Join us for an exhilarating week in Cartagena where history, culture, and nature intertwine in a mesmerizing tapestry of experiences.

Delve into the city’s captivating past with two enthralling days of Old City tours, then hop on a bike to explore the contrast between the Old and New City. For a taste of Caribbean paradise, embrace the tranquility of Islas del Rosario before embarking on a truly unique adventure to El Totumo Volcano, where mud baths, beach lounging, and poolside relaxation await.

Welcome to an enchanting week in the heart of Cartagena, Colombia, Our Culture Week promises an extraordinary exploration of history, culture, and natural beauty, designed to leave you with indelible memories.

Unearth the city’s past on two captivating days of Old City tours, where you’ll wander through cobbled streets, marvel at colonial architecture, and uncover the secrets that lie within the ancient walls. Then, embrace the contrast as you embark on a guided bike tour, pedaling your way through the charming Old City and the bustling streets of the modern Bocagrande district. The merging of old and new creates a vivid mosaic of Cartagena’s history, and our program ensures you don’t miss a detail.

Escape to the serene Islas del Rosario, a Caribbean paradise where turquoise waters and white sandy beaches await your discovery. Feel the tranquility, experience local culture, and be swept away by the sheer beauty of this hidden gem. Finally, prepare for an adventure like no other as you journey to El Totumo Volcano, where you’ll have the rare opportunity to bathe in a natural mud volcano, relax on a nearby beach, enjoy a delectable lunch, and unwind by the pool. This Cultural Celebration Week is your passport to a captivating Cartagena experience that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

One of the highlights of the week is a visit to El Totumo Volcano, where you can take a unique mud bath. Following this, you’ll have time to relax on a nearby beach, enjoy a delicious lunch, and unwind by the pool.

Program Highlights
Explore Cartagena’s Old City – Stroll through cobblestone streets, admire colonial architecture, and uncover the city’s rich history on guided tours.
Caribbean Island Escape – Take a day trip to the stunning Islas del Rosario, where you can relax on white sandy beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and soak in the island’s natural beauty.
Biking Adventure Through Time – Cycle through the historic Old City and the modern Bocagrande district, experiencing the blend of Cartagena’s past and present.
Mud Bath at El Totumo Volcano – Immerse yourself in a unique natural mud bath, followed by beach relaxation, a delicious lunch, and poolside leisure.
Cultural Immersion – Learn about Colombian history, traditions, and language, and take part in a hands-on local cooking lesson.
A Week of Adventure & Relaxation – Balance sightseeing, cultural experiences, and relaxation for a truly immersive Cartagena experience.
Aims & Objectives
Our primary aim is to offer a holistic and immersive experience for participants, allowing them to engage with the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of Cartagena, Colombia.

Schedule
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.***

Share your love for teaching with local students, as you assist teachers in primary or secondary schools located in less fortunate areas of Cartagena.

Here you can both Teach and Learn by assisting a local Cartagena teacher in the classroom. This program is flexible enough that you can work on a number of formal subjects while still having the option to creatively insert some fun into the learning component and even lead extra-curricular events.

During this program, you will be supporting the teaching staff at local primary or secondary schools in nearby suburban neighborhoods, all of which are within 30 minutes from your accommodation. You will be driven to your school each morning on public bus transport/taxis where you will be assisting the regular teachers. Your role will be to help out wherever you can, as per the instructions provided. Your engagement with students in the classes will help the students learn in a fun way and can include a variety of activities such as games, role-play, songs, dramas and plays. Your creative input at these schools will be beneficial and may go a long way to broadening the scope of learning for local Cartagena children.

There are a variety of exciting subjects that you can help teach, including:

Music (Piano, Violin, Guitar popular, Flauta, singing)
English (beginners to intermediate)
Karate and other sports such as football, baseball, basketball, and volleyball.
Arts (sculpture, painting, drawing)
Mathematics (Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Arithmetic)
Dancing
Your Role
Your role in this program is both diverse and impactful, encompassing a range of responsibilities to support the local educational community.

