How Pereira’s Airport Expansion Boosts Real Estate Opportunities
Pereira, already positioned as a rising star in Colombia’s real estate scene, is gaining even more momentum with the ongoing expansion of Matecaña International Airport. As one of the busiest regional airports in Colombia’s Coffee Axis, Matecaña’s growth is poised to supercharge real estate demand across residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors.
In this article, we break down how airport expansion affects property values, buyer behavior, and investment strategy in and around Pereira.
What’s Happening at Matecaña International Airport
Matecaña International Airport has undergone a multi-phase expansion that includes:- A modernized passenger terminal with expanded capacity
- Increased international and domestic flight frequencies
- Upgraded runways and safety infrastructure
- Plans for integrated commercial and logistics zones
Direct Impact on Real Estate
1. Increased Demand for Short-Term Rentals
The surge in domestic and international arrivals has created more consistent demand for furnished rentals near the airport and city center. Investors are turning their attention to:- Airbnb-style apartments in Circunvalar and Pinares
- Boutique hotels and guesthouses targeting coffee tourists
- Mixed-use developments combining residential and commercial use
2. More Interest in Surrounding Areas
Improved accessibility is pushing buyer attention to formerly overlooked areas like Cerritos, Dosquebradas, and Via Armenia. These zones now offer:- Quick access to the airport
- Quieter, suburban or rural lifestyles
- Lower prices and larger lot sizes
3. Appreciation in Key Urban Neighborhoods
Neighborhoods like Pinares, Los Álamos, and Circunvalar are already seeing upward pricing pressure as more travelers, remote workers, and professionals consider moving to Pereira long-term. Higher foot traffic and better connectivity also boost commercial property demand, especially near malls, medical centers, and coworking spaces.Foreign Investment Gets a Lift
Improved air access—especially via more international routes—makes Pereira more accessible to foreign buyers and digital nomads. With easier flights to and from the U.S., Panama, and Europe, international investors are:- Exploring second-home options in the Coffee Region
- Seeking fincas or eco-retreats within reach of the airport
- Investing in rental properties for medium- to long-term stays
Airport Expansion: What It Signals to Investors
The growth of an airport is one of the strongest signals of regional development. It means:- Government confidence in long-term tourism and trade
- More robust infrastructure planning (roads, transit, utilities)
- A ripple effect on hospitality, logistics, and real estate values

