Colombia Gap Year Programme

Through out your first 2 weeks you will experience this fascinating mix of:

Rural Schools: Enriching Education, 3 days
The local mayor and community warmly welcome Leap teams throughout the year to assist in rural schools with English, art, and sports lessons. These sessions are immensely popular with the children, who are eager to learn and enjoy the interaction with you. Rugby and football are especially beloved and fiercely competitive sports here, adding an extra layer of excitement and engagement.

Reforestation: Nurturing Nature and Community, 2 days
Our reforestation project collaborates with the Barichara fire brigade, who oversee a tree nursery dedicated to reforesting community land. Each team plays a crucial role in planting and sowing seeds, directly contributing to the region’s environmental health. As you work, you’ll also have the opportunity to provide impromptu English lessons to the fire brigade, fostering a unique cultural exchange and enhancing community bonds.

Culture, 3 days
You'll explore a traditional coffee plantation, and hike along the historic 300-year-old colonial footpaths known as ‘El Camino Real,’ which connect numerous stunning villages, waterfalls and offer breathtaking views.

Chicamocha Canyon Challenge, 2 days
Embark on a two-day adventure in the awe-inspiring Chicamocha Canyon, a 120-million-year-old natural wonder. Your journey begins by traversing the canyon's crest, then winding through scenic tobacco and goat farms. You'll cool off with a refreshing dip in the river where you’ll set up camp for the night, sleeping in hammocks and being lulled to sleep by the sounds of nature. The next day presents the challenge of hiking out of the canyon, but don't worry, you’ll take it nice and slow, ensuring you savor every moment of this incredible experience, and appreciate the stunning surroundings.

Weekend Adrenaline Adventure
Just 30 minutes away lies San Gil, the adventure capital of Colombia. On weekends, it's a breeze to catch a bus there for some high-octane fun. Whether you’re white-water rafting, bungee jumping, or paragliding, San Gil offers endless thrills to satisfy your adventurous spirit.

Your second phase takes you north to the Caribbean coast, where you'll combine beach time, community volunteering, and tubing down the river at Palomino before embarking on the main challenge: a 4-day trek to the famous Lost City.

The Lost City is located in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. The trek offers incredible biodiversity, rich interactions with indigenous communities, and a challenging yet rewarding trail, making it one of the best in South America.

After reaching the Lost City and exploring its wonders, you'll return to Santa Marta and finally head to the stunning city of Cartagena to explore vibrant markets and beautiful islands before flying home.

Accommodation

Family run hostels
Campsites while trekking - bunk beds or hammocks. Your mozzie net and bedding is provided.

Food

2 meals a day provided. All meals on the trek.

Through out your second 2 weeks you will experience this fascinating mix of:

Community volunteering, 3 days
The plan is for you to spend 3 days helping out at a volunteer kids' foundation, assisting with maintenance and supporting the teachers in the classroom.

The Lost City Trek: An Unforgettable Adventure, 4 days
Embark on the thrilling 4 day Lost City trek in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia—one of South America's top treks. This journey through diverse flora and fauna offers rich interactions with indigenous Kogui communities, preserving the traditions of the ancient Tayronas.

Your adventure begins with a drive to El Mamey, leading to a trail that winds through lush jungles and across the Buritaca River. You'll trek about 5 hours a day, cooling off in crystal-clear rivers, showering under waterfalls, and sleeping in hammocks, beds, or tents with provided mosquito nets and blankets.

Guided by experienced local guides you'll climb 1,200 steps to the Lost City, a breathtaking site with 169 terraces over 30 hectares. This trek is a bucket-list experience, challenging you to connect deeply with nature and prove your capabilities.

Beach time, Santa Marta and Cartagena, 4 days
Before the trek you’ll have a great day of tubing down the river and time to hang out in the fun town of Palomino. After your trek you’ll explore the lively towns of Santa Marta and Cartagena – finding nightlife, great local markets, and boat trips to the stunning nearby islands. These groovy towns are the perfect places to unwind and celebrate your journey before heading home.

This phase of your adventure offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, community contribution, and personal challenge. Embrace the opportunity to make a lasting impact, push your limits, and create unforgettable memories on the Lost City Trek.