Mission
Manage promotional activities for tourism in El Salvador and promote professional and technical education among various stakeholders in the tourism sector in Quebec and Canada, aiming to boost the tourism development of El Salvador.
Vision
To become one of the leading advisors and promoters of tourism in El Salvador in Canada, utilizing our knowledge and experience, representing all relevant sectors inclusively and ethically.
Values
Promote tourism practices that are respectful of the environment, animal welfare, local culture and the economy of the region, ensuring that tourism contributes to long-term sustainable development.
Magazine
DESTINATION EL SALVADOR
It is with great pride that I present this new edition of our magazine. More than just a tourism publication, this magazine represents the culmination of two years of work, passion, and commitment dedicated to promoting El Salvador as a tourist destination in the Canadian market.
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Visit
El Salvador
Land of
Hospitality
Beautiful beaches with warm water and world-class surfing, active volcanoes, archaeology,
mountains, Mayan pyramids, waterfalls, lakes, cloud forests, fascinating history, warm and
sunny climate almost all year round, delicious cuisine, nightlife, handmade crafts, friendly people, and much more!
El Salvador, a fascinating country to explore within Central America, all within a few hours;drive, we help you discover it better.
Services
- Promotion of El Salvador as destination, in Quebec and Canada
- TRS – Travel Related Services/Consulting (B2B)
- Strategic Alliances development (B2B)
- Marketing Research
El Salvador is increasingly positioning in the international tourism market, and we are here to help you promote it within your company, enhance your understanding of the country,helping travel agencies wholesalers to develop travel circuit itinerary and develop your travel itinerary according to the tastes and preferences of your clients. We are a nonprofit legal entity with the headquarter established in Montreal, Canada.
Oportunities
Tourism is an important economic engine in El Salvador, contributing to the national GDP, job creation and the development of human capital. In 2023, the country welcomed 3.4 million visitors, a 31% increase from the previous year, and generated more than $3.79 billion in foreign exchange earnings. In 2024, a 157% increase in the number of international tourists is expected compared to the first half of the previous year.
Joining a Tourism Chamber like CSATUC, in addition to being part of a specific sectoral group, offers benefits such as: positioning El Salvador as a tourist destination for your travelers, accessing professional advice, fostering collaborative work, establishing networking opportunities, among others. More information is coming soon.
About Us
Lucy Soriano is the President and Founder of CSATUC.
"Born in San Salvador, El Salvador, Lucy holds a degree in Marketing and Advertising with a minor in Graphic Design. With a career spanning over 25 years in the Travel Industry, Lucy has garnered extensive experience in international markets, including El Salvador and Canada,focusing on Leisure, Corporate, and Luxury segments. Having grown up in the Travel Industry, Lucy has refined her expertise in strategic alliances and tourism development through various roles in financial institutions, airlines, and multinational corporations. She speaks English, French, and Spanish, and holds a post-degree in Business Communications and a Master of Virtual Learning Environments, further enhancing her professional skill set. On the social side, Lucy is a travel enthusiast, beach lover, and advocate for animal rights, actively supporting animal welfare initiatives wherever her travels take her".
"I´ve gathered a diverse and skilled team, including professional volunteers, to collaborate with me in achieving the objectives of CSATUC. Allow me to introduce them":
-
Salvador Nerio
Vice-President of CSATUC. -
Evelyn Velis
Volunteer ESA / Administrator.
-
Gabriela Soriano Mónico
Strategic Projects. -
Mirna Parras Quixada
Professional Volunteer. -
Claudia de Bonilla
Professional Volunteer.
News
El Salvador Consolidates
Its Tourism Growth and Strengthens
Its Connection with Canada
El Salvador continues to position itself as one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in the region. According to official data from the Ministry of Tourism (MITUR), the country reached a historic milestone by welcoming more than 4.2 million international visitors in 2025, representing a 5.1% increase compared to the 3.95 million visitors recorded in 2024.
The strong performance of the tourism sector has generated significant economic benefits for the country. Official figures indicate that tourism revenues reached approximately US$3.635 billion in 2025, driven by longer visitor stays and the diversification of the country's tourism offerings.
Key Tourism Figures for El Salvador
- More than 4.2 million international visitors in 2025.
- 5.1% growth compared to 2024.
- 44% of visitors arrive by air.
- US$3.635 billion in tourism revenue.
- 83% of visitors stay at least one night.
- More than 56% growth compared to 2019.
Main Source Markets
The leading international source markets for visitors to El Salvador are:
These markets account for a significant share of international arrivals due to strong air connectivity, geographic proximity, and longstanding family, cultural, and business ties with El Salvador.These markets account for a significant share of international arrivals due to strong air connectivity, geographic proximity, and longstanding family, cultural, and business ties with El Salvador.
Canada: A Market with Strong Growth Potential
Canada continues to show steady growth as a source market for tourism to El Salvador. According to information from the Embassy of El Salvador in Canada, more than 32,300 Canadian visitors traveled to the country during the most recently reported period. In addition, Canada ranks among the top 12 international source markets for visitors to El Salvador, based on official statistics from the Ministry of Tourism.
“We are ready to open the doors to a rapidly expanding market for investment and tourism,” stated Cindy Portal, Ambassador of El Salvador to Canada.
Canada is increasingly recognized as one of the international markets with the greatest growth potential for Salvadoran tourism, particularly as opportunities emerge to strengthen air connectivity and expand tourism and commercial exchanges between the two countries
Following the presentation, attendees enjoyed an exquisite cocktail featuring typical Salvadoran dishes, showcasing the rich gastronomy that is an integral part of El Salvador's cultural experience.
