Today marks one year since the founding of the Red Mundial de Destinos Emergentes

Today, September 9, 2025, marks the first anniversary of the founding of the Red Mundial de Destinos Emergentes, an initiative led by the World Travel Journalism Organization (WTJO). The network was officially launched on September 9, 2024, in Popayán, at the Universidad del  Cauca.

An initiative to spotlight destinations with potential

The network was created with the goal of promoting collaboration, sustainability, and international visibility for tourist destinations that have yet to gain widespread recognition but possess significant cultural, natural, or historical value. Its main objectives include:

• Granting the Distinción de Destino Emergente, a recognition of each location 's tourism potential.

• Providing media support and global marketing through WTJO’s channels.

• Offering free training for journalists, entrepreneurs, and local residents.

• Promoting international relations, continuous learning, innovation, preservation of local identity, and participation in international events.

Who are the members of this network?

The following are the destinations currently part of the Red Mundial de Destinos Emergentes:

1. Popayán, Colombia

2. Candelaria, Colombia

3. Riofrío, Colombia

4. Trujillo, Colombia

5. Buga, Colombia

6. San Javier, Misiones, Argentina

7. Concepción de la Sierra, Misiones, Argentina

8. Nariño, Colombia

9. Valle Encantado, Misiones, Argentina

10. Macondo Route of the Colombian Caribbean

11. Macedo, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Today marks one year since the creation of this key platform for reactivating and bringing visibility to emerging destinations. Its members share a commitment to promoting sustainable, authentic tourism that honors local identity.