Here are the key aspects of your role, presented in a professional bullet-point format:

Assisting Local Teachers:
Collaborate closely with dedicated local educators in English language classes.
Employ interactive tools such as games, songs, and educational activities to make learning an enjoyable experience.
Organizing Extracurricular Activities:
Take the initiative in planning and supervising extracurricular activities for students.
These activities may encompass sports, crafts, and drawing, fostering holistic development.
Creative Lesson Planning:
Develop innovative and engaging lesson plans to enhance the learning process.
Encourage active student participation and involvement in their education.
Fostering Language Skills and Cultural Understanding:
Interact with students aged 5 to 13, promoting their English language skills.
Facilitate cultural exchanges to broaden their global awareness and understanding.
Availability and After-School Engagement:
Commit a minimum of 5 hours each day to teaching and assisting students.
Be ready to participate in after-school activities as needed to further support the local community.
Lesson Preparation:
Dedicate time to meticulously plan and prepare lessons for the following day.
Maintain a well-structured and organized approach to the teaching process.
Enriching the Learning Experience:
Bring teaching materials, including games, books, colored pencils, and rulers.
Share cultural items from your home country to introduce a global perspective into the learning environment.
Your role holds significant importance in the program, as it contributes to the educational advancement of students and fosters collaborative efforts with local educators to create a positive impact on the community’s future. Your enthusiasm and dedication will leave a lasting impression on the young learners, cultivating a passion for learning and promoting cross-cultural understanding.

***All participants must have a sense of initiative and understand that teachers at the project might not speak the same language***

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

Aims & Objectives
Boost English Proficiency and Cultural Awareness:
Elevate the English language skills of young learners in Puerto Escondido.
Expand cross-cultural understanding by exposing students to a diverse array of perspectives and experiences.
Empower Participants with Teaching Assistant Experience and Life Skills:
Provide participants with invaluable teaching assistant experience.
Foster the development of leadership, communication, and adaptability skills through engaging teaching opportunities.
Strengthen the Learning Environment through Support to Local Teaching Staff:
Extend essential assistance and support to the local teaching team.
Collaborate closely with educators to establish a dynamic and interactive learning atmosphere
Schedule
Monday (First week)
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
Monday to Friday
Breakfast
Teaching Sessions and Activities at School or Preparations of Lessons/Topics/Activities for the next day.
Lunch
Teaching Sessions and Activities at School or Preparations of Lessons/Topics/Activities for the next day.
Dinner
***Community involvement opportunities may arise in the evening.***

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

Welcome to the Kindergarten Teaching Experience in Cartagena, Columbia!

This is a unique opportunity for enthusiastic individuals to make a positive impact on the lives of young children in a vibrant and multicultural setting. Familiarize yourself with and engage with preschoolers in underserved neighborhoods of Cartagena City while actively participating in daily kindergarten activities. Contribute to the smooth operation of the kindergarten and impart English language skills to enthusiastic children aged 2-5.

Set out on a transforming adventure through the vivid tapestry of Cartagena, Colombia. Your mission: to nurture the young brains of the community’s youngsters in the heart of Cartagena City’s underprivileged neighborhoods, where your assistance is most needed. Our dedicated program works in partnership with government-run kindergartens to provide a lifeline to low-income families who need quality childcare but cannot afford it. While specific placement may vary depending on community requirements, you can anticipate a lovely classroom of 10-15 enthusiastic children.

Your dynamic role will encompass a multifaceted blend of responsibilities, from tending to the children’s well-being and managing classroom dynamics to collaborating with local staff in providing essential care. As the children’s laughter and curiosity fill the room, you’ll create interesting learning experiences while imparting the gift of fundamental English language skills. You will be the leading light in this lively educational ecosystem, facilitating educational games and enhancing these young lives through enjoyable interactions.

At the same time you will also be assisting with the caregiving of the children such as helping prepare meals, feeding during lunch time, helping putting the kids to bed during nap time, cleaning chores and so on.

