Colombia’s beauty defies description — it’s that unique, that special, that different — and travelers are taking notice as 2023 marked the country’s best year for tourism, welcoming more than 6 million international travelers. The Country of Beauty looks to continue growing and enhancing its regions and communities in 2024 and beyond.

Medellín, the city of eternal spring, Western Colombian Andes. Credit: ProColombia.

What can travelers expect from a visit to Colombia? Its green hearts beat from its mountains to its metropolises, from its history, culture and indigenous past to its modernity. Awake to the sounds of birdsong and the aroma of coffee. Take in forests, plains, sunsets, incredible ecosystems and stunning fauna. It’s a country you must see to believe.

Plus, Colombia is rapidly becoming a leader in the tourism industry, focusing on environmental conservation, regenerative travel and community-led experiences. With a commitment to sustainable tourism, Colombia is proud to be one of only 12 countries in the world with a sustainable tourism policy.

Graffiti in Bogotá’s Historical City Center, Eastern Colombian Andes. Credit: ProColombia.

This commitment comes from the responsibility of being home to 10 percent of the planet’s biodiversity, which makes Colombia one of the world’s most biodiverse countries. Colombia leads in bird, butterfly and orchid species and is unique in South America with coastlines on both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. This natural richness has been used to create unique tourism experiences that celebrate and preserve life. Colombia is not just a travel destination: It is a biodiversity powerhouse and a pioneer in sustainable tourism.

Six regions await, including the Greater Colombian Caribbean, much more than sun and sea, or the Colombian Pacific, a secret paradise rich for enjoyment. Get to know more of the farming culture, particularly the coffee and flower industry, in the Western Colombian Andes. Tradition meets modernity in the Eastern Colombian Andes. Connect the sacred, spiritual and indigenous in the Colombian Massif and the Colombian Amazon-Orinoco. Bogotá, Medellin, Cartagena, Cali and Barranquilla boast many wonders to explore and enjoy, but don’t miss traveling beyond their borders to fully immerse yourself in all that Colombia offers.

Colombian Flowers Handcrafted in Medellín, Western Colombian Andes. Credit: ProColombia.

Extensive air connectivity between the United States and Colombia means it’s easier than ever to plan your visit. In fact, there’s more than 398 weekly frequencies and more than 71,900 seats regularly available between the two countries. United Airlines will get you there, offering direct flights to Bogotá (BOG), from Newark (EWR), and Houston (IAH), and coming soon Medellin (MDE) from Houston (IAH), connecting to more Colombian destinations via code shares.

What are you waiting for? Book your United flight to Colombia today and discover a different kind of beauty.