Colombia has been chosen as a tourist destination by numerous US celebrities in recent years. These famous people have come to Colombia for various reasons, either as tourists seeking new experiences or for work-related matters related to film projects or other professional commitments.
Regardless of the motivation behind their visit, all these personalities end up immersing themselves in the culture and diversity of the country, discovering its charms, and taking away unforgettable memories from each place they visit.
US celebrities who visited Colombia
Will Smith
Actor, rapper, and film producer Will Smith visited Cartagena in 2018 during the filming of the movie “Gemini Man.” The actor spent 20 days in the Heroic City, during which the recordings took place. In addition to working on this production, Will Smith took advantage of his free time to tour the historic center and learn more about Cartagena’s culture.
The Hollywood actor made a donation of 100 million pesos to the street vendors in the center who could not work during the filming. Additionally, Smith donated a park to the children of Getsemaní, the neighborhood where most of the scenes of the movie “Gemini Man” were filmed.
Vin Diesel
Vin Diesel, an actor known for his role in the “Fast and Furious” movies, was in Medellin in 2017 to attend the wedding of Puerto Rican urban music singer Nicky Jam. The actor first landed in Bogota and then took a flight to Medellin. His first words upon landing at El Dorado International Airport were, “I love you, Colombia, I love you.”
Hugh Jackman
Australian actor Hugh Jackman, known for his role as “Wolverine,” visited Huila in October 2017 to promote Colombian coffee grown in this region of the country. Jackman, who promotes the work of coffee growers in nations like Colombia, recorded videos during his visit to promote coffee consumption.
His stay in Huila was undoubtedly enriching as he shed light on the work of Colombian coffee growers, especially those in Huila, giving them international recognition. Jackman’s visit not only highlighted the quality of Colombian coffee but also the importance of the work and dedication of local farmers in coffee production.
Mark Wahlberg
Mark Wahlberg visited the capital city in 2018 for the filming of the movie “Mile 22.” The actor spent approximately three weeks in Bogota and visited the then-president, Juan Manuel Santos. Wahlberg shared photos on his social media accounts from the filming, showcasing the streets of the city. He described the country as “wonderful.”
Owen Wilson
Actor and comedian Owen Wilson visited Cartagena to participate in a panel discussion at the 58th edition of the Film Festival. He was honored for his career and performances at an event called “Between Laughter and Tears,” held on March 4, 2018. During his stay in the Heroic City, he was seen strolling through the historic center and riding his bike through the streets of the area.
Emily Ratajkowski
Actress and model Emily Ratajkowski spent Christmas 2018 in Cartagena with her parents and husband. The model toured the most emblematic streets and posted photos of her stay in the Heroic City, accompanied by a message wishing her followers a Merry Christmas.
Kanye West
Rapper Kanye West was in Cali in 2018 to visit friends and undergo a smile makeover at one of the city’s dental clinics. During his treatment, the famous rapper was accompanied by his ex-wife, Kim Kardashian. The rapper shared photos on his Instagram account of the hotel where they stayed. During his stay, he learned how to play marimba, a Latin American percussion instrument of African origin.
Michael Douglas
Michael Douglas, the actor who played Dr. Hank Pym in “Ant-Man” and “Avengers,” visited Medellin in 2020. Douglas surprised his followers by sharing photos on his social media accounts of various places in Medellin. This visit raised questions about the reasons why he was in the city, as he did not have any pending projects at that time. The true reason for his visit to Colombia was to attend the Film Festival in Cartagena, where he received an India Catalina award.
IShowSpeed
The famous streamer and content creator IShowSpeed visited Colombia in January 2025 as part of his South American tour. During his stay in the country, he arrived in the city of Cartagena, where he shared some of the most memorable moments of his visit to the historic walled city on his social media.
One of the highlights of his trip was his visit to the beaches of La Boquilla, where he interacted with the local community, danced champeta, and enjoyed traditional Colombian cuisine. Additionally, he was accompanied by the well-known Colombian content creator Westcol, who guided him on a tour through Cartagena’s most iconic neighborhoods, showcasing the city’s rich culture and vibrant spirit.
Walter Emanuel Jones
Walter Emanuel Jones, best known for portraying Zack Taylor, the original Black Ranger in Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, visited Medellín, Colombia, in November 2024 as a special guest at Comic Con Medellín. During his stay, he participated in panels, signed autographs, and engaged with fans at the event held at the Plaza Mayor Convention Center.
Beyond his activities at Comic Con, Walter took the opportunity to explore the city. He visited the famous Comuna 13, known for its urban art and history of social transformation, and showcased his dance skills by practicing salsa with locals. He also indulged in Colombian cuisine, including a stop at the popular fried chicken chain Frisby.