places you should visit in el salvador

22 things you should know before traveling to El Salvador

Jan 30, 2024 • 9 min read

Incredible forests and volcanoes dot the small but might country of El Salvador © Kikerodry / Shutterstock

With 200 miles of coastline, more than 170 volcanoes, multiple archeological sites with Maya ruins and a rich coffee- and cacao-farming tradition, El Salvador is a wonderland for surfing , adventuring and relaxing. 

Unfortunately, decades of instability and violence chipped away at the country’s reputation abroad. Yet  recent significant strides have set the stage for a new era of tourism – including cracking down on crime, improving roads and investing in new hotels and flight routes – and  earned this tropical destination another look .   

You can absolutely have a fantastic time in El Salvador, and we recommend you discover it for yourself. What will make your trip even better? The planning tips and precautions below.

Here’s all you need to know before you set off for El Salvador.

Planning your trip to El Salvador

1. enjoy both a city and beach vacation.

El Salvador is about 8000 sq miles (21,000 sq km) – roughly the same size as fellow Central American country Belize  – yet highly ecologically diverse .

This combination makes a five-night trip encompassing the capital city of San Salvador and the Pacific coast (about a 45-minute drive away) entirely feasible. 

Fill your time in San Salvador with architectural and cultural visits to the National Palace , Art Museum of El Salvador  and the extraordinary El Rosario church . On the coast, the fishing port of La Libertad has become popular for its surfing and beachfront hotels.     

2. But don’t miss out on volcanoes, forests and ruins 

A national park with three volcanoes ( El Boquerón ), a forest reserve that’s a former battleground (Cinquera), a cobblestoned town (Suchitoto) and “the Pompeii of America” ( Joya de Cerén ) might get you to extend your trip to El Salvador to a whole week…or longer. 

While El Boquerón is only a half hour from San Salvador and doable as a day trip, Suchitoto is a good 90-minute drive in the opposite direction of the coast. It’s a cobblestoned town with colonial architecture and an excellent spot  to spend a night or two .   

3. Brace for higher prices during peak periods

Domestic travel spikes during the winter holidays, through the New Year, Holy Week (Easter) and the first week of August. If you visit during these times, you may pay a premium for hotels, plus experience bigger crowds at museums and parks. 

4. Plan around the rainy season

Your best bet for clear skies and mud-free hiking is a visit during the dry season, from November through April. If you decide to throw caution to the wind (and drizzle) by visiting during the rainy season (May to October), pack a rain jacket, quick-drying layers and extra pairs of socks. 

It’s also important to note that not all roads are paved in El Salvador. Heavy rains can cause flooding, leading to road closures and longer drive times.

5. Skip the currency exchange

If your home currency is the US dollar, there’s no need to swap money. USD has been an official currency of El Salvador since 2001.

But it’s a good idea to bring some small bills with you.  Most businesses will accept a $20 bill, but 50s and 100s can be harder to break. ATMs are widely available in commercial centers, and most will let you choose English for your transaction. 

In a surprising move, El Salvador added a second national currency in 2021: Bitcoin. Though the government requires all businesses to accept digital currency, only about 20% do, so you’ll most likely be dealing in dollars.  

6. Hire a driver for multi-city itineraries

Most hotels can arrange an airport transfer or help you get a taxi to a nearby destination. But when traveling between cities, hiring a driver or tour operator is highly recommended. 

Traffic in San Salvador can be intimidating. Rural roads are often unpaved and rife with potholes, and sometimes turn into single lanes that can be tricky to navigate for foreign drivers. 

A tour operator can provide recommended tours or create a custom itinerary. Conveniently, the country’s ministry of tourism has a list of recommended tour operators on their website. 

7. Bring your passport and buy a tourist card

For US citizens, a current US passport is required for entry, along with a $12 tourist card (valid for 90 days) that can be purchased at the airport when you arrive; no visa is required.

C itizens from countries like Australia , Canada and the UK only require a valid passport for entry – a visa is not necessary for stays under 90 days. However, these visa-exempt travelers are still required to buy the tourist card at the airport upon arrival. Check with your country’s embassy for entry requirements.    

Etiquette in El Salvador

8. brush up on your basic spanish.

Spanish is the official language here, and though staff will likely speak English at restaurants and hotels in major tourist areas, it’s good manners to at least know a few greetings en   español .

Simple and useful phrases such as  hola (hello), buenos días (good morning), buenas tardes (good afternoon) and buenas noches (goodnight) are a decent place to start. 

9. Be prepared to see a machete or two

In the US, park rangers might accessorize with a compass and drawstring hat. In El Salvador, dense forests call for a decidedly different accessory: a machete.

Don’t be shocked if your guide carries a blade to clear branches from hiking trails. But definitely don’t bring your own.

10. Dress appropriately for church

As with visiting most religious centers around the world, cover your legs and shoulders when visiting the country’s Catholic cathedrals.

A knee-length skirt will suffice if you don’t want to wear pants, and wrapping a scarf around your shoulders works to cover a tank top. 

11. Leave a tip for good service

In restaurants and bars, leaving a 10 percent tip is common. Yet be sure to always check your bill before tipping because sometimes it’s already included.  

12. Understand the country’s recent history

From 1980 to 1992, El Salvador experienced a bloody civil war, and the effects of that tumultuous period are still felt today. It’s very likely that your tour guide or the bartender serving up your Cadejo (a popular local beer) either lived through the war or had family members directly affected by it. 

Be respectful and know that not everyone wants to talk about their experiences. But when you do meet someone who’s open to sharing – for example, you can take a tour of Cinquera led by a former guerilla fighter – let them know how grateful you are to hear their story.   

