🍳 Help Cook Kenyan Meals & Experience Local Life 🇰🇪
The experience
Join Ruiru Roots and help prepare meals while experiencing everyday Kenyan food and community life. You’ll assist with simple cooking, food preparation and keeping the kitchen organized. You don't need professional experience—just an interest in cooking, willingness to learn and a responsible attitude. During your free time, explore Ruiru, Nairobi and discover more of Kenya. 🇰🇪
What you offer
4 hours of help per day
Cooking:
Choose the menu, pick ingredients and cook delicious dishes.
Kitchen Hand:
Help prepare, finish and serve meals.
Additional fee required
Amount:
US$ 250
Per week
Fee pays for:
Materials for volunteer activities and Donation to project
Description:
The $250 weekly fee covers your accommodation and arrival support at Ruiru Roots Kenya. It includes accommodation, airport pickup, Wi-Fi, orientation and the meals specified in your position. Please pay at least 1 week before arrival to secure your accommodation and airport pickup. Flights, visas, insurance and personal expenses are not included.
What you get
3 days off per week
Private Room:
You will have a bed in a private room. In other words, a room just for you.
Shared Dorm:
You will have a bed in a shared room, which means you will share the same room with other travelers.
Dinner:
You are entitled to a free dinner, every day of your stay.
Free Laundry:
You can use our laundry room freely.
Pick Up:
We will pick you up when you arrive, and take you to our property.
Use our equipped kitchen:
Feel free to use our kitchen and make your own delicious food.
Certificate:
Get a certificate of completion after you finish your experience.
Basic Internet Access:
Basic speed internet for you to work remotely
Requirements
Beginner English
Between 18 and 63 years old
Welcomes solo volunteers, couples, and partners of volunteers
What's not included
Flights, Travel Insurance, Internal Transportation and Visa
Program Details
At Ruiru Roots Kenya, food is about more than cooking — it's about connection, culture and having fun together!
You'll help with simple meal preparation, cooking, serving and keeping the kitchen organized. You can also share dishes from your own country and learn about Kenyan food and cooking traditions.
If you have experience with drinks or bartending, you can also help with our social and bar activities.
When you're not volunteering, enjoy your free time! Explore Ruiru and Nairobi, discover Kenyan food and culture, meet other travelers, join tours and hikes, enjoy music, social events, parties and nightlife.
You don't need to be a professional chef. We welcome people who are enthusiastic, responsible, creative and happy to work as part of a team.
Activities & Shift
Volunteers contribute 4 hours per day, 4 days per week, with 3 days off.
Help prepare and cook meals
Assist with food preparation and serving
Help keep the kitchen clean and organized
Assist with drinks and social activities when needed
Share your cooking ideas and favorite recipes
Help create a welcoming atmosphere for travelers
Work together with the team during meal times
⏰ Shifts
Morning: Approximately 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Afternoon: Approximately 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
The exact schedule may change depending on meal times and activities. Your schedule will be agreed upon when you arrive.
With 3 days off every week, you'll have plenty of time to explore Kenya, relax and enjoy the social side of Ruiru Roots.
Come hungry for adventure! 🍳🌍🇰🇪
Rules
🍽️ Kitchen & Bar Conduct
Always maintain cleanliness and hygiene – Wash hands regularly, wear clean aprons, and follow food safety guidelines.
No alcohol consumption during shifts – Bartending practice is strictly professional. Tasting is supervised and limited to educational purposes.
Respect kitchen and bar equipment – Handle all tools and appliances with care and report any damages immediately.
No eating while preparing food or drinks – Wait until breaks or after service to enjoy meals.
Wear appropriate attire – Closed shoes, clean clothes, and hair tied back (kitchen caps provided).
🧑🤝🧑 Behavior & Attitude
Be punctual and dependable – Arrive on time for all shifts, briefings, and activities.
Work as a team – Support fellow participants, respect roles, and communicate openly.
Respect the local culture and community – Use polite language, follow local customs, and engage positively with residents and guests.
No discrimination, harassment, or inappropriate behavior – This includes offensive jokes, gestures, or any form of disrespect.
Stay drug-free and sober during the program – Illegal drugs and intoxication are strictly prohibited.
🛠️ Safety & Responsibility
Follow all safety instructions from supervisors – Especially around sharp tools, open flames, and hot surfaces.
Keep your workspace tidy – Clean as you go and always sanitize your station after use.
Report any accidents or injuries immediately – First aid will be provided on-site.
🏡 Accommodation & Free Time
Respect quiet hours in volunteer housing – Typically from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Keep your personal belongings safe – Lock up valuables and respect shared spaces.
Inform the coordinator if leaving the site – For your safety