El Salvador is set to close 2024 with record-breaking international tourism figures, positioning itself as one of the fastest-growing destinations globally. According to Minister of Tourism Morena Valdez, the country welcomed 3.5 million foreign visitors by November, marking an 18% increase over the same period in 2023. Of these visitors, 80% were tourists, while 20% were excursionists.

This influx of international travelers has generated a significant economic impact, with foreign currency earnings reaching $3.09 billion. Daily spending per visitor ranged between $145 and $200, contributing to the country’s economic growth.

«We’ve already recovered and are growing faster in terms of visitor income. Our main challenge now is to encourage longer stays, aiming for two to three weeks instead of just one,» Minister Valdez commented.

The United States remains the top source of international visitors, accounting for 40% of arrivals, followed by Guatemala with 25%, and Honduras with 16%. The rest of the world contributes 19%. The country is also seeing growing numbers of visitors from South America, Asia, and Europe, and is working with UN Tourism to further expand these markets.

Valdez projected that by the end of the year, El Salvador will have hosted 3.8 million visitors, generating approximately $3.8 billion in foreign currency. The country is preparing for a strong finish to the year, with 125,000 foreign visitors expected between December 23 and January 2, generating an estimated $125 million in revenue.

Looking ahead, El Salvador aims to continue diversifying its tourist base and sustaining the growth of its key destinations.