AFS Summer Global Prep in Colombia
by: AFS-USA
A country known for its welcoming attitude, intersectional cultures, and abundant natural wonders, Colombia offers a host of opportunities to expand your worldview. Here, in the second most biodiverse country in the world, a vibrance for life is reflected in its people, history, and environment. Colombia’s diverse lifestyle is influenced by its indigenous, African, and European heritage. Venture off the tourist track to experience a view of the culture through the eyes of a host family in the mountains of Popayán. You and other students will explore dynamic culture, starting with the ornate churches, colorful markets, and fascinating archeological sites of Popayán! You will also have the chance to venture into lush natural landscapes and take part in activities like horseback riding and hiking. By living with a local host family, you will truly become a part of Colombian daily life as you share conversations and cultural insights around the dinner table. Round out your cultural experience with fun activities like dance lessons, nature walks, and city bike tours. You might even spot a condor – a gigantic bird native to the Andes Mountains – soaring overhead!
A country known for its welcoming attitude, intersectional cultures, and abundant natural wonders, Colombia offers a host of opportunities to expand your worldview. Here, in the second most biodiverse country in the world, a vibrance for life is reflected in its people, history, and environment. Colombia’s diverse lifestyle is influenced by its indigenous, African, and European heritage. Venture off the tourist track to experience a view of the culture through the eyes of a host family in the mountains of Popayán. You and other students will explore dynamic culture, starting with the ornate churches, colorful markets, and fascinating archeological sites of Popayán! You will also have the chance to venture into lush natural landscapes and take part in activities like horseback riding and hiking. By living with a local host family, you will truly become a part of Colombian daily life as you share conversations and cultural insights around the dinner table. Round out your cultural experience with fun activities like dance lessons, nature walks, and city bike tours. You might even spot a condor – a gigantic bird native to the Andes Mountains – soaring overhead!
Program Highlights
Take a historic tour of Popayán, a colonial city.
Go horseback riding in the mountains and tour Silvia’s house of culture and fishing.
Take a traditional Colombian Salsa dance class!
Celebrate Colombian Independence Day by attending the Independence Day Parade!
Explore Puracé Natural Park, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour by the indigenous Cabildo of the region.
Media Gallery
Quick Details
- Colombia
- Heritage Tourism
- Homestay
- Experiential Learning
- Homestays
- American
Awards
Program Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
The best travel experience I’ve had!
November 28, 2024by: Niko Brank - United StatesThis program was amazing; my group and I spent our 2 weeks well exploring all Popayán and the surrounding areas have to offer. The group I went with was great, and the 8 of us got pretty close by the end of the trip, as well as growing close with our AFS staff chaperone, making unforgettable memories. I also grew very to my host mom, who despite not speaking a word of English, we got to know each other very well and she took me to some of Cauca’s most amazing places during family day. Best experience I could ask for in such a short 2 week period. Get ready, future AFSers for an adventure to remember.
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Colombia
Types and Subjects
- Adventure Types
- Heritage Tourism
- Homestay
- Focus Areas
- Experiential Learning
- Homestays
Availability
Years Offered: Year Round
- 1-2 Weeks
- Summer
Age Requirement
14-17
Guidelines
- American
Starts At
Program Cost Includes
- Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
- Medical / Accident Insurance
- Travel Insurance
- Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- In-Country Transportation To & From Project
- International Airfare
- Emergency Support
Accommodation Options
- Home-stays
Qualifications & Experience
- English
Language Skills Required
- Some high school, no diploma
Accepted Education Levels
Application Procedures
- Letters of Reference
- In-Person Interview Required
- Physical Exam/Health Records
- Transcript
- Resume
- Other
- Online Application
- Essay
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the local food like in Colombia?
Whether you eat at home with your host family or go out to local restaurants with your group, you’ll get to enjoy some delicious local foods like Ajiaco (chicken and potato soup) and tostones (fried plantain slices).
How often will my group participate in tours and excursions?
The itinerary on our program's website serves as an outline for the program, and each Global Prep experience will vary based on group size and opportunity. For this particular program, there is a higher degree of outdoor rigor.
Are high school graduates eligible to participate?
Yes, high school graduates are eligible to participate.
Ready to Learn More?
A country known for its welcoming attitude, intersectional cultures, and abundant natural wonders, Colombia offers a host of opportunities to expand your worldview. Here, in the second most biodiverse country in the world, a vibrance for life is reflected in its people, history, and environment. Colombia’s diverse lifestyle is influenced by its indigenous, African, and European heritage. Venture off the tourist track to experience a view of the culture through the eyes of a host family in the mountains of Popayán. You and other students will explore dynamic culture, starting with the ornate churches, colorful markets, and fascinating archeological sites of Popayán! You will also have the chance to venture into lush natural landscapes and take part in activities like horseback riding and ...
AFS-USA
AFS-USA
Ready to Learn More?
A country known for its welcoming attitude, intersectional cultures, and abundant natural wonders, Colombia offers a host of opportunities to expand your worldview. Here, in the second most biodiverse country in the world, a vibrance for life is reflected in its people, history, and environment. Colombia’s diverse lifestyle is influenced by its indigenous, African, and European heritage. Venture off the tourist track to experience a view of the culture through the eyes of a host family in the mountains of Popayán. You and other students will explore dynamic culture, starting with the ornate churches, colorful markets, and fascinating archeological sites of Popayán! You will also have the chance to venture into lush natural landscapes and take part in activities like horseback riding and ...
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