Gap Year Programme

Leap to Colombia

enviromental conservation + lost city Challenge + historic sites

Discover why our Gap Year Leap to Colombia is so much more than stunning landscapes. This 4-week journey takes you beyond the ordinary—into the heart of a country rich in culture, connection, and adventure. Guided by our expert local team, you’ll build meaningful relationships, support impactful projects, and experience Colombia at its most authentic.

Kick off your adventure in Barichara – a beautiful little town tucked into Colombia’s dramatic canyons. You’ll spend two weeks here getting stuck into community and environmental projects, with plenty of time to explore waterfalls, coffee farms, and the epic Chicamocha Canyon.

Next stop: Colombia’s Caribbean coast, where golden beaches meet the jungle-covered Sierra Nevada mountains. You’ll help out with a brilliant children’s project while tubing down rivers, wandering Cartagena’s colourful streets, and tackling the iconic Lost City 4 day trek.

This isn’t just a trip to see Colombia’s hidden gems – it’s a chance to travel with purpose. You’ll make a real impact, stretch your comfort zone, and build meaningful connections. Expect unforgettable memories and a fresh perspective on the world.

Programme Summary

available months:
Jan + Mar + Apr + Jul
COST:
2025 £2995, 2026 £3320
Locations:
Central Highlands + Caribbean
Accommodation:
Mix of Hostels
Stay Length:
4 weeks
Environments:
Canyons + jungle + Beach
Team Size:
16 per departure
Social:
Buzzy Vibes
FITNESS:
Good fitness required for Canyon + Lost City Treks
PROJECT TYPES:
Reforestation + Community + School

Programme Dates + Prices

Colombia Summer Gap July 25
July 10, 2025
4 weeks
£2995
Colombia Gap Year Jan 26
January 15, 2026
4 weeks
£3320
Colombia Gap Year Mar 26
March 5, 2026
4 weeks
£3320
Colombia Gap Year April 26
April 9, 2026
4 weeks
£3320
Colombia Summer Gap July 26
July 9, 2026
4 weeks
£3320

What's included

  • Pre-departure briefing
  • Leap t-shirt
  • Airport pick-up and return transfers for team flight
  • Safety and induction briefing on arrival
  • 24-hour emergency back-up, management and support by UK and in-country team
  • All volunteering projects as described
  • Project-to-project transport
  • Accommodation as described
  • Entrance fees to all activities
  • Breakfast and lunch
  • 2-day camping expedition in Chicamocha Canyon
  • Cross country bus journey to Caribbean coast
  • Tubing down Palomino River
  • 4-day Lost City trek

What's not included

  • International and internal flights
  • Private transfers to and from the airport if you do not arrive on the main team flight
  • Travel insurance
  • Medical expenses
  • Food and accommodation if away from the programme 
  • Alcoholic drinks and some soft drinks
  • Laundry fees
  • Any excursions not listed above
  • Suppers throughout, apart from on the treks when it is included
testimonials

Our reviews speak for themselves

"Everything was amazing.  Josi was amazing throughout the entire trip, helpful, accommodating, and always kind. Socio as well, a great guy who always made sure we were safe without stopping any of the fun. Manuela was lovely and an amazing, young presence. Brendan was incredible on the the lost city trek."
annabell
“The lost city trek was amazing –  loved all aspects of it and really enjoyed the trekking and team aspect. Very helpful when we had an issue with a lost bag before the programme had even started, thank you that was much appreciated”
izzy
“The team at The Leap were so reassuring and helpful that we knew we had made the right decision. It has been a completely life enhancing experience this past month with such a brilliant balance of volunteering, education, endless activities, lots of fun and relaxation in one of the most beautiful parts of the world. The friends he has made along the way are now friends for life. Thank you so much to you all.
melanie

Kickstart your Gap Year

Life’s too short to stay on the side lines. In just 4 weeks, The Leap offers you the chance to make an impact, challenge yourself, and grow in ways you never imagined.  Found your perfect Leap? Then book yourself on.