Parque Recreativo Apulo.
The Salvadoran Institute of Tourism (ISTU) expects to welcome at least 220,000 visitors to its recreational parks during the 2026 Christmas and New Year holidays.
ISTU President Eny Aguiñada said the institution is preparing its facilities for increased demand from Salvadoran families, international tourists, and Salvadorans living abroad who return home for the holidays.
The expected number of visitors shows that more people are interested in El Salvador’s recreational spots, especially in December when families use school breaks and holiday celebrations to travel around the country.
Aguiñada said that visitors from the United States are helping boost these numbers. Many Salvadorans who live abroad come home for the holidays, spend time with family, and visit popular tourist spots while they are here.
Apulo Leads El Salvador’s Most Popular Recreational Parks
Out of the 18 recreational parks managed by ISTU, Apulo Recreational Park has been the most visited in 2026, according to the institution’s president.
Apulo sits on the shore of Lake Ilopango and draws families who want a relaxing day by the water. Its facilities make it a favorite for people from San Salvador and nearby areas.
Another popular destination is Cerro Verde Natural Park, where visitors can enjoy cooler temperatures, mountain scenery, and views of El Salvador’s volcanic landscape.
The park is great for people who enjoy outdoor activities and nature. Its higher location is also a good choice for families wanting to get away from the heat in lower areas.
Sunset Park, located in Puerto de La Libertad, continues to attract visitors exploring El Salvador’s Pacific coast. The amusement park complements the restaurants, beaches, and other attractions in the surrounding area.
Sunset Park is about 30 minutes from San Salvador when traffic is good. It’s an easy place for families and tourists to visit if they want to enjoy the coast and have some fun.
La Puerta del Diablo is another destination attracting considerable attention. Located south of San Salvador, the popular attraction combines mountain scenery, panoramic viewpoints, and traditional Salvadoran food.
Visitors can explore the surrounding landscape, enjoy local dishes, and spend time outdoors. Its proximity to the capital makes it particularly convenient for short family outings.
ISTU Expands Overnight Accommodation Options
The ISTU is encouraging visitors to stay overnight at Cerro Verde and Costa del Sol. This gives people more chances to enjoy their trip and not have to head home the same day.
Both destinations offer equipped cabins designed for families and travelers seeking additional comfort. Cerro Verde provides a mountain setting, while Costa del Sol offers access to coastal attractions.
According to the ISTU’s official website, visitors can find information about cabin reservations, recreational facilities, admission fees, and operating hours before planning their trips.
Christmas Tourism Expected to Bring More Visitors to Recreational Parks
An estimated 220,000 holiday visitors are expected to join the many people who have already visited El Salvador’s public recreational parks this year. These parks remain popular with families looking for affordable fun and outdoor activities.
ISTU parks welcomed more than 3.5 million visitors between January and September 2026, with Salvadorans accounting for approximately 95% of attendance.
With Christmas approaching, the institution expects another busy vacation season as residents, international travelers, and Salvadorans returning from abroad visit some of the country’s best-known recreational destinations.
If your family is planning a holiday outing, ISTU suggests checking official schedules, admission prices, transportation options, and booking accommodations ahead of time, especially during the busiest days of Christmas.