13. Sip and slurp hot foods…even in the heat 

The pupusa  (stuffed corn tortilla) might be El Salvador’s most famous food, but soups and broths are also beloved here, even though temperatures are tropical most of the year. 

Don’t be surprised if your waiter recommends a steaming bowl of seafood broth or sopa de pata (soup made from cow’s feet…yep!) even though you’re ready to hit the beach.

Likewise, Salvadorian coffee, a top agricultural export since the 1800s, can’t be missed. Nor should atol de elote , a sweet drink made with corn and served hot – though grouchy gourmands should steer clear: Maya folklore says the beverage turns bitter if someone in a bad mood touches it. 

Health and safety in El Salvador

14. verify your vaccine needs.

The only vaccine required to enter El Salvador is yellow fever, and that’s only if you’re six months or older and from a high-risk country (countries in South America and Africa , or Panama ).

15. Just say no to tap water

Stick to bottled water and ice made from purified H2O only; water from the tap can be contaminated.

16. Avoid walking alone and driving at night

In both big cities and rural areas, it’s always recommended to avoid walking alone at night. If you’re not with a group, ask your hotel or restaurant to arrange a taxi ride for you.

Likewise, if you do rent a car, skip driving at night.  Not only will you minimize your chances of robbery, but you’ll also have greater visibility on roads with poor lighting or none at all. 

17. Know a safe taxi when you see it

Always look for an “A” at the beginning of your taxi’s registration to confirm it’s official. Also, most taxis don’t have meters, so agree on a price with your driver before you get in.

18. Steer clear of certain areas in San Salvador

Sadly, gang violence remains a problem in El Salvador.  Gangs don’t typically target tourists, yet to avoid getting caught in the crosshairs, avoid the areas of Soyapango, Apopoa and Mejicanos in San Salvador.  

On the flip side, the Centro Histórico in San Salvador – where many of the city’s museums are located – tends to be safer thanks to a greater police presence.

19. Tread carefully as an LGBTIQ+ traveler

Among Salvadorans, discrimination and violence against the LGBTIQ+ community have been well documented by such watchdogs as Human Rights Watch . 

With this in mind, same-sex couples should be careful about public displays of affection. Additionally, it’s worth researching hotels ahead of time and seeking out gay-friendly stays.

20. Dial these digits for the police

In case of an emergency, call 911. To contact the Politur – a branch of the National Civilian Police dedicated to the well-being of tourists – specifically, call 2511-8300 or 2511-8302. They can offer safety information and, with proper arrangements, can even provide escorts. 

21. Take note of hurricane season

Typically, hurricane season lasts from June to November. Just as with the rainy season, unpaved roads may become flooded when a storm strikes, altering travel routes or, in severe cases, requiring you to stay put for a day or two.

I f you plan to visit during this time of year, check with your hotel and travel insurance about hurricane contingency plans. Plus, monitor weather and potential storms in the days leading up to your trip.  

22. Leave your edibles and CBD balms at home

Cannabis and cannabis-derived products, like CBD, are illegal in El Salvador, so purge your toiletry bag of any oils, serums or lotions that could get you in hot water. 

Speaking of which, El Salvador has some of the harshest punishments in the world for drug possession, so this is definitely not the vacation to experiment with any other unlawful substances, either.

This article was first published Sep 23, 2022 and updated Jan 30, 2024.

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19 Best Places To Visit in El Salvador in 2024

Planning a trip to El Salvador in 2024? This is your guide to visit the most beautiful places in the country. El Salvador may be a small nation but it is rich in both culture and geography. This stunning ‘must-visit’ country sits in the heart of Central America on the Pacific Ocean.

El Salvador has incredible national parks, long stretches of breathtaking untouched beaches, enchanting waterfalls, marvellous lakes, mountainous areas with picturesque villages, a plethora of inland attractions like the vast plains of coffee plantations and of course the incredible volcanos.

All the El Salvador tourist attractions listed are based on my own experiences traveling in El Salvador. Salva the owner of the tour agency, Tunco Life guided me around and showed the best his country had to offer. Have a look at the Tunco Life website for more inspiration about traveling to El Salvador.

Thanks to its majestic and diverse landscapes, El Salvador has become a melting pot for tourists from different parts of the globe who wish to get away and explore the unknown. For wanderlusters looking for the perfect escape away from all the noise and pollution, El Salvador would be a great unspoilt destination off the beaten path in Central America.

Here is a little recap video of some of my adventures in El Salvador.

Stay connected when traveling to El Salvador. This is my guide for  buying a sim card for El Salvador in 2024  with the best prepaid sim cards and e-sim cards.

Amongst a long list of possible tourist destinations to visit in El Salvador, here are 19 of the most beautiful and famous places for anyone interested in exploring this side of Central America.

Related: 24 Best Places to Visit in Honduras !

1. El Tunco - Surf Village

Undoubtedly one of the most famous places to visit in El Salvador and that for a little surf town. El Tunco is all about surfing and thousands of surf fanatics flock to the El Salvador coast to show off their skills.

El Tunco is always listed among the best things to do in El Salvador, but even if you are not into surfing you don’t want to miss this place when visiting El Salvador.

El Tunco is located just 45 minutes south of the capital San Salvador on the coast near to Libertat. It feels like a mix of the uncomplicated backpacker vibe of Southeast Asia mixed with a Latin vibe. The village itself is pretty small, but there are restaurants, bars, backpacker hotels and souvenir shops everywhere.

Try renting a scooter to go around the coast to discover hidden gems, restaurants with endless ocean views, fancy hotels, lovely restaurants, beach parties, waterfalls and more. Also visiting the boulevard and the fish market in Libertat are cool things to do in El Tunco. Another lovely little town on the coast of Libertat is El Zonte, similar to El Tunco, but much less crowded.

