Learn Spanish in Bogotá, Colombia 

Colombia, situated in the northern area of South America, is a beautiful and diverse country.  Although it has suffered from years of conflict in some areas, it has developed considerably in recent years and is now safe to visit, offering vibrant cities, pristine beaches, dense jungles, inspiring mountains and, of course, the warmth and genuine friendliness of the Colombian people.  A country full of contrasts, still slightly off the beaten track, Colombia beckons those with a sense of adventure. 

Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, is located in the centre of the country at 2,625m above sea level (the third highest capital in South America) and has over 7 million inhabitants.  Discover the historic centre ‘La Candelaria' with its charming colonial-style buildings and enjoy the energy of this modern university city with restaurants, museums, galleries and cultural events as well as a vibrant nightlife.  All of that with an almost perfect climate, with temperatures averaging approximately 20 ºC throughout the year - the perfect place to improve your Spanish and discover real Colombian culture!

Our school is located in the historic centre, La Candelaria, only a short walk from Plaza de Bolivar, the old city's main square.  The elegant school building, which dates back to the early 19th century, has been well preserved and boasts many of its original features, including tiled floors and high wooden ceilings.  There are 12 classrooms, an internet room with free access to computers and WIFI, and two sunny courtyards where students can socialise during breaks.

Courses are available all year round for a variety of ages and levels.  Please click on one of the options below for more details:

• General Spanish Course
• Individual Spanish Tuition
• Spanish + Volunteering
• Discover Colombia

Cultural activities and excursions are offered throughout the year and include guided visits and excursions in Bogotá, cultural exchanges, films in Spanish, concerts by local musicians, welcome cocktails and nights out.  Once a month, the school organises full day excursions at the weekend to places of interest outside the city of Bogotá.  Most activities are free of charge but students may have to pay entrance fees and transport costs where applicable.  You will receive a copy of the cultural programme upon arrival.

Accommodation is available in local homestays all year round. 

Transfers: arrival and departure transfers for flights arriving into/departing from Bogota City El Dorado International Airport between 8am and 8pm are charged at £30 per person, one way.  Anyone requesting a transfer out with these hours should note that one way will cost £45 per person.

Visa: citizens of the European Union, the USA and Canada do not require a visa to enter Colombia for short term courses (less than 6 months).  However, you will require an invitation letter from our school to show at immigration in order to be allowed to study.  We will provide you with further details upon booking.

School Closure: 1/9 Jan, 19 Mar, 5/6 Apr, 1/21 May, 11/18 Jun, 2/20 Jul, 7/20 Aug, 15 Oct, 5/12 Nov and 8/25 Dec 2012.  The school will be closed on these public holidays and no classes will be held.  Only individual lessons will be rescheduled.

General Spanish Course in Bogotá

This course is designed for those who wish to learn general Spanish language skills, ideal for use in everyday life.  All lessons are taught in Spanish only and teachers discourage the use of any other language in the classroom.  Course fees include a placement test, course certificate, use of school facilities including internet and some cultural/social activities.  Please note that students are required to purchase the course book at the school for approx. 35 US$.  Long term courses are also available for 5+ weeks; please contact us for more details.

General Spanish Course

2012 Start dates

*Complete beginners may only start courses on these dates

#Week beginning 2 April includes two public holidays and therefore there is a reduced price for courses running over this period; please contact us.

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Individual Spanish Courses in Bogotá

Individual tuition is ideal for those who would like intensive learning or those who wish to focus on specific topics as lesson content can be tailored to an individual's needs.  For example, you can request help to develop negotiating, presentation, telephone or writing skills, etc.  This type of course can either be one-to-one with the teacher, or two students together (of the same level) with a teacher.  Course fees include a placement test, course materials and certificate.

One-to-one Tuition

2012 Start dates: Individual courses are flexible and can start on any weekday, except public holidays.

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Spanish + Volunteering in Bogotá

This course combines morning Spanish tuition with 3 or 4 hours of afternoon volunteer work with children, the elderly or internal refugees.  Activities may include: teaching basic English, playing games, leading recreational activities, assisting with daily activities, reading to the elderly, etc.  Course fees include a placement test, course certificate, use of school facilities including internet and some cultural/social activities, as well as the volunteer placement and support.  Please note that for Spanish tuition, students are required to purchase the course book at the school for approx. 35 US$ and will also be required to cover transport costs for their voluntary placement.

2012 Start dates

#Week beginning 2 April includes two public holidays and therefore there is a reduced price for courses running over this period; please contact us.

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Discover Colombia

Perfect your Spanish in Bogotá before heading off into the Amazon rainforest to discover its natural beauty and ecological diversity, as well as the rich culture of the local indigenous communities.  This 5-day Amazon eco-adventure takes place where Colombia borders both Peru and Brazil and includes fully guided activities such as hiking through nature reserves and canoeing down rivers to see pink dolphins.

Amazon Adventure fees include: return flights Bogotá-Leticia-Bogotá; 4 nights' accommodation (1 night hotel in Leticia, 1 night in Marasha Nature Reserve + 2 nights in Amacayacu Park); full board on days 2,3 + 4, dinner only on day 1, breakfast only on day 5; all local transport, guide + activities.

Not included: entrance fee to Leticia + nature reserve (approx. 11 US$), fuel tax*, personal expenses and laundry.  There is a single supplement applicable to the accommodation in Amacayacu National Park, if you wish to opt for a single room - price upon request.

*Fuel tax will vary each month (in 2011, the average was 80 US$ and the maximum charge was 115 US$)

2012 Spanish course start dates

*Complete beginners may only start courses on these dates

#Week beginning 2 April includes two public holidays and therefore there is a reduced price for courses running over this period; please contact us.

2012 Departure Dates for Discover Colombia 

Sample Itinerary:

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Accommodation in Bogotá

Homestay

This type of accommodation is perfect for those who wish to be fully immersed in everyday Colombian life.  These are local homes which have been carefully selected and inspected.  Accommodation is from Sunday to Saturday (1 week = 6 nights).

Standard

With private bathroom

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If you have any questions or would like further information, please contact us by:

Spanish Courses in Bogotá

• General Spanish Course
• Individual Spanish Tuition
• Spanish + Volunteering
• Discover Colombia

More Spanish language course destinations