Swiss Entrepreneur Says Colombia’s Tourism Potential Is Huge, But Infrastructure Holds It Back

Swiss entrepreneur Frank Spitzer is enamored with Colombia, yet acknowledges the country faces significant challenges. Over a decade of travel across Colombia led Spitzer to recognize its vast untapped tourism potential. However, he warns that poor infrastructure, bureaucracy, and security concerns currently hinder the industry from realizing its full potential.

Spitzer, founder of tourism operator Pelecanus, moved to Colombia after a banking and finance career in Switzerland. He chose Colombia in 2015 after evaluating the continent's largest economies. While his MBA studies convinced him Colombia was preferable to Mexico, the country's security situation ultimately sealed the deal.

During his time in Colombia, Spitzer discovered the country's remarkable natural and cultural diversity. He has visited 30 of the country's 32 departments, with standout destinations including Punta Gallinas, Putumayo, Casanare, Meta, and Guainia. Mavecure in Guainia, with its towering rock formations, is a prime example of the nation's unexplored tourism assets.

Remote tourism can create an exciting sense of adventure, but poses considerable operational challenges. Spitzer's company, Pelecanus, caters to diverse traveler segments such as luxury tourism, ecotourism, birdwatching, safari, and corporate travel. However, operating in areas without roads, reliable transportation, or comfortable accommodations is both costly and difficult.

Security has improved in Colombia since Spitzer's first visit in 2011, but he remains cautious about the country's ongoing security challenges. He stresses that sustained improvements in security are crucial for Colombia to become a larger and more valuable tourism destination.

Infrastructure and bureaucracy are major hurdles for Colombia's tourism industry. Decades-long road construction projects and a complicated tax system make it difficult for the nation to compete with destinations like Mexico. Spitzer calls for reduced regulations and bureaucracy to unlock Colombia's tourism potential and attract foreign investment.

Despite these challenges, Spitzer believes Colombia's tourism future is promising. He notes that international tourism has only recently taken off in the country and points to the rapid growth demonstrated by millions of foreign visitors. His own business is exploring new niches, including golf tourism, which could attract international travelers.

However, Spitzer remains realistic about the challenges facing Colombia's tourism industry. His company experienced a slowdown due to international political tensions, aviation concerns, and negative news coverage. Nevertheless, inquiries have begun to recover in recent months. Ultimately, Spitzer emphasizes that his decision to leave Switzerland was not financially driven. While he could have earned more in banking, he has no plans to return, as his essential needs have been met in Colombia.