Colombia: Culture + Volunteering | 21 Days
Discover Colombia’s colourful streets, beaches and culture, then volunteer for two weeks helping local communities.
This 3-week program lets you experience Colombia like a local while giving back to the community.
Your journey starts with Culture Week in Cartagena. Wander through colourful colonial streets, explore hidden plazas, bike through contrasting old and new neighbourhoods, relax on the pristine beaches of Islas del Rosario and even soak in a natural mud volcano. Get a taste of local life through food, music, and vibrant traditions.
After fully settling in, spend your next two weeks on a volunteering project of your choice, supporting local communities in and around Cartagena. Options include helping renovate schools and public spaces, teaching English or STEM subjects, or working with energetic young kids in kindergartens.
You'll learn, connect, and make a real impact - all while enjoying Colombia's famously warm hospitality.
Program
Highlights
Explore Cartagena’s historic Old City and modern Bocagrande district on foot and by bike.
Chill on Caribbean beaches during a day trip to Islas del Rosario.
Take a mud bath at the famous El Totumo Volcano.
Choose from diverse volunteering projects to match your interests.
Support education, environmental, or community-focused initiatives.
Fully immerse yourself in local life with authentic cultural experiences.
Make lifelong friends with your volunteer crew and locals.
Good to know
You will be part of a vibrant, welcoming community. While you may be used to faster schedules, life in Cartagena moves at a more relaxed, Caribbean pace — embrace it!
The accommodation is comfortable but basic. Expect shared rooms with fans or simple air conditioning. Shared bathrooms and common spaces help create a friendly, communal vibe.
Meals are included, with two meals provided on weekends. This is a great chance to explore local cafés and restaurants and try Cartagena’s street food scene.
Wi-Fi is available at the accommodation but can be slower than you may be used to back home.
We strongly encourage you to respect local customs and dress modestly, especially at schools and community sites. Cover shoulders and knees when volunteering.
You are not allowed to hire scooters or motorbikes independently.
Alcohol consumption is not permitted during program hours or inside accommodation.
For safety and privacy, no outsiders are allowed in the accommodation or program sites.
Our local staff are there to help make your experience meaningful and safe. Please follow their guidance at all times.
You will need to provide your mobile phone number at the time of booking so we can support you on arrival.
Colombia is a warm, lively and social place — locals love to chat and share stories. A friendly, open-minded attitude will help you make the most of every connection.
What's included
Accommodation from Sunday until Saturday noon of your last week
Airport pick-up during regular arrival times and all program transport as per schedule
Daily meals — 3 meals on weekdays and 2 meals on weekends
Program materials, guidance and orientation
24/7 local team support
Project-specific equipment and basic supplies (e.g. paint, sports gear, classroom materials)
While volunteer projects include essential supplies, bringing extra items like games, books or sports gear is always appreciated but optional
What's not included
Flights and visa expenses
Travel and medical insurance (required)
Personal expenses
Additional tours or activities
I’m Background check (required within the last 12 months)
Standard Requirements
Minimum age: 18
Maximum age: 65
Minimum English level: Basic (Intermediate preferred for teaching projects)
Minimum Spanish level: Not required, but basic Spanish is an advantage
Background check (CRB or equivalent): Required on signup, valid within 12 months
Passport copy: Required on signup
Extra Requirements
Positive attitude and willingness to get stuck in
Good physical condition, able to handle warm weather and outdoor activities
Participants over 65: medical clearance required
Participants under 18: signed parental consent (and ideally accompanied by an adult)
Travel and medical insurance mandatory before arrival
Location
Your home base is in Cartagena, a lively coastal city known for its colorful colonial streets, Caribbean beaches and vibrant nightlife. Accommodation is in a volunteer guesthouse, creating a fun, social atmosphere where you can make friends from around the world.
Accommodation
Rooms are shared with participants of the same gender and include basic furniture, fans or simple air conditioning and shared bathrooms. Common areas give you space to relax, connect or plan your adventures around the city.
Meals are included during the week, with two meals provided on weekends — giving you the perfect chance to try local cafés, beachside restaurants and Cartagena’s famous street food.
You will be close to shops, ATMs and small markets for daily needs. Most project sites and cultural activities are within easy reach, with local transport and pick-ups arranged where needed.
Itinerary
Week 1: Culture Week — Dive Into Cartagena’s Spirit
Monday
Kick off your journey with an introduction to Colombian culture, house rules, safety tips and essential info. Learn local do’s and don’ts, history and basic Spanish phrases. After lunch, explore your neighborhood, sort out essentials like a local SIM card and enjoy a fun cooking lesson before dinner.
Tuesday
Discover the magic of Cartagena’s Old City on a guided walking tour. Wander through colorful streets, hidden plazas and colonial churches, soaking up the city’s rich history.
Wednesday
Take a dreamy day trip to Islas del Rosario. Swim, snorkel or just relax on the white sandy beaches while enjoying that true Caribbean vibe.
Thursday
Hop on a bike and explore Cartagena’s Old City and the modern Bocagrande district. Get a unique perspective on the city’s blend of old and new while riding past bustling markets and seaside views.
Friday
Head out to El Totumo Volcano for a mud bath you’ll never forget. Afterwards, chill on a nearby beach, enjoy a laid-back lunch and relax by the pool before heading back to the city.
Weeks 2 & 3: Volunteering — Make a Local Impact
Monday to Friday
Your weekdays will be all about giving back. You’ll spend your days focused on volunteer work, and the timing and activities will depend on the project you choose. In your free time, you can chill out, explore Cartagena with your crew or prep for the rest of the week’s volunteer activities.
Projects you can choose from include:
Construction & Renovation
STEM Education
General Teaching
Kindergarten
Departure
On Saturday of your final week, you’ll check out and depart by noon. Airport drop-off is not included, but local staff can help you arrange transport to Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG) or other onward travel.
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