Communication
English is very limited among the local Colombians, so it’s a great idea to brush up on some basic Spanish before your trip.
Don’t worry, though, you’ll be accompanied by an English/Spanish-speaking team guide to help with communication and ensure a smooth experience.
Phones + Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is available in most hostels and volunteer bases but can be patchy, especially in remote areas.
For better connectivity, buy a local SIM card (Claro or Movistar) on arrival, just make sure your phone is unlocked.
Weather & Travel Times
Colombia experiences two primary seasons:
Rainy Season: May - November.
Expect rain showers, often in the afternoon, lasting a few hours.
Dry Season: December to April.
Days are sunnier and drier, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Visas & Entry Requirements
No Visa Needed: EU and US passport holders can stay in Colombia visa-free for up to 90 days.
Check-Mig Form: Complete the online Check-Mig form 72 hours to 1 hour before travel. Keep the confirmation email to show immigration upon arrival.
Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months.
Proof of Exit: You’ll need to provide proof of onward travel, such as your return ticket or evidence of departure by air or land.
Flights
You’ll fly into Bucaramanga Airport and out of Cartagena, with exact dates dependent on flight availability.
Please do not book any flights independently—wait for our admin email, which will include your recommended flight itinerary.
We coordinate flights through Trailfinders, the UK’s most trusted travel brand, offering ATOL-protected "flight only" bookings (ATOL number T1458).
Insurance
For UK Residents: We recommend Campbell Irvine Ltd who have designed a policy specifically with our projects in mind. We suggest you purchase your travel insurance at the earliest opportunity, so you are covered for any insurable reasons in the unlikely event you must cancel having committed to your itinerary or paid for flights.
USA Residents: We recommend Inext who can combine with your exiting medical cover. Most Leapers buy the Platinum Policy.
Vaccinations
The following list is a general guide, please consult your GP or a travel health clinic for personalised medical advice based on your health history and travel plans.
Vaccinations commonly recommended for travel to this region may include:
Hepatitis A
Tetanus (ensure your booster is up to date)
Typhoid
Money
We recommend bringing a combination of a debit card and a Revolut (or similar) card for convenience and security.
ATMs are widely available across Colombia, making iteasy to withdraw money as needed.
For general spending, we suggestbudgeting around $200 per week, though this may vary based on your weekend activities and dining choices.
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