Volunteer Programs in Colombia

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31 Volunteer Programs in Colombia

Featured Provider of the Month
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
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Volunteers on the Childcare and Youth Support program in Medellín work with local organizations supporting children and teens who have experienced mistreatment, malnutrition, or mental or physical abuse. You help create a safe, positive space where young people can learn and grow. Tasks include ass
See All 2 Programs

LET´S GO VOLUNTEER
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We need your help! Join Let’s Go Volunteer in the beautiful community of Ibagué, Colombia. We are a small organization, with almost everyone on o...
GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
4.76
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GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and med
International Medical Aid (IMA)
4.96
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IMA offers an opportunity to enhance your medical and healthcare knowledge with International Medical Aid's Pre-Med and Health Fellowships. Crafted for pre-med undergraduates, medical students, and high school students, these fellowships offer a unique chance to engage deeply with global health care
See All 5 ProgramsVoluntours Colombia
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The Children & Sports Volunteer Program in Bucaramanga offers participants the opportunity to support local community initiatives through education, recreation, and sports activities. Volunteers work with children in underserved neighborhoods, helping to create safe, engaging, and positive environme
See All 4 ProgramsVolunteer World
4.29
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Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller g
See All 2 ProgramsKagumu Adventures
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Fall in love with a country brimming with passion, flair, color, music, and dance. Immerse yourself in one of the friendliest cultures on the planet. Join Kagumu’s ground-breaking Jaguar Program in Colombia to widen your knowledge of pressing global issues and learn how you can contribute to a more
Global Citizen Adventure Corps
4.8
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Through GCAC, volunteers are introduced to Teaching English as a Second Language, working alongside Cali's Colegio Americano faculty. This short-term program lasts only a few days, but the hours are packed with learning inside and outside the classroom. Children and youth from pre-kindergarten thr
See All 2 ProgramsGlobalteer
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This Globalteer project in Colombia provides safe retreats for vulnerable children, protecting them from the many temptations of the city and providing them with free education and food. The children are provided with English classes, lessons in Spanish, arts, music, sports, and various vocation
Global Impact Homes
4.5
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Join a life-changing Volunteer Build Week with Global Impact Homes and help construct homes for those in need. We currently offer Impact Builds in several destinations, including Puducherry, India; Zihuatanejo, Mexico; Granada, Nicaragua; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. As a volunteer, you’ll participa
Sendas
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Based in Colombia and Italy, our mission is to connect people from all around the world through volunteering (organizing free activities for children and the elderly, providing food to people in need). You'll get to know new ways of living, and the experience includes tours around the country. Get
Involvement Volunteers International
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Colombia is a vibrant, 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 tradition
See All 2 ProgramsFreepackers
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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 shelter
Minga House Foundation
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Gain real-world experience as a first responder through a hands-on internship or volunteer placement in Emergency Medical Services with Minga House Foundation. Train under the supervision of experienced paramedics and healthcare professionals while developing essential skills in fast-paced, high-pre
See All 6 ProgramsCentre for Advancement of Youth Empowerment (CAYE)
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CAYE is a registered youth charitable organization in Mzuzu, Malawi. Established in 2014, CAYE works in the Northern Region and parts of the Central Region to empower young people, women, and small-scale farmers to improve their livelihoods and contribute to national development. CAYE focuses on yo
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.
Volunteer Programs in Colombia
Volunteers impassioned by a number of causes will find plenty of productive ways to channel their fervor through volunteer work in Colombia.
Healthcare. In 2012, a universal health care system was launched in Colombia. However, there are many Colombian citizens still deprived of medical assistance, and as a result, skilled medical volunteers are needed to assist the local population. Healthcare volunteer placements in Colombia require volunteers to contribute to public health efforts focused on eradicating malnutrition in children or treatment of infectious diseases, such as malaria, yellow fever, and HIV. Volunteers can choose to help with a definitive access to medical treatments or to educate the local community about the treatment and prevention of these diseases.
