El Salvador is Surging Tourism Industry with Visa Free Travel for 87 Countries Including Russia, Argentina, USA, UAE, South Africa and Schengen Nations

Published on August 5, 2024

Salvador, officially the Republic of El Salvador, is a country in Central America. It is bordered on the northeast by Honduras, on the northwest by Guatemala, and on the south by the Pacific Ocean. El Salvador’s capital and largest city is San Salvador. El Salvador is experiencing a surge in tourism, thanks in part to its Visa-Free Travel Program, which now includes 87 eligible countries as of August 2024. This initiative makes it easier than ever for international travelers to explore the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history of El Salvador.

TTW Editor in Chief Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan says: “El Salvador, a vibrant Central American country, is experiencing a surge in tourism, boosted by its Visa-Free Travel Program that now includes 87 countries as of August 2024. In 2021, the country welcomed 1.22 million international visitors, recovering from a significant drop the previous year. El Salvador’s tourism appeal lies in its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unique attractions, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and historical sites like Joyas de Cerén. The capital, San Salvador, along with various charming hotels and major airports, ensures a comfortable stay for travelers. Festivals and local celebrations add to the country’s allure, making it an emerging favorite for eco-tourism and adventure seekers.”

El Salvador’s Tourism Rebounds in 2021 with 1.22 Million International Arrivals
El Salvador saw a significant increase in international tourist arrivals in 2021, with around 1.22 million visitors. This marked a strong recovery from the previous year, which experienced a substantial drop of 549 thousand overnight visitors due to the global pandemic. The rebound in tourism highlights the country’s resilience and growing appeal as a destination, attracting travelers with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unique attractions. This recovery also underscores the effectiveness of El Salvador’s efforts to revitalize its tourism sector and ensure a safe and welcoming environment for visitors.

Following 87 countries that can visit El Salvador without a Visa:

• France
• Germany
• Italy
• Spain
• Austria
• Luxembourg
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Switzerland
• Australia
• Ireland
• Belgium
• San Marino
• Poland
• Hungary
• Brunei
• Taiwan (Chinese Taipei)
• South Korea
• Japan
• Andorra
• Finland
• Sweden
• Norway
• Denmark
• Malta
• United Kingdom
• Iceland
• Greece
• Portugal
• Liechtenstein
• Monaco
• United States
• Canada
• Czechia
• Lithuania
• Chile
• Estonia
• Latvia
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Croatia
• Israel
• United Arab Emirates
• Malaysia
• Barbados
• Bahamas
• Marshall Islands
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Albania
• Cyprus
• Bulgaria
• Romania
• Argentina
• Qatar
• Brazil
• Uruguay
• Costa Rica
• Mexico
• Vatican City
• Guatemala
• Panama
• Paraguay
• Colombia
• Peru
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Honduras
• Nicaragua
• Ecuador
• St. Lucia
• Ukraine
• North Macedonia
• Fiji
• Solomon Islands
• Tuvalu
• Türkiye
• Russia
• Dominican Republic
• Belize
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• Kuwait
• Bahrain
• Vanuatu
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Madagascar

Airports in El Salvador

El Salvador‘s aviation network includes a variety of major and regional airports, each serving different travel needs. The busiest airport acts as the main international gateway, handling the majority of international flights. Another airport focuses primarily on domestic and general aviation services. A regional airport caters to regional travel, while a smaller airport in the coastal area attracts mainly tourists. Two additional airports are dedicated primarily to general aviation and private flights. Lastly, a minor facility with minimal traffic serves local travel and cargo services.

Airports:

• El Salvador International Airport Saint Óscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez (SAL)-The busiest airport in El Salvador, handling approximately 3 million inbound passengers annually. It serves as the main gateway for international travel to the country.
• Ilopango International Airport (ILS) primarily a hub for domestic flights and general aviation, Ilopango International Airport handles around 50,000 inbound passengers each year, mainly catering to smaller aircraft and private flights.
• Santa Rosa de Lima Airport a regional airport with limited passenger traffic, Santa Rosa de Lima Airport accommodates around 10,000 inbound passengers annually, focusing mainly on local and regional flights.
• El Tamarindo Airport (MSET) a smaller airport serving the coastal region, El Tamarindo Airport sees approximately 5,000 inbound passengers each year, primarily tourists visiting nearby beaches.
• Barrillas Airport (MSBS) handles around 3,000 inbound passengers annually, catering to general aviation and offering limited commercial flights.
• Punta San Juan Airport (MSSJ) serves around 2,000 inbound passengers per year, mainly for private and charter flights, providing access to nearby coastal attractions.
• El Salvador Bajo Airport (ESR) a minor airport with minimal passenger traffic, El Salvador Bajo Airport accommodates roughly 1,000 inbound passengers annually, mainly for local travel and cargo services.

