Huila projects at least 15,000 visitors for Easter week

Huila's government expects at least 15,000 visitors during Easter week, fewer than in 2025 amid a downward tourism trend. Natalia Alejandra Ortiz Valderrama, acting secretary of Economic Development and Tourism, cites moderate hotel bookings despite a full schedule of religious and cultural events. Municipalities like Neiva and Garzón are the top draws.

Huila's government anticipates 15,000 visitors for Easter week, down from 23,115 in 2025, 27,828 in 2024, and 52,964 in 2023—far below 2019's 54,257. "We really hope the number increases compared to last year, but our projection comes from a survey of the hotel sector showing reservations not as high," said Ortiz Valderrama.

Top destinations include Neiva, Garzón, San Agustín, Campoalegre, Suaza, Pitalito, and Nátaga, featuring the Banda Sinfónica Metropolitana in Neiva, Festival de Danza Religiosa in Garzón, and Ópera en La Jagua. Additional events are the Fiesta Nacional del Campo y la Cosecha in Nátaga, a film festival in Paicol, and an artisan show in San Agustín.

A highlight is Villavieja's first 26-kilometer viacrucis through Desierto de La Tatacoa, starting at 4 a.m. from the main park to vereda El Doche. Attractions also cover Parque Arqueológico de San Agustín, Las Termales de Rivera, and represa de Betania.

Security operations with Police and Army will cover roads and tourist sites. Ortiz Valderrama urges prudent travel, no drinking and driving, and support for local economy through regional products under Governor Rodrigo Villalba's administration.

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Following preparations for Colombia's March 8-9, 2026, legislative elections, voting for the Senate, House of Representatives, and interparty consultations proceeded smoothly in Huila with no security incidents, per the National Police. Polls opened in Neiva amid robust security, and initial results show several prominent candidates falling short of seats.

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The Colombian Cycling Federation confirmed that the Clásica Futuras Estrellas will take place in the Huila department from May 1 to 3. The event, organized by Club Deportivo Futuras Estrellas, expects to gather more than 500 athletes from various departments in the country. Huila will participate with 28 athletes.

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The Defensoría del Pueblo warns of social conflict risks in 12 departments, including Huila, due to political polarization ahead of the March 8, 2026, congressional elections. Analysts attribute tensions to divisions between left and right, worsened by insecurity. Senate candidate María Lucía Villalba urges Huilenses to vote to retain direct Senate representation.

 

 

 

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