This day will focus on civil society organizations, cultural heritage preservation, and forms of non-governmental governance through a visit to Fundación Pro Semana Santa, one of Popayán’s most emblematic civic institutions. Participants will explore the social, organizational, and historical dimensions behind the Holy Week processions, a cultural tradition with more than 450 years of history recognized internationally by UNESCO. Discussions will examine how foundations, corporations, religious organizations, and community networks contribute to cultural continuity, civic participation, and local governance structures. Afternoon at leisure with individual reflection assignments and preparation for upcoming group discussions.

After breakfast, participants will begin exploring the atmosphere and historical identity of Popayán, one of the best-preserved colonial cities in Latin America and former capital of the southern territories of Gran Colombia. The visit will provide insight into the city’s role in Colombian independence, political history, religion, and elite intellectual traditions. The walking exploration includes churches, historic university buildings, cultural centers, theaters, plazas, and the ancestral ceremonial hill of El Morro de Tulcán. The group will also visit the campus of Universidad del Cauca, located just a short walk from the historic center. Following lunch at the university, students will engage in dialogue sessions with representatives from grassroots and social organizations connected to the university ecosystem, such as CoCoCauca, ASOM, ANMUCIC, CIMA, Proceso Campesino de La Vega, and PUPSOC, among others. Topics may include ethnic and gender justice, territorial governance, victims of armed conflict, food sovereignty, environmental defense, peasant movements, and community autonomy. Interactive methodologies will encourage students to formulate questions, identify thematic interests, and begin developing reflection papers, field notes, or collective research ideas throughout the trip.

After breakfast, the group will visit one of Popayán’s lesser-known social and cultural spaces: the Bolívar neighborhood market plaza. Once considered one of the city’s traditional commercial centers, the area now reflects many contemporary urban challenges including limited public investment, informal economies, and social vulnerability. Inside the market, participants will encounter local handicrafts, traditional ingredients, and community food practices while engaging with Mesa Larga Cooperative, a women-led initiative focused on preserving ancestral recipes, strengthening food sovereignty, and supporting vulnerable populations through collective gastronomy and social work. The experience will also introduce Popayán’s importance as Colombia’s first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, recognized in 2005 for its culinary heritage and preservation of traditional knowledge. In the afternoon, the group will travel to Hacienda Calibío, a historic colonial estate located approximately 20 minutes outside the city. This emblematic site, visited historically by figures such as Alexander von Humboldt, Francisco José de Caldas, and General Mosquera, will serve as the setting for a reflective writing and discussion session focused on history, memory, territory, and intellectual production. Return to the hotel around 5:00 PM.

This day will focus on civil society organizations, cultural heritage preservation, and forms of non-governmental governance through a visit to Fundación Pro Semana Santa, one of Popayán’s most emblematic civic institutions. Participants will explore the social, organizational, and historical dimensions behind the Holy Week processions, a cultural tradition with more than 450 years of history recognized internationally by UNESCO. Discussions will examine how foundations, corporations, religious organizations, and community networks contribute to cultural continuity, civic participation, and local governance structures. Afternoon at leisure with individual reflection assignments and preparation for upcoming group discussions.

Engage with the inspiring story of Agroarte, a women-led social and productive initiative based in La Muyunga, a rural community in El Tambo, Cauca. Through their work, Agroarte has become a recognized example of how traditional knowledge, sustainable livelihoods, and cultural innovation can contribute to peacebuilding and rural development in former coca-growing regions.

From ancient wisdom to modern rhythm, this Popayán to Cali day trip offers an unforgettable tapestry of Colombian experiences in the department of Cauca. Let your curiosity guide you as you discover the magic of a land where time dances to its own beat, la chirimía (traditional rhythm).

This field-based learning experience examines the social, political, and human dimensions of Medellín's transformation beyond the simplified narratives of drug trafficking popularized by mass media. Through community perspectives, urban spaces, and memory initiatives, students will explore the lasting impacts of narcotrafficking and armed conflict on democratic governance, social inequality, and collective memory. The experience culminates with an interactive encounter with Barrio Comparsa, a community arts organization that uses storytelling, performance, and cultural expression to foster reconciliation and rebuild social bonds in neighborhoods historically affected by violence.

This immersive experience explores Comuna 13 through the perspectives of local artists, educators, and community leaders who have used culture as a tool for social change. Through conversations, creative workshops, and visits to grassroots initiatives, students will examine how Afro-Colombian cultural expressions, youth organizing, and community-based projects have contributed to processes of memory, peacebuilding, and democratic participation in a neighborhood deeply affected by urban conflict.

Explore Medellín's fashion ecosystem through the lens of sustainability, entrepreneurship, and social transformation. Accompanied by a local designer, students will engage with independent brands and creative entrepreneurs who are redefining the fashion industry through ethical production, environmental responsibility, and community-centered business models. The experience offers insight into how design can serve as a vehicle for cultural expression, economic opportunity, and social change.

Step into the vibrant world of the Silleteros, where you’ll marvel at stunning flower arrangements, breathe in the scent of fresh blooms, and feel the artistry that defines Medellín’s iconic Feria de las Flores.

Navigate the serene mangrove tunnels of the Ciénaga de la Virgen in a traditional canoe. Discover how the Afro-Colombian community of La Boquilla restored this vibrant ecosystem, offering a rhythmic encounter with Cartagena’s essential coastal wildlife.

Lift the hood on local life in Cartagena with a tour of Mercado de Bazurto. Discover food, artwork, music, and even magic potions hidden in the narrow lanes.

Immerse yourself in the captivating Zenú Indigenous Heritage Tour in Cartagena. Marvel at gold ornaments at the Zenú Gold Museum, feel the spirit in 20 de Julio neighborhood, and taste traditional maize and coconut beverages. Gain insights into Zenú traditions and be inspired by their resilience.

Connect with the authentic soul of Cartagena, becoming a Changemaker for local communities. Feel the impact of sustainable food gardens and taste the Caribbean flavors in a hands-on cooking class, using the community's own fresh ingredients. Discover a powerful model of social transformation.