
Voluntours Colombia
Why choose Voluntours Colombia?
Voluntours Colombia was born from a simple but powerful idea: Travel can be a force for good. Since 2024, we connect passionate travelers with local communities, social projects, and foundations that are working every day to create brighter futures for children, youth, and vulnerable populations in Colombia. By welcoming volunteers and travellers from around the world, Voluntours Colombia helps strengthen community projects while offering travelers a life-changing opportunity to immerse themselves in Colombian culture and contribute to real social impact. What makes us different We are not a big platform. And that’s exactly the point. • We are based in Colombia - no international platform • We work directly with local foundations and communities. • We have personal relationships with all our partners • We focus on real impact, not “volunteer tourism trends” • We offer personal support before and during your stay • We combine Spanish classes, volunteering, and travel into one experience • We keep our groups small, flexible, and human This means you don’t just visit Colombia — you become part of it.
Voluntours Colombia was born from a simple but powerful idea: Travel can be a force for good. Since 2024, we connect passionate travelers with local communities, social projects, and foundations that are working every day to create brighter futures for children, youth, and vulnerable populations in Colombia. By welcoming volunteers and travellers from around the world, Voluntours Colombia helps strengthen community projects while offering travelers a life-changing opportunity to immerse themselves in Colombian culture and contribute to real social impact. What makes us different We are not a big platform. And that’s exactly the point. • We are based in Colombia - no international platform • We work directly with local foundations and communities. • We have personal relationships with all our partners • We focus on real impact, not “volunteer tourism trends” • We offer personal support before and during your stay • We combine Spanish classes, volunteering, and travel into one experience • We keep our groups small, flexible, and human This means you don’t just visit Colombia — you become part of it.
Voluntours Colombia Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
Wildlife Columbia.
July 23, 2026by: David Nigg - AustriaProgram: Wildlife Animal Rescue Volunteering in Bucaramanga, Colombia
It was a rare opportunity for me to come to a place like this. I love animals and I am thinking about maybe later working in this field. It was definitely one of the greatest experiences of my life and it showed me how great it is to help animals. I got so inspired and really would love to do more in the future.
Great Experience for Spanish Learning and Community Immersion
July 03, 2026by: Onni Peltola - FinlandProgram: Learn Spanish & Live Like a Local in Colombia - Bucaramanga
I had the pleasure of getting 10 hours of Spanish lessons a week from Diego for all the 5 weeks I spent in Bucaramanga with Bucara Voluntours. My starting level was barely A2 (I think): I could understand and speak in very basic conversations in for example ordering in restaurants and tell some facts about myself. Together with doing volunteering with local people and getting Spanish lessons, I can now understand most conversations I encounter while traveling as long as I can hear the speaker well and they don't speak super fast. And also take care of myself in Spanish in most situations. As well as I can imagine learning in only 5 weeks :) Diego had a really fun and flexible approach to teaching. After the first few days, the lessons felt more like practicing a language with friends than having a teacher tell you things. Still, Diego knew well which things to concentrate on and as my skills improved, I feel like he would also start talking faster and using english less and less. Which was very good for learning to understand what I'm told even if I don't get all the words. Muchísimas gracias Bucara Voluntours y Bucara Spanish Academy por las 5 semanas inolvidables

Life changing experience
April 13, 2026by: Volunteer S - United KingdomProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
So grateful for this opportunity, without BucaraVolunTours it would not have been possible to work with these incredible foundations and meet so many amazing people. Definitely left a long lasting impact on me. Thank you so much for everything!
Awesome project with awesome people!
May 28, 2025by: Franzi Irrgang - GermanyProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
I had never volunteered before, but Bucara Voluntours made it easy. They were super helpful before and during my stay, so I didn’t have to worry about anything. The organizations they work with are great. The people are full of positive energy and love what they are doing. And, very important to me: everything felt super authentic. At the hostel, you can hang out with other volunteers, join the Spanish classes or head to salsa classes together in the evening. I just loved my time there -definitely recommended!
I had never volunteered before, but Bucara Voluntours made it easy. They were super helpful before and during my stay, so I didn’t have to worry about anything. The organizations they work with are great. The people are full of positive energy and love what they are doing. And, very important to me: everything felt super authentic. At the hostel, you can hang out with other volunteers, join the Spanish classes or head to salsa classes together in the evening. I just loved my time there -definitely recommended!

The real experience in Colombia!
May 27, 2025by: Mike Wilhelm - SwitzerlandProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
I had a wonderful experience with this volunteering organization! The program was diverse, and the team was very friendly and supportive. I particularly appreciated the variety of organizations we visited, including the prison, children’s centers, and authentic local areas of the city. I also liked the engaging Spanish lessons and the fun activities like paragliding. I highly recommend this program to anyone interested in meaningful volunteer work and cultural immersion.