Program Highlights
Engage with Young Learners – Work closely with preschool-aged children (2-5 years old) in underserved communities, fostering their development through interactive learning.
Support Local Kindergartens – Collaborate with government-run kindergartens, providing essential childcare and education to low-income families.
Introduce Basic English – Help children develop foundational English language skills in a fun and engaging manner.
Hands-On Caregiving – Assist with meal preparation, feeding, nap time routines, and maintaining a clean and safe environment.
Creative and Play-Based Learning – Utilize songs, games, storytelling, and art to create a dynamic and stimulating classroom experience.
Cultural Immersion – Experience the vibrant Colombian culture firsthand by working closely with local teachers, children, and families.
Personal Growth and Development – Gain invaluable teaching experience, improve leadership and communication skills, and make a lasting impact on young lives.
Your Role
As a kindergarten teacher in Cartagena, Colombia, you will play a key role in the development of children aged 3 to 5, a critical stage in their development. Children are set to lay the groundwork for essential cognitive, social, and emotional competencies that will substantially influence their future scholastic success during this formative period.

Before you begin your teaching journey, it’s essential to grasp your responsibilities and understand what’s expected of you. Collaborating with the class teacher, your primary duties as a kindergarten educator will encompass a diverse set of essential tasks:

Curriculum Implementation: Work hand in hand with local educators to deliver age-appropriate educational content that aligns with the national curriculum. This involves planning and executing lessons designed to foster learning and engagement.
Personalized Guidance: Offer one-on-one support to students with special needs or those requiring extra assistance, ensuring every child has the opportunity to flourish.
Language Cultivation: Cultivate language skills by introducing basic English phrases and communication, helping children develop their linguistic abilities from an early age.
Play-Based Learning: Acknowledge the significance of informal, play-based learning at this stage. Encourage interactive and creative activities that stimulate cognitive and social development.
Classroom Management: Maintain a safe, well-organized, and stimulating classroom environment that facilitates the learning process and fosters positive behavior.
Progress Assessment: Monitor each child’s development and track their progress, maintaining records and providing feedback to parents or guardians.
Extracurricular Engagement: Involve children in a diverse array of extracurricular activities, including sports, art, music, singing, games and dance, promoting holistic growth.
Community Integration: Embrace the opportunity to become an integral part of the local community, fostering strong connections with children, families, and fellow educators.
Your role as a kindergarten teacher in Cartagena extends beyond the conventional classroom, as you assist these young learners in acquiring the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful academic journey and a promising future.

***All participants must have a sense of initiative and understand that teachers at the project might not speak the same language***

Aims & Objectives
Boosting Confidence and English Proficiency: Your efforts will empower children to grow in confidence while simultaneously improving their English language skills. These skills will prove invaluable in their future endeavors, enabling them to connect with the wider world and contribute to the creation of a global community with a shared vision for a brighter future.
Initiating Early Learning and Child Development: Your work will be instrumental in kickstarting early learning experiences and promoting comprehensive child development. These formative years are pivotal for building a strong educational foundation.
Expanding Cultural Interactions: By interacting with children from diverse backgrounds, you’ll contribute to broadening their cultural horizons. This exposure to different perspectives and traditions will help create a more inclusive and understanding global community.
Encouraging Holistic Development: Beyond traditional academics, you’ll encourage holistic development in children through a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, art, music, and dance. These activities are designed to nurture their physical, artistic, and creative talents, supporting their overall growth and well-being
Schedule
Monday
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 to Friday
Breakfast
Teaching Sessions and Activities at the Kindergarten.
Lunch
Teaching Sessions and Activities at Kindergarten.
Dinner
***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions / local holidays and unforeseen circumstances.***

Share your love for STEM subjects teaching with local students, as you assist teachers in primary, secondary, and high schools located in less fortunate areas of Cartagena.

Here you can both teach and educate students by assisting a local Cartagena teacher in the classroom. The focus of this program is teaching STEM-related subjects to the children and assisting in providing safe and guided access to the digital era.

STEM skills are increasingly essential in today’s fast-changing workplace and provide life satisfaction, enjoyment, and amazing career opportunities. With this program we are supporting local schools in the Cartagena area with their STEM needs; both in providing STEM lessons as well as supporting the schools with STEM equipment such as computers and laptops.

During this program, you will be supporting the teaching staff at local primary, secondary and high schools in nearby suburban neighborhoods. Your role will be to help out in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) related subjects and lessons where you can, as per the instructions provided. Your engagement with students in the classes will help the students learn in a fun way and can include a variety of activities such as lessons in Mathematics, Computer Classes, Engineering, Games and more. Your creative input at these schools will be beneficial and may go a long way to broadening the scope of STEM learning for local Cartagena children and students.