On my trip to El Salvador I made El Tunco and Libertat my base for a couple days from where I visited some of the most beautiful places to visit in El Salvador.

Where to stay in El Tunco

If you are traveling El Salvador on a budget I recommend Hotel Mopelia . It has affordable private rooms as well as dorm rooms, fast WiFi, a swimming pool and a lively bar with more than 50 different craft beers from around the world.

If you are looking for a great mid range hotel then head over to the town of El Zonte and stay at the Palo Verde Hotel . A lovely and quiet boutique hotel with Bali vibes.

If you looking to splurge I can recommend the Acantilados luxury hotel with an amazing infinity pool looking over the pacific ocean.

2. Mizata - Hidden Gem Coastal Town

We stay on the Pacific coast for our next El Salvador tourist attraction: Mizata. Just like El Tunco a sleepy coastal town catered towards surfers. But when you think El Tunco was too touristy then head to Mizata.

There is not much going on in Mizata, but this is where you find the ultimate El Salvador holiday feeling. Very laid-back, off the beaten path and the ultimate place to chill on the beach in El Salvador.

The surf breaks in Mizata is what most people come for, but there are also organized pool parties in weekends and there is a cool young crowd that gathers here. Mizata is located about 45 minutes East of El Tunco on the way to the Ruta de las Flores, another famous thing to do in El Salvador.

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Where to stay in Mizata

One of my favorite places to go in El Salvador is Nawi Beach House . This hotel is located directly on the beach and has an incredible laid-back vibe. Some rooms face the ocean and have porches. Highlight of the hotel is the big infinity pool with attached beach bar. Nawi Beach House organizes pool parties every month.

3. Suchitoto - Colonial town

Consider starting your trip to El Salvador  by exploring this cool area and if possible spend a day or two there and combine it with another amazing places to visit in El Salvador: Lake Suchitlan.

Suchitoto is a historical sleepy yet colorful town with picturesque views of the mountainous area around Lago Suchitlán. The little municipality has great colonial architecture and marvellous historic landmarks, but it is also a great place to go for outdoor activities.

This colonial town still has arty-crafty cobblestone streets and adobe homes. If you’re looking to learn some history you should visit the 18th century Santa Lucia Church. If art is what you’re after, make a point of visiting the Centro Arte para la Paz which is a museum and convent.

This little charming town has very friendly and welcoming locals. Aside from its old town vibe and laid-back ambiance, you should try to do a Indigo Art (Arte Añil) workshop. You will learn how to use natural colors and create your own colorful t-shirt. You can find the Arte Añil workshop right on the corner of the main square opposite the Tourist Office.

Where to stay in Suchitoto

I can recommend you Casa 1800 Suchitoto with the most amazing views over Lake Suchitlan.

The attached restaurant serves delicious food. This colonial boutique hotel is one of my secret El Salvador travel tips. Great place for lunch.

4. Lake Suchitlán - the largest lake in El Salvador

Only a stone’s throw away from Suchitoto you can find the largest (man-made) lake in El Salvador. The lake was created after the construction of the Cerron Grande dam in 1976.

The most popular thing to do in Lake Suchitlan is of course a boat ride across the lake. Visitors can also see wildlife in the surrounding areas like sloths, monkeys, iguanas. Bird watching is also very popular when visiting Lake Suchitlan. If you are looking for more active tours in Lake Suchitlan then try kayaking.

You can arrange a boat ride yourself by walking down from Suchitoto to Puerto Touristico San Juan and ask one of the local fishermen to take you around. Bring some food, cold beers and I am sure you have a great day out on the lake.

Not far away from Lake Suchitlan is the 13 meter (39 ft) Los Tercios Waterfall for anyone seeking a dose of the outdoors. About 2.5 miles down the road from the waterfall are the hot springs of Agua Calienter that are rich in natural beauty.

If you still have some time left, venture a little further away and explore the iconic Guazapa volcano. Here you can also learn much more about El Salvador’s civil war history. When visiting Lake Suchitlan I recommend you booking a hotel in Suchitoto.

4. San Salvador Historic Center

San Salvador is not only the capital but also the economic, cultural and political center of El Salvador.

The infrastructure is still haphazard even though it’s been under repairs. This may be attributed to scars from earthquakes and previous wars. Definitely not all of the areas in San Salvador are worth visiting, but the historic center surely is a tourist attraction worth adding to your El Salvador things to do list.

There’s an easy-going atmosphere in this densely populated city and tourists are often shocked to find laid-back locals and a relatively slow pace to the city. The historic center has a captivating appearance in one magisterial metropolis – a blend of colonial structures and 21st-century modern architecture.

Some of the best places to visit in San Salvador are: the iconic National Palace, National Theater, National Cathedral, Monumento al Divino Salvador del Mundo, El Calvario Church.

The Iglesia El Rosario is one of the most remarkable places to go. Ugly from the outside, impressive from the inside.

Additionally, the historic district has amazing plazas like the Gerardo Barrios Plaza, Liberty Plaza, and Plaza Francisco Morazan.

Is it safe to visit San Salvador? Well let me tell you that I launched my drone right in front of the cathedral on the main square. I found it completely safe and locals were super friendly.

Despite being a majestic metropolis, you will only be a few hours away from dignified natural beauty this country has to offer. This makes San Salvador also a great base when exploring any tourist destination around the country. There are gorgeous volcanoes, stunning crater lakes, and parks just around the corner.

Where to stay in San Salvador

Hotels in San Salvador are not really cheap, but you can find some good ones for about $50 per night and up. Best area to stay is in and around San Benito where the nightlife, restaurants, etc. are located.