Airlines in El Salvador:

• Avianca El Salvador– As the largest airline in the country, Avianca El Salvador handles approximately 2.5 million passengers annually. The airline offers extensive routes across the Americas, connecting El Salvador with key international destinations.
• Transportes Aéreos de El Salvador (TACA)– A prominent regional carrier, TACA manages around 1 million passengers each year. The airline focuses on providing connections within Central America and to major cities in the United States.
• Volaris El Salvador– Volaris El Salvador, a low-cost airline, caters to around 500,000 passengers annually. It offers affordable flights primarily to destinations within Central America and Mexico, appealing to budget-conscious travelers.

Discover El Salvador: A Surfer’s Paradise, Coffee Haven, and Budget-Friendly Destination:

• El Salvador is an ideal vacation destination for surfers, offering perfect waves and beaches.
• El Salvador boasts some of the world’s most sought-after coffee varieties, making it a paradise for coffee enthusiasts.
• Known as the Land of Volcanoes, El Salvador features numerous active and dormant volcanoes, adding to its unique landscape.
• The US dollar is the official currency of El Salvador, making transactions convenient for travelers from the United States.
• El Salvador is a budget-friendly travel destination, offering affordable accommodations, food, and activities.

Hotels in El Salvador:

• La Casita is a charming boutique hotel known for its cozy ambiance and personalized service. It offers comfortable accommodations with a unique local flair, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking an authentic experience.
• Hotel Villa Florencia Centro Historico-Located in the heart of San Salvador, Hotel Villa Florencia Centro Historico combines modern amenities with historic charm. It’s a convenient base for exploring the city’s cultural and historical attractions, offering comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Sheraton Presidente San Salvador Hotel– The Sheraton Presidente San Salvador Hotel is a luxury accommodation known for its elegant facilities and exceptional service. It features spacious rooms, a large pool, and fine dining options, making it ideal for both business and leisure travelers.
• Hotel Paseo del Sol-Hotel Paseo del Sol offers comfortable and affordable accommodations with easy access to local attractions. The hotel provides a range of amenities, including a restaurant and a garden, making it a pleasant choice for travelers.
• La Hola Villas – Villa Calamar is a beachfront property offering stunning ocean views and a tranquil atmosphere. This villa is perfect for a relaxing getaway, featuring private accommodations, a swimming pool, and easy access to the beach.

El Salvador: A Stunning Blend of Pristine Beaches, Lush Rainforests, and Tranquil Lakes

El Salvador boasts a stunning blend of natural landscapes, ranging from pristine beaches to lush rainforests. The country’s diverse ecosystems include the Pacific coastline with its sandy shores and surf-friendly waves, and the rich biodiversity of its tropical rainforests. National parks like El Imposible and Montecristo offer hiking trails through dense forests, while serene lakes such as Coatepeque and Ilopango provide picturesque settings for relaxation and water activities. El Salvador’s unique natural beauty makes it a haven for eco-tourists and nature enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility.

Festivals and Celebrations

El Salvador is renowned for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, which reflect its rich cultural heritage. Some notable events include:

• Fiestas Patrias (September 15th):Celebrates the country’s independence from Spain with parades, fireworks, and cultural performances.
• Semana Santa (March/April): A week-long celebration leading up to Easter, featuring religious processions, reenactments, and traditional foods.
• Festival de San Pedro Peralta (June): A lively festival in honor of the patron saint of San Pedro Peralta, showcasing local music, dance, and customs.

Tourisrt attraction places in El Salvador:

• Joyas de Cerén, often called the “Pompeii of the Americas,” is an archaeological site in El Salvador that preserves the remains of a pre-Hispanic village. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique glimpse into the daily life of the ancient Maya civilization.
• Ruta de las Flores is a scenic route in El Salvador, known for its picturesque villages, vibrant markets, and beautiful landscapes. It’s famous for its colorful murals, artisanal crafts, and coffee plantations, making it a popular destination for cultural and nature enthusiasts.
• El Boquerón National Park, located near San Salvador, is home to the impressive El Boquerón volcano crater. The park offers hiking trails with stunning views of the crater and surrounding areas, providing visitors with a perfect spot for outdoor activities and nature exploration.
• Parque Nacional El Boquerón, situated on the slopes of the San Salvador volcano, offers breathtaking views of the El Boquerón crater. This national park is a favorite destination for hiking and photography, with trails that lead through lush vegetation and volcanic landscapes.

El Salvador‘s tourism sector is thriving, thanks to its rich cultural heritage, diverse natural landscapes, and welcoming atmosphere. The country’s offerings range from vibrant festivals and historical sites to stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and tranquil lakes, catering to a wide variety of interests. As a growing destination for eco-tourism and adventure seekers, El Salvador continues to attract visitors looking for unique experiences and an authentic taste of Central American beauty. With ongoing efforts to promote sustainable tourism and preserve its natural and cultural treasures, El Salvador is poised to become an increasingly popular destination on the global tourism map.