El Salvador is poised for a significant boost in tourism, with projections indicating the country could welcome 4 million international visitors in 2025. This surge in tourism is expected to generate foreign currency earnings of approximately $4.37 billion, according to the Minister of Tourism, Morena Valdéz. She shared these optimistic figures with the Finance and Special Budget Commission of the Legislative Assembly while discussing the 2025 budget allocation for her ministry.

Valdéz highlighted the country’s impressive growth in recent years, with international visitors reaching 3.2 million from January to October of 2024—a 19% increase compared to the same period last year. The United States remains the largest source of tourists, contributing 40% of total visits, followed by Guatemala (25%) and Honduras (16%). Notably, 77% of visitors from the U.S. are foreign nationals, a sign of growing international interest in El Salvador’s tourism offerings.

Looking ahead, Valdéz projected that tourism in 2025 would continue its upward trajectory, with a target of 4 million international visitors. Projections for 2026 suggest a further increase to 4.2 million, with an ambitious goal of 5 million visitors by 2030.

The Minister credited the country’s tourism achievements to the coordinated efforts between government institutions, the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur), and the private sector. “We have seen a growth in tourism of 15% to 20% each month since 2023,” Valdéz said. She also noted that El Salvador’s high placement in international tourism rankings, particularly following the implementation of the exceptional security regime, has contributed to the country’s growing appeal as a travel destination.

Despite a slight decrease in the Mitur budget for 2025—down by around $2 million to $49.9 million—Valdéz pointed out that the ministry is seeing increased revenue from its own sources, which will help support ongoing efforts to boost tourism and improve infrastructure.

El Salvador’s tourism sector continues to thrive as the country builds on its reputation as a vibrant and increasingly popular destination for international travelers.