I can recommend you Hotel Villa Serena San Benito . Very simple, but affordable compared to other hotels and in a good location.

Are you ready to splurge then look at these 5 star hotels in San Salvador: Barceló , Real Intercontinental or the Sheraton Presidente .

5. Santa Ana Volcano - Popular El Salvador Activity

Are you looking for outdoor activities on your El Salvador trip? If the answer is yes then you need to visit Cerro Verde National Park and hike up to the rim of the highest volcano in El Salvador: Santa Ana.

Undoubtedly one of the best places to see in El Salvador is the green crater lakes of the Santa Ana Volcano and to get there you will need to hike up for about 1,5 hour from the Parque Nacional Cerro Verde entrance.

Santa Ana is the highest volcano in El Salvador at 2,381 metres (7,812 ft) above sea level, but don’t worry everyone can do this. It does not matter if you do it in 45 minutes or 2 hours. The hike first goes uphill through the forest and then follows a steeper rocky part. The last bit is a little more flat until you reach the crater rim.

You can do the Santa Ana volcano hike by yourself but you must be accompanied by a guide. The entrance fee is $6 and the hike starts at around 1,850 meters (6.070 ft). Hike can be appointed at the entrance gate. I had to wait a little for the group to depart, but after 10 minutes everyone chooses their own pace and never saw my group anymore.

There is a parking spot if you drive up to the Cerro Verde National Park. There is also a bus stop if you like to use public transport. You can visit the Santa Ana volcano easily from San Salvador (1 hour) El Tunco, Libertat (1 hour 15 minutes) or from the nearby city called Santa Ana.

6. Cerro Verde National Park - Hikes with breathtaking views

The above mentioned Santa Ana Volcano is located in the Cerro Verde National Park, but there is more to Cerro Verde National Park than the spectacular Santa Ana volcano.

In fact there are 2 more volcanoes: Izalco and Cerro Verde. This amazing place to visit in El Salvador is also called Los Volcanos National Park.

These volcanoes in the Cerro Verde National Park are home to some brilliant flora and fauna and tourists also enjoy various activities such as guided bird-watching, horseback riding, numerous walking trails and viewing platforms with views over the Santa Ana and the Izalco volcanos. But also over the beautiful Lake Coatepeque and Ruta de las Flores.

The Cerro Verde volcano is generally considered to be the most popular and this is why the park is named after it. It’s more of a mountain that boasts of one of the country’s few cloud forests as it’s covered with dense vegetation.

The volcanoes have a long history of eruptions. Izalco was once known as the “Lighthouse of the Pacific” due to its 200-straight years of eruptions until the 1960s. Santa Ana is the most active of them all, with steam constantly rising from one of its craters - sulfurous lagoons. 

7. City of Santa Ana - Historical city vibes

This is the second-largest city and a top tourist destination in El Salvador. It offers tourists an urban appeal with a tranquil environment.

Santa Ana’s early 20th-century neo-Gothic cathedral, elaborately decorated theatre, and picturesque main square get lots of tourists. The aforementioned theatre is called Teatro de Santa Ana and the main square is known as Parque Libertad. Sometimes visitors can enjoy a live performance at the theatre – this would be a great experience for art lovers.

Lastly, the City of Santa Ana is an ideal location to stay in and take day trips to explore various tourist spots around the country. Some great locations that you can venture to outside the city include scenic Lake Coatepeque, Ruta de las Flores, Chalchuapa archeological site and of course the Cerro Verde National Park.

Any coffee lovers in the house? Santa Ana, being home to the biggest coffee industry has so much to offer you. While here, don’t forget to visit downtown Santa Ana and enjoy the gastronomy and sample local brews as you do some shopping. Visiting a coffee plantation is one of the best things to do in El Salvador.

8. Joya de Ceren - UNESCO World Heritage Site

Joya de Ceren is an extraordinarily well preserved Mayan village. The village was abandoned in a rush in 640 AD as the people who once lived there were fleeing from an eruption of Laguna de Caldera.

Joya de Ceren boasts of a rich cultural heritage and has stunning landmarks. It is the only UNESCO World Heritage site in El Salvador.

This paradise of breathtaking natural wonders was buried in volcanic ash. As a result, the city was left hidden but intact. The town was discovered much later – in the year 1976.

9. La Palma - Backpackers favorite

Your trip to El Salvador wouldn’t be complete without visiting this quaint mountain village. La Palma is located in the Chalatenango department of the country. It boasts a gorgeous and natural landscape as well as a vibrant art scene. As you walk through the city you’ll take note of the fascinating graffiti and murals on the walls.

La Palma is famous for being the town where the celebrated artist – Fernando Llort – taught. He used bright colors, childish images, and religious themes to capture the hearts of the El Salvadorans.

There are numerous galleries and art workshops where tourists can pass their time as they soak in the town’s beautiful artistic heritage. Today, many of the town’s residents make a living by practicing his artistic style.

Thanks to its mountainous topography, visitors can enjoy picturesque views on the scenic hiking routes around La Palma that are safe for tourists.

This town is pretty close to the Honduran border so many visitors choose to stay here for convenience when on a trip around Central America. La Palma is a great place to visit in El Salvador for backpackers.

From the wall paintings and town murals to workshops, old-fashioned Llort-inspired souvenirs, and the mosaic Central Park, a stop at La Palma is definitely worth it, especially for art lovers.

10. Tazumal - Archeological site

Tazumal is a cluster of unusual step pyramids that was established around 400 AD. The highest of these pyramids (and the largest in the country) reaches up to a height of 23 meters (75 ft). Its self-governing status lasted until Spanish forces moved into El Salvador in the 1520s, after which the local people were defeated and exploited.

