Colombia reaches the historic figure of 6.2 million non-resident tourists in 2024, surpassing the initial goal of 6 million projected for this year. The milestone was celebrated at El Dorado Airport, where the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism gave a symbolic welcome to the 6.2 millionth tourist.
Minister Luis Carlos Reyes Hernández highlighted that this achievement is the result of a focus on sustainable and community tourism, and the promotion of unique experiences that emphasize the country’s natural and cultural richness and resilience.
According to figures from the Ministry based on data from Civil Aviation and Migration Colombia, the country received 5.3 million non-resident visitors up to October 2024, a 9.4% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This growth significantly surpasses previous records and positions Colombia as a key destination in South America.
In comparison, in 2023, the country received 5.5 million non-resident tourists, which already represented a 26.1% increase compared to 2022. These results reflect the sustained success of the tourism strategy under the #ElPaísDeLaBelleza label.
The 2022-2026 Tourism Sector Plan is fundamental to this success. This plan focuses on enhancing emerging destinations like the Colombian Pacific and La Guajira, as well as strengthening collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Deputy Minister of Tourism, Juan Manrique Camargo, pointed out that tourism in Colombia is transforming into a proposal of integral experiences and community engagement, characteristics that make it attractive to international visitors.
The 6.2 millionth tourist arrived in Colombia from São Paulo (Brazil) on a flight with Avianca, whose extensive network of international destinations is key to connecting the country with the world. Felipe Andrés Gómez, Vice President of Public Affairs and Sustainability at Avianca, emphasized that more than 90% of tourists visiting Colombia travel by plane.
Domestic tourism also celebrates
In addition to international tourism, the growth of domestic tourism is remarkable. According to the Internal Tourism Expenditure Survey (EGIT), 7.8% of Colombians made recreational trips in 2024, an increase of 0.8% compared to 2023. Air transport was consolidated as the primary means, with a 56.6% increase.
