reason for Travel – Tourism

  • Items Declared – If you are carrying any large donations or valuable electronics, you may need to declare them.

Traveling as a Minor (Under 18)?
If you are under 18 and traveling without both parents, you must carry a notarized letter from each parent granting permission to leave the country. If traveling with only one parent, you must have a notarized letter from the absent parent permitting travel to Kenya.

The letter should include:
-Child’s full legal name (as it appears on passport) and date of birth
–Both parents’ legal names and formal signatures
–Legal name of team leader or responsible adult
–Legal name of temporary guardian (if different from team leader)
–Specific travel dates for Kenya, including flight number, arrival & departure times
–Destination country: Kenya
-Purpose of travel: Tourism

Failure to present this document may result in denied boarding or entry refusal upon arrival in Kenya. Ensure all documents are prepared and notarized well in advance of your departure.

How Can I Prepare to Serve?

Flexibility is key, but we know that’s easier said than done. The best way to stay adaptable is to come prepared with simple ways to connect. Bringing a few small, interactive items can help build relationships quickly. Consider packing:

  • Jump ropes

  • Nail polish

  • Beach balls

  • Sports balls

  • Frisbees

  • Bubbles

  • Crayons and coloring books

  • Climate / Packing list:

How much clothing should I bring?
Since you’ll be traveling to a warm climate, we recommend packing extra clothing, as you may need to change multiple times a day. Here’s a general guideline:

  • 1-2 church outfits

  • 3-4 sets of work clothes

  • 6-8 sets of casual clothes

What should I leave at home?
To maintain a respectful and appropriate environment, please avoid bringing:

  • Tight, clingy, or see-through clothing

  • Low-cut tops

  • Bikinis

  • Short shorts

Essentials You Might Forget
Don’t forget these must-have items for comfort and convenience:

  • Hat or baseball cap

  • Socks and undergarments

  • Lightweight sleepwear

  • Sunglasses

  • Good bug spray

  • Sunscreen

  • Bible and Journal

  • Universal travel adaptor
  • Malaria Medication 

What is the return policy if I decide to go on the Kenya mission trip and then cancel?

If Hands 4Life cancels a trip for any reason, participants will be notified. Individuals will have the option to transfer their balance to a future Hands 4Life mission trip within the next 12 months. They can also hold the original trip’s price for the following year should the same trip occur but at an increased price. Or participants can choose to be fully refunded. 

If a participant or group cancels their trip 60 days or less before departure, all collected funds will be used for the mission, as, by that point, those funds will have been allocated toward trip expenses. Most trips canceled more than 60 days before departure can receive a full refund minus the $150 deposit and possibly the flight. However, this is subject to Hands 4Life’s discretion based on the specifics of the trip.

If an individual or group cancels their trip, the $150 deposit may be used for another trip in the same calendar year only. After the calendar year has ended, a new application fee will be required.

Can I bring donations for the ministry?
Absolutely! Donated items are a tremendous blessing to our ministry partners. To receive a list of suggested donations, please email morgan@h4lworld.org.

Important Guidelines:

  • Please do not hand out donations directly. Instead, give them to our missionaries or ministry partners, who will entrust the donations to local church leaders and community members for distribution. This approach ensures that support is given through trusted relationships, preventing dependence on visiting teams and keeping the focus on God’s provision.

  • We currently do not have a cost-effective way to ship donations internationally. If you’d like to bring items, they must be packed in a suitcase and transported at your own expense.

How much money should I bring? Can I use my credit card? Do I need cash, and should I exchange it?

American credit cards are accepted at most locations in Kenya. However, we strongly recommend exchanging your U.S. dollars for Kenyan Shillings (KES) before leaving the United States, as currency exchange options may be limited upon arrival.

Most of your expenses are covered in the trip cost, but you may want to bring extra money for:

  • Souvenirs

  • Additional meals or snacks at airports and hotels

We suggest bringing $100–$200 for personal expenses.

Credit Card Use & Tipping
While credit cards are accepted in many places, some may charge high international transaction fees. Please check with your bank before traveling.

Additionally, we recommend each participant bring $20 to contribute towards a group tip for hotel staff, translators, and local support teams. This is optional but greatly appreciated. All contributions will be collected and distributed by our team at the end of the trip.

Here’s a checklist to help you keep track of what needs to be done before your trip. 

Mission Trip Checklist

  • Avoid direct or prolonged eye contact when a more senior person is speaking, as a sign of deference. Brief and warm eye contact is appropriate while greeting or listening. However, with elders or senior leaders, constantly holding eye contact can be seen as too forward or disrespectful. In rural communities, lowering your eyes at times may communicate respect. Standing up when an elder enters a room or if there are no seats available is also a sign of respect.
  • Elders and authority figures should always be greeted first as a sign of respect.
  • Be mindful of how you portray locals and mission work on social media- focus on dignity and empowerment rather than poverty or need.

Hands 4Life takes the safety of each mission team member seriously. Our approach includes secure lodging, trusted local leadership, dependable transportation, and preparation for medical and environmental concerns.