There are a variety of exciting subjects that you can help teach, including:

Computer Classes (Internet, Software programs, Hardware)
Mathematics (Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Arithmetic)
Science Classes
Computer Coding Classes
Computer Learning
Safe and ethical use of Internet and Social Media classes
STEM related Games and Plays
Engineering & Handicraft Classes
Your Role
Your role in this program is both diverse and impactful, encompassing a range of responsibilities to support the local educational community.

Here are the key aspects of your role, presented in a professional bullet-point format:

Assisting Local Teachers:
Collaborate closely with dedicated local educators in STEM subject classes.
Employ interactive STEM tools such as games, projects, and educational activities to make learning an enjoyable experience.
Organizing Extracurricular Activities:
Take the initiative in planning and supervising extracurricular STEM related activities for students.
These activities may encompass games, workshops, seminars, fostering holistic development.
Creative Lesson Planning:
Develop innovative and engaging STEM lesson plans to enhance the learning process.
Encourage active student participation and involvement in their education.
Fostering STEM skills and Cultural Understanding:
Interact with students aged 5 to 18, promoting their STEM and English Language skills.
Facilitate cultural exchanges to broaden their global awareness and understanding.
Availability and After-School Engagement:
Be ready to participate in after-school activities as needed to further support the local community.
Lesson Preparation:
Dedicate time to meticulously plan and prepare lessons for the following day.
Maintain a well-structured and organized approach to the teaching process.
Enriching the Learning Experience:
Bring STEM teaching materials, including games, books, computers, laptops/tablets, smart phones and other lesson materials
Share cultural items from your home country to introduce a global perspective into the learning environment.
Your role holds significant importance in the program, as it contributes to the educational advancement of students and fosters collaborative efforts with local educators to create a positive impact on the community’s future. Your enthusiasm and dedication will leave a lasting impression on the young learners, cultivating a passion for STEM learning, accessibility to the online world, education, employment and economy and promoting cross-cultural understanding.

Aims & Objectives
Boost STEM Proficiency and Cultural Awareness:
Elevate the STEM knowledge, Exposure to STEM subjects and STEM skills of young learners in Cartagena.
Expand cross-cultural understanding by exposing students to a diverse array of perspectives and experiences.
Empower Participants with Teaching Assistant Experience and Life Skills:
Provide participants with invaluable teaching assistant experience.
Foster the development of leadership, communication, and adaptability skills through engaging teaching opportunities.
Strengthen the Learning Environment through Support to Local Teaching Staff:
Extend essential assistance and support to the local teaching team.
Collaborate closely with educators to establish a dynamic and interactive learning atmosphere
Providing Safe access for the children & students to the online world.
This program donates and financially supports the purchase of digital equipment such as; computers, laptops, Ipads/Tables, Smart Phones to the schools, children and students to provide access to the digital online world.
Supports the safe and responsible use of the internet and the online world towards the students by providing Safety and Ethical use of the Internet guidance classes.
Schedule
Monday
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 to Friday
Breakfast
Teaching STEM Education Sessions and Activities at School.
Lunch
Teaching STEM Education Sessions and Activities at School.
Preparations of Lessons/Topics/Activities for the next day.
Dinner
***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions / local holidays and unforeseen circumstances.

You will be giving your time to the community to help maintain buildings such as schools and retirement homes, as well as recycling gardens and sports fields.

Many local government and community projects need help to maintain buildings and gardens and to build new facilities. Depending on funding, you may even be involved in bio-gardening projects, biogas projects, and river or beach cleaning. Some of what you do will cross over with the activities of participants on other projects.

This project, supported by the local government and community leaders, allows you to work on a range of tasks aimed at improving public spaces. You’ll help maintain and paint buildings, assist with construction, care for green spaces, and support environmental efforts. If you stay for more than a week, you can expect a varied and engaging workload, allowing you to work on multiple types of projects.