Incredible Experience!
May 27, 2025by: Marissa King - United StatesProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
After spending 8 days in Bucaramanga working with Bucara Voluntours and the foundations they work with, I am in love! This was a great experience~ combining seeing the amazing things Colombia has to offer, as well as working with the social initiatives and foundations and learning about the challenges and importance of the work being done here. I came knowing very basic spanish and left after just one week of lessons being able to communicate better! I would recommend everyone to do this. My only con is that I was not able to be here longer!



An outstanding experience
May 20, 2025by: Janosch ThalmannProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
During our 6-month trip through Latin America, my girlfriend and I decided to join a volunteer program with Volunteer Colombia — and it turned out to be an outstanding experience. We met amazing people and gained deep insights into Colombian culture. We had the chance to work with wonderful children at Goles por la Paz, which was incredibly rewarding. One thing that really stood out about Volunteer Colombia was the variety of activities they offer. From emotional visits to a Colombian prison that gave us goosebumps, to fun salsa lessons where we learned the basic steps — every part of the experience was meaningful and enriching. We would absolutely recommend this volunteer organization to anyone looking for an authentic and impactful experience in Colombia.
The perfect mix of cultural immersion, learning, and fun.
May 18, 2025by: Monique BouckertProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
The experience I had with Simon and Laura’s Bucaravoluntours program was absolutely amazing — I truly hope more people get to enjoy what I did! Even though I’ve traveled quite a bit, this was my first time in Colombia, starting in Bucaramanga — and what a warm and inspiring welcome to the country it was! The program blends everything beautifully: volunteering with impactful local foundations, Spanish classes, salsa dancing, cooking workshops, and exploring Bucaramanga and its surroundings. It's the perfect mix of cultural immersion, learning, and fun. Bucaravoluntours truly lives up to the spirit of "social tourism" — a way of traveling that not only enriches you, but also gives back. Huge thanks to Tatiana for her incredible support! Despite my limited Spanish, she made everything feel easy — translating when needed and helping me genuinely connect with local people, while encouraging my Spanish practice too. And to Laura and Simon: the community you've built is extraordinary. Everyone I met spoke with so much love and respect for both of you. It’s clear how much impact you’ve had. If you're looking for a meaningful way to discover Colombia, meet kind and curious people from around the world, and dive into the country's culture, history, nature, and everyday life — don’t hesitate. Join Bucaravoluntours. You won’t regret it.
An amazing and truly interesting experience
May 15, 2025by: Loenan NavarroProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
The guides are very kind, and there’s a different activity every day — with children, animals, in the prison, and on visits. It was an amazing and truly interesting experience. I totally recommend it!
Spending two weeks with Bucara Voluntours was truly one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had.
May 14, 2025by: Amanda RosebushProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
Spending two weeks with Bucara Voluntours was truly one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had. The local foundations they collaborate with are doing incredible, inspiring work — and being able to contribute, even in a small way, felt like a real privilege. It was especially touching to see how deeply loved and respected Simon and Laura are by the communities they serve. As for the activities — just amazing! There’s such a great variety, and the team goes out of their way to keep you informed about local events so you can fully immerse yourself in the culture and everyday life of Bucaramanga. What stood out most was how flexible, thoughtful, and well-organized everything was. From start to finish, Simon, Laura, Tatiana, and Juan made sure I felt supported and welcomed. Their passion and care truly made all the difference. This journey was a gift, and I’m already looking forward to returning!
I had a great time volunteering in colombia.
May 14, 2025by: John SchickerProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
I had a great time volunteering in Colombia. I played football with kids, taught them English, and enjoyed many excursions during my free time in the Bucaramanga, Santander region. I improved my Spanish, and overall, it was a really nice experience.
Truly exceptional
May 14, 2025by: Johnny MorProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
Our experience with Bucara Voluntours was truly exceptional. Everything was organized and carried out with so much care, passion, and heart that we're already thinking about coming back to Colombia soon — and booking another week with Bucara Voluntours!
One of the best experiences of my life
May 13, 2025by: Renata DzwonikProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
Absolutely amazing!!! It was my first time in Colombia — and definitely not the last! I can only recommend the program run by Laura and Simon from Bucaravoluntours to everyone. My time there was one of the best experiences of my life. Everything was simply fantastic, and I’m already looking forward to going back — this time with my 12-year-old son Felix in the summer. If you want to experience the real Colombia, this is the right place to go!
All in all, it was a beautiful time at a fair price
May 10, 2025by: Kim SimonsProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
Everyone involved is incredibly kind, and the all-around support was excellent! You get authentic insights into many aspects of Bucaramanga and a deep connection to Colombian culture. There are plenty of activities available, which can be booked flexibly and often tailored to your own interests. The hostel that comes with the program is totally fine and has a warm, almost family-like atmosphere (just a small heads-up: keep an eye on your belongings). All in all, it was a beautiful time at a fair price — and the best part is, you're doing something meaningful along the way. Thank you for everything!
One of the best experiences of my life
May 10, 2025by: Amina MounirProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
This was my first time traveling solo and volunteering abroad — and it turned out to be one of the best experiences of my life. Simon and Laura went above and beyond to make sure I had an incredible time in Bucaramanga, and they truly succeeded. Everything was amazing: the foundations I volunteered with, the cultural activities, the chance to really get to know the city, and the Spanish classes with a fantastic teacher. If you want to experience the real Colombia — the side you don’t usually see as a tourist — this program is perfect. You’ll meet so many local people, visit unique places, and create unforgettable memories. One of the things I appreciated most was how customizable the program is. It really adapts to your interests and needs. Bucaramanga is a wonderful city, and the people are incredibly kind and welcoming. Thank you so much to Simon, Laura, and all the foundations for such an amazing and unforgettable time in Colombia!
An invitation to experience the daily lives and challenges of communities.
May 09, 2025by: Daniel PlanasProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
