El Salvador’s Minister of Tourism, Morena Valdez, has announced a projection of 300,000 tourists visiting the country between November and December, contributing to a total of 3.8 million visitors for 2024. This influx is expected to generate between $3 billion and $3.6 billion in foreign currency revenues.
“Our projections indicate that in November and December alone, we will welcome over 300,000 visitors at our airport and borders,” said Valdez. On average, each tourist spends between $106 and $120 per day, she added.
The government’s strategy extends beyond traditional tourism sectors such as accommodation, food, transportation, and recreation. It also aims to boost other industries like handicrafts and construction, the latter driven by increased investments in tourism infrastructure.
Popular destinations for international visitors include the historic center of San Salvador and the beaches of La Libertad, especially with the addition of a new tourist pier at the Port of La Libertad. Valdez encouraged tourists to explore the many options available across the country.
“La Libertad’s coastal region remains the most visited by international travelers, followed by the historic center, which will host Christmas celebrations starting December 1,” she said.
Most visitors come from the United States, Canada, Guatemala, and Honduras, with growing interest from South America and Europe. Minister Valdez identified expanding into these markets as a key goal for 2025.
Easter and the holiday season are traditionally the most lucrative times for tourism in El Salvador, underscoring the sector’s critical role in the nation’s economy.