Tourism Value Chain Integration in a Fluvial Destination System: A Multi-Criteria Analysis of a Corridor in Colombia

This study examines the tourism value chain of the Cartagena de Indias–Santa Cruz de Mompox river corridor in Colombia. The objective is to analyze how the corridor’s territorial configuration, prioritized nodes, and inventory of attractions contribute to strengthening the sustainable integration of destinations. The research is based on three questions: (RQ1) How is the corridor’s territorial configuration structured and refined? (RQ2) Which locations should be prioritized according to the multi-criteria evaluation? (RQ3) How do the attractions and industry trends influence opportunities for strengthening the sustainable value chain? A case study design combined document review, mapping, field validation, expert consultation, multi-criteria scoring, and stakeholder surveys. The findings reveal a spatially continuous but functionally uneven system. Central nodes, such as Cartagena and Mompox, show greater integration of attractions and services, while intermediate municipalities show untapped potential, limited by insufficient promotion and training. While infrastructure and basic services are positively assessed, governance coordination and marketing remain critically deficient. Trend analysis indicates high viability for heritage and nature tourism, while eco-innovation and well-being require gradual institutional and capacity development. This study provides a replicable framework that integrates territorial mapping, prioritization matrices, and attraction-based value chain analysis for sustainable tourism in corridors.