A. M. 
El Salvador continues to position itself as an attractive destination for international tourism, achieving significant economic growth in the sector during 2024. According to data from the Presidency’s Press Secretariat, from january to october, the country received 3.2 million foreign visitors, an increase of 19% compared to the same period last year. This flow of tourists has generated a positive impact on the national economy, reaching US$2,862 million in foreign exchange, which reflects the success of the tourism policies and strategies implemented by the government.
The United States continues to be the main country of residence for tourists, representing 40% of visits. It is followed by Guatemala with 25% and Honduras with 16%, while the remaining 19% come from other countries around the world. This visitor profile highlights the diversity of people who choose El Salvador as a destination, attracted by its beaches, volcanoes and natural parks, and also by the country’s improved infrastructure and security.
Tourism not only benefits the hotel sector, but also commerce and other service areas, such as transportation and gastronomy. With an average daily expenditure of US$131 per person, the influx of tourists represents an important injection for small and medium-sized businesses in tourist areas. International visitors contribute to the economic dynamism of various regions, boosting job creation and creating new opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
One of the highlights of this growth is the increase in visits to national parks and cultural sites. As of october, 9.8 million people visited these places, 16% more than in the same period of 2023. This increase not only highlights the interest in El Salvador’s natural and cultural areas, but also the government’s commitment to promote these spaces, improving their access and conditions.
With these results, El Salvador reaffirms its commitment to tourism as one of the engines of its economy. The foreign exchange generated and the constant increase in international visitors are a positive sign of the country’s tourism and commercial development, consolidating El Salvador as an emerging destination in Central America.
