The Colombian government and the local private industry are planning on getting more involved in the international cruise industry this year, and taking advantage of the increasing interest from tourists in the region.
Local authorities have announced that they are preparing a new port in La Guajira, in the north of Colombia, right in front of the Caribbean, to receive more international cruises, especially those coming from the United States.
They also want to develop new strategies and deploy new infrastructures to make this destination even more attractive.
The Director of the Tourism Department, José Emilio Sierra, declared to the local newspaper El Tiempo that the most important thing is that they are already interested in La Guajira, they present its benefits and strengths, demonstrating that this department as a unique and biodiverse destination that continues to be of great interest to international tourists.
La Guajira’s authorities and the American Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association discussed in a virtual meeting the touristic advantages and services in the region, and the possibility to allow cruises to disembark in Puerto Brisa, in the county Dibulla.
The visibility strategy of La Guajira as a unique tourist destination includes the use of infrastructures such as Puerto Brisa or the implementation of models used in other countries, such as expeditionary cruises that could anchor in Alta Guajira, said Sierra.
During this first stage, a government agency in charge of promoting tourism and a tour operator will be working along in the development of the touristic project.
Now that Colombia eased travel restrictions and starting on May 1 will be removing the mask mandate and allowing unvaccinated tourists to visit showing proof of a negative COVID-19 test, more international visitors are arriving.
The cruise industry is especially interested in this destination because of its beautiful Caribbean beaches and rich culture.
After 9 years, without stopping in Colombia, the Royal Caribbean recently announced that will be resuming operations in this location starting in 2023, stopping in Cartagena, the traditional cruise port in the country.
Now that La Guajira will be another potential stop and large cruise companies such as Royal Caribbean are resuming operations, Colombia might soon become another crucial hot spot for cruises and travellers.
Colombia growing as a touristic destination
Now that the pandemic restrictions have been eased in Latin America and more people are eager to travel, Colombia is becoming an attractive destination in South America.
According to a recent report, American visitors represent the majority of international travelers and statistics say that compared to 2021, reservations for holiday vacations in Colombia have increased by 230%.
Besides the capital Bogotá, international travelers are especially interested in the gorgeous beaches of Cartagena, also the main cruise destination, and also in the city of Medellin, now known as a safe and vibrant place to experience the Colombian culture.
Visitors have found interesting architecture, beautiful landscapes, delicious local food, amazing biodiversity, and unique traditions.
Colombia has been promoting the traditional and preferred destinations for tourists with more emphasis in recent days and will be adding La Guajira to the list.
La Guajira is in the northeast region of the country, right next to Venezuela and in the middle of the Caribbean Sea.
Visitors can expect wonderful weather and spectacular beaches, but also mountains, forests, and deserts.
Travellers can explore one of the most iconic places, Cabo de la Vela, to enjoy the unique landscapes and watch the sunset from El Faro.
Tourists can also learn about the local indigenous culture, the Wayúu community, and understand their traditions, and interesting lifestyles. Before visiting Colombia, travellers should stay up to date with entry requirements currently, all visitors must fill out the Check Mig form prior to arrival, local news, and authorities’ recommendations.
Tags: American Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association, COVID-19 pandemic, La Guajira, Colombia, Royal Caribbean