The Stanley H. Boggs Museum displays artefacts that were uncovered during the excavation and is a fascinating place to go. Visiting this on-site museum gives you a glimpse of Tazumal’s past. 

Some of the artefacts displayed here include pottery, statues, and incense burners.

One of the most notable items in the museum is the Stone of Victories statue. This artefact provides rare evidence of a connection between modern-day El Salvador and what is now Veracruz, Mexico.

11. Juayua - Ruta de las Flores

This town is located on the western side of the country in the hilly countryside. It’s perched in and between the hills of the country and tourists can expect to enjoy picturesque views and a cool breeze.

Juayua offers a plethora of natural attractions. The small town of Juayua is part of the astonishing La Ruta de Las Flores (Flower route), a very famous tourist attraction in El Salvador. I promise this route is going to captivate your heart.

From Juayua you can hop on the route of the Seven Waterfalls as well and visit several beautiful waterfalls. One of the best places to visit in Juayua is the Los Chorros de La Calera waterfall.

Thanks to its gastronomy which you can taste daily, this town is a paradise for foodies. You shouldn’t miss the weekend food festival – the Gastronomica Fair – where tourists go on a palatable culinary adventure.

Additionally, the area produces some of the best coffee beans in the country. Sample this in Juayua.

Lastly, Juayua is also well-known for the magnificent murals painted by local artists that can be found all over the town.

Where to stay in Ruta de las Flores

If you decide to explore the Ruta de las Flores and its many cool things to do and places to visit I recommend you finding a base for 2 or 3 nights. There are many hidden gems around these mountains villages and accommodation is affordable.

A highly recommended Ruta de las Flores hotel is Hotel Juayua . Get yourself a room with a view and enjoy absolutely breathtaking views over the volcanos of El Salvador all the way to the ocean.

Hotel Juayua has a swimming pool as well and we are talking about $50 per night only. Hotel Juayua also offers Temazcal ceremonies in their own sweat iglo.

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12. Sonsonate - Ruta de las Flores

Make sure that the majestic city of Sonsonate is on your El Salvador itinerary. Sonsonate is also located on the Ruta de las Flores.

Sonsonate features a gorgeous landscape with vast plain lands, charming old-world neighborhoods, and a tranquil ambiance all through the city. Visitors here get to enjoy the most enchanting views.

While in Sonsonate, don’t miss out on learning the history of the city and check out its train and transport heritage in Railway Museum Plaza. If you have some extra time on your hands, pass by the Sonsonate Cathedral and say a prayer before embarking on an exciting adventure to Parque Aquatico Escudo.

13. Laguna Verde - Mountain Lake

A small lake located off the beaten path on the Ruta de las Flores. Laguna Verde is hidden away up in the mountains. The adventure of visiting Laguna Verde already starts in Quezalapa where you can rent dirt bikes or buggies.

Buggy tours are guided and lead you through coffee plantations and through local villages for about 20 minutes until you reach Laguna Verde. Unfortunately swimming is not allowed in Laguna Verde, but there is a little boat that can take you out.

You can also rent mountain bikes and bike around the laguna and the surroundings before you hop back in your buggy and drive back to Quezalapa. I joined one of the tours of Apaneca Adventure Tours and I would highly recommend them to you.

14. Cafe Albania - Adrenaline Park

Another amazing place to visit in El Salvador and located on the Ruta de las Flores is a small little adventure park. Cafe Albania sounds like a coffee place or may be a coffee plantation, but instead we are talking about zip lining, a swing and more.

Cafe Albania is an adrenaline park and one of the coolest things to do in El Salvador. There are three zip lines, a free-fall swing, a maze and an elevated bike track. The views of the surrounding are pretty spectacular up here.

If you are not into any of these adventures you can enjoy a drink and a meal with a view in their restaurant overlooking the valley. Cafe Albania is definitely one of the best places to visit in El Salvador for cool Instagram photos.

15. Nahuizalco and Cascada la Golondrinera - Indigenous heritage

Also on the Ruta de las Flores you can find the village of Nahuizalco, one of the Pueblos Vivos in El Salvador. Pueblos Vivos means lively villages in English and basically is a designated tourist destination in El Salvador by the government.

It is a cute little town with a main square, a cathedral, coffee places, live music and souvenir shops. A typical laid-back touristy town in the mountains. Nahuizalco is where you will find most indigenous people of El Salvador.

The Museo Comunitario Nahuat Pipil is a must visit when traveling to Nahuizalco. It will tell you all about the dark past of this hill station and the massacre that occurred here in 1932, when around 20.000 indigenous people where killed in 1 month.

The entrance to the museum is free and visiting only takes you about 10 minutes, but be prepared for a heavy story.

One of the best things to do in Nahuizalco is visiting the nearby Cascada la Golondrinera. This hidden waterfall is one of my best kept El Salvador travel tips. Hidden away from mass tourism, even my guide had never been there. Tours to the Golondrinera waterfalls are hard to find, but where there is a will there is a way.

You start a short hike at a local village nearby guided by a local. The hike follows a path down to the river which you will be crossing until you hit a small narrow canyon. Here you will enter the river and walk through the canyon for about 10 minutes until you hit the hidden Cascada la Golondrinera.

A secret but beautiful place to visit in El Salvador! Don’t miss out on this one.

16. San Miguel - 3th biggest city

This is El Salvador’s third largest and most populated city and is located on the eastern side of the country. Despite not being very well developed, it’s a popular tourist destination in El Salvador.

This gorgeous city hugs the country’s small eastern coast, offering close proximity to several beach towns with some of Central America’s best surf. The San Miguel coastal locale is a major center of trade that has some of the country’s high-quality seafood.

