La guianza en Colombia y la región, una mirada desde lo académico: Guidance in Colombia and the region, an academic perspective

Abstract

This article aims to bring the reader closer to the context of the activity of the tourist guide from an institutional, academic and professional perspective. Thus, the document gathers through the presentation of several sections, the dynamics surrounding this activity in Colombia and some Latin American countries among them: Chile, Peru, Costa Rica and Mexico. In addition to the contribution made to this activity from Spain.
The activity of guiding is part of a series of skills and abilities that the professional must develop in this matter. In this sense, establishing high standards in the provision of the guide service forces the guide to train and update constantly. Additionally, the formalization and compliance with the regulations that he is obliged to comply with depending on the place or country where he develops the activity.
The method used in the design of this document is established under the review of the literature or state of the art, seeking to broaden the context of formation and action that surrounds the activity of the guide through the consultation, organization and analysis of secondary sources.
The most relevant findings of the research are oriented to the dynamics of action of the tour guide depending on its field of action. That is, it is usual to find the formation of the guide at levels of specialization in different typologies; the adventure guide, the specialist in birdwatching, the cultural guide, nature, among others. These levels of focus in certain fields of action allow the guide a greater recognition and appreciation in the professional scenario.
Finally, comparative information associated with the training and formalization requirements of tourism guides from Colombia and countries of the region is presented, finding in some cases similarities in terms of requirements, training times and requirements for the formalization and provision of the service.