Barranquilla, Colombia, was named the world’s best creative destination according to the Creative Tourism Awards. This is the first time a Colombian city has received this honor.
The recognition marks a historic milestone for national tourism and places the country on the global map of innovative cultural experiences. The distinction was awarded at the 2026 edition of the Creative Tourism Awards, an international prize promoted by the Creative Tourism Network, an entity that promotes a travel model based on creativity, community participation, and sustainability.
Barranquilla prevailed among 223 nominations from 28 countries, establishing itself as a global benchmark for tourism that invites visitors to become active participants in local culture. Since their creation in 2014, these awards have recognized destinations that transform traditional travel into an active experience in which tourists learn, create, and interact with the cultural environment.
Barranquilla as the best creative destination: a model that integrates culture, sustainability, and innovation
The international jury, made up of industry experts — including researcher Greg Richards, one of the pioneers of the creative tourism concept — highlighted the city’s ability to turn its heritage into participatory experiences with social and environmental impact.
One of the most influential elements in the decision was the cultural significance of the Carnival of Barranquilla, declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. This celebration, recognized for its artistic richness and strong community roots, was valued as a living example of shared cultural identity.
In addition, the jury highlighted urban and environmental projects that reflect the integration of development and nature. These include the Gran Malecon, the Ecoparque Cienaga de Mallorquin, and Puerto Mocho, spaces that have been transformed into settings for recreation, environmental education, and cultural life.
These initiatives reflect a model that links urban planning, citizen participation, and sustainable development — pillars that are now essential in the evolution of global tourism.
In response to this recognition, the city’s mayor, Alejandro Char, stated: “Barranquilla has been recognized as the World’s Best Creative Destination at the Creative Tourism Awards. This award highlights sustainable development, creativity, and a tourism offering that is deeply connected to our local identity.”
A historic recognition for Colombia
The award makes the city the first in the country to obtain the title of World Best Creative Destination, an achievement that specialists consider crucial for Colombia’s international positioning as a cultural destination.
Beyond symbolic recognition, the award validates a strategy that understands culture as a driver of economic and social development. The commitment to authentic experiences — such as artistic workshops, local gastronomy, community activities, and urban regeneration projects — has helped project a strong and attractive identity to the world.
@zarkusfilms Si eres barranquillero, por que calle voy pasando? La reconoces🤔 Déjamelo en los comentarios! #barranquilla #DronBaq #BarranquillaDesdeElCielo #barranquillatiktok #barranquillera #colombia #barranquilla_colombia #barranquillaatlantico🇨🇴 #baqcity ♬ Sabre Olvidar – TNT Band