Pros: Since travel agencies have connections with airlines, hotels, and tour groups, they're (theoretically) well-positioned to get you discounted rates. 

Cons: Many travel agents work on commission—the more you spend, the more commission they receive. That means your dream Colombia itinerary might turn out to be a cookie-cutter trip, as agents will lean towards working with the companies that they know. As a result, your three days in Bogota might be filled with, well—filler activities. 

Ideally, trip planners who aren’t paid commission are the way to go here—especially if they can also help you budget your itinerary.

Pros: Travel agents are known for their experience with trip planning. Generally, they're experts when it comes to Colombia tourism. 

Cons: Most travel agents rarely travel to Colombia—and far fewer have actually lived there. Experience with trip planning simply can't replace local knowledge.

When you have a local plan your trip, they can share their experience and personal recs—whether you're hoping to explore Medellin or enjoy the beautiful Rosario Islands.

Pros: Agents will generally provide travelers with a list of experiences to choose from—including day trips, lodging options, and different guided tours. However, these lists are limited to the agents' connections in any given country. 

Cons: You're effectively choosing from a list given to everyone else. If you want to spend 10 days in Colombia or if your Colombian itinerary spans 2 weeks or more, an agent will likely plan a trip that’s rigid and narrow in scope.

You're unique—and your travel style is, too. Maybe you want to embark on exciting day trips from Bogota. Or maybe you're hoping to travel to Colombia as a family. If you really want to customize your Colombia experience, travel agencies may not be the best fit for you.

Pros: Travel agents can give well-researched advice about staying safe in Colombia. 

Cons: You simply can't beat local, insider knowledge. Trip planners who live in Colombia can give plenty of advice on Colombia safety—drawn from their personal experiences.

Pros: Of course, travel agents will be available to answer all your Colombia questions as they plan your trip. They can offer valuable insight and advice. 

Cons: This can be a different story once you arrive in Colombia. When you work with a local to plan your trip, they're more accessible. They're in your time zone—and will be available via phone if you run into issues during the course of your Colombia itinerary.

Pros: If an agent specializes in Colombia, then they'll be an expert about Colombian travel.

Cons: Nothing can replace local knowledge. If you have an agent plan your trip, you might get a good map to Colombia's big cities. But you'll miss out on the hidden gems that only locals know—coffee farms and islands that take some local know-how to find.

If you want to see Colombia like a local—not a tourist—work with one to plan your trip. Locals can create a unique itinerary customized to your interests and budget. 

A local trip planner can design a guidebook full of Colombia's unmissable highlights and incredible hidden gems. Plus, they'll be available with phone support in case you run into issues during your trip.

Welcome to traveling Colombia like a local.