From Sold-Out Shows to Skyrocketing Tourism—Shakira’s Impact in Latin America Is Bigger Than Music
Shakira has made history with impressive achievements scattered throughout her career. Her highly anticipated Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour is expected to extend her milestone-setting streak. In Bogotá alone, the economic and tourist sectors experienced an unprecedented boost thanks to her comeback.
Increase in Flight and Hotel Demand
After a seven-year absence from the Colombian capital’s stage, Shakira returned to Bogotá to perform at Nemesio Camacho “El Campín” Stadium. On February 26 and 27, more than 80,000 people attended the two sold-out dates. About 30% (24,000 people) were local and international tourists, positively impacting the city’s economy.
According to travel company Despegar, Colombia’s capital saw a 50% increase in flight demand. Accordingly, airlines scheduled more than 2,300 additional flights to accommodate the large number of passengers arriving in the city. Likewise, hotel occupancy in the city registered a significant increase compared to previous weeks. As per the Bogotá Tourism Office, hotel occupancy was expected to reach between 87% and 92% during concert dates.
Shakira’s Economic Boost
Beyond tourism, Bogotá forecasted Shakira’s concert to inject dynamism into the local economy by boosting transportation, commerce, and restaurant activity. Analysts projected the impact to reach more than 136,000 million Colombian pesos, per the Secretary of Economic Development of Bogotá. This figure represents about 0.13% of Bogotá’s GDP in the first quarter of 2025.
The event was also expected to solidify Bogotá’s position as one of Latin America’s favorite tourist destinations. “Bogotá is a cultural and entertainment epicenter that continues to position itself as a destination for major international shows,” said Andrés Santamaría, director of the Bogotá Tourism Office. “The arrival of thousands of tourists not only strengthens the tourism industry but also generates a positive impact on employment and the local economy.”
Bogotá, the Land of Opportunity
The Colombian capital has long become a hotspot for the arts and culture. In 2020, the cultural and creative sector contributed 4.9% to the city’s economy, surpassing the contributions of the construction industry.
Shakira herself, recognized the mark the city left in her career and its status as a cultural hub. “What a joy to be in my country! [In Bogotá] I produced Pies Descalzos and finished the “El Dorado” tour with a flourish,” she said on the first Bogotá date. “Today I am happy again thanks to you. There is no better reunion than that of a wolf with her pack.”
Milestone After Milestone, Shakira Keeps Making History
Shak’s first world tour since 2018 has hit major milestones across Latin America. In Mexico, the “Hips Don’t Lie” singer became the first female artist to secure and sell out five dates at the GNP Seguros stadium. To put this into perspective, the renowned Mexico City venue hosts about 65,000 fans.
In her hometown, Barranquilla, Shakira was responsible for COP 67000 million worth of economic activity during her concerts. This equates to more than 16 million US dollars. Despite her short-lived stay in the city, Shakira also found time to celebrate and bring Colombian traditions to the forefront. The singer and her children were spotted at Desfile de la Guacherna, one of the celebrations ahead of the city’s major Carnival celebrations.
“Shakira shined in her home, Barranquilla. She gave us two magical days that will remain forever in the memory of the city,” Barranquilla’s Mayor, Alejandro Char, wrote on X. “This was the best appetizer for Carnival 2025, which will be very special. We believe the most visited in the city’s entire history.”
Shakira Proves Once Again That ‘Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran, Las Mujeres Facturan’
According to the event organizers, Shakira’s four-date arrival in Colombia generated an economic impact of more than 206 billion pesos (approximately 50 million dollars). The singer’s tour stops in Colombia largely benefited sectors such as tourism, hospitality, commerce, and transportation.
As per the data provided, the Colombian icon’s performances in Barranquilla and Bogotá attracted more than 170,000 people and generated 18,500 direct and indirect jobs.
Shakira’s tour is just starting but has already driven positive attention and economic activity to her home country and set iconic records. Now, this is how you give “las mujeres ya no lloran, las mujeres facturan” a whole new meaning.
