Tourism Rises as Colombia’s Second-Largest Economic Engine

Colombia’s tourism industry has emerged as the country’s second-largest economic sector, driven by strategic efforts to position it as a global destination.

The Colombian Association of Travel and Tourism Agencies (ANATO) plays a key role in this transformation, promoting the country’s diverse offerings and facilitating business opportunities.

The 44th Vitrina Turística ANATO, taking place in Bogotá from February 26 to 28, 2025, exemplifies these efforts, bringing together over 27,000 participants, including representatives from 46 countries and 5,000 companies.

This event, regarded as Latin America’s most important tourism fair, fosters business growth through 13,000 scheduled meetings—10% more than last year—and is expected to generate $130 million USD in deals.

It also features initiatives like “Anato Capacita Tech,” which focuses on integrating technology into tourism practices. These efforts reflect Colombia’s commitment to strengthening its tourism sector and expanding its reach.

Colombia’s Tourism Boom

In 2024, Colombia welcomed 6.7 million international tourists, an 11% increase from the previous year, generating $9.5 billion USD in revenue. Tourism now contributes 4% of the nation’s GDP and supports over 1.3 million jobs. Public-private partnerships have been pivotal in this growth.

Government-led campaigns by Fontur promote Colombia internationally, while private investments improve infrastructure and connectivity. Despite its success, the industry faces challenges in security, infrastructure development, and domestic affordability due to high taxes.

Addressing these issues could further enhance Colombia’s competitiveness in the global market. Emerging destinations like the Amazon and Coffee Axis highlight efforts to diversify offerings beyond traditional hotspots like Bogotá and Cartagena.

ANATO collaborates with local operators in underdeveloped regions to improve their appeal and connect them with international markets. Colombia aims to attract 10 million international tourists annually by 2026 through sustainable practices and expanded offerings.

The Vitrina Turística ANATO serves as a critical platform for achieving this goal. It also showcases Colombia’s progress and potential for continued growth in the global tourism market.