About El Salvador

El Salvador, the smallest country in Central America, is situated on the Pacific coast neighboring Guatemala and Honduras. Prior to invasion of Spanish conquerors, the present territory of El Salvador was called Cuscatlan, which translated from Nahuatl means “the land of jewels”. Also known as “the Tom Thumb of the Americas” (a nickname invented by Gabriela Mistral), El Salvador possesses numerous natural scenic, cultural and historical sights. Despite that, it has not yet become an independent tourist direction and still lives in the shadow of its more well-known neighbors such as Costa Rica, Panama, and Belize. Most tourists visit El Salvador in transit, just sparing 2-3 days for familiarization with the capital which with all its economic, political and cultural significance is nowhere near the most interesting place to see in El Salvador.

A Boost for Tourism

El Salvador is leveraging its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty to attract tourists and has been recognized by leading international travel publications as a must-visit destination​! El Salvador experienced a 35% increase in international tourism in early 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, which was already a record year for tourism in the country​​. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) projects a remarkable 157% growth in international tourist arrivals compared to pre-pandemic levels​.

The country’s numerous national parks, volcanoes, and archaeological sites offer unique experiences for adventure and history enthusiasts. The government and private sector have been working together to promote sustainable tourism that preserves these natural and cultural treasures.

The government has launched several initiatives to boost tourism, such as promoting the “Surf City” project, which highlights El Salvador’s Pacific coastline as a premier destination for surfers. This project includes not only the development of surfing spots but also the enhancement of nearby amenities, such as hotels, restaurants, and other tourist services.

New Development

Major investments in infrastructure have transformed El Salvador’s urban and rural landscapes. Improved road networks and signage, renovated airports, and the development of new tourist facilities have made travel within the country more accessible and comfortable.

Efforts to revitalize the historic center of San Salvador, Suchitoto, and many of the the quaint villages along the Ruta de Las Flores have gained momentum. These restorations aim to preserve the architectural and cultural heritage and enhance public spaces, while making the area more attractive and accessible for tourists.

Improved Safety

Once overshadowed by concerns of safety, El Salvador is becoming an increasingly appealing option for travelers seeking diverse experiences, from surfing and eco-tourism to cultural exploration. The ongoing commitment to enhancing security and promoting tourism suggests that El Salvador’s rise as a favored destination is set to continue, offering international visitors a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.

Since 2019 the Salvadoran government has implemented rigorous measures to combat crime, particularly gang violence which had previously plagued the country. There have also been efforts to reform the judicial system and combat corruption which have bolstered the rule of law, creating a more stable and predictable environment for both residents and tourists. El Salvador has also fostered stronger ties with international partners and in turn, receiving support for its security measures. Collaboration with countries such as the United States have been effective in maintaining peace and security.