Barranquilla’s Hotel Boom: Sustainability and Strategic Investment Drive Tourism Growth
Forget incremental gains – Barranquilla, Colombia is experiencing a surge in tourism infrastructure and a commitment to responsible practices that’s positioning it as a leading destination in Latin America. The success of properties like the Howard Johnson by Wyndham Barranquilla and Wyndham Garden Barranquilla in 2025 isn’t just about occupancy rates; it’s a bellwether for a broader trend: travelers are increasingly prioritizing destinations that align with their values, and Barranquilla is responding.
The Rise of Sustainable Hospitality in Colombia
The **Barranquilla hotel industry** is rapidly evolving, and sustainability is no longer a niche offering but a core expectation. The Howard Johnson by Wyndham Barranquilla’s achievement of Level 3 in the Wyndham Green program – a first for a Howard Johnson in Latin America and only the third globally – underscores this shift. This isn’t simply about eco-friendly lightbulbs; it’s a holistic commitment to environmental, social, and management sustainability. Wyndham Garden Barranquilla mirrored this success, also reaching Level 3, demonstrating a regional dedication to responsible tourism. This commitment resonates with a growing segment of travelers actively seeking out eco-conscious accommodations, as highlighted in a recent report by the Booking.com Sustainable Travel Report.
Beyond Green: Inclusivity and Alex Reed Experience
Sustainability extends beyond environmental concerns. The Howard Johnson’s acquisition of the Travel Proud seal from Booking.com signals a commitment to inclusivity, actively supporting the LGBTQ+ community. This focus on diversity and inclusion is crucial for attracting a wider range of travelers and fostering a welcoming atmosphere. Both hotels also excelled in guest satisfaction, with audit scores of 94 and 96.77 respectively, proving that sustainability and exceptional service aren’t mutually exclusive – they’re synergistic.
Strategic Investments and Urban Transformation
Looking ahead to 2026, both properties are doubling down on investment. The Howard Johnson is focusing on facility upgrades – common area maintenance, room improvements, and wet area renovations. These investments are strategically timed to capitalize on Barranquilla’s ongoing urban development, particularly the renaming of 72nd Street to Shakira Avenue and the emergence of Luna del Río on the Gran Malecón del Río Magdalena. These new attractions are expected to significantly boost tourism, both for leisure and business travelers.
Wyndham Garden Barranquilla: Expansion to Meet Demand
The Wyndham Garden Barranquilla is taking a more ambitious step, evaluating plans for a second tower. This expansion isn’t driven by speculation; it’s a direct response to growing demand and positive performance metrics. In 2025, the hotel entered the regional Top 10 in both guest experience (measured by Medallia) and Wyndham Rewards affiliations, solidifying its position as a leading hotel in Central America, the Andes, and the Caribbean. This expansion signals confidence in Barranquilla’s continued growth as a tourism hub.
Implications for the Future of Colombian Tourism
The success of these two properties isn’t isolated. It reflects a broader trend of strategic investment and a commitment to quality and sustainability that’s transforming Barranquilla into a must-visit destination. The city’s proactive approach to urban development, coupled with the hotel industry’s dedication to responsible practices, is creating a virtuous cycle of growth. This model could serve as a blueprint for other Colombian cities looking to attract a more discerning and environmentally conscious traveler. The focus on enhancing the guest experience, as evidenced by the high audit scores, will be critical for maintaining a competitive edge in the long term.
What are your predictions for the future of sustainable tourism in Latin America? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