In November, the town hosts a fun-filled festival – the San Miguel Carnival – that’s one for the books and among the best things to do in El Salvador in November. The festival is full of color, lights, fantastic food, and thrilling rides.

Don’t forget to wear light clothes as this is the hottest destination in the country especially during summer.

There are a bunch of outdoor activities available around the city such as hiking along the highly active San Miguel Volcano and the nearby San Vincente volcano that has some of the country’s most challenging trail-less hikes. Be ready to enjoy the breathtaking views from the peaks of these volcanos.

Its historical downtown offers some noteworthy landmarks such as the 19th-century Cathedral and Francisco Gavidia Theatre to the San Miguel Market and the bustling Avenida Roosevelt. This is one of the best places to go in El Salvador for nightlife.

17. El Mozote - Dark history

This fascinating village is located in the Morazán department. Historians are fond of exploring this village with a grim history. This is where the El Mozote massacre took place where about one thousand civilians were killed by the US Government-funded army called the Atlacatl Battalion.

Monument De La Paz La Reconciliación has now become a symbol of that tragic period and the dark side of the history of El Salvador.

If you’re visiting El Mozote for adventure, you’ll be spoilt for choice as there are numerous attractions. Some beautiful places to visit are the waterfalls of: Llano del Muerto, Cascadas las Pilas, and Cascada la Olamina.

18. Ruta de Paz - Civil War History

The name “Ruta de Paz” translates to “Path of Peace.” This is a popular tourist route that winds through the area hit hardest by the civil war. The path is located in the Morazán department which is the former nucleus of the guerrillas during the war.

Tourists encounter beautiful mountains and quaint colonial towns with three main stops along the route. The stops are at Perquin, Arambala, and San Fernando.

Perquin is the most popular among these stops and even has accommodation for tourists. If you’re into sight-seeing, city walks, and getting to know the culture and history of El Salvador, then Perquin is definitely adding to your list of places to go in El Salvador.

This delightful little municipality also has a fair share of pleasant natural wonders that make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurous thrill-seekers.

Ruta de Paz can best be visited on a day trip from either El Mozote or San Miguel.

19. Conchagua Volcano - Ultimate adventure

Last but not least the Conchagua Volcano all the way in the most southeastern point of the country. If you hike up to the top you will be rewarded with one of the best views imaginable. Conchagua Volcano surely deserves a spot on this list of best places to visit in El Salvador.

Unfortunately due to weather conditions I was not able to visit myself, but it has been on my list for years. Camping on top of Conchagua overlooking the Gulf of Fonseca that borders Nicaragua, Honduras and El Salvador.

Waking up with sunrise views of the islands of Conchaguita, Meanguera, Zacatillo and Tiger Island will be an unforgettable El Salvador travel experience.

Is it safe to travel to El Salvador?

For most people, the idea of visiting El Salvador seems a bit questionable. You can’t blame them for thinking that El Salvador is unsafe for tourists as the media has put this country in a really bad position.

El Salvador doesn’t rank amongst the world’s safest countries but it neither is the “crime-filled” state that the media paints it to be. As a matter of fact, El Salvador is very safe for tourists in 2024 and that is based on my own experiences.

Stating this I am sure sparks a big discussion because who am I to tell you that it is a safe country when the whole world screams it is one of the unsafest countries to travel.

I sincerely invite you to watch my series of Instagram stories in my highlights. You will see me road tripping through El Salvador without any issues.

Despite previously having a reputation as an unsafe country, El Salvador is now one of Central America’s safest countries to visit. The country’s distasteful reputation has changed rapidly over the recent years and more and more tourists are discovering this up-and-coming travel destination.

El Salvador is an amazing travel destination for those who are interested in surfing, laid-back beach towns, hiking, volcano adventures, backpacking, but also for the luxury traveler there are some amazing luxury hotels, private villas and trendy boutique hotels.

Just use standard precocious and common sense when traveling in El Salvador and you will be fine. Just like in any other country around the world. 

Things to know when traveling to El Salvador?

Apart from its gorgeous natural wonders, El Salvador has super friendly and very hospitable people. The infrastructure is also pretty good so getting around is easy. It’s easy to navigate through the majority of the country via a series of the inner city and national bus routes. If you’re planning to venture outside the city, I recommend you to rent a car. It is the easiest way to get to the best places to see in El Salvador.

The country has a predominant tropical climate. The best time to visit El Salvador is from November through March. This is the driest time and you’ll avoid the worst heat of April before the rains start in May and last till October.

There are numerous local markets and giant shopping malls where visitors can find whatever it is that they want to buy in El Salvador. The dining options are also quite varied. One famous delicacy found in El Salvador is pupusas. These are classic tortillas stuffed with a mixture of cheese, minced meat, spicy sauce, and a variety of vegetables (carrots and cabbages are the most commonly used.) Other foods include rice, beans, pork, chicken, and lots of seafood at the coast.

Expect that your stay in this pretty country will exceed your expectations and will help you break all the misconceptions you have.

My experiences traveling to El Salvador

As you have seen, El Salvador condenses so many brilliant places within its borders. With its civil war over two decades ago, tourists from all works of life are now discovering the array of tourist attractions in El Salvador.

I arrived by bus from Tegucigalpa, Honduras. I first spent some time in the capital San Salvador before I moved on to the Pacific Coast were I found it hard to leave. As said in the above explore the villages in Libertat and find your favorite one.

The Ruta de las Flores I explored by car for a couple days and enjoyed the tranquil temperatures and amazing adventures in the rolling green hills. Never did I feel unsafe or uncomfortable on my trip to El Salvador.

