The Capital City, San Salvador.
SANTA TECLA, El Salvador — El Salvador has surpassed 3 million international visitors thus far this year, Tourism Minister Morena Valdez announced, marking another milestone in the country’s fast-growing tourism recovery.
The majority of travelers have come from the United States, Guatemala, Honduras, and other Latin American nations, reinforcing El Salvador’s rising status as a leading destination in the region.
Between January 1 and October 7, the nation received 3 million international visitors, generating significant economic activity nationwide, according to Valdez’s televised statement earlier this week.
“By September, we had already reached 2.9 million visitors, and just yesterday, October 7, we crossed the 3 million mark, so we are extremely happy,” she said.
The challenge is to make this growth sustainable and become that emerging destination where they can find more experiences and not only return, but also recommend us. Minister Valdez.
Authorities project that total arrivals will reach 4 million by year’s end, with the December holiday season expected to drive the final surge in visitor numbers.
Valdez emphasized that accommodating international arrivals is a joint effort involving CEPA, Immigration, Customs, the Foreign Ministry, and other government institutions coordinating entry and transit.
She highlighted growing regional interest from Honduras and Guatemala, while the United States remains the top source market, bolstered by El Salvador’s large diaspora community.
“The Honduran and Guatemalan markets are expanding steadily, but the U.S. continues to lead — many Salvadorans abroad are visiting home more often,” stated Valdez, Minister of Tourism of El Salvador.
Average daily spending by foreign tourists now stands at roughly $150, a figure that varies depending on destination costs and flight expenses, Valdez noted.
She added that the Tourism Ministry continues to negotiate with airlines to expand routes, particularly from Europe, to diversify visitor markets and increase foreign exchange revenue.
In November, El Salvador will host three international surfing tournaments — events that Valdez expects will further elevate the country’s global tourism profile and draw additional visitors.
