The flow of Colombians abroad has grown by more than 10% so far this year

The desire to experience new cultures, landscapes, historical heritage, and cuisines is driving more and more Colombians to travel abroad on vacation. This reflects trends, and understanding them allows us to identify current economic and tourism dynamics and how travelers are perceiving and managing their free time.

“Tourism remains the primary reason and driving force for international travel, accounting for 75% of the population. When Colombians decide to vacation abroad, they not only expand their country's image around the world, but they also return more aware and with a more global outlook, which helps raise their expectations regarding domestic standards, promoting improved services at our destinations,” explained Paula Cortés Calle, Executive President of ANATO.

Between January and May 2025, a total of 2,173,600 Colombians left the country, representing an 11.1% increase compared to the same period in 2024. In fact, January was the month with the highest volume, with 492,750 registrations; followed by March, with 471,305; February, with 422,882; and April, with 403,937. Last place was taken by May, with 382,726, indicating that an average of 434,720 Colombians are leaving the country each month.

Despite the migration situation in the United States and Mexico, these countries lead the list of destinations to which Colombians are traveling the most, with a share of 23% and 7%, respectively. Other destinations also include South American destinations such as Ecuador, Peru, Chile, and Brazil, indicating that Colombians are preferring to travel to nearby countries.

Regarding the most representative age groups of Colombians who left their homes between January and May 2025, the most notable groups were those aged 30 to 39, with a 26% share; those aged 18 to 29 and 40 to 49, with 19%; and those aged 50 to 59, with 14%.

Source: Colombian Migration