Education is another important, high need type of volunteering in Colombia. Although there are many schools and universities in Colombia, underprivileged neighborhoods still struggle to have access to proper educational opportunities. Teaching volunteers will typically find themselves teaching in the country’s rural areas, as teachers in these areas are slim pickins’, often under-qualified, and schools typically lack basic classroom resources. The government has made it compulsory for students to attend school, but some schools don’t offer secondary education, leaving many students without a viable way to complete their studies. Volunteers often teach English, mathematics, science, art, sports, and even vocational skills to uplift students living in low-income communities and provide them with lessons they would otherwise not have access to.
Community Projects. From childcare and elderly care to helping the homeless, working with vulnerable teenage mothers, and rehabilitating drug addicts, community-based volunteering in Colombia gives volunteers the chance to improve the welfare of locals. As simple as it may sound, community volunteer projects in Colombia require flexibility, sensitivity, and patience. Those who volunteer in Colombia will find they are forever impacted by their volunteer work and the people they help serve through community projects.
Environmental Preservation. Although it is a country which is rich in natural resources and endowed with picturesque beauty, Colombia actually has an array of environmental issues to be dealt with. Volunteering in Colombia on conservation projects will give volunteers an opportunity to contribute to agriculture, ecotourism, anti-pollution efforts, and wildlife preservation.
Costs & Affordability
Colombia is a relatively inexpensive place to volunteer abroad, with affordable volunteer projects widely available which include food, lodging, and local transport. If volunteers adopt a local way of living, their wallets will breathe a sigh of relief on a daily basis. To save money, volunteers should stick to hand washing laundry, eating Colombian food, taking public transport, and avoiding unnecessary internet or phone charges from calling back home too many times. The overall cost of living in Colombia is average and very affordable for many international volunteers, especially those from developed countries. Instead of splurging on that imported bread, use your extra pocket money to take Spanish or salsa lessons!
Accommodation & Visas
Those who choose to stay with host families while volunteering in Colombia will be able to experience a homely environment and have a first-hand experience of the culture and way of life. Some volunteer programs in Colombia will provide alternative accommodation options, but homestays are by far the most common housing available and the most highly recommended too!
Depending on your home country and the length of your volunteer program in Colombia, you may need to organize a temporary visa at a Colombian consulate in your home country prior to departure. Foreign nationals can apply for a short-stay visa to volunteer in Colombia for up to 90 days, or a long-stay visa for programs that exceed three months in length.
GoAbroad Insider Tips
Diverse Placements. The variety of ways you can volunteer in Colombia can be both a blessing and a curse! While the interiors of Columbia provide a more banal, rustic opportunity for incidental learning, cities like Bogotá are more urbane for international volunteers. Volunteers should definitely align their preferences for their volunteer program in Colombia before deciding on a placement and setting foot in country.
Culture. The warmth and hospitality of Colombians is unmatched! Volunteers are likely to fall in love with the culture and nature of Colombia’s vivacious residents. Repeat offenders (aka. alumni volunteers) often cite their relationships as their main draw for returning to volunteer in Colombia a second time.
Turn off Narcos and go experience the real Colombia through volunteer work. Just don’t be surprised when you go back a second, third, or fourth time!
Popular Providers
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I volunteer in Colombia?
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.
Do I need a visa to volunteer in Colombia?
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.
What is Colombia known for?
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.
Does Colombia need a Covid test to enter?
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
Great Colombian Experience!
August 24, 2026by: Michelle Sawko - United KingdomProgram: Sports, Children and Community Volunteering in Bucaramanga
La experiencia fue inolvidable! Me gustó el plan de la semana y también las actividades en cada foundación. Simon and Laura are very accommodating, welcoming and are always open to feedback. Luisa who accompanied us to many foundations was great at including everyone and set a great example with the kids. Thank you for all the memories! I recommend this experience who anyone looking for a family feel way of experiencing the culture in Colombia and want to be involved in some great local social projects. I stayed with a Colombian family and I would highly recommend this option.

