Colombia Hits Record 6.4 Million International Visitors in 2025

Colombia’s tourism authority ProColombia confirmed that the country welcomed 6.4 million international visitors in 2025 - a new all-time record, surpassing the previous high of 5.7 million set in 2023. The 12% year-on-year increase reflects sustained demand from North American, European, and Latin American travellers who have embraced Colombia as one of the hemisphere’s most compelling destinations.

What’s Driving the Surge

Three regions accounted for the bulk of arrivals. Cartagena on the Caribbean coast remained the most visited city by international tourists, drawing visitors to its walled Old City, nearby Rosario Islands, and growing range of boutique hotels. Medellín continued its transformation story, attracting travellers interested in urban innovation, street art, and access to the Antioquia countryside. And the Coffee Cultural Landscape - spread across Caldas, Risaralda, Quindío, and part of Valle del Cauca - saw its strongest visitor numbers since earning UNESCO World Heritage status, as coffee farm stays and experiential tourism expanded rapidly.

Bogotá also benefited, with La Candelaria’s colonial architecture and a fast-growing restaurant scene drawing more city-break visitors from the United States and Spain than in any previous year.

Key Source Markets

The United States remained the top source country by a wide margin, accounting for approximately 1.3 million arrivals. Mexico, Spain, Brazil, and Argentina rounded out the top five. Notably, visitors from Germany and France grew by more than 20% compared to 2024, a sign that European awareness of Colombia as a travel destination is strengthening steadily.

Infrastructure Investment Behind the Numbers

Colombia’s aviation sector expanded in 2024–25, with Bogotá’s El Dorado International Airport completing a new international pier and Medellín’s José María Córdova Airport opening additional international gates. Budget carriers increased frequency on routes from Miami, New York, and Madrid, making Colombia more accessible to mid-range travellers who previously might have chosen other Latin American destinations.

The government also rolled out a digital entry permit system that simplified paperwork for visitors from 60 countries, reducing friction at borders and encouraging longer stays.

Outlook for 2026

ProColombia has set a target of 7.2 million visitors for 2026, supported by a new international marketing campaign launching in Q3. The strategy focuses on positioning Colombia’s biodiversity - the country is home to roughly 10% of the world’s plant and bird species - alongside its cultural depth, aiming to attract travellers who want more than a beach holiday.

For travellers planning a Colombia trip, the record numbers are a reminder to book accommodation in Cartagena and the coffee region well in advance, especially over peak periods in December–January and June–August when Colombian domestic tourism also peaks.