El Salvador experienced a strong start to its Holy Week tourism season, receiving more than 46,000 international visitors between April 12 and 14, according to Eny Aguiñada, president of the Salvadoran Tourism Institute (ISTU). The figure represents a 4% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
Aguiñada highlighted that the majority of tourists came from neighboring Guatemala, accounting for 41% of arrivals. Visitors from the United States followed with 26%, and Hondurans made up 21%. “The rest of the world makes up 12%, but due to the proximity of our neighboring countries, we’re their first choice to enjoy this holiday season,” she said during an interview on Fuego radio.
The Ministry of Tourism estimates that over 135,000 international tourists will enter the country between April 12 and 20, potentially generating more than $100 million in foreign exchange. Domestic tourism is also expected to boom, with over 1.7 million Salvadorans visiting public or private parks.
According to Aguiñada, the most visited destination is the Historic Center of San Salvador. “People come to see for themselves that it has truly been rehabilitated,” she noted. Other popular spots include the National Library (BINAES), Puerto de La Libertad, Balboa Natural Park, and Sunset Park.
To facilitate local travel, ISTU is running its traditional “Buses Alegres” program from April 17 to 20, offering guided trips to popular tourist sites. Reservations can be made by calling 7517-9169. Destinations include Suchitoto, Apulo, Cerro Verde, the Ruta de Las Flores, and several beaches like Barra de Santiago and El Espino. A special route from San Miguel to Amapulapa and Ichanmichen is also scheduled for April 19.