Community-Based Tourism in Colombia

Traditional preparation of Colombian coffee. Finca Don Elías in the coffee triangle.

Community-based tourism in Colombia is a powerful tool for improving the socio-economic situation of local communities while conserving natural and cultural resources. This approach is based on direct interaction between local communities and tourists, generating mutual and sustainable benefits.

Definition and Objectives of Community-Based Tourism

Community-based tourism is defined as a type of tourism led by local communities, aiming to reduce the negative impacts and reinforce the positive impacts of tourism on nature and culture. Its objective is to promote equitable and sustainable development, improving the quality of life of communities, protecting the territory, and preserving cultural heritage.

Pillars of Community-Based Tourism

Community-based tourism is supported by several key pillars, such as community organization, to manage and lead tourism projects, ensuring that benefits are shared equitably. Integration, inclusion, and participation, where the community members actively participate in planning and managing tourism, ensuring that local capacities are utilized. Valorization of local capacities is promoted to ensure the sustainable use of natural and cultural resources, generating employment and economic opportunities. And, nevertheless, generational succession makes sure that the transmission of knowledge and traditions to new generations is fostered, ensuring cultural continuity.

Benefits of Community-Based Tourism

Community-based tourism offers multiple benefits for both communities and tourists. Among the three most important benefits, it is worth mentioning the improved quality of life, since the activities generate income and employment opportunities and can help to reduce urban migration and strengthen social cohesion—especially among the youth. Secondly, it is environmental and cultural conservation, protecting biodiversity and preserving cultural manifestations, such as festivals, traditions, and gastronomy. It is also a solidarity economy because it promotes an equitable system of benefits, where communities manage their own resources and tourism projects.

Examples of Community-Based Tourism and Community Organizations Offering Ecotourism Services in Colombia

Local fisherman sailing the Colombian Caribbean islands.

Colombia has numerous examples of successful community-based tourism in protected areas; we would like to mention the:

• Parque Nacional Natural Cueva de los Guácharos: In southern Huila, organizations like Corporación de Turismo y Conservación Los Andakíes and Cerca Viva: Turismo, Cultura y Conservación offer guiding, transportation, lodging, and food services, promoting the conservation of natural and cultural heritage.

• Parque Nacional Natural Uramba Bahía Málaga: The Consejo Comunitario de la Plata–Bahía Málaga has used community-based tourism to energize economic activities and strengthen the appropriation of natural resources, contributing to the declaration of the national park.

Some notable community organizations offering ecotourism services in Colombia's protected areas include:

• Nativos Activos - PNN Corales del Rosario, Bolívar: Offers snorkeling and diving experiences, promoting the conservation of coral reefs.

• Mano Cambiada - PNN Utría, Chocó: Focuses on birdwatching and guiding, highlighting the park's biodiversity.

• Yarumo Blanco - SFF Otún Quimbaya, Risaralda: Recognized for its sustainable management model, promotes the conservation of the sanctuary.

• Naturar Iguaque - SFF Iguaque, Boyacá: Offers hiking and cultural activities, emphasizing the importance of the sacred lake.

• ASEGUICOC - PNN Cocuy, Boyacá: Provides guiding and lodging services, supporting the conservation of páramos and local culture.

Community-based tourism in Colombia is a powerful strategy for sustainable development, combining the conservation of cultural and natural heritage with the socio-economic improvement of communities. By supporting this type of tourism, travelers not only enjoy authentic and enriching experiences but also contribute to the well-being of local communities. 

If you're ready to explore Colombia in a safe and conscious way, contact our team at Dinamico Travelers! We're here to help you plan a trip that not only gives you unforgettable memories but also supports the sustainable development of local communities. Together, we can make your adventure a transformative experience for you and for Colombia. Join us on this journey towards more responsible and sustainable tourism!