A. M. 
One of the most popular destinations is the historic center of San Salvador, which is positioned as the second most visited place after the beaches of La Libertad. According to the Minister of Tourism, Morena Valdez, this area has received significant investment, with support of approximately US$60 million for tourism businesses in the area, managed by the Historical Center Planning Authority through a one-stop shop.
Tourism in El Salvador continues to show outstanding growth, with a projection that it will represent at least 14% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2024. The Minister of Tourism highlighted the importance of strengthening the tourism industry through international congresses and events, which play a key role in promoting the country as an attractive destination.
The increase in the number of visitors from the United States, Canada and neighboring countries such as Guatemala and Honduras reflects the growing interest in the country. This flow of tourists has also boosted development in other tourist areas, including the mountainous, coffee-growing and rural regions, which are now being strengthened to diversify the tourist offer.
The minister emphasized that, in addition to the natural and cultural attraction of these places, the work of organizing the historic center is having a positive impact. A management plan has been implemented to improve the visitor experience and ensure that the growth of tourism is maintained in a sustainable manner over time.
This growth is reflected in the numbers: in 2023, tourism accounted for 12% of GDP, exceeding previous figures of between 5% and 6%. Looking ahead to 2024, the government is confident that the trend will continue, benefiting both the economy and the communities involved in the tourism chain.
