Colombia's tourism boom transforms lives near the legendary Mavecure mountains
Colombia’s tourism industry has hit a new high in 2025, with a record 3.1 million international visitors arriving in the first eight months alone. This surge follows years of growth, boosted by the country’s stunning landscapes—from Caribbean beaches to the Amazon jungle—and a landmark peace agreement signed in 2016. One of Colombia’s most striking natural wonders, the Mavecure mountains, has become a magnet for adventurers. These three towering rock formations rise nearly 2,000 feet from the jungle floor, offering breathtaking views of the winding Inírida River below. Climbing even the smallest peak takes a few hours, with steep sections requiring guide ropes and ladders.
The mountains hold deep cultural significance for the Puinave and Curipaco Indigenous peoples, who often ascend them to leave offerings to the spirits. Meanwhile, the surrounding Amazon rainforest pulses with life, its sounds—howler monkeys, parrots, and frogs—serving as nature’s alarm clock. The rise in tourism has transformed local livelihoods. Many residents near Mavecure have shifted from gold mining to jobs in hospitality and guiding, capitalising on the growing number of visitors. Colombia’s reputation as a bird-watcher’s paradise, with 1,900 avian species, has also drawn nature enthusiasts from around the world.
The peace treaty of 2016 opened Colombia’s doors wider to international travellers, and the numbers continue to climb. With its mix of dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage, the country is cementing its place as a top global destination. For communities like those near Mavecure, the shift from mining to tourism marks a new chapter in their economy.
