FAQ's About Kids Play International's Volunteer Trips

Athlete Ambassador Emily Cook (left) and Founder Tracy Evans (right)

Traveling to a new country can be both exhilarating and intimidating at the same time. Not knowing exactly what to expect is exciting yet can leave us feeling hesitant and overflowing with questions.

But guess what? We love questions! We want YOU to get involved and let us know what questions you might have about traveling to Rwanda or Malawi, volunteering with Kids Play International, going gorilla trekking, or anything in between. 

If you're curious about it. Most likely someone else is, too. Below are some common questions we've been hearing. If you have one of your own, please post a comment! 

Any special fitness requirements for this trip?

Our KPI Volunteer Trips are very active and do require a general level of healthy physical fitness. We will be walking, wandering, playing, and vinyasa flowing (for the yoga trip in July), the days away! If you have any injuries or special requirements, please consult your physician first. Also, please let us know at the time of inquiry. 

Why is gorilla trekking $750 buckaroos?

The Rwandan Silverback Gorillas are an endangered species (we recommend checking out the film “Gorillas in the Mist”, which was filmed and took place here). The permit fee goes towards protecting the National Park, supporting the Rangers and Trackers who stay with the gorillas throughout the day, and protecting the gorillas against poachers. Only a certain number of permit passes are given out each day.

What if I don’t want to go gorilla trekking?

The gorillas will definitely be sad to hear you won’t be stopping by to say hi. This is a very unique and awe-inspiring experience that we encourage you not to miss. However, if you choose to not go trekking, you will be able to get some extra down time at the Mountain View Gorilla Lodge.

 

What is the food like?

One of the best ways to experience a culture is to experience the food. We recommend checking out a blog that Jaime Komer, an Athlete Ambassador of KPI, posted about her experience with Rwandan cuisine after her trip in May of 2012: "There's no compare to local fare."

For the Yoga Volunteer Trip in July 2013:

Do I need to have yoga experience?

Absolutely not! Whether you’ve been practicing for years or never stepped on a yoga mat in your life, we’d love for you to join in on the fun. 

*If you have any injuries, please let the Instructor, Jaime Komer, know ahead of time.

Do I have to attend each yoga session?

Don’t you fret, the yoga sessions are completely optional. So if you’re craving a few extra zzz’s one day, go for it!

Where will we get our yoga on?

We are going to get the most out of the scenic beauty of Rwanda by holding most yoga sessions outdoors. This includes outdoor lawn locations at hotels, the Let’s Play! Sports Field, and even alongside the calm waters of Lake Kivu.