El Salvador is making waves in the international tourism scene, recognized by UN Tourism as the third-best country in the world for recovery and growth in tourism. Notably, it ranks first in the Western Hemisphere and the Americas, showcasing remarkable statistics that highlight its resurgence.
According to the latest UN Tourism Barometer, El Salvador has seen a staggering 81% increase in tourist arrivals compared to 2019 and a 168% surge in tourism revenue during the first quarter of this year. Only Qatar (147%) and Albania (93%) outpace El Salvador in global tourism recovery, while Saudi Arabia (73%) and Moldova (50%) round out the top five.
The Ministry of Tourism (Mitur) reports a consistent 25% monthly growth in tourism compared to 2023. This impressive performance positions El Salvador ahead of other countries in the Americas, including Curacao (+48%), Colombia (+34%), Guatemala (+28%), and the Dominican Republic (+27%).
Tourism Minister Morena Valdez attributes this success to collaborative efforts between government institutions and a robust security strategy that has made El Salvador the safest country in the Western Hemisphere. “We are very satisfied with this result, which reflects the commitment of President Nayib Bukele’s government and the security measures implemented,” Valdez stated.
UN Tourism data indicates that worldwide tourism has recovered to 96% of pre-pandemic levels, with 790 million international tourists traveling in the first seven months of 2024—an 11% increase from the previous year. The outlook for 2024 remains optimistic, with expectations of a full recovery supported by strong global demand and improved air connectivity.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili highlighted the resilience of international tourism, emphasizing the need for sustainable tourism planning that benefits communities while capitalizing on economic opportunities. As El Salvador continues to flourish as a prime travel destination, its focus on safety and growth sets a powerful example for the global tourism industry.