My El Salvador travel tips in short: eat Pupasas, chase waterfalls, conquer big waves, enjoy the sunsets, sip coffee, climb volcanos and meet the friendly local people.

I hope all the above tips for traveling to El Salvador were helpful. Let me know if you have any additional questions, please leave me a comment below and I am more than happy to help answering your questions.

If you decide to travel to El Salvador after reading this article it would sincerely make me happy as I think the country deserves it a lot. Still suffering from having such a bad image from that past, but 100% is nothing like that anymore.

As per January 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries around the world on my  road to visit every country in the world . El Salvador is definitely among my favorite countries in Central America and surely I will be back again in 2024.

For more info about my trip to El Salvador check out my Instagram Page @traveltomtom .

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Adventure Travel & Blogger (@traveltomtom)

Enjoy your trip to El Salvador!

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What are you looking for?

17 top things to do in el salvador in 2024.

Despite spending less than 2 weeks here, I really loved El Salvador!

So much so, it made the list of our favourite backpacking destinations around the world .

El Salvador is actually the smallest country in Central America wedged between Guatemala and Honduras.

It’s a country of volcanoes, beauty and a reputation for violence in the past.

But that shouldn't worry you.

A stop here should be on every Central America backpacking itinerary and we are going to inspire you with the top things to do in El Salvador !

Need somewhere to stay? Check out our guide on where to stay in El Salvador

Travellerspoint

Top Things To Do In El Salvador

Let's get down to business! This guide will cover all the best things to do in El Salvador as well as a few final travel tips .

1. Hiking the Santa Ana Volcano

This was probably my favorite thing to do in all of El Salvador. 

The Santa Ana volcano is one of many incredible volcanoes that you can hike in the country , and is known for its stunning blue/green crater lake that’s in the middle of the crater (which you can see once you reach the top). 

This is one of the top tourist attractions in El Salvador, so of course you can expect many other groups to be hiking here and also some crowds at the top (although the earlier you go, the less there will be).

Whilst you don’t need to be in excellent physical condition, it can be somewhat demanding and will take around 2 hours to walk up from the trailhead.

I’ve written about my experience climbing the Santa Ana Volcano and how you can visit without a guide.

However, booking an organized tour does have its benefits. With this full day tour you’ll have all transport and entrance permits included. You’ll also get to visit Lake Coatepeque along the way.

Those who want zero crowds can head on this private early-morning tour . Given it’s a faster-paced rhythm up (to get there before others), you’ll want to make sure you’re in decent physical condition for this tour.

The Santa Ana Volcano is located within the Cerro Verde National Park , and the trail is open from 8:00am until 4:00pm daily (which is the same for all other hikes in the Los Volcanes National Park region).

Book your Santa Ana Volcano Hike right here!

2. Take a coffee plantation tour

El Salvador is one of the best coffee regions that you can visit in Latin America, and they really do produce some amazing coffee.

I am a coffee fanatic, so I was actually very excited to come to Central America in general to taste all the amazing coffees.

The coffee of El Salvador is my second favorite in the region (Nicaragua has to be first!).

One of the best ways to get immersed in all things coffee is to take a tour around a plantation. We highly suggest heading on this full-day coffee plantation tour where you will learn about how the coffee is made and of course brew your own cup! You’ll also get to visit the stunning town of Ataco too.

Those who simply want to drink the good stuff without a tour can also find numerous coffee shops throughout Santa Ana.

Some of the very best are located around the Parque Libertad , such as Santein Café and Tostao Coffee Bar.

Book your awesome coffee tour right here

3. Visit The Mayan Ruins of Tazumal and Joya De Cerén

So everywhere in Central America has its own batch of Mayan Ruins, and El Salvador is no different.

Now, I’ll be upfront and say we personally didn’t visit the Mayan ruins. We planned too, but I’d already seen about 5 sets and the capital of the Mayan world: Tikal, and just didn’t feel like seeing any more.

However our writer George did, and has pitched in his thoughts here!

If you want to see Mayan ruins that are completely uncrowded (as in you could be the only ones there), then you will love the ruins in El Salvador.

Joya de Cerén is definitely the most popular of the two, however I found that actually Tazumal was pretty impressive.

Here you can see a well-preserved pyramid, along with all kinds of cacti and green plants around (which make for a great photo op). Tazumal Ruins are located within the town of Chalchuapa , and are open from 9:00am until 4:00pm, Tuesday through to Saturday.

Both sites are easy to reach from Santa Ana via chicken bus, which leave frequently near the Bus Terminal de Francisco Lara Pineda . You’ll want the 218 Bus, which leaves from around 10a Avenida Sur ( just ask a local for the exact bus stop since it can be tricky to find - you’ll find many speak good English here ).

So whilst you can see many pyramids throughout Central America, I think these are a great opportunity to experience the ancient Mayans' fine work without the crowds.

We highly suggest booking this full day tour , where you’ll visit both Joya de Cerén and Tazumal. As well as having a knowledgeable guide teach you about both sites as you walk around, you’ll also get to stop for a scenic lunch at Lake Coatepeque.

This fantastic tour takes you to ALL the Mayan ruins in El Salvador

4. Visit the Santa Ana cathedral

Santa Ana is a really underrated city , and is full of architectural delights and local gems.

It’s the second biggest city in El Salvador (after San Salvador ), and it’s actually quite cute.

There is a lovely square that’s got a great pizza restaurant, and is also home to the beautiful Santa Ana Cathedral !

Also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady Saint Anne, this neo-Gothic church is known for its incredible exterior and imposing twin towers.

It’s definitely worth a visit if you're in the area.