Homa Bay is a welcoming area of western Kenya and is not located in the regions identified by international travel advisories as Kenya’s highest-risk areas. Current advisories focus restrictions on areas near the Somalia border, parts of northern Kenya, and limited coastal regions. Homa Bay is not included in those restricted travel areas.

 

Secure Lodging and Night Security

Mission teams typically stay in secure guest houses or gated lodging that provide night watchmen, locally known as askaris, or other onsite security. These measures help protect team members and personal belongings throughout the trip.

Mission Security Planning

Hands 4Life will evaluate safety conditions before departure and throughout the trip. This includes reviewing regional updates, preparing the team for travel, establishing emergency communication plans, and making adjustments when necessary.

Safety Through Local Relationships

One of the strongest parts of our safety plan is our relationship with trusted local partners. They know the communities where we will serve, understand local customs, and help guide the team each day.

Before and during the trip, local leaders will help with cultural orientation, safe travel routes, ministry site visits, and any changes that may be needed based on conditions in the area.

Trusted Transportation

The team will travel together using pre-arranged transportation and trusted drivers who understand the roads, regional travel conditions, and local procedures. This keeps the group together and provides consistency throughout the trip.

Health and Environmental Safety

Safety also includes being prepared for health and environmental concerns common to travel in Kenya. Team members will receive guidance on safe drinking water, food precautions, weather conditions, travel insurance, vaccinations, and access to medical care if needed.

Our goal is to prepare each team member well, make wise decisions throughout the trip, and provide the support needed to serve safely in Kenya.

What safety measures has Hands 4Life implemented?

Hands 4Life is committed to providing an educational, engaging, and, most importantly, safe experience for all volunteers. To ensure this, we have implemented several safety measures:

Site Verification and Local Partnerships

  • Hands 4Life’s  international director conducts a scouting trip to any new location before sending a team.

  • We partner with trusted in-country residents who are familiar with local communities and knowledgeable about any safety concerns.

  • Our local partners provide cultural context and guidance to help team members engage effectively with those we are serving.

  • Distribution sites are carefully vetted for safety, and in-country partners conduct site visits whenever possible.

Team Knowledge and Information

  • Each team member receives a contact information document that includes addresses, phone numbers, and emergency contacts such as the nearest U.S. embassy and travel insurance details.

  • We conduct three team meetings before each trip to discuss details, including safety measures and other relevant concerns.

  • Our team leaders are available for one-on-one discussions if team members have additional questions outside of meetings.

STEP Registration
All team members are registered with the State Department through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) https://step.state.gov/, which provides:

  • Safety updates from the U.S. Embassy in Kenya.
  • Assistance in case of natural disasters, civil unrest, or family emergencies.
  • A way for family and friends to contact team members in an emergency.

Travel Insurance
Hands 4Life provides trip insurance for all volunteers and staff, including
-Emergency accident and sickness medical expense coverage
-Emergency medical evacuation and repatriation of mortal remains.

Accommodation and Food Safety

  • We research and select accommodations in safe locations that prioritize security and cleanliness.

  • Whenever possible, we choose lodging with in-house dining for food safety.

  • Our in-country partners ensure all restaurants and food provided are safe to minimize foodborne illnesses.

Hands 4Life Training

  • Hands 4Life has a team of experienced and well-trained leaders present on every trip to guide and support participants.

What is the purpose of the Hands 4Life mission trips?

The mission trip’s purpose is to serve orphaned children and vulnerable seniors by providing resources, care, and hope. Volunteers will engage in community outreach, assist with essential services, and share love and encouragement with those in need.

Do I need previous mission trip experience to participate?

No prior mission trip experience is required. However, participants should be prepared for physically demanding work and cultural immersion. If you’re unable to join the trip, we encourage donations to support our work.

What is the deadline to apply for the Kenya mission trip?

The application deadline is typically 90 days before the trip start date. However, early applications are recommended, as spots fill quickly. Exceptions may be made as the trip date approaches, but you must contact our team to check availability.

Which denominations does Hands 4Life partner with?

Hands 4Life partners with all Christian-affiliated denominations.

What is included in the cost for this mission trip to Nigeria?

The trip cost covers in-country transportation, meals, accommodations, exit taxes, trip insurance, necessary supplies, and excursions. Airfare is not included and must be booked separately. Additional expenses may include souvenirs, checked baggage fees, and visa costs. All payments are made directly to Hands 4Life.

Can non-U.S. citizens travel on this Nigeria mission trip?

Yes! If you live outside the USA, you can still join the trip. However, you must handle all visa requirements and airfare arrangements after completing the Hands 4Life application process.

Why do you run a background check?

Our top priority is the safety of our volunteers and the communities we serve. To maintain a secure environment, all mission trip participants undergo a background check before approval.

Will there be cell service and internet access during the trip?

Cell service and internet access may be limited in some areas. While lodging facilities often provide internet, we cannot guarantee connectivity throughout the trip. If needed, we recommend purchasing an international travel plan. However, we encourage participants to unplug and fully engage in the local experience.

What if I have food allergies?

While we do our best to accommodate dietary needs, we cannot guarantee that all allergies will be avoided. If you have severe food sensitivities, consult your doctor to prepare for the trip.