Cultural Orientation Week in Cartagena, Colombia

If you want to gain a head start on your projects and feel comfortable in your new surroundings, before you begin, this week is a fantastic way to do just that! It gives you time to adjust before your project begins, to explore the local area and to learn more about the culture and customs. This can greatly help you to communicate with the locals on your projects.

• Accommodation
• 3 meals p/day & 2 p/day at weekends
• Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
• Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
• 1 day orientation
• Daily transportation to project
• In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
• Fundraising support
• University course credits (where applicable)
• Certificate of Completion

• Airfares
• Travel Insurance
• Tours, Souvenirs & spending money

On the Monday of your first week at this location, you will join our orientation day, to familiarize you with the surroundings as well as local culture. Your program will continue as usual from Tuesday onwards throughout the rest of the week.

Schedule

• Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice and handling of documents.
• Colombian Do’s and Don’ts, Colombian Culture Lessons and basic survival Spanish Language Lessons.
• Lunch
• Tour around the compound and local area; where to find local shops, and arrange a sim card if necessary.
• Project preparation.
• Typical welcome dinner.

Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees.

A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG). You must arrive between 08:00 to 17:00 on Sunday. There is an extra fee for Saturday night accommodation and transfer. 

If you want to book any extra nights before or after your program, you can do this for an extra fee. 

Alternatively, if arriving early you could wait at the arrival’s terminal for the pickup time, book accommodation at the airport and meet us during the pickup times or make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this).

From CTG Airport to your accommodation by taxi it takes 20 minutes.

Monday: “Unveiling Cartagena’s Timeless Charm”

• Breakfast
• Introduction, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice and handling of documents.
• Colombian Do’s and Don’ts, Colombian History & Culture Lessons, Basic Language Lessons
• Lunch
• Tour around the compound and local area; where to find local shops, and arrange a sim card if necessary
• Cooking Lesson followed by dinner

Tuesday: “Whispers of Eternity”

Discover the enchanting allure of Cartagena’s Old City as you embark on a journey through history. Your first day unfolds like a treasure map, where cobblestone streets and colonial architecture are the main attractions. Allow the city’s rich heritage to captivate your senses as you explore hidden plazas, visit ancient churches, and meander through vibrant, bougainvillea-lined streets. This immersive experience paints the past and present on the canvas of your memories.

Wednesday: “Island Paradise in the Caribbean”

Today, the world fades away as you embark on a pasadía (day trip) to the Islas del Rosario. Your senses will be delighted by the crystal-clear waters and the vibrant marine life of the Caribbean. Feel the warmth of the sun on your skin, and listen to the soothing rhythm of the waves as you bask in the natural beauty. Snorkel, swim, or simply relax on the sandy shores, and savor the paradise that is Cartagena’s archipelago.

Thursday: “Pedaling Through History and Modernity”

Saddle up for a memorable day of adventure as you embark on a guided bike tour from the old city to Bocagrande. The route seamlessly connects the charm of the old city with the modernity of Bocagrande. Pedal through history as you cross the centuries-old city walls and venture into the bustling streets of Bocagrande, where towering skyscrapers create a striking contrast. Along the way, your guide will share intriguing stories, connecting the past and the present.

Friday: “Mud, Beach, and Bliss”

Get ready for an exhilarating day as you set off on a tour to El Totumo Volcano. It’s a geological wonder like no other. You’ll descend into a mud volcano, where the buoyancy of the mud makes you feel weightless. Afterward, enjoy a beachside lunch and soak in the sun on the golden sands. Cool off in a refreshing pool and relish the rejuvenating experience. It’s a day of adventure, relaxation, and natural wonder rolled into one.

***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.***

Things to Do in Cartagena

Explore the Walled City – Wander through Cartagena’s historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with colourful colonial buildings, lively plazas, and charming cafes. The well-preserved walls and forts offer a glimpse into the city’s past.

Visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas – This massive fortress on a hilltop offers stunning views and a chance to learn about Cartagena’s colonial history. Explore its tunnels, battlements, and strategic defences used against pirate attacks.

Relax at Playa Blanca – One of the best beaches near Cartagena, Playa Blanca offers white sand, turquoise waters, and a relaxed island vibe. A short boat or bus ride takes you to this tropical escape.

Take a Boat Trip to the Rosario Islands – This group of islands is perfect for snorkelling, diving, and enjoying crystal-clear waters. Many tours include visits to private beaches and seafood lunches.

Experience the Nightlife in Getsemaní – This trendy neighbourhood is filled with street art, live music, and vibrant bars. It’s a great place to experience Cartagena’s energy, culture, and local flavours.

Things to Do in Colombia in General

Explore Bogotá’s La Candelaria – Colombia’s capital is home to museums, colonial buildings, and lively squares. Visit the Gold Museum and Monserrate for breathtaking city views.

Visit Medellín and Ride the Cable Cars – Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Medellín has pleasant weather, modern transportation, and a thriving art scene. The cable cars provide stunning views of the city’s hills.

Discover the Coffee Triangle – Colombia is famous for its coffee, and visiting Salento, Manizales, or Armenia offers a chance to tour coffee farms, taste fresh brews, and hike through the stunning Cocora Valley.

Hike to the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida) – This ancient archaeological site in the Sierra Nevada mountains is older than Machu Picchu and requires a challenging multi-day trek through the jungle.

Relax in San Andrés and Providencia – These Caribbean islands boast turquoise waters, coral reefs, and a laid-back island lifestyle. It’s a paradise for snorkelling, diving, and beach lovers.

Colombia is a diverse and vibrant country located in the northwest of South America, bordered by Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, and Panama. It is the only South American country with coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, making it a prime destination for beach lovers. Colombia is known for its breathtaking landscapes, from the towering Andes Mountains to the Amazon Rainforest and the rolling hills of the Coffee Region.

The country has a rich cultural and historical heritage, shaped by indigenous civilizations, Spanish colonization, and African influences. Despite its turbulent past, Colombia has transformed into a dynamic and welcoming destination, with cities like Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and Cali offering a mix of history, modernity, and local charm. With its growing economy, tourism boom, and friendly locals, Colombia is increasingly recognized as one of the top places to visit in Latin America.

Colombia’s climate is as diverse as its geography, with no traditional seasons like in temperate countries. Instead, the country experiences different climates based on altitude and region. The Caribbean and Pacific coastal areas are warm and humid year-round, perfect for enjoying the beaches.

Bogotá, located in the Andes at 2,640 meters (8,660 feet) above sea level, has a cooler, spring-like climate with frequent rain showers. Medellín, known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” enjoys mild temperatures between 63–82°F (17–28°C) year-round. The Amazon region is hot and humid, with heavy rainfall supporting its vast rainforests. Colombia has two main weather patterns: dry season (December–March, July–August) and rainy season (April–June, September–November). Travelers should plan accordingly depending on the activities they want to experience.

Colombian culture is a vibrant mix of indigenous traditions, Spanish heritage, and African influences, creating a rich and diverse national identity. Music and dance are at the heart of Colombian life, with cumbia, vallenato, salsa, and reggaeton playing a significant role in social gatherings and festivals. The country is home to some of the world’s most colourful celebrations, such as the Carnaval de Barranquilla, one of Latin America’s largest festivals, and the Feria de Cali, which celebrates salsa music. Art and literature also flourish in Colombia, with Gabriel García Márquez, the Nobel Prize-winning author of One Hundred Years of Solitude, being one of its most famous cultural icons. Colombians are known for their warmth, hospitality, and passion, and their love for football (soccer) brings people together, especially during international tournaments.

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