“Some of the national destinations traditionally visited at this time of year are Bogotá, Buga, Popayán, Mompox, Chiquinquirá, Zipaquirá, and Ipiales due to their strong religious component. However, the Holy Week holiday has undergone a significant evolution because, beyond the religious dimension, it is now also a time for relaxation, while exploring the country's natural, historical, and adventurous riches,” explained Paula Cortés Calle, president of ANATO.
One of these is a visit to the Kindiwaira Nature Reserve and the End of the World Waterfall in Putumayo, ideal for experiencing an ancestral connection with Indigenous peoples through stories that unfold on each tour of this megadiverse destination, which encompasses the municipalities of Mocoa and Villagarzón, more than 600 kilometers from Bogotá. It is a perfect place to explore dense jungles, mountains, and biodiversity.
There's also Norcasia and the La Miel River in Caldas, the epicenter of extreme sports and local cultural experiences, perfect for relaxing in its crystal-clear waters and incredible waterfalls; for body rafting, snorkeling, and tubing; and for listening to the various species of birds, butterflies, and monkeys.
Other activities that travel agencies have been promoting for the season include wildlife watching and a plains safari in Yopal, where there's a nature reserve covering more than 9,000 hectares. Visitors can learn about the region's daily activities, witness unparalleled sunsets, and observe herons, egrets, babillas, turtles, deer, spectacled bears, and capybaras, among others.
Furthermore, one of the places that has been gaining popularity are the beaches of Guachalito, hot springs and waterfalls in Nuquí, Chocó, an exotic destination for nature and relaxation lovers, admirers of the natural wealth of flora and fauna, explore mangroves, scuba dive, coral reefs, and practice sports such as surfing and kayaking.
Finally, there is El Peñón, in Santander, where you can see majestic caverns such as La Tronera, with impressive rock formations, waterfalls, and canyons; and the Pandora Forest, with majestic trees and landscapes that evoke fantasy scenes.
"Without a doubt, our country's tourist attractions position it as a benchmark for this holiday season. However, let us consider that this must be accompanied by incentives such as reducing the VAT on airline tickets from 19% to a differential rate, to allow more Colombians to travel within the country," stated the union leader.
Source: ANATO.