A massive wildfire is threatening Villa de Leyva, one of Colombia’s most famous tourist destinations, as firefighters continue battling flames across the mountains surrounding the historic town.

The fire began on September 19 near Cerro San Marcos in Boyacá and spread rapidly through dry vegetation, fueled by strong winds. Villa de Leyva is famous for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and massive central plaza, attracting more than one million visitors each year.

Authorities declared a public calamity, carried out preventive evacuations and temporarily suspended in-person classes as the fire moved closer to populated and tourist areas. Hundreds of firefighters, emergency workers, volunteers and residents have been involved in the response, supported by helicopters dropping water from above.

The situation has also become a major environmental concern. According to Colombia’s disaster management agency, the fire has spread across nearly 1,200 hectares, including approximately 715 hectares inside the protected Iguaque Flora and Fauna Sanctuary.

There is some encouraging news: after three days of operations on the ground and from the air, authorities reported the wildfire was approximately 75% under control, although active fire fronts remained.

The exact cause remains under investigation. Colombian environmental officials have said preliminary information suggests the fire may have been deliberately started, but that has not yet been confirmed.

The Villa de Leyva emergency comes as Colombia deals with numerous wildfires across the country amid unusually dry conditions and growing concerns over the effects of El Niño.

For now, crews remain focused on fully containing the fire and protecting both the historic town and the surrounding ecosystems.