Downtown San Salvador. El Salvador is a country on the rise! The country has been turning heads lately for all the right reasons. What was once known primarily for safety issues is now becoming one of the most exciting places to visit, invest in, and explore.
El Salvador is getting a major facelift! With better safety, improved infrastructure, and even Bitcoin making waves, the country’s vibe is shifting, and the world is seeing it in a new light.
From “Murder Capital” to Must-Visit Destination
Not too long ago, El Salvador had a rough reputation. Gang violence and crime made it one of the most dangerous places in the world. In 2016, people referred to El Salvador as “The Murder Capital of the World.”
But things have changed fast. Under President Nayib Bukele, the country cracked down hard on crime with a major security plans that has worked seriously.
Homicides dropped 91.5% from the end of 2020 to the end of 2024. El Salvador is safer than ever—Locals feel it, tourists notice it, and investors are paying attention.
SEE ALSO: El Salvador State of Exception: A Security Measure Implemented to Fight Gangs
Tourism Is Booming
With safer streets, people are coming back—and in significant numbers. By 2024, El Salvador’s tourism had bounced back to almost pre-COVID levels and even increased over 2019.
In 2025, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) published its list of the top-performing tourist destinations for 2024, with El Salvador ranking second behind Qatar.
Visitors love the mix of adventure and culture found in beaches, volcanoes, and colorful towns. You can feel the buzz in places like El Tunco and the historic center of San Salvador, where cafés and local culture thrive.
Bitcoin Changed the Game
In 2021, El Salvador made global headlines by becoming the first country to make Bitcoin legal tender.
It wasn’t just about finance but a move to attract digital nomads, tech lovers, and crypto fans. And it worked.
Now, tourists can pay with Bitcoin at hotels, shops, and restaurants nationwide. Spots like El Zonte (aka “Bitcoin Beach”) have become iconic hangouts for the crypto crowd.
El Salvador has changed its Bitcoin law, leading many to believe that Bitcoin is no longer considered legal tender.
Nevertheless, despite these changes, El Salvador’s cryptocurrency initiative undeniably transformed the country’s tourism sector.
Bitcoin attracted international visitors and significantly raised El Salvador’s global profile.
Infrastructure is Getting a Major Upgrade
Salvadoran authorities have been busy upgrading roads, parks, and public spaces. From national parks to city sidewalks, the improvements are making the country more beautiful, accessible, and tourist-friendly.
Travel between beaches, lakes, and volcanoes is much easier now, and the government is working hard to make the whole visitor experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Investing is Coming to El Salvador
Private investment is pouring into the country, too. Luxury hotels, beachfront resorts, shopping centers, high-rise residential buildings—you name it, it’s coming.
Developers and entrepreneurs, both local and international, are jumping in to meet rising demand.
The Buzz About El Salvador Is Real
El Salvador isn’t quite at Costa Rica’s tourism level yet, but it’s catching. The country has stunning landscapes, tropical weather, a rich culture, and a reputation for safety and innovation; it’s carving out its spot on the Central America travel map.
Are you into surfing, hiking, chilling on a beach, or diving into the Bitcoin scene? If yes, El Salvador is for you—there’s something here for everyone.
SEE ALSO: Living in El Salvador: Top Reasons for Moving to El Salvador
Everything points to even more growth ahead for the smallest country in Latin America.
El Salvador is becoming a notable player in the region, fueled by significant advancements in safety, tourism, technology, and development.
It’s a great time for travelers, investors, and adventurers to explore El Salvador.
