During the year-end season, Valle del Cauca drew over 200,000 national and international visitors, solidifying its status as a key tourist destination in Colombia. The Tourist Information System (Situr) reported an economic impact exceeding 200 billion pesos, with the Cali Fair as the main draw. Tourism Secretary Miyerlandi Torres highlighted high hotel occupancy and visitor flow across several departmental cities.
Valle del Cauca experienced a successful tourist season at the end of 2025, according to data from the Tourist Information System (Situr). Over 200,000 people visited the region to enjoy its landscapes, festivities, cultural, gastronomic, and natural offerings, positioning the department as one of the country's most attractive destinations.
The Cali Fair was the star event, drawing 60% of tourists. Other spots like Buga, Calima, Buenaventura, and Palmira also saw significant visitor influx. Miyerlandi Torres, Tourism Secretary of Valle del Cauca, stated: “according to Situr figures, in the last week of December to date we have over 200,000 visitors in Valle del Cauca, of which 60% have concentrated of course on the Cali Fair, followed by visitors in cities like Buga, Calima, Buenaventura, and Palmira”.
The economic impact was substantial, with spillovers exceeding 200 billion pesos, 70% of which went to Cali. Hotel occupancy reached 85% in the area. Torres added: “we already have an economic spillover that exceeds 200 billion pesos, with 70% of these corresponding to the city of Cali, and 85% hotel occupancy”.
International visitors praised the local warmth and cuisine. Dutch tourist Robin Bontje shared: “the people of Cali are very friendly, in no other place in Latin America have I made friends like here. I like the food, I ate stuffed potato, coconut shrimp, and lots of seafood, and I think it's the best gastronomy in Colombia. It's something unique that you can't find in other places”.
This season not only boosted the economy but also created memorable experiences, strengthening Valle del Cauca's appeal for future visits.
