Volunteer Programs in Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena is the perfect Caribbean destination you’ve never heard of: surrounded by ancient ramparts, dotted with white sand beaches, and filled with large plazas and cobbled alleys, this Colombian city will make you wonder why it’s not already on the cover of every travel magazine. That said, Cartagena is also home to nearly one million colombianos, and its residents can and do experience real challenges. Volunteering abroad in Cartagena is a great way to assist locals while also learning about the Colombian way of life.

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3 Volunteer Programs in Cartagena, Colombia

Freepackers

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Volunteer in Colombia: Social Missions in Cartagena

Contribute to social missions in the fishing village of La Boquilla in Cartagena, Colombia. Join volunteer projects that address extreme poverty in local communities, choosing from the following areas: - Music workshops - Coconut and product manufacturing workshops - Community work - Animal shelters - Youth support - Food distribution - Academic support and education Connect with the community and immerse yourself in the local culture while supporting the project you are most passionate about. A coordinator will call to help you pick an area based on your skills, experience, interest, and Spanish level. Explore a village with Afro-Caribbean roots and discover another side of Cartagena apart from resorts and tourist areas. Enjoy its natural beauty and learn about the city’s fascinating history. Develop your sense of discipline, responsibility, and motivation. Broaden your perspective through this volunteer experience. Being hardworking, patient, flexible, and proactive are important qualities to ensure a positive impact.

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Involvement Volunteers International

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Volunteer in Colombia with IVI – Safe & Affordable Projects

Colombia is a vibrant and culturally rich country in South America, known for its welcoming people and breathtaking diversity—from tropical rainforests and mountain ranges to historic cities and coastal towns. With over 50 million residents, it is a place of both modern energy and deep-rooted traditions. Despite significant strides in tourism and trade, Colombia still contends with social and economic challenges, particularly in rural areas. Volunteering here offers a chance to contribute meaningfully while gaining a deeper understanding of local life. Volunteer placements are based in Cartagena and offer a variety of focus areas: • Cultural Orientation Week • Teaching & Education • Kindergarten • STEM Education • Spanish Lessons • Construction Volunteers are supported with daily meals, accommodation, airport pickup, and 24/7 assistance. This experience offers both personal growth and the opportunity to make a tangible impact in local communities.

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A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Cartagena

Popular Ways to Volunteer Abroad in Cartagena, Colombia

Volunteering in Cartagena is a great way to experience Colombian culture while also giving back to the community. As you perform your daily tasks, you’ll get to know your neighbors, practice your Spanish skills, and find the joy in snacking on a perfect arepa de huevo (egg-filled maize patty).

Popular causes/program types in Cartagena. Volunteers with all sorts of skill sets can be helpful in Cartagena, but there are specific areas where the need is greatest. The city’s economy is growing, but some locals still lack basic necessities and many children are especially vulnerable. Projects that focus on childcare allow volunteers to assist children with after-school activities, preparing meals, and teaching life skills through sports and other hobbies. Volunteers can also work with older students, teaching them English and other school subjects. For those who are interested in Colombia’s biodiversity, volunteer projects focusing on environmental assistance are also available.

Short-term volunteer programs in Cartagena. If you only have two weeks of vacation time or are on a limited budget for volunteering in Cartagena, but you still want to help, that’s great! However, it’s important to be mindful when choosing a short-term volunteer project. Consider where your skill sets can make the biggest impact in the shortest amount of time. Helping with a construction project or an environmental survey, where it’s easy for someone to pick up the task when you leave, is a safe bet that you’ll be making a difference without leaving anything (or anyone) hanging.

Long term volunteer projects in Cartagena. If you’re considering volunteering with children or undertaking a teaching volunteer project, your impact will be greatest if you’re able to stay three months or more. You’ll be able to make stronger connections with the young people you’re working with, improve your language skills, and really immerse yourself in the local culture.