El Salvador: 2nd Worldwide in Tourism Growth
According to the Ministry of Tourism (MITUR), El Salvador welcomed 4.1 million international visitors in 2025, surpassing the annual target. The country shows +5% growth compared to 2024 (3.9 million) and confirms its position as the fastest-growing destination in the Americas.
Key 2025 Figures (Official Source: MITUR & CEPA)
International Visitors
- 4.1 million international visitors in 2025
- +5% compared to 2024
- +141% compared to 2019 (pre-pandemic)
- 271,000 visitors during December 2025 holidays (+14% vs 2024)
Air Transport (Historic Record)
- 5.2 million passengers at international airport in 2025
- 524,000 passengers in December 2025 alone (+4% vs 2024)
- 51,000 air operations (+5% vs 2024)
- +11% air cargo
- 44% of visitors arrive by air, 56% by land
Tourism Revenue
- $4+ billion generated by tourism in 2025
- Tourism represents 14% of GDP
- Monthly growth of 15-20% since 2023
Domestic Tourism (2025 holidays)
- 5.9 million visits to national parks, beaches and attractions
- Historic Center Christmas Village: record attendance
Visitor Origins 2025
- Guatemala: 1.5 million (+13%)
- United States: 1.3 million (+1.3%)
- Honduras: 792,000 (+6%)
- Other growing markets: Canada, Nicaragua
83% Real Tourists
Tourism Minister Morena Valdez highlights that 83% of international visitors are tourists staying at least one night, demonstrating the sector's direct economic impact.
Why This Exceptional Growth?
Security Transformation
The number one factor. With a homicide rate of 1.9 per 100,000 inhabitants, El Salvador is now considered the safest country in the Western Hemisphere. The US upgraded its travel advisory to Level 2.
Surf City and International Events
2025 hosted 5 major surfing tournaments and 2 golf championships. The WSL Championship Tour returns to Punta Roca in 2026.
Bitcoin and Digital Nomads
The status as first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender continues attracting crypto enthusiasts and digital nomads worldwide.
Hotel Investments
JW Marriott, Hilton and numerous boutique hotels have opened or are under construction.
2026 Outlook
Officials are optimistic for 2026 with:
- WSL Championship Tour at Punta Roca (May 28 - June 7, 2026)
- ISA partnership through 2027
- Continued tourism infrastructure expansion
- Goal: 5 million visitors by 2030
Conclusion
El Salvador confirms its transformation into a major tourist destination. With 4.1 million visitors in 2025 and expanding infrastructure, the country demonstrates its security, surf and innovation strategy is working.