Interview with Eduardo: A homegrown speaker from El Salvador
In the heart of Central America, El Salvador has undergone a remarkable transformation, becoming a vibrant and dynamic tourist destination. This metamorphosis is best experienced through the eyes of local guide, Eduardo, who left his birthplace during the civil war and returned in 1997 to rediscover his homeland.
Born in El Salvador but raised in the United States, Eduardo's passion for his country is palpable. He found inspiration to become a guide after encountering people abroad who knew little about his homeland. Educated and committed to continuous learning, Eduardo spends each year refreshing his knowledge and deepening his understanding of El Salvador.
El Salvador's tourism sector has grown exponentially, representing over 14% of the GDP and generating nearly $3.8 billion in 2023. This growth is evident in the booming number of international visitors, with 2024 welcoming 3.9 million tourists, marking a 45% increase from pre-pandemic levels. The country's improved public safety situation, infrastructure upgrades, and effective promotional campaigns have contributed to this surge.
Visitors to El Salvador can immerse themselves in a variety of experiences, from surfing on the Pacific coast, promoted under the Surf City campaign, to hiking volcanoes, exploring waterfalls, and visiting national parks. History buffs can delve into Mayan ruins and pre-Columbian archaeological sites, while nature lovers can marvel at protected natural areas, birdwatching, and coastal biodiversity.
Cultural and urban tourism is also thriving, with the capital and other cities offering a safe environment to explore Salvadoran food, markets, and festivals. El Salvador's convenient air connections, especially to major U.S. cities, make it easily accessible for international visitors.
One of Eduardo's favorite destinations is Ruta de Las Flores, a popular spot for nature lovers and hikers, known for its unique waterfalls. Another must-see is Perquín, a historical site with connections to El Salvador's civil war and murals that tell many stories. Jiquilisco Bay, a significant location for turtle conservation, offers a hands-on experience for visitors.
Eduardo's favorite part of guiding is teaching, and he finds guiding travellers from the UK particularly enjoyable because they are open-minded and curious. He is not a teacher, volcanologist, or geologist, but his passion for knowledge makes him a "virus" when he becomes interested in something.
With passionate local guides like Eduardo, visitors can explore not just the highlights but the heart of El Salvador. From its rich cultural heritage to its breathtaking natural beauty, El Salvador has transformed from its past reputation of violence and is now a country rich in culture, history, and adventure. This renaissance in tourism has made El Salvador one of the most dynamic tourism growth stories globally in 2025.
- Eduardo, a local guide born in El Salvador but raised in the United States, is passionate about sharing his homeland's experiences with visitors who may be unfamiliar with it.
- With his education and dedication to continuous learning, Eduardo offers a unique perspective on El Salvador's destinations, culture, lifestyle, and history.
- The tourism sector in El Salvador has experienced significant growth, generating a substantial amount of the country's GDP and attracting millions of international visitors each year.
- Diverse attractions, such as surfing, hiking, historical sites, cultural experiences, and nature conservation, make El Salvador an ideal destination for education-and-self-development through travel.