Spending time in Bucaramanga through this program was nothing short of eye-opening. It’s more than just volunteering—it’s an invitation to experience the daily lives and challenges of communities, offering a deeper perspective not only on Colombia but on shared global realities. Simon and Laura were exceptional—always present, supportive, and passionate. Thanks to them, we had the chance to visit and engage with several inspiring organizations like Goles por la Paz, Nuevos Horizontes, Explora BGA, Huellas, and Capaz. Each one tackles social issues through different lenses—be it sport, art, education, or dance—giving us a multifaceted understanding of community development. And it wasn’t all work! The tourism side of the experience was equally unforgettable. Exploring Barichara, soaring over the Chicamocha Canyon, and enjoying the adventure vibe of San Gil made the trip even more special. All in all, this is a rare opportunity to step into worlds you might never encounter otherwise. Truly worth it.
Make a positive impact while discovering the heart of colombia.
May 08, 2025by: Joanna HillsProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
Our experience with Bucara Voluntours was not only meaningful but also a lot of fun. Simon and Laura are truly dedicated, and the local organizations they collaborate with are doing incredible work within their communities. The program was well-organized from start to finish, and the accommodation exceeded our expectations in terms of comfort and quality. We wholeheartedly recommend this experience to anyone looking to make a positive impact while discovering the heart of Colombia.
An authentic and impactful way to discover colombia
May 07, 2025by: Beatrix EderProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
Our time with Bucara Voluntours was a truly enriching experience that gave us a much deeper perspective on Colombia — far beyond the typical tourist route. We were especially grateful for how smoothly everything was organized, thanks to Simon, Laura, and Tatiana. Their strong local connections, flexibility, and constant support made each moment feel purposeful. What really makes Bucara Voluntours stand out is their strong focus on responsible voluntourism. They support community-led initiatives that uplift people with dignity and respect. It’s a thoughtful, respectful approach that creates meaningful cultural exchange. We wholeheartedly recommend this experience to anyone looking for an authentic and impactful way to discover Colombia.
One of the best experiences i’ve ever had
May 06, 2025by: Natasha Ann RobyProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
I had an amazing week — truly one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. It was a real pleasure to work with the different organizations, and the moments shared with the children were especially meaningful. This program gave me a genuine glimpse into Colombian life, and I learned so much from the team about the local culture and daily life. The entire team was fantastic, and a special thanks goes to Tatiana, who went above and beyond to make sure every volunteer had a great experience — from organizing a Colombian cooking session to a fun night out at a salsa bar. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking for something both impactful and authentic.
One of the best experiences of our lives
May 05, 2025by: Hanna SchmidtProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
My best friend and I had an incredible time here. The team behind the program is truly amazing, and the activities are organized with so much care and attention. They showed us every corner of Bucaramanga, and it turned out to be one of the best experiences of our lives. Thank you so much! ❤️❤️
Meaningful connections
May 05, 2025by: Fabrizio FaillaProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
This program offers everything you need. You’ll take part in social activities, contribute to local organizations, and explore the charm of the city and its nearby areas. Plus, you’ll form meaningful connections with others who are seeking the same kind of shared experience. Strongly recommended!
The perfect blend of sightseeing, volunteer work, and spanish lessons
May 04, 2025by: Debbie BrooksProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
Volunteering and Exploring with Bucara Voluntours. The highlight of my trip to Colombia was, without a doubt, the ten incredible days I spent with Bucara Voluntours. This experience offered the perfect blend of sightseeing, volunteer work, and Spanish lessons, making my time in Bucaramanga both meaningful and immersive. Bucara Voluntours partners with local NGOs dedicated to supporting children in vulnerable communities. These organizations focus on enhancing the quality of life through cultural, artistic, and sports activities. It was a privilege to visit these communities, learn about their history, and see firsthand the inspiring work being done to uplift their residents. Engaging with the children through fun activities was an absolute joy and a deeply rewarding experience. If you're looking for a way to connect with Bucaramanga beyond just being a tourist, I highly recommend spending time with Bucara Voluntours. It’s a fantastic way to experience the city’s beauty while making a positive impact!
Meeting people like them has been truly special.
May 03, 2025by: Lucrezia BarziProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
Helping the Bucaravoluntour association has been a wonderful experience. They organize many activities with children, in prisons, and with animals. The people in charge are very kind and make you feel like part of a family. Meeting people like them has been truly special. Highly recommended. Thank you so much for all the emotions and memories!
It was truly a pleasure!
May 03, 2025by: Tibor VighProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
I would definitely recommend them — especially if you’re traveling solo like I was! They also offer day programs and excursions in and around Bucaramanga, so you can learn Spanish, visit beautiful places, do interesting things, and meet great people all at the same time! Thank you again — it was truly a pleasure!
Meaningful and well-planned experience
May 02, 2025by: Fabian EisenhöldProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
I did the two-week volunteering program this year, and it was a great experience! I felt completely safe the entire time. The volunteering and all the activities were very well organized by the team. I can truly recommend this project to anyone looking for a meaningful and well-planned experience.
One of the best experiences I’ve ever had
May 01, 2025by: Katharina FrederiksenProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
This was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had! I’m so thankful I chose to do it with this volunteer program. The people were amazing and incredibly warm-hearted. The trips we went on were truly unforgettable! If you want to discover Colombia in an authentic and meaningful way, this is the perfect option. Communication was super easy—before, during, and even after my stay. I can’t recommend it enough!
A very diverse and inspring experience
April 29, 2025by: Simon Gygax - SwitzerlandProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
The program has it all - Spanish classes in the mornings, volunteer activities in the afternoons, and every 2-3 days a nice excursion or fun activity like paragliding. The volunteer activities are well structured, it goes from practicing English with children to playing sports or executing playful activities. Bucaramanga is a beautiful and safe city, the climate is always sunny and nice.



