Less tourists and better prices, discover when to travel.
News Colombia.
Tourism in Colombia continues to rise. In 2024, the country received approximately 7 million international visitors and more than 10 million national tourists, according to the Ministry of Commerce.
Between January and October, 5,325,486 non -resident visitors arrived, 9.4 % more than in the same 2023 period.
This trend reflects the growing interest in Colombian destinations, which offer from paradisiacal beaches to modern cities such as Bogotá, Medellín and Cali.
However, there are seasons in which to travel is more affordable. Between April and June and from September to November, flight and lodging prices fall considerably due to rains.
Although many avoid these months, they are ideal for those who seek to save and enjoy a more authentic tourism, with less agglomerations and an experience closer to local culture.
Cheap travel tips in Colombia
- Reserve in advance: Flights and accommodations are cheaper if they are bought with time.
- Travel during the week: Prices are usually lower from Monday to Thursday.
- Opt for hostels or apartments: More economical alternatives than traditional hotels.
- Eat in local restaurants: Avoid tourist establishments to save.
- Take advantage of free activities: Parks, beaches and museums offer free experiences.
Gringos, the ones that reached the ‘branch of heaven’ last year
Cali consolidated its place as one of the most important tourist destinations in Colombia by receiving more than 3 million visitors In 2024.
This milestone marks significant growth compared to previous years, positioning the capital of Valle del Cauca as a cultural, gastronomic and sports epicenter in the country.
According to official figures, of the 3 million tourists 298,310 were international visitors, a segment that also experienced a rebound thanks to the promotion efforts and international events held in the region.
International tourists who arrived in Cali for 2024 came from various parts of the world, with a predominance of visitors from the United States, Mexico, Spain and Ecuador. In particular, the US market stood out as the main issuer of travelers, attracted by the rich cultural offer of the city and family ties that unite many communities in both countries. Likewise, Europe had an important representation, with tourists from Spain, Germany and France interested in colonial heritage, music and natural landscapes of the region.
The percentages of visitors for nationality are as follows, according to a report by the 30th portal 30: United States (32%), Ecuador (18%), Chile (6%), Panama (5%), Mexico (4%), Spain and Peru (3%), Brazil, Netherlands and Argentina (2%).
Although the Cali Fair, held as every year in December, is one of the main attractions for international visitors, the Medical Tourism It is still a great motivation pillar for foreigners.
Aesthetic treatments, such as plastic surgeries and smile designsthey are the most desired by the foreign who arrive at the ‘Branch of Heaven’ by its Alfonso Bonilla Aragón airport and the transport terminal.
In this item they reached Cali 5,735 visitors in search of doing some type of medical procedure or consultation, achieving an important increase of 34.5% compared to 2023, when it received 4,263 visitors, according to the report of the aforementioned portal.
This event, which highlights sauce and Caleña culture, attracted thousands of foreigners who took the opportunity to enjoy unique parades, concerts and experiences. In addition, the COP16most important environmental event in the world and was developed in October 2024, added an important number to that figure.
At the same time, the biodiversity of Valle del Cauca, with nearby sites such as the Farallones de Cali Natural Park, offered an added value for those who were looking for outdoor adventures.
Cali’s tourism growth has been supported by greater air connectivity, with new direct flights from cities such as Miami, Madrid and Mexico City. This factor has allowed more people to discover the branch of heaven, a destination that combines history, modernity and the characteristic human heat of the caleños. The City Hall and local tourism entities have worked on strategies to improve the experience of travelers, which is reflected in the increase in visits.
Finally, the projections for 2025 are optimistic, with goals that seek Colombia.
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