Rural tourism in Colombia strengthens cultural roots and community development

Rural tourism in Colombia has become an alternative that connects travelers with the traditions, landscapes, and daily life of host communities. This modality takes place in unique natural and cultural settings, where the inhabitants of the area play a leading role in the planning and execution of experiences. Through sustainable practices, this type of tourism not only generates income but also contributes to environmental protection and the appreciation of ancestral knowledge.

One of the most representative experiences takes place at La Cocha Lagoon, located a few kilometers from Pasto, in the department of Nariño. In this high Andean ecosystem, rural communities and the Quillasinga ethnic group offer ethnotourism activities such as growing vegetables and flowers, hiking through the villages of Encano and Genoy, and participating in traditional rituals. This biodiverse environment also allows you to complement your visit with adventure experiences such as kayaking, paragliding, or sport fishing.

On the Colombian Pacific coast, the municipality of Nuquí, in Chocó, is home to the Kipará Té Ethnovillage project, developed by the Emberá Dobida indigenous community in Jurubirá. The initiative seeks to reinterpret the ancestral habitat to strengthen understanding of their cultural practices. The project has been internationally recognized for its architectural design and promotes activities such as lodging in tambos, sacred dance and painting workshops, local cuisine, jungle hikes, and the creation of handicrafts in beads, wérregue, and wood.

Another notable initiative is the Painü Intercommunity Association, located near the Amazon River, near Leticia. Made up of Indigenous youth from the communities of San Sebastián, Castañal, and La Playa, this organization develops tourist routes around the Yahuarca Lakes. Activities vary according to the water cycle: during the dry season (July to December), hikes through forests and streams are offered; during the high water season (December to May), nighttime canoeing offers the chance to contemplate jungle sunsets and discover wildlife under the moon. Customized tours are also offered, focusing on botany, traditional cuisine, fishing, and farm work.

These types of experiences not only provide visitors with an authentic way to discover the country, but also represent a key tool for strengthening the social fabric, promoting economic inclusion, and preserving unique knowledge and territories.