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.
Awesome cultural integration!
June 29, 2026by: Diana Borro - LithuaniaProgram: Cultural Exchange Through Volunteering in Italy/Colombia
Computer Science Engineer & Volunteer
April 29, 2026by: Mouhamed Ali Sboui - TunisiaProgram: GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad
I am motivated, responsible, and eager to learn from every experience. I am open to feedback and always ready to improve my skills. I value teamwork, communication, and adaptability, and I aim to contribute positively to any project or organization I join while continuing to grow both personally and professionally.
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!
One World All Grateful
February 12, 2026by: John Riger - United StatesProgram: GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad
Traveling half way around the world to volunteer effort, time and energy on marine conservation takes trust. GoEco delivered, far exceeding any preconceived expectations and hopes we had before arriving on Naifaru. The entire team provided thorough support, training and guidance so that we could participate, contribute and perform to our utmost potential. We left with a tremendous sense of achievement, accomplishment and countless unforgettable memories.




A valuable and enriching experience.
February 03, 2026by: Mark StutzProgram: GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad
Hi guys here the feedback I sent to AOA:<br><br>Jule and Gércia are doing an outstanding job! The program was very well organized, and all questions were always addressed – whether directly related to the tasks or more general matters. I felt well supported at all times.<br><br>I especially want to highlight how valuable it is to have a local Mozambican staff member like Gércia on the team. She not only brings maritime knowledge but also shares important insights about local customs and culture – a huge asset!<br>When Jule was away for a few days with another group, Gércia took over the leadership of our group, smoothly managed any changes to the plan, and handled everything very professionally. You truly have a fantastic team, and that deserves to be appreciated!<br><br>Food & Meals<br>The food was consistently delicious – thank you, Brodie and the Tilak Lodge team!<br>However, after two weeks, I noticed that some meals repeated quite often. It would be great if AOA could give Brodie a bit more flexibility and resources to offer more variety in the menu. I'm sure with more freedom, Brodie could surprise us with even more creative and diverse meals!<br><br>Scuba Diving<br>The guides at Tofo Scuba were excellent – professional, experienced, and always supportive. Whether it was the Advanced Open Water course, ocean safaris, or fun dives, I always felt safe and in very good hands. They made every dive a great experience, and I appreciated their clear briefings, calm presence, and strong awareness of safety and the environment.<br><br>Suggestions for Improvement – Equipment<br>There is definitely room for improvement when it comes to technical equipment:<br>There are clearly not enough GoPros/underwater cameras for the volunteers.<br>The printer is currently unusable due to empty ink cartridges – and no replacements were available.<br>Coming from a technical/IT background myself, I was honestly surprised at how outdated and overused some of the devices are. One or two new laptops or computers would make a real difference and improve the workflow on site.<br><br>Final Words of Appreciation<br>I usually don’t give such detailed feedback – but Jule, Gércia, Brodie and the Tilak Lodge team, as well as Ross and the Tofo Scuba crew, all deserve a big compliment. Thank you for this valuable and enriching experience!
GoEco is the BEST!
January 20, 2026by: V S - United StatesProgram: GoEco - Top Rated & Award Winning Volunteer Programs Abroad
I was a little uncertain about booking a volunteer trip with an organization I didn't have personal experience with, but wow! I'm thrilled I took a chance on GoEco. Their staff were incredibly communicative, helpful and supportive throughout the process - they patiently answered all my questions, guided me to a location that suited me and made sure I had all information I needed to ensure a wonderful trip. The Giant Tortoise Breeding Center volunteer experience in the Galapagos Islands was more than I could ever have imagined... filled with ideal balance of hard work, interesting learning, plenty of free time for diving/snorkeling/relaxation, connection with the local community and endless opportunities for Spanish practice. I felt supported by both GoEco and the IOI program. I'm already looking forward to my next GoEco travel opportunity.
I would recommend to people who need Social Media detox!!
January 03, 2026by: Yusuf CelikProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
I enjoyed some of the activites , but not others. The rivre walk and the walk to the koppies was 10/10. No intrenet was challenging , so 7/10. Jane , Precious , Patrick and Lucas were 10/10. I woul recommend this project to anyone who needs a detox from Social media.