CSATUC Celebrates Two Years
of Promoting El Salvador as a Tourism Destination in Canada
The Salvadoran Chamber of Tourism in Canada (CSATUC) celebrated its second anniversary in June 2026, marking two years of continuous efforts to promote El Salvador as a tourism destination in Quebec and across Canada.
During this period, the Chamber has implemented a variety of tourism promotion and business-to-business (B2B) initiatives, increasing awareness of the destination among travel agencies, tourism professionals, specialized media, and Canadian travelers.
Among its key initiatives are webinars for travel agencies, podcasts featuring El Salvador as a destination, familiarization trips (Fam Trips) for Canadian travel advisors and journalists, and market research studies aimed at identifying the preferences and interests of Canadian travelers.
CSATUC has also actively participated in b2b network meetings and major tourism trade shows, including the International Tourism and Travel Show (SITV Montreal 2024 and 2025), promoting El Salvador’s tourism, cultural, and culinary attractions to both consumers and industry professionals through B2C and B2B presentations and conferences.
In addition, the Chamber has maintained a presence at Salvadoran community events in Montreal, helping strengthen ties with the diaspora while generating greater interest in the country among family members, friends, and local communities.
Another important achievement has been supporting the development of tourism products for the Canadian market, including guided tours of 7, 14, and 21 days, as well as customized experiences for independent travelers (FITs).
Commitment to Promoting El Salvador
These initiatives reflect CSATUC’s commitment to positioning El Salvador as an attractive, safe, authentic, and competitive destination for the Canadian market.
Several of these activities have been carried out in coordination with the Embassy of El Salvador in Canada and government entities associated with the Ministry of Tourism of El Salvador, further strengthening the country’s promotional efforts in this important outbound market.
“We are proud to actively contribute to the promotion of El Salvador in Canada and to support efforts that help increase the number of well-informed Canadian visitors traveling to our beloved El Salvador,” said Lucy Soriano, President of CSATUC.
Press Release
Launch of CSATUC: Promoting El Salvador as a Preferred Tourist Destination for Canada
On June 28, 2024, the successful official launch of CSATUC, the Salvadoran Chamber of Tourism in Canada, took place. This private event, aimed at the press, travel agencies, and the community, unfolded in a warm atmosphere highlighting the tourist attractions and cultural richness of El Salvador.
The launch ceremony was graced by distinguished guests, including representatives from the Embassy of El Salvador, the Consulate of El Salvador in Montreal, as well as members of the press, influencers, and leaders from the Salvadoran, Canadian, and Latin American communities. During the event, founder Lucy Soriano presented CSATUC's objectives, introduced the diverse team that will support their implementation, and unveiled upcoming planned activities.
Lucy Soriano stated: "According to data from the Ministry of Tourism of El Salvador, until May 2024, we have welcomed over 5.3 million visitors to our tourist, cultural, and natural sites. The tourism growth in our country has exceeded 28% compared to last year, attracting 1.6 million international visitors. This further motivates us to promote El Salvador as the preferred destination for Canadian tourists."
El Salvador boasts a robust tourism infrastructure, with 831 businesses registered in the National Tourism Registry, encompassing accommodations, restaurants, transportation services, recreational activities, and tourist information offices. Moreover, direct flights from Montreal and Toronto, operated by AVIANCA and Air Transat, offer market-adapted frequencies to facilitate access to our charming destinations.
Tourism plays a crucial role in the Salvadoran economy, and CSATUC aims to attract well-informed and enthusiastic Canadian tourists. Each visit to our lands not only enriches travelers' experiences but also stimulates local development and strengthens our nation's tourism infrastructure.
A highlight of the event was the launch of El Salvador's first two promotional products in collaboration with Johanne Gervais, owner of Voyages Munditour. Her 15-day, 14-night tourist circuit is designed to explore the diversity of experiences offered by El Salvador. It includes stunning beaches, majestic volcanoes, and the fascinating Maya Route, enriched by the culture and hospitality of Salvadorans. Additionally, a blue-water sport fishing package is available year-round with a Salvadoran guide and from December to March with a French-speaking fishing guide from Quebec.
In summary, we are excited about this new chapter and hope to continue receiving the support of everyone to position El Salvador as an attractive tourist destination in the hearts of Canadian travelers. Thank you for your presence and trust in our beautiful country!
Dare to experience the Land of Hosts
Following the presentation, attendees enjoyed an exquisite cocktail featuring typical Salvadoran dishes, showcasing the rich gastronomy that is an integral part of El Salvador's cultural experience.
Thank you very much!
End of press release
This press release reflects the launch event of CSATUC, highlighting its objectives, achievements, and the expected impact on Salvadoran tourism.
To strengthen connectivity between Canada and El Salvador, Avianca has launched a direct route between Montreal (YUL) and San Salvador (SAL), the capital of El Salvador in the Central American region.
Flights will be operated on Airbus A320 aircraft with a capacity for 180 passengers. The airline will offer three weekly frequencies and over a thousand seats per week to fly between both destinations.
AVIANCA launches New Direct Route
“We are delighted to announce this new route from Montreal. Canada and El Salvador are deeply connected by a community of Salvadoreans that live in Canada and now can travel nonstop. Also El Salvador is widely renown by its beaches, that offer perfect conditions for surfing almost all year,” Rolando Damas, Avianca Airlines Sales Director for North America, Central America and the Caribbean. “Also, from our Hub in El Salvador International Airport, passengers can easily explore other Central American destinations such as San José and Guatemala. Without a doubt all kinds of travellers will benefit from this new option.”
Source: Baxter Media
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