View at Cerro Verde National Park. Tourism to El Salvador is changing, with 2024 setting a new record in tourist arrivals. Last year, Salvadoran authorities reported that more than 374 million people entered the country.
The December holidays are among the most popular for foreign visitors, and it’s also a time when locals travel to tourist destinations within the country for celebrations.
According to the Salvadoran Institute of Tourism ISTU, from December 20, 2024, to January 1, 2025, El Salvador received more than 170 thousand international visitors, 46% more than the same period in 2023.
Furthermore, According to Eny Aguiñada, the ISTU president, during the December holidays, 1.7 million Salvadorans ventured to different tourist destinations.
Domestic tourism also achieved extraordinary results, with 1.7 million visitors to national parks and public beaches, consolidating itself as an economic pillar thanks to a diverse tourist offer, unique cultural events, and an effective promotion strategy. Eny Aguiñada.
The five most visited locations during the 2024 December holidays were the Tourist Complex of Port of La Libertad, the National Library BINAES, Sunset Amusement Park in La Libertad, Cerro Verde National Park, and Balboa Natural Park.
1. Tourist Complex of the Port of La Libertad
This La Libertad tourist complex is about 33 kilometers from the international airport. The complex has a fresh seafood market, souvenir shops, restaurants, a boardwalk, a pier, and an excellent beach.
The Port of La Libertad tourist complex is near some of the best beaches in El Salvador for surfing or relaxation.
2. BINAES: El Salvador National Library
The National Library of El Salvador, BINAES, stands as a modern cultural hub preserving the country’s rich history and knowledge. Featuring state-of-the-art facilities, it offers Salvadorans and visitors a vibrant space for learning and cultural exploration.
The BINAES is part of the San Salvador Historic District, which includes the National Palace, the National Cathedral, the National Theater, and other landmarks.
SEE ALSO: El Salvador National Library BINAES: Preserving the Past, Inspiring the Future!
3. Sunset Amusement Park in La Libertad
The Sunset Amusement Park is in the port of La Libertad near the pier and the Mercado del Mar tourist complex. It has five rides for children and adults, among which are the pirate ship, the carousel, and the Ferris wheel.
Sunset Park was developed as a non-refundable donation from the Government of the People’s Republic of China.
4. Cerro Verde National Park
The Cerro Verde natural area is a flattened volcano crater located in the department of Santa Ana, about 75 kilometers from San Salvador.
Cerro Verde is one of the most visited natural areas in El Salvador; it has ample flora and fauna for tourists to enjoy. Furthermore, it has trails with excellent viewpoints of the other volcanoes in the park, Izalco and Santa Ana.
5. Balboa Natural Park
Balboa Park is located within the Los Planes de Renderos area in El Salvador; it is a recreational oasis with amazing scenic landscapes, historical treasures, and diverse ecotourist activities.
Established in 1949, Balboa Park has preserved its natural vibrancy and offers an array of recreational activities. These include a miniature train for both adults and children, a synthetic grass soccer field, playgrounds, a cycling path, and designated picnic areas.
Tourism to El Salvador in 2023
Tourism in El Salvador is on a positive upswing. The country’s concerted efforts in promoting its diverse attractions and improving cultural spaces have led to increased visitor numbers, fostering a promising future for its tourism industry and contributing to El Salvador’s economic growth.
