OMPT unveils first nominees for 11th Pasaporte Abierto awards during Ipiales events

Ipiales, Colombia.- The World Travel Journalism Organization (WTJO, OMPT in Spanish) revealed the first three nominees for the 11th edition of its Pasaporte Abierto awards on the sidelines of this week’s activities in Ipiales. The prize honors people, institutions and destinations that advance tourism with a measurable positive impact on culture, community and the environment.

OMPT highlighted the Department of Nariño for its integrated approach to promotion, which combines sustainable tourism, local identity and community hospitality. Nestled in Colombia’s southwest, Nariño’s range of landscapes and community-led offerings have positioned it as a growing model for responsible regional tourism.

Also nominated was Las Lajas Travel, a tour operator that since 2021 has focused on rural, cultural and community-based experiences around the Las Lajas Sanctuary. The agency’s programming—ranging from craft workshops to a local “beer route” in Ipiales and visits to small farms—was singled out for diversifying visitor experiences while routing economic benefits to local hosts.

The third nominee named by OMPT was Hotel Nogal Suites, a boutique operation with properties in Ipiales and Pasto. The hotel was recognized for elevating local accommodation standards and helping to shape positive guest experiences that strengthen the area’s overall tourism offer.

The full Pasaporte Abierto ceremony is scheduled for Panama in the first week of February 2026, when journalists, tourism professionals and public-sector representatives from across the region will gather to celebrate finalists and winners whose work promotes sustainable development through travel.

OMPT said it will announce additional nominees in the coming weeks as the organization builds toward the February awards gala.