Colombia has earned its reputation as an innovative and biodiverse country with a thriving culture and emerging economy. With a comfortable exchange rate to the Colombian peso (COP), it has attracted several tourists and expats from all around the world. Besides working for a company with a base in Colombia, the opportunities to work in Colombia are mostly linked to the education sector due to the high demand for English teachers.
Knock, knock. Volunteer opportunities in Colombia are here!
As newcomers to Colombia, many opt to visit, take a gap year, or even volunteer for a set duration in order to test the waters and familiarize themselves before taking the next leap. It can be confusing to know where to volunteer in Colombia, but there are a ton of opportunities.
Although Colombia has made positive steps towards peace, it still struggles with poverty, inequality, unemployment, and poor education to name a few. In order to address these plights, volunteers tend to be welcomed with open arms.
Why volunteer in Colombia?
It's important to understand what your personal motivations are before searching for volunteer work in Colombia. The more you can help your host understand why you want to volunteer, the better you can be connected to compatible organizations.
Aside from that, you will definitely have the opportunity to interact with both locals and international travelers, hence the possibility to practice your Spanish or preferred language. Perhaps you want to fine-tune your salsa skills or take up learning to dance during your free time. Take advantage of your social environment and join others in different cultural activities in the city!
And if the city isn’t your thing, the natural beauty of Colombia doesn’t disappoint either.
You can find long-term volunteer opportunities in Colombia that last for up to a year, or opt to volunteer for as little as a week. Your program will support you and help you adjust to life in Colombia, while organizing additional activities. Not to mention, you'll have the opportunity to travel throughout Colombia and perhaps to other parts of the continent.
Explore Colombia’s crystal blue Carribean beaches at Isla Barú or San Andres. The Amazon is home to the world’s greatest biodiversity and Colombia houses 10% of the rainforest. Cities like Bogotá, Medellín, Cali and Cartagena are filled with art, music, history, and culture.
Can I volunteer in Colombia for free?
Not usually, but sometimes. While applying to programs are generally hassle-free, the majority of programs will charge a fee depending on how long you plan to volunteer. However, it is not completely rare to find free volunteer opportunities in Colombia. There is a huge demand for qualified English teachers, and many of these opportunities are free.
Other common types of volunteer work in Colombia include animal care, agriculture, conservation, educational projects, or backpacker hostel work. If you become a member on platforms such as Helpstay or Workaway, you can find several free volunteer opportunities where you can work in exchange for food and accommodation.
However, keep in mind that these websites rely on you being largely independent, and don’t offer much in the way of pre-departure support and on-site coordination. It’s also worth noting that by volunteering through a reputable organization, you’ll be helping to support sustainable community development (as long as your chosen organization participates in ethical practices).
Where to volunteer in Colombia
If you’re sold on the idea of volunteer work in Colombia, it’s a good idea to know where to start looking. In the case of Colombia, the most popular places to volunteer are the major cities, such as Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali. You can also find opportunities in Cartagena and more rural areas if you want to go off the beaten path. Here’s where to volunteer in Colombia:
1. Bogotá
Bogotá will leave you stunned.
Bogotá is not only Colombia's capital but also a thriving city that pilots innovation and progress within the country. However, it doesn't fall short of the common issues that other major cities around the world suffer from, including poverty, addiction, abuse, discrimination, violence, and disease. The chance to live in an international city while working to make a difference leads people to volunteer in Bogotá.
Recommended volunteer programs in Bogotá
- IVHQ offers volunteer programs open to individuals, couples, families, and groups in fields including elderly care, child care, construction, and teaching.
- Hands On Bogota is a non-profit organization that helps children, women, and the elderly through teaching programs.
- Volunteer World helps you find projects to volunteer in Bogotá in areas such as wildlife, teaching, and community development.
- International Medical Aid (IMA) is a great option for those in the medical field, particularly nursing interns and volunteers.
2. Medellín
Medellín is a new mecca for international travelers, so get ready to make friends in your off hours!
Medellín is the second largest city in Colombia and is situated in a breathtaking valley. Known as the “City of Eternal Spring”, it averages a mild humidity-free climate and is surrounded by rare plants and flowers on all sides. With a population of about three million people, Medellín is a thriving metropolitan city where culture and nightlife meet. It is also a hub for startups in Latin America, creating jobs for people in need and making it the perfect place for volunteer work in Colombia.
Recommended volunteer programs in Medellín
- The Angeles de Medellín community center outside of Medellín is a good option for those with an interest in supporting a haven for displaced children.
- IPSL Institute for Global Learning offers education programs in International Service and Development (IDS), as well as Community Organizing and Social Activism while offering volunteer teaching and childcare opportunities.
- Globalteer provides another excellent chance to volunteer in Medellín and provides safe retreats for vulnerable children aged from two to 16, providing them with free education and food while protecting them from temptations of the city.
3. Cali
If you’ve never heard of Cali, don’t count it out!
Known as “the salsa capital”, Cali loves salsa and it even has a style all its own. Cali is nestled between mountain ranges, which allows for some impressive views. Wherever you are, mountains are always in sight. Cali is only a cheap bus ride away from the Pacific coast and other excursions. Take a long weekend trip to the coffee triangle, and hike amongst the world’s tallest palm trees in Valle de Cocora.
People from all over the world are also putting Cali at the top of their travel bucket lists. Many who choose to volunteer in Cali have been known to volunteer at hostels to take up random jobs at the bar and reception, or sometimes as a tour guide. If you are seeking a place with a great vibe and a lot of amazing people, then Cali could be a great fit!
Recommended volunteer programs in Cali
- CET Academic Programs offer college study abroad & gap year programs with out-of-class activities that include volunteer opportunities.
Get matched with 5 volunteer programs in Colombia for FREE
Where will meaningful travel in Colombia take you?
No matter how long you intend to stay, the biggest risk is that you will not want to leave—and if you must, you'll almost certainly be keen to return to Colombia. Several expats currently living in Colombia have first volunteered as a means to immerse themselves in the culture while still gaining meaningful experience in this beautiful country.
Explore ALL Volunteer Programs in Colombia on GoAbroad.com
Look for the Perfect Volunteer Abroad Program Now
Start Your Search
