Engineering & Construction Tour in Colombia

Your adventure has begun as you travel to Medellin, Colombia. As your plane descends, take a look out of your window to see the country’s lush rainforests, flowing waterfalls, and bustling cities. A local guide will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel. 

The afternoon is yours to explore your environment. Venture into the nearby markets, take a dip in the infinity pool, or go for a nature walk on a nearby path. In the evening, you’ll meet with your group and guide for authentic Colombian cuisine, a great opportunity to get to know your guides and ask questions about your volunteer teaching experience.

Begin the day with a short drive to a small school on the outskirts of Medellin where you will be teaching teenagers and young adults about engineering and construction. This morning, you will have a couple of hours of orientation and training, as well as meet the students you will be teaching. Following this, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before driving to Guatape. This town is known for its cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. Can you climb all 740 steps of the Piedra del Penol? As a reward, you’ll experience breathtaking panoramic views of the town’s surrounding hills and lakes.

Today is your first day of classes! Be sure to review your syllabus on your ride to the school. Don’t worry! Head teachers will be around to assist you if necessary. You’ll do great. Enjoy a delicious Colombian lunch as a reward before heading to the countryside. Buckle your helmet and jump on an ATV to room through the rolling hills. Zoom up steep mountainsides and dip into ravines and valleys on the other side. Take time to breathe in the crisp air and appreciate the spectacular scenery that surrounds you.

Another morning of classes. As you teach your students the mechanics of engineering and construction, be sure to ask what they are interested in constructing. This will help guide the relevancy of your lessons. Enjoy a homemade lunch with locals before heading out to the coffee plantation of Avoeden. That’s right! Today, you will learn how to brew the perfect cup of coffee by professional brewers and workers! Try out different methods of brewing coffee. Next, enjoy drinking your coffee samples with laughter, joy, and good company. Delish!

Make your way back to the school where your students will be waiting eagerly for you. By this time, you’ll have built a strong relationship with your students. Seeing them grow and learn is one of the most exciting parts of teaching. After lunch, it’s time to saddle up as you arrive at the Medellin Equestrian Center. Choose your favorite horse for a trail ride through the majestic, evergreen mountains. Stop at a tropical watering hole for a swim before heading back to your hotel.

This morning you will complete your final day of teaching. Colombian citizens do not have the same opportunities for education and careers as you do in your home country. Take heart that your teaching has made a significant impact on your students’ lives. After lunch and goodbyes, you’ll make your way to a nearby nature reserve. Gear up for a zip-lining adventure through the jungle! Take in views of stunning waterfalls and canyons as you fly. Next, you’ll make your way to the hanging mountain hammocks. Are you brave enough to hang 150 meters above the ground?

It has been both an adventurous and educational week in Colombia. Enjoy a final breakfast with your group and guides. Talk about your favorite memories. Next, head to the airport for your departure flight home.