El Salvador reached a historic milestone in 2025 by welcoming 4.1 million international visitors, positioning the country as one of the most visited destinations in Central America. The figure represents the strongest tourism performance in the nation’s history and reflects a sustained increase in regional and international travel interest.
“2025 has been one of the best years for tourism in El Salvador since we began under President Nayib Bukele. These 4.1 million international visitors are historic figures, especially because our country has taken a positive turn and allowed us to receive visitors not only from the United States, but also from our Central American neighbors and other parts of the world,” said Eny Aguiñada, president of the Salvadoran Tourism Institute (ISTU).
According to ISTU data, Guatemala led international arrivals with 1.5 million visitors, marking a 13 percent increase compared to 2024. The United States followed with 1.3 million visitors, representing a 1.3 percent growth, while Honduras contributed 792,000 visitors, a 6 percent increase year over year.
“That is the top three of international visitors. Both our Guatemalan and Honduran brothers and sisters have enjoyed the country’s tourist destinations,” Aguiñada noted during a radio interview.
Tourism activity also surged at the end of the year, with 5.9 million national and international visits recorded in December alone across national parks, public beaches, and the Christmas Village. Among the most visited destinations were the Villa Navideña, the Port of La Libertad Tourist Complex, Sunset Park, Balboa Natural Park, and Puerta del Diablo Natural Park.