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Volunteer Programs in Colombia

Located in the northwest of South America, Colombia is ethnically and ecologically diverse. From beautiful coasts to tropical rainforests, this Spanish-speaking country is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. In contrast to its beauty, Colombia has had a tumultuous past, which plays a major role in defining the kind of volunteering opportunities available. Poverty, a lack of educational opportunities, epidemics, and unemployment are among the most common issues faced by the Colombian people, and the source of many volunteer programs in Colombia. If you are ready to jump in and make a Colombian’s day a little brighter, then read on to learn how you can join dozens of other volunteers!
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A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Colombia

Locations

The nation’s vast, diverse geographical bounty mean volunteers drawn to the coast, the jungle, or the city will all be satisfied with volunteer placements in Colombia.

The capital city of Colombia, Bogota, is also the third largest capital city in South America. Due to heavy workloads and demanding jobs, locals appreciate volunteers who can contribute their time, affection, and attention toward childcare and elderly care specifically. The city also faces an alarming number of homeless people, resulting from population growth, drug abuse, natural calamities, and high unemployment rates. With innate compassion and a willingness to help, volunteers can truly make a positive difference in the lives of locals. If teaching is your passion, then becoming a teaching volunteer in Colombia may be the perfect option for you; most local schools welcome volunteers with open arms as most are under-equipped and understaffed.

Cartagena is a beautiful city boasting colonial architecture, which provides a glance into Colombia’s Afro-Caribbean influence of the imperial days. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is culturally rich and offers meaningful volunteer opportunities amidst a beautiful backdrop. Apart from community projects, childcare, healthcare, and teaching placements, you can also contribute to environmental projects focused on keeping the environment clean, green, and tourist-friendly.

A coastal paradise for the lovers of the sea, Santa Marta is blessed with serene landscapes which also serve as the vital element of its economy. While volunteering in Santa Marta, volunteers can get their hands dirty by participating in various agricultural or fishing activities. Known as the oldest surviving city in Colombia, it owns historical treasures in the form of archaeological remains at Tayrona. Located away from the hustle and bustle of major cities, those who volunteer in Santa Marta will be able to assist locals in preserving the nation’s assets. Volunteers can also engage in healthcare and education initiatives in Santa Marta to improve the standard of living standard of within local communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cartagena, Santa Marta, and Bogota, the capital of Colombia, are the most popular areas for volunteers. In the aforementioned locations, you may support community activities, child care, eldercare, healthcare, and teaching placements.

You might need to get a temporary visa at a Colombian embassy in your home country before departing, depending on your homeland and the duration of your volunteer program in Colombia.

In addition to the richest coffee in the world, a huge variety of flowers, emeralds, and gold, Colombia is renowned for its excellent writers, powerful leaders, amazing athletes, exceptionally gifted musicians, and a lot more.

Fully vaccinated travelers entering Colombia are not required to take a test. Individuals who have had at least one vaccine and have either a recent negative PCR test result or a recent negative antigen test result that is no older than 48 hours can enter.

Latest Program Reviews

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October 23, 2025by: Dignae Peter - TanzaniaProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
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New culture, new people, New Life. When we exchange our perspectives, ideas and plans to make a world better place for everyone. It's good to go different places it helps me view life in many directions

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