Activities carried out by foreigners in Colombia

Colombia is considered an attractive destination for foreigners for several reasons. According to the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, more than 4.6 million foreign visitors arrived in the country last year, and in the first quarter of this year 1.4 million non-resident tourists were registered, representing an increase of 49% over the same period last year.

The following are some of the factors that contribute to its attractiveness:

Natural beauty and geographic diversity: Colombia boasts an incredible variety of landscapes including Caribbean beaches, tropical rainforests, towering mountains, fertile valleys and colonial cities. This geographic diversity attracts tourists seeking outdoor experiences and a connection with nature.
Cultural and archaeological heritage: Colombia has a rich pre-Columbian and colonial history, with a variety of archaeological sites and well-preserved colonial cities. Places such as Cartagena, Bogota, Medellin and Santa Marta offer an attractive combination of history, architecture and vibrant culture.
Gastronomy: Colombian cuisine has gained international recognition in recent years. The variety of traditional dishes, such as bandeja paisa, ajiaco, sancocho and arepas, offer a unique culinary experience for visitors who wish to explore the local gastronomy.
Adventure and active tourism: Colombia offers numerous adventure activities, such as hiking in the Tayrona National Natural Park, scuba diving in the Corales del Rosario and San Bernardo National Natural Park, paragliding in Medellin, rafting on the Chicamocha River and bird watching in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta region.

As for the main activities carried out by foreigners in Colombia, these may vary according to individual interests and preferences.

Some of the most common activities include:

Cultural tourism: Foreigners visit museums, art galleries, archeological sites and colonial cities to learn about Colombia’s history and culture.
Ecotourism and nature: Foreigners enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, scuba diving, snorkeling and exploring national parks to appreciate the country’s rich biodiversity.
Beach tourism: The beaches of Colombia’s Caribbean coast, such as Cartagena, Santa Marta, San Andres and Providencia, attract visitors seeking to enjoy the sun, sea and water activities.
Adventure tourism: Colombia offers a wide range of exciting activities, such as paragliding, rafting, canopy, mountain biking and rock climbing, which appeal to adventure and adrenaline lovers.
Gastronomic tourism: Foreigners enjoy exploring Colombian gastronomy, visiting traditional restaurants, local markets and participating in culinary tours to taste typical dishes and authentic flavors.

These are just some of the most popular activities, but Colombia offers a wide variety of experiences to satisfy the interests and desires of foreign visitors.