El Salvador: 2nd Worldwide in Tourism Growth
According to the Ministry of Tourism (MITUR), El Salvador welcomed 3.9 million international visitors in 2024, a 17% increase from 2023. Even more impressive: the country shows 81% growth compared to 2019, placing it 2nd worldwide according to UN Tourism barometer, just behind Qatar (+137%).
Key 2024 Figures (Official Source: MITUR)
International Visitors
- 3.9 million international visitors in 2024
- +17% compared to 2023
- +81% compared to 2019 (pre-pandemic)
- 431,674 visitors in December 2024 (record month)
Tourism Revenue
- +206% increase in international tourism revenue vs 2019
- $3.7 billion+ generated by tourism in 2023
- Tourism represents a fundamental pillar of Salvadoran economy
Domestic Tourism (Dec 21 - Jan 2)
- 3.5 million visits to national destinations
- 2.5 million people at Historic Center Christmas Village
- 429,000 visitors to public tourist sites
- 417,000 visitors to public beaches
- 185,000 visitors to public cultural sites
- 20,000 visitors to protected natural areas
Visitor Origins
According to Holy Week 2024 data (representative trend):
- 36% Guatemala
- 29% United States
- 21% Honduras
- 14% Rest of world
Most Visited Destinations
1. San Salvador Historic Center
With 2.5 million visitors during year-end holidays, the renovated Historic Center became THE must-visit destination. The Villa Navideña (Christmas Village) attracted record crowds with lights, markets and entertainment.
2. Public Beaches
417,000 visitors enjoyed public beaches during holidays. Most popular:
- El Tunco (surf)
- El Zonte (Bitcoin Beach)
- Costa del Sol
- Playa El Cuco
3. Public Tourist Sites
429,000 visitors explored state-managed sites including national parks, museums and archaeological sites.
4. Cultural Sites
185,000 visitors to museums, theaters and historic monuments.
5. Protected Natural Areas
20,000 visitors to national parks and natural reserves like:
- Cerro Verde National Park
- El Imposible National Park
- Balboa Natural Park
Why This Exceptional Growth?
Security Transformation
The number one factor. Homicides dropped from 6,656 in 2015 to just 114 in 2024. In December 2024, only one homicide was recorded nationwide. The US upgraded travel advisory to Level 2 (from Level 4).
Urban Renewal
San Salvador Historic Center completely transformed: new plazas, lighting, 24/7 security, renovated museums (BINAES, MARTE).
International Positioning
The Surf City strategy and Bitcoin adoption as legal tender generated worldwide media visibility.
Hotel Investments
Over $100 million in announced investments: JW Marriott, Hampton by Hilton, Holiday Inn Express, new boutique hotels.
UN Tourism World Ranking 2024
El Salvador stands out among best-performing destinations:
- Qatar: +137% vs 2019
- El Salvador: +81% vs 2019
- Other growing destinations
This performance makes El Salvador #1 in the Americas for tourism growth.
2025 Outlook
MITUR targets 4.2 million visitors in 2025. Several factors support this goal:
- Opening of new international hotels
- International airport expansion
- New Pacific Airport project in La Unión
- Continued urban renewal programs
- International promotion campaigns
Holy Week 2024: A Preview of Success
March 2024 holidays already showed the trend:
- 132,000 international visitors (land and air borders)
- +29% compared to Holy Week 2023
- $106 million in revenue generated
Tips for Visiting El Salvador
Best Time
- November-April: Dry season, ideal for beaches and volcanoes
- December: Christmas Village and holidays (but hotels fully booked)
- March-April: Holy Week, traditional processions
Book in Advance
With increasing tourism, hotels often sell out during peak periods. Book 2-3 months ahead for December and Holy Week.
Conclusion
El Salvador confirms its transformation into a major tourist destination. With 3.9 million visitors in 2024 and 81% growth vs 2019, the country demonstrates its security and renovation strategy is working. The goal of 4.2 million visitors in 2025 seems within reach.