Mrs
October 23, 2025by: Dignae Peter - TanzaniaProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
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
Mi vida en haiti
October 14, 2025by: Raul enrique Higuerey Montes - VenezuelaProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
Hice 5 años en haiti, me se su idioma, se toda su cultura, me gustaría volver y apoyarlos en todas las dificultades que tienen, ya que ameritan mucha ayuda de todos nosotros, para ellos poder sobrevivir
An unforgettable experience
June 10, 2025by: Brandi Brandi - CanadaProgram: Let's Go Volunteer - Children's Program in Colombia
What I was met with blew away any expectations that I may have had going into this. Never in my life have I ever felt so welcome, so loved. Everyday was a pleasure. The love they have for each other, and concern, surpasses that of anything I have seen before. There was not an evident existence of loneliness in that place, nor were the people separated by isolation as in much of the western world, for it had been replaced with love, hope, and faith in the future. I was beyond excited that I would be able to live with Colombian family during my stay. The Colombian family that I had became my own. At the end of my stay I had a whole new set of brothers and parents that I care for deeply. As I left Ibagué, my family and dear friends that I had made here, I also left my heart with them. One day I will return to see them again.
Wonderfull
June 10, 2025by: Rob Rob - AustraliaProgram: Let's Go Volunteer - Children's Program in Colombia
I wanted to give something back after my amazing trip around South America. The staff made everything so easy and I felt so welcome right from the first day. My lack of spanish or teaching experience didn't matter at all. The children were so keen to learn and I really felt I was making a difference in their lives. I only came for six weeks and I ended up staying 6 months!
A Great Experience!!
June 10, 2025by: Anne Helene - FranceProgram: Let's Go Volunteer - Children's Program in Colombia
My volunteer experience with lets Go Volunteer and my stay in Colombia was a great experience. The different programs the organization has, are important for the people that live here, and for the social development of the country. Working with the kids is something nice and rewarding. Here I lived, learned and shared impressive moments. Colombia's colors, scents, sounds and their people would stay with me, I truly recommend this experience
More than Just a Trip, its an Experience of a lifetime!
June 03, 2025by: Isabella Hottes - United StatesProgram: Service Learning in Colombia
Teaching English in Colombia was more than a trip—it was a heartwarming, life-changing experience. Through Bethel University Global Studies and GCAC, I had the amazing opportunity to travel to Colegio Americano, our sister school in Colombia, and help teach English to local students. But what made it truly special was realizing we weren’t just teaching—we were changing lives, and they were changing ours. Every day in the classroom was filled with laughter, curiosity, and connection. The students' eyes would light up when they learned a new word, and their excitement to share their own language with us was unforgettable. They were just as eager to teach us Spanish as we were to teach them English. The bond we built went beyond lessons—it felt like a family. One of the most heartwarming moments was when a student I’d been helping all week proudly stood up to read in English in front of the class. You could see the pride in their smile, and I’ll never forget that. Another one of my favorite memories is when one of the students asked to salsa with me at the end of class, it was such a sweet experience and an experience I could never trade for anything. Bethel University Global Studies and GCAC created a space for something truly meaningful—if you get the chance, take it. It will change you in the best way.



Volunteer from Kenya
June 02, 2025by: Tabitha Maina - KenyaProgram: Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide
I would really like to volunteer. I am passionate about charity and showing kindness to the world. Please, give me a chance. Kindly provide Certificate of sponsorship too since I'm not able to provide for myself at the moment. Kindly put my request into consideration.
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.
Latest Interviews

Mailys Dellicour
Voluntours Colombia
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,...

Beatriz Reis
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
I love to travel and I spend my days trying to gather money for my next adventure. Being right now at a phase were I'm unemployed, doing my thesis, an...

Aneta Toborikova
More Than English
It wasn't my first time abroad, actually I had lived in several other countries before; and once you start with these adventures, it seems that you ca...

Brooke Walis
WorldTeach
I had always wanted to get abroad to live, not just travel or study. Not only is teaching English an option to make living abroad possible, but I had ...
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