Colombia 2026

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Traveler Form

You’re joining the Mission Global team as we travel to Bogotá, Colombia!

Now what?

Pre-Trip Requirements

  • PASSPORT. Because passports are required, and can take some time for processing, we encourage you to take care of this as soon as you begin considering a Mission Global Trip with Sacred Mission Church. Here’s a simple place to get you started.

  • PAY YOUR DEPOSIT. The deposit can be paid during the registration process in Church Center via the SMC app. The first $150 deposit is nonrefundable, but counts towards the overall $1550 cost.

  • PARTICIPANT INFORMATION FORM. If you have not already, make sure you fill out the form linked above before June 8th. Anyone not completing the form by that date will not be able to go.

  • JOIN THE MISSION GLOBAL GROUP. Click here to join the Mission Global messaging group and stay up to date on all things global.

  • CULTURAL PREPAREDNESS TRAINING. Below are a few training materials the SMC Global Team has prepared for all trip participants. Please watch the video and read through the documents. These will help you make the most of your upcoming cross-cultural experience!

This video was provided by Live Global and created using CHE methodologies. While it is geared towards missionaries and community development, the principles therein are applicable to this trip and important for global travelers.

Please be sure to also read through the document linked below!

Upcoming 

  • PLANNING SESSIONS. We’ll meet together virtually or at Sacred Mission Church a few times during the months preceding the trip. Be on the lookout for meeting invites soon!

  • PAYMENT & FUNDRAISING. Once you register, you’ll be able to see your remaining balance on Church Center. Any fundraising and sponsorships will be applied before the final payment is due.

  • IN-COUNTRY COMMUNICATION. We will have access to wifi at the AirBnb and the church. Be sure to check with your cell phone provider about international calling and data plans before we leave. Another option is purchasing a data-only eSIM from Airalo or Nomad. This will provide you with a little bit of data for things like maps, email, weather apps. If you want to be able to send a few texts or make some quick calls, Airalo has plans that include SMS and calling.

  • MONEY. Don’t worry about getting cash! The Mission Global team will have some on hand in unlikely event you’ll need some; remember that most of your meals are included in your trip cost. In our experience, most places we’ll be visiting (coffee shops, souvenir stands, etc.) will accept VISA and Mastercard. If you are planning on using a debit or credit card, be sure to contact your financial institution and let them know you’ll be traveling to Colombia and ask about any foreign transaction fees.

Resources

  • THE 3D GOSPEL. If you haven’t participated in one of our 3D Gospel book studies, we would encourage you to read it! The book is a wonderful introduction to different cultures and how the Gospel addresses honor/shame and fear/power worldviews, available here.

  • LEARN MORE ABOUT COLOMBIA. View the US State Department country information (don’t worry, we won’t be traveling to dangerous regions), learn more about Bogotá, and check the weather.

  • HEALTH & SAFETY. No vaccinations are required to travel to Colombia, but you might want to make sure you’re up to date on the routine ones live MMR and DTP; we will not be visiting anywhere with active Malaria or Typhoid. Please check with your health insurance provider to understand what is covered while traveling abroad.

FAQs

  • In late July and August, Bogotá experiences a mix of weather patterns, typical for the city situated at a high elevation. Daytime temperatures generally hover around 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, while nights can drop to the low 40s. Rainfall is common during this time, contributing to the city’s lush green surroundings. Overcast skies may dominate, yet occasional breaks in the clouds can provide a glimpse of sunshine.

  • Bogotá, the vibrant capital of Colombia, is a culinary haven that offers a diverse array of flavors and dishes. The city is known for its rich cultural influences, which are reflected in its food scene. From traditional Colombian staples like arepas and bandeja paisa to international cuisine, there is something for every palate. Street food vendors serve up tempting treats such as empanadas and buñuelos, while upscale restaurants showcase innovative takes on classic dishes. With its bustling markets and lively dining atmosphere, Bogotá invites food lovers to explore its unique gastronomic landscape.

  • Most of your meals (and a few snacks) will be provided as part of your trip cost. However, if you think you’ll need a bite to eat on the plane or something throughout the day, please feel free to pack some snacks that are easy to eat on the go like: nuts, granola bars, crackers, beef jerky.

  • While Bogotá is generally safe, there is always risk involved in traveling to a foreign country. Be sure to take basic precautions such as never traveling alone or at night, stay aware of your surroundings, and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas.

    Only use registered taxi services or rideshare apps (like Uber) for transportation and avoid displaying valuable items in public.

    Do not carry your cell phone prominently or look at it too much while walking in public.

    Keep emergency contacts handy, put a photocopy of your passport in your purse or bag, and consider learning some basic Spanish phrases to communicate effectively.

    Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency (we will complete this a part of the planning process).

  • Sure! Here is a photo album from the 2022 Mission Global trip, but keep in mind this is from a retreat that was outside of Bogotá. 2022 Photos

    You can also check out the Verdad y Gracia website and follow their Wayuu Mission on Instagram

  • There is no shortage to things to do and places to go in Bogotá! Here are a few places within walking distance of where we’ll be staying and some options for our tourist day (funicular to Montserrat is included in the trip cost):

  • Most establishments, including restaurants and shops, accept credit and debit cards, but some smaller vendors and markets may only accept cash.

    It is not necessary to bring any cash, but if you plan on purchasing any gifts or souvenirs where cards are not accepted, the Mission Global team will have some cash on hand.

    The current exchange rate is 4400 Colombian Pesos to 1 USD.

Learn more about Verdad y Gracia Here

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