National Library of El Salvador BINAES. SANTA TECLA, El Salvador — El Salvador has become the first nation to formally promote family-centered tourism, a milestone recognized by UN Tourism following the launch of the Salvadoran government’s “Family Friendly” tourism initiative.
The program, officially presented on October 21 by First Lady Gabriela de Bukele to UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, designates eleven national sites as “family friendly” under a new national tourism strategy.
“This initiative is a concrete expression of our vision as a country,” said the first lady during the presentation. “We have placed children and their families at the center of all our decisions; they are our highest priority.”
The Presidential House announced the list of sites awarded the “Family Friendly” seal, including San Salvador’s Children’s Amusement Park on Juan Pablo II Avenue and Fifth Avenue North. Also designated were the National Palace, the Library of El Salvador (Binaes), and the National Theater in the historic center.
Other recognized destinations include Sunset Park in La Libertad, the National Museum of Anthropology (MUNA) on La Revolución Avenue, and the President Theater in the San Benito neighborhood. Natural parks such as Saburo Hirao in San Salvador, Cerro Verde in Santa Ana, and El Boquerón in San Salvador were also certified.
Rounding out the list is the San Sebastián tourist terminal in San Vicente, part of the government’s wider plan to highlight “safe and accessible” experiences for families nationwide.
The Ministry of Tourism has launched a dedicated website showcasing activities aligned with the family-friendly initiative. One such event, a departmental festival in San Sebastián, San Vicente, is scheduled for Thursday.
During the event, the First Lady signed an agreement with UN Tourism to train public- and private-sector workers in family-oriented tourism standards.
Gabriela de Bukele noted that El Salvador is increasingly recognized abroad for its hospitality, surfing destinations, early childhood programs, and improved public security.
UNWTO’s Pololikashvili praised the initiative, stating that it marked the first time a country had sought to brand itself through a family-friendly tourism model.
