Small Group Travel - Tips for Colombia

Project Background

Our Colombia programme is led by Brendan Topp and his wife Josie, who live in Barichara and run Jakera Colombia, a volunteering and adventure NGO. They are great fun and will show you a fantastic time, guiding you through life off the grid and helping you contribute meaningfully to local community projects.

Through their local contacts, you’ll experience more than just tourism - you’ll become part of the community and culture.

Brendan and his team will lead us in supporting two of their favourite initiatives, ensuring we make a real impact while enjoying a memorable adventure.

The Leap's Midlife Adventure Programme Colombia programme is led by Brendan Topp and his wife Josie, who live in Barichara and run Jakera Colombia

Accommodation + Meals

ACCOMMODATION
Throughout your adventure, we’ve carefully selected a mix of locally owned hotels and hostels that capture the adventurous spirit of the journey, ensuring you stay in authentic, comfortable places while embracing the local culture. The exact place will be determined by the numbers but to give you a flavour of what to expect have a look here.
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Barichara (similar properties to this): www.greatsmallhotels.com/barichara-boutique-hotels/hotel-hicasua
Tayrona National Park: El Viajero hostal and https://hotelparquetayrona.com/en/
Cartagena: Osh Hotels
Islas del Rosario: Coralina Island

‍FOOD
Throughout your journey, breakfast and lunch are included, however for supper, we’ve left you the flexibility to explore the local restaurant scene.

Colombia is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, and each region offers its own unique flavours. From hearty stews and sizzling meats to fresh seafood and tropical fruits, you'll have the chance to experience the best of local dining at your own pace.

The Leap travel adventure to Santa Marta, Cartagena – an Optional Island Escape

Colombia Essentials

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

You’ll find Wi-Fi in most places throughout the trip, from boutique hotels to local cafés, so staying connected in Colombia is easy.

If you’d like more consistent access while on the move, local SIM cards with data are widely available and inexpensive. We’ll help you get set up on arrival if you choose to go that route.

Weather & Travel Times

Expect warm days with plenty of sunshine, perfect for wandering colourful streets and soaking up the country’s vibrant energy.

In Barichara, the altitude brings cooler evenings and early mornings, so it’s worth packing a light jumper or jacket for added comfort. By contrast, down on the Caribbean coast, the weather turns hot, humid, and tropical, ideal for beach days, but you’ll want light, breathable clothing and plenty of sun protection.

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

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.

Vaccinations

The following vaccinations and medications are recommended as a guide, but please consult your doctor for personalised advice:

Hepatitis A
Tetanus
Typhoid

Money

Local currency is the Colombian peso. We recommend bringing a debit card and/or a Revolut (or similar) card for convenience and security.

ATMs are widely available across Colombia, making it easy to withdraw money as needed.

What to Pack?

Clothes

A selection of light weight trousers and shorts
T- shirts and lightweight shirts
1 pair trail shoes for the hikes
1 pair casual shoes and flip flops
Beach wear: sun hat, swimmers etc.
Going out gear for when you’re off out in the evenings – vibe is kaftan chic
Hiking and yoga clothes
A light jacket for the cooler evenings in Barichara

Equipment

Rucksack 80 litres
1 water bladder to slot into your rucksack and water bottle
Day rucksack - 20 ish litres - make sure this has comfortable straps and a waist belt to take the weight. You will need it for all the hikes
Towel/sarong
1 pair of working gloves – a pair of sturdy gardening gloves will do the job
Plug adapter - American style required
Sunglasses
Portable phone charge

Toiletries & Medical

Basic everyday toiletries
Sun cream/after sun
Insect repellent
Rehydration powders
Savlon/E45/Sudocrem
Antihistamines
Immodium
Mediplasters
Personal Medication: Bring extra supplies, know the generic names of your medication, and ensure you can manage allergies (e.g. carry an epipen if necessary).

MIDLIFE Programme

Colombia Good to know

community development + jungle challenge + historic sites + beach bliss