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Media Gallery
Interviews
Read interviews from alumni or staff

Laura Viviana Vargas Reyes
Interviewed in 2026
Laura is the Local Program Coordinator at Voluntours Colombia. As a proud Colombian, she’s passionate about sharing the authentic side of her country ...

Laura Viviana Vargas Reyes
Interviewed in 2026
What inspired you to travel abroad?
As a Colombian, I've always believed that my country has so much more to offer than many people expect. I wanted to help visitors experience the real Colombia—not just its beautiful landscapes, but also its people, culture, and communities.

Janosch Thalmann
Participated in 2026
Janosch Thalmann loves painting, Brazilian music, and going to concerts. He lives in Switzerland with his girlfriend in a small town near Zurich. Jano...

Janosch Thalmann
Participated in 2026
I was inspired to go abroad because I wanted to move beyond traditional tourism and experience a country in a much deeper, more meaningful way. I had traveled before, but I always felt like something was missing—I wanted real connection with people, culture, and daily life, not just sightseeing.

Mailys Dellicour
Participated in 2026
Maïlys is a 23-year-old from a small village in Belgium. She is calm and kind, yet she has a passion for adventures, sports, and meeting new people. M...

Mailys Dellicour
Participated in 2026
I have always wanted to experience a culture from the inside rather than simply visiting as a tourist. After finishing an important period in my life, I felt it was the perfect moment to challenge myself, improve my Spanish, and discover a completely different environment.
Ready to Learn More?
Voluntours Colombia was born from a simple but powerful idea: Travel can be a force for good. Since 2024, we connect passionate travelers with local communities, social projects, and foundations that are working every day to create brighter futures for children, youth, and vulnerable populations in Colombia. By welcoming volunteers and travellers from around the world, Voluntours Colombia helps strengthen community projects while offering travelers a life-changing opportunity to immerse themselves in Colombian culture and contribute to real social impact. What makes us different We are not a big platform. And that’s exactly the point. • We are based in Colombia - no international platform • We work directly with local foundations and communities. • We have personal ...

Voluntours Colombia

Voluntours Colombia
Ready to Learn More?
Voluntours Colombia was born from a simple but powerful idea: Travel can be a force for good. Since 2024, we connect passionate travelers with local communities, social projects, and foundations that are working every day to create brighter futures for children, youth, and vulnerable populations in Colombia. By welcoming volunteers and travellers from around the world, Voluntours Colombia helps strengthen community projects while offering travelers a life-changing opportunity to immerse themselves in Colombian culture and contribute to real social impact. What makes us different We are not a big platform. And that’s exactly the point. • We are based in Colombia - no international platform • We work directly with local foundations and communities. • We have personal ...
Awards
Check out awards and recognitions Voluntours Colombia has received

