Tourism as a Path to Peace | San José del Guaviare

From Conflict to a Destination of Peace

For decades, San José del Guaviare suffered the effects of Colombia’s internal armed conflict. Armed groups controlled large parts of the region, while violence and limited infrastructure restricted economic opportunities.

Today, local communities are helping to write a new chapter. Community-based tourism creates new sources of income and allows residents to share their culture, knowledge and connection to the land. Tourism offers an alternative for communities that once depended on activities linked to the conflict.

The Colombian Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism (MinCIT) recognised this potential through its “Turismo para una Cultura de Paz” strategy, launched in San José del Guaviare. The programme supports tourism initiatives in territories affected by conflict and promotes sustainable local development.

Community-Based Tourism

Local communities now offer experiences that connect nature, culture and everyday life. Visitors can explore forests, rivers and savannas with local guides. They can also discover traditional food, agriculture and local knowledge.

Tourism creates opportunities for guides, farmers, boat operators, cooks, accommodation providers and other small businesses. The income stays within the community and supports local livelihoods.

Destinos de Paz

San José del Guaviare forms part of the Colombia Destinos de Paz initiative. The programme supports tourism projects in areas affected by the armed conflict and recognises their contribution to peacebuilding.

These destinations tell a different story about Colombia. Instead of focusing only on conflict, they highlight resilience, biodiversity, culture and new opportunities.

Tourism also encourages communities to protect their natural surroundings. The region sits between the Amazon and Orinoquía and boasts forests, rivers, savannas and unique rock formations. Local tourism gives these landscapes economic value while creating an incentive to conserve them.

New Perspectives

For many years, people associated Guaviare with conflict and insecurity. Today, local communities are changing that image.

By choosing community-based experiences, travellers can contribute directly to the local economy. They can meet the people who know the territory best and discover a side of Colombia that remains far from the classic tourist routes.