Colombia Travel and Tourism

Colombia’s steady economic growth, favorable exchange rates, and strong cultural ties with the United States make it a critical market for tourism to the United States. The United States is the top international destination for Colombian travelers, with 1,068,997 travelers in 2024, and approximately 311 weekly direct flights connecting cities like Bogotá, Medellin, Barranquilla, Cartagena, and Pereira to U.S. hubs like Miami, Orlando, New York City, Houston, Atlanta, and Dallas. New routes from secondary cities like Bucaramanga and Armenia are increasing accessibility for travelers outside traditional urban centers.

Colombian travel to the United States has shown strong growth in recent years, supported by improving economic conditions and increased flight connectivity. In 2023, Colombian travelers to the U.S. were 932,060, and they spent $3.7 billion in expenditures (including airfares), making Colombia the second-largest source of Latin American visitors after Brazil. This trend is expected to continue, with projected increases in both visitor numbers and expenditures in 2025 and beyond.

When do Colombians Travel?

Travel peaks during major Colombian holidays are mid-year school vacations (June–July), end-of-year holidays (December–January), and Semana Santa (Holy Week in March or April). Colombian visitors typically spend 8-10 days in the U.S., visiting 2–3 cities or states per trip.

What are Colombian Travelers Looking For? 

Colombian travelers are motivated by leisure activities such as exploring iconic landmarks, amusement parks, shopping, gastronomy, cultural experiences, and family vacations. They rate the United States highly for its diversity of attractions and ease of access.  Colombian travelers’ popular destinations include Florida (Miami and Orlando), New York, California, Texas, and Washington, D.C.

Colombian visitors contribute to the U.S. economy through tourism expenditures; the average spending per traveler is estimated at $3,000–$4,000 per trip. The key spending categories include retail shopping, dining experiences, accommodation, and entertainment.

To enter the United States, Colombian citizens must possess a valid passport and a U.S. visa.

For more information on how to market your U.S. destination or tourism service to Colombian travelers, please contact the Commercial Specialist Norcia Ward.