Program Highlights
Contribute to local community and environmental projects.
Work on building maintenance, construction, and green space preservation.
Participate in bio-gardening, biogas, and clean-up projects (subject to funding).
Support local government and community projects.
Collaborate with other participants and local workers.
Your Role
Helping to maintain and paint buildings.
Assisting with construction tasks.
Caring for and improving green areas, such as recycling gardens.
Supporting environmental projects like river or beach clean-ups.
Working as part of a team with other volunteers and local staff.
Aims & Objectives
Provide practical support to improve the community and local infrastructure.
Contribute to environmental sustainability through clean-up and gardening efforts.
Promote cultural exchange by working with local communities and learning from each other.
Foster collaboration between participants, local staff, and community members.
Schedule
Monday
Welcome meeting, introduction to the program, house rules, health and safety advice.
Social gathering with fellow participants and local community members.
Start with a welcome meeting to go over house rules, expectations, and safety tips. Complete any needed paperwork. Learn about Costa Rican culture, including basic language skills and local customs.

Tuesday to Friday
Spend your days working on construction and renovation projects. Help improve the community while learning practical skills and making a positive difference.
***This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.

Set off on a linguistic adventure as you explore the exciting world of Spanish while immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of Cartagena’s culture, and way of life.

Our program is a revolutionary approach to mastering Spanish. Experience tailored coaching from our skilled educators as well as the unique opportunity to form long-lasting bonds with your classmates in an exciting learning environment, all while honing your linguistic prowess.

Experience a swift and highly effective Spanish language immersion that seamlessly blends with the vibrant Colombian culture. Dive into the heart of Cartagena, savoring its local flavors and embracing its carefree, exuberant way of life.

In the course of your Spanish journey, you’ll dedicate a full 20 hours to enhancing your communication skills. You’ll explore the language’s grammatical complexities and hone your conversational skills in a small group of no more than six students, ensuring you get plenty of teacher attention. As you visit neighborhood cafés, lively markets, and quaint stores while applying your newfound language abilities, this close-knit atmosphere fosters not only learning but also genuine interactions with your fellow learners and the welcoming people.

As a newcomer to our program, you’ll kick off your adventure with a placement exam on your first day, an assessment tailored to your unique language aptitude. The duration of this test depends entirely on your Spanish proficiency. Once one of our dedicated instructors evaluates your results, you’ll be seamlessly integrated into the ideal class for your level, commencing your exciting language journey!

Program Highlights
Intensive Spanish Immersion – Engage in 20 hours of structured language learning per week in small, interactive groups.
Cultural Integration – Experience the vibrant Colombian way of life through local markets, cafés, and community interactions.
Placement Exam – Begin with a tailored language assessment to ensure the best learning experience for your skill level.
Colombian Culture & History – Gain deeper insights into Colombian traditions, customs, and historical background.
Cooking Experience – Learn to prepare authentic Colombian dishes in a hands-on culinary session.
Guided Local Orientation – Explore the neighborhood, locate essential amenities, and get assistance with setting up a local SIM card.
Flexible Evenings – Enjoy free time for self-study, socializing, or exploring Cartagena’s dynamic atmosphere.
Your Role
Active Learner – Participate in Spanish language classes, engage in group discussions, and practice with locals.
Cultural Enthusiast – Immerse yourself in Colombian customs, cuisine, and daily life.
Responsible Participant – Adhere to house rules, respect cultural norms, and follow safety guidelines.
Independent Explorer – Make the most of your free time to practice Spanish in real-life settings and explore Cartagena’s rich heritage.
Aims & Objectives
Learn Spanish quickly and effectively to improve your communication skills
Experience an immersion into Colombian culture, meet people and enjoy local cuisine
Schedule
Monday
Breakfast
Introduction, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice and handling of documents.
Colombian Do’s and Don’ts, Colombian History & Culture 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 to Friday
You will have four hours of class a day, for a total of 20 hours per week. A typical day may include:

Breakfast
Embark on your morning Spanish class (2 hours) at your learning destination.
Lunch
Proceed back to your engaging afternoon Spanish class (2 hours).
Dinner
The remainder of the day is yours for independent learning or leisure time, allowing you to make the most of your newfound knowledge and explore at your own pace

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