Colombia Travel and Tourism agencies highlight that conservation is the most profitable asset for tourism in Colombia
On Earth Day (April 22), the Colombian Association of Travel and Tourism Agencies (ANATO) highlighted the fundamental role of ecotourism as the most dynamic and promising segment of Colombia tourism industry.
With a global market projected to reach USD 682.37 billion by 2033, Colombia is positioning itself as a world-class competitor thanks to its biodiversity and the strengthening of its protected areas.
Analysis of global trends shows that ecotourism is growing at an annual rate of 14.95%, driven by a new traveler profile, primarily from Generations Y (Millennials) and Z, who demand authentic, sustainable experiences with a positive social impact.
Globally, travel agencies captured the largest market share by 2025, reaffirming that travelers seek safety and expert knowledge when designing itineraries in natural environments. In Colombia, this phenomenon is reflected in the success of the National Natural Parks. After stagnating in 2023/2024, Colombia National Natural Parks received last year more than 2.53 million visitors, exceeding government targets.
Incidentally, Paula Cortés Calle, executive president of ANATO, stated that “ecotourism is no longer a niche market; it is the heart of our export offerings. On this Earth Day, we celebrate that our travel agencies have understood the global demand for sustainability, transforming Colombia’s natural wealth into competitive products. The key has been collaboration with local communities; the more than 1,800 conservation and well-being agreements achieved in recent years guarantee that the tourism we sell today will exist tomorrow.”
The global ecotourism market report highlights that group travel remains the most profitable and popular segment due to its cost efficiency and lower environmental impact per passenger. The report projects the so-called “solo traveler” as the fastest-growing segment by 2033, demanding more flexible and personalized packages; and observes that the use of digital platforms to promote eco-certifications is now the main brand differentiator.
Despite this optimism, ANATO points out that the sector must work to overcome the barriers of high costs compared to conventional tourism. Investment in green infrastructure and tourism quality certification are priorities for maintaining leadership in the region.
“Today, on Earth Day, Colombia not only celebrates its natural beauty, but also the capacity of its entrepreneurs to transform conservation into social well-being and sustainable economic growth. Conservation is the best business for Colombia. The power of communities, combined with the natural wealth of our parks, forms the basis of a regenerative economy that protects our only home: planet Earth,” concluded Cortés Calle.
(Source: National Natural Parks of Colombia, Data Bridge Market Research-ANATO)
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