A land of diversity, Colombia has a unique mix of cultures, languages, dialects, landscapes, culinary and an almost infinite amount of natural resources. Cheerful and friendly people will be there to turn your study abroad experience into a unique adventure. Explore the Caribbean and Pacific Coast, the amazing Amazonas rain forest or snow topped mountains at Ecuadorian latitudes—and experience a lifestyle influenced by indigenous, African, and European heritage. Colombians love their variety of greetings, which are important in everyday encounters.

Teenagers in Colombia spend a lot of their free time with their families, or socializing with friends. They enjoy dancing and music from all over Latin America, the Caribbean and North American. They will be happy to show you their moves and teach you how to dance!

AFS Youth exchange in Colombia

 

People & Community

Your extended host family will play a major role in your spare time activities and intercultural experience in Colombia. Colombian families can be very conservative and protective of their children, no matter how old they are. You should always tell your parents what you are going to do and ask permission.

School

You can attend either a public or private school in Colombia. Depending on the school, the academic year may follow Calendar A (from February until November, which is more frequent) or Calendar B (from August until June). Classes run from Monday to Friday and the hours differ depending on the school. All high school students wear uniforms. Extracurricular activities are offered in some schools and most schools provide bus service in the morning and afternoon.

Language

Food

Food in Colombia is rich in carbohydrates, and meals usually consist of meat, potato, rice, beans and patacon (fried banana). Fruit juices are very popular and you are likely to be surprised by the diversity of fruit available.

A photo posted by AFS Colombia (@afscolombia) on

Explore the Programs Available in Colombia