In a remarkable turnaround, local tourism in El Salvador is flourishing, thanks to the government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing security through the Territorial Control Plan (PCT) and the exceptional regime. Salvadorans are now exploring destinations that were once deemed too dangerous, transforming the landscape of local travel and leisure.
The surge in domestic tourism has been notably evident on social media, where locals are sharing vibrant videos and photographs of previously inaccessible sites. Areas that once fell victim to the grip of criminal activity are now welcoming visitors with open arms. From the Tecotrini pools in Ciudad Delgado to the hidden gems around Lake Ilopango, such as Joya Grande, and the stunning Las Periqueras and Las Piletas Montefresco waterfalls in Usulután, the diversity of attractions has sparked newfound interest among travelers.
According to Minister of Tourism Morena Valdez, more than 8.9 million people visited public tourist, cultural, and natural sites, as well as protected areas, from January to September of this year. “Domestic tourism has grown significantly across public and cultural destinations, and the number of visitors has surpassed previous years,” she noted. The increased safety measures have made it possible for Salvadorans to enjoy their country’s rich offerings without fear.
Valdez attributes this rise in tourism to the effective security strategies implemented by President Nayib Bukele’s administration. “Thanks to these initiatives, areas that were once avoided are now thriving, making El Salvador a dynamic destination,” she stated. The country’s diverse attractions allow visitors to experience a volcanic landscape in the morning and relax by a lake in the afternoon.
Recent reports from the Ministry of Culture indicate that 137,649 people visited cultural spaces during the August celebrations, with beaches, the Historic Center of San Salvador, volcanoes, and colonial towns emerging as the most popular destinations.
The economic impact of these changes is profound. Minister Valdez highlighted that 2023 has seen a record 3.4 million visitors, representing a 40% increase compared to previous years. The United Nations recognized El Salvador as one of the four countries experiencing the greatest tourism growth post-pandemic.
The Ministry of Tourism is currently conducting a business survey to update visitor statistics and gauge investment interest, particularly from foreign firms and the Salvadoran diaspora. This influx of visitors has generated over $3.7 billion in foreign currency, marking one of the highest revenue years for the country.
As projections for 2024 suggest an additional increase to approximately 4 million visitors, particularly around December, the government is focused on enhancing public infrastructure, training human resources, and attracting quality investments in the tourism sector.
With the renewed interest in local tourism and the safety measures making travel more accessible, El Salvador is poised for continued growth and transformation in its tourism landscape.
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