Descuentos especiales para nuevos estudiantes
Frequently asked questions
How long can I stay in Colombia?
Most travelers get a 90-day tourist entry. If you want to extend your stay for language studies, we assist in the application for a student visa, which can range from 3 to 18 months.
How much does it cost?
Our pricing varies depending on the intensity of your program and whether you choose online lessons or our in-person private immersion. We offer a variety of options to fit your needs and budget, starting from our Free Trial to specialized Immersion Packs. Please visit our pricing page or contact us for more information.
Do you offer group tours or activities?
While we focus on 1-on-1 personalized instruction for maximum progress, we do offer Cultural Immersion Activities as part of our programs. These include local market visits, coffee tastings, and historical walks which might be helpful to practice your Spanish in real-life settings.
Can Andes Spanish School help me get a student visa?
YES! If you plan to study for more than 3 months, we assist you in applying for a Student Visa (valid for 3 to 18 months). With 17 years of experience from our legacy, we make the process smooth and easy. For more inquiries, WhatsApp us: +57 317 404 2271.
What is Andes Spanish School?
Andes Spanish School is an experiential language center located in the historic heart of El Socorro, Colombia. We are passionate about bringing the Spanish language to life through cultural immersion, real-world practice, and 15 years of professional teaching expertise.
How can I contact you?
You can reach us by WhatsApp at +57 317 404 2271 or via our contact form on our website. We are always happy to answer your questions and help you plan your journey to fluency in the Colombian Andes.
Is El Socorro a safe place to study?
It is one of the safest locations in Colombia due to its small, friendly, and tight-knit community. You can walk the streets freely at almost any hour. As always when traveling, keep an eye on your belongings, but El Socorro is truly a peaceful haven for students.
How much money should I budget for life in Socorro?
El Socorro is very affordable! You can live comfortably with USD $400 – $550 per month.
Accommodation: Ranges from $120 to $250 per month.
Meals: A local lunch is about $5.00, and dinner around $3.50.
It is much more economical than tourist hubs like Cartagena or Medellín.
What is the weather like and what should I pack?
Expect a pleasant tropical mountain climate (17°C - 26°C). It’s usually warm but can rain unexpectedly.
Pack: Light clothes, a light jacket for cooler evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and a raincoat or umbrella.
What currency do I need? Can I exchange money?
The local currency is the Colombian Peso (COP). El Socorro is a cash-based society.
ATMs: You can withdraw cash at local ATMs with international cards.
Exchange: There are no exchange houses in town; the nearest is in San Gil (30 mins away).
Western Union: There is an office near the central park for easy cash transfers.
Is internet available?
Yes! Andes Spanish School has high-speed Wi-Fi for all students. Local SIM cards (Claro or Movistar) are cheap and easy to find for your mobile data needs.
Where will I stay?
We personally help you find the best accommodation, from private apartments to rooms in student residences. Since El Socorro is a university town, finding a place is quick and budget-friendly.
Note: As in many historic Colombian towns, hot running water is rare, but the warm climate makes showers very refreshing!
Can I drink the tap water?
While locals do, we recommend that foreigners stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid any stomach sensitivity.
How do I get around?
Everything in El Socorro is within walking distance! If you need a lift, a taxi anywhere in town is about USD $1.50, and local buses are even cheaper.
What can I do during the weekends?
You are in a prime location!
San Gil (30 mins): The adventure capital for rafting, paragliding, and waterfalls.
Nearby Gems: Visit Barichara (Colombia's most beautiful village).
Big Cities: Bucaramanga is 3 hours away, and Bogotá is a 8-hour scenic bus ride.
Why choose Andes Spanish School?
Because we offer an authentic immersion. Most locals only speak Spanish, so you’ll practice 24/7. With our 17 years of experience, professional native teachers, and the most affordable living standards in the country, it’s the perfect place to truly live the language.
Do I need to know some Spanish before I arrive?
Not at all! We welcome students of all levels, from absolute beginners to advanced speakers. Our 17 years of experience have allowed us to develop a curriculum that helps you start speaking from day one, regardless of your starting point.
How do I get to El Socorro from the airport?
The nearest airport is Palonegro (BGA) in Bucaramanga. From there, it’s a beautiful 3-hour bus ride to El Socorro. We can provide you with detailed instructions on which bus companies to use or even help you arrange a private pick-up service for a stress-free arrival.
Do I need health insurance?
Yes, we strongly recommend having international travel insurance that covers health emergencies. While El Socorro has good medical facilities and pharmacies, having insurance ensures peace of mind during your immersion.
Is there a laundry service or gym in town?
Yes! El Socorro is a vibrant university town. You will find several laundry services (lavanderías) that are very affordable, as well as well-equipped gyms, parks for outdoor exercise, and even a public swimming pool. Everything you need for your daily routine is within walking distance.
How do I get from Bogotá to El Socorro by bus?
To travel from Bogotá, head to Terminal Salitre (Module 3). Look for the ticket counters of Copetran, Omega, or Berlinas, which are the most comfortable and reliable companies.
Important: These buses are usually bound for Bucaramanga, so you must inform the driver and the ticket agent that your destination is El Socorro. The bus will drop you off right at the town's entrance on the main highway.
How do I get from Bucaramanga to El Socorro by bus?
From the Bucaramanga Bus Terminal (Module 1), you have two great options:
Direct Local Service: Take a Cootrasaravita mini-bus. Their final destination is El Socorro, making it a very convenient "door-to-door" option between terminals.
Long-Distance Buses: You can also take any bus heading toward Bogotá (we recommend Copetran, Omega, or Berlinas for more comfort). Just let them know you are getting off in El Socorro; the ride takes approximately 3 hours.