Colombia Shines at the World Travel Awards 2025

Colombia is experiencing one of its brightest moments in tourism history. In the 2025 edition of the World Travel Awards—known as the “Oscars of Tourism”—the country has been nominated in 47 categories, establishing itself as one of the most attractive, diverse, and competitive destinations in South America.

This strong presence at the WTA not only highlights the country’s natural and cultural beauty but also showcases sustained progress in infrastructure, sustainability, gastronomy, connectivity, and the professionalization of the tourism sector. Colombia is no longer just an emerging destination—it’s a reference point.

A Country with Multiple Strengths

Nationally, Colombia is competing in key categories such as Leading Cultural Destination, Leading Green Destination, Leading Adventure Destination, Leading Culinary Destination, and Leading Nature Destination. These nominations reflect the country’s richness in biodiversity, traditions, regional cuisine, and experiences for all tastes—from those seeking to relax on the beach to lovers of extreme tourism, birdwatching, or connecting with ancestral communities.

Colombia also stands out among top beach and cruise destinations, thanks to its coasts on the Caribbean and Pacific oceans and river tourism like cruises along the Magdalena River. The country has diversified and now offers unique tourism products in the region.

Protagonist Cities

Several Colombian cities have been nominated in specific categories. Bogotá, Medellín, Cali, Barranquilla, and Cartagena are among the best city, cultural, business, and honeymoon destinations. San Andrés shines as South America’s leading beach destination, and Cartagena is ideal for romantic getaways.

A major source of pride this year is the nomination of the Las Lajas Sanctuary in Nariño as South America’s Leading Tourist Attraction. This is the first time the iconic temple—perched in a mountain canyon and considered an architectural jewel of the continent—has received such a distinction.

Top-Level Infrastructure and Hospitality

Colombia’s hotel quality was also recognized. Eleven hotels were nominated across different categories, ranging from luxury to sustainability. Establishments like JW Marriott Bogotá, Sofitel Legend Santa Clara in Cartagena, Hilton Santa Marta, and eco-resorts in San Andrés and Barú show that the country meets the highest international standards.

Bogotá’s El Dorado Airport was once again nominated as South America’s Leading Airport, and the Ágora Convention Center as the best venue for events. These distinctions reflect steady improvements in infrastructure, connectivity, and services for world-class travelers and event organizers.

Also notable are the nominations of agencies like ProColombia, which leads the country’s international promotion, and specialized DMCs such as Colombia57, Pure! Colombia, and Macondo, which offer authentic and sustainable experiences for international visitors.

🏅 Colombia’s Top Nominations at the 2025 WTA

An Impact Beyond Tourism

Being nominated for the World Travel Awards is more than global visibility. It’s an economic and social opportunity. Tourism in Colombia is expected to generate more than 1.3 million jobs in 2025 and inject over 21 billion dollars into the national GDP. It also enhances the country’s image, promotes national pride, and boosts investment in emerging destinations.

How to Vote

Voting for the South America regional awards is open until August 3, 2025. Anyone can visit the official World Travel Awards website, register, and vote for Colombia, its destinations, hotels, attractions, and agencies in each category. It’s a simple and meaningful way to support the country from anywhere in the world.

Colombia: A Tierra Querida Destination

At Tierra Querida, we celebrate these 47 nominations as a collective victory—not just of big cities and hotel chains, but of towns, guides, communities, cooks, artisans, drivers, photographers, and entrepreneurs… all those who, with passion, make Colombian tourism an unforgettable experience.

Traveling through Colombia is a journey of self-discovery. It’s a connection to our roots, to joy, to biodiversity, and to authenticity. Now more than ever, it’s time to explore our country, vote with pride, and share it with the world.

Colombia is ready to shine… and the world is noticing.