Translated by Andrés Martínez
From Wellington, New Zealand — the 2024 headquarters of the World Tourism Cities Federation (WTMC) — Bogotá has been confirmed as the host city for this pivotal event in 2026. This global gathering is essential for fostering sustainable tourism development, making Bogotá a key player and the prime venue for leaders from over 200 cities worldwide.
Bogotá’s role as host for the WTMC 2026, spearheaded by the Bogotá Tourism Institute -IDT- and its director, Andrés Santamaría, marks a significant opportunity for the city to promote international cooperation and adopt best practices in global tourism. This initiative is set to boost both tourism and the local economy, opening new business avenues and enhancing Bogotá’s international tourism profile.
IDT Director Andrés Santamaría stated, “Through the Federation of Tourist Cities, we are enhancing our tourism outreach in key markets like China, aiming to strengthen our presence and provide unique experiences to visitors from this significant Asian market.”
As the only Latin American city featured at the event, Bogotá distinguished itself in the “Tourism Cities: Diversified Integration and Innovative Development” panel. Santamaría emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism, advocating for increased collaboration between businesses, local communities, and the government to enrich Bogotá’s cultural, historical, and natural diversity and bring forth innovative promotional strategies.
Santamaría further highlighted the role of cutting-edge technologies in enhancing Bogotá’s tourist experiences, advocating for responsible tourism practices and strategic partnerships to attract more events and boost tourism.
“Our vision for Bogotá’s tourism is to make it diverse, exciting, and sustainable. We are committed to positioning Bogotá as a premier destination, offering unforgettable experiences for all visitors,” concluded Santamaría.
In addition to its council role, Bogotá has also joined the executive board of the Federation of Tourist Cities, actively participating in key decisions for global sustainable tourism. With its pledge to sustainable tourism, Bogotá is set to illuminate the global stage in 2026, promising to be a hub of innovation and growth in the tourism sector.