The Santa Ana Cathedral is located next to the Parque Libertad , and is open all days of the week from 6:00-11:45am, and then from 3:00-6:00pm.

5. Surf at El Tunco

El Salvador is home to some of the best surfing in the world , and it’s got something both for the beginners and pros out there.

Head to the beaches of El Tunco and El Sunzal for an amazing time surfing. It costs roughly $20 for a lesson and a days board rental.

El Tunco itself is also a backpacker hub, so it’s got lots of great restaurants and bars. 

The weekend is when this place really comes to life with fantastic parties and live music!

It’s worth heading to La Guitarra at least once, where you can watch live music whilst sipping on cocktails next to the Pacific Ocean.

We stayed in a place called the Casa De Mar hotel which was right on the beachfront and had the best surf break in the area literally in front of it!

The beaches are the most touristy part of El Salvador, so if for some reason, you are really concerned about safety, then this is one of the safest places to visit in El Salvador.

Ps, I suggest El Tunco because it’s where we went, but there are plenty of other beautiful beaches in El Salvador including La Libertad, Costa Del Sol and much more.

If you’re in San Salvador and don’t have much time (but want to visit the beach), then we highly suggest heading on this awesome day tour . Here you’ll have all transport sorted to and from El Tunco, where you’ll also get to visit the incredible waterfalls of El Tamanique.

Be sure to check out: The Best Hotels In El Tunco

6. Visit the waterfalls of El Salvador

There are a variety of waterfalls in El Salvador that are worth visiting, and I love waterfalls, so that’s why they’ve made it on my list of top things to do in El Salvador!

The Tamanique Waterfalls are one of these, which are easily visited from El Tunco with a day trip. 

You can head here with this organized tour , or you can rent a moped for the day and visit them yourself independently. It’s a 30 minute hike, however you can swim in the waterfalls which makes it worth the trip.

Alternatively, if you’re staying in San Salvador then you can also head on this day tour to the falls which includes all transport.

Then there is the Seven Waterfall hike which is for those who love chasing waterfalls and hiking!

One of them is located in the incredible town of Juayúa and the other one is in the Parque Nacional El Imposible.

Juayúa is the main base for visiting the waterfalls, and here you’ll literally visit seven waterfalls which are all stunning in their own right.

Some of them are more difficult to reach and you will need to use ropes, so be careful and remember to bring solid hiking shoes with you!

We didn’t visit waterfalls in El Salvador, because it kind of takes a lot to impress us waterfall-wise nowadays (we’ve seen A LOT), but actually I regret not visiting some of the waterfalls here.

This post from Champagne roads will fill you in on ALL the waterfalls in El Salvador, even the ones the guide books don’t mention.

She spent 3 months in El Salvador and had seen around 20, so I think it’s a great resource!

Oh, and you can fly a drone legally in this country, which means you’re going to catch some pretty awesome shots.

If you can, rent a car and you’ll get to see much more of the waterfalls and the unseen El Salvador.

Take this tour to visit some of the BEST waterfalls in El Salvador

7. Visit the Ruta De Flores

The Ruta de Las Flores is a winding route of about 20 miles that goes through coffee plantations, brightly colored colonial towns and colonial architecture. 

The five main towns on the Ruta de Las Flores include Salcoatitán, Nahuizalco,  Apaneca, Ataco and Juayúa.

You can get buses from each place to the next, and there are a variety of hotels and hostels along the way. It’s also easy to get here from San Salvador, and you can see the numerous options here on Moovit .

If you want to see the true natural beauty of El Salvador, then this is the place to be.

Now if you’ve only got time to visit one small town, then make it Juayúa! It’s definitely one of the best places to see along the Ruta de Flores, and one of those must-visit gems in El Salvador.

Whilst you can visit independently, sometimes taking an organized tour will make everything much more simple. We recommend this day tour from San Salvador , which includes private transport as well as extra time at the thermal hot springs of Santa Teresa.

You can also head on this alternative group tour , which includes visits to food markets, novel activities in each town as well as round-trip transport from the capital.

8. Go shopping in the capital

San Salvador is actually quite a commercialized city, and it’s home to the biggest shopping mall in all of Central America.

So, if you’ve got some spare cash or need some new clothes, then be sure to hit the Metrocentro and shop until you drop! 

They also have some cool arcade shops and cinemas, so you can also chill here and have a touristy day!

If you’re thinking of things to buy in El Salvador as a present or gift, then this is also a good alternative place to find them. Here you can find everything from coffee to novel domestic goods.

The Multicentro is open from 7:00am-9:00pm all days of the week.

Before or after the mall we recommend taking a city tour too (where you will see many of San Salvador’s top highlights). On this half-day tour , you'll have all logistics sorted as you visit impressive sites such as La Iglesia Rosario as well as the Catedral Metropolitana.

Take this half day tour to see the best sights in San Salvador

9. Visit the San Salvador Volcano

The San Salvador Volcano is another incredible peak which is located in the El Boquerón National Park. 

It’s located just outside of the capital, and you can visit the “peak” by heading to the park and then on a 15-20 minute hike upwards to the summit.

You’ll get to see a crater, which is fairly green and it’s probably not the type of crater you’re picturing in your mind (not like the Santa Ana crater).

But it’s easy to hop in an uber to the entrance and walk up! It’s got beautiful views of the city, and it’s definitely one of the top things to do in San Salvador !

You can also fly a drone over to get some cool shots.

It’s important to note that the volcano hiking path (as well as the El Boquerón National Park in general) is open from 8:00am until 5:00pm daily.

You can head on this day trip where you’ll hike to the summit, which also includes Pupusa Tastings and a city tour of the capital.

You can also go with a tour if you’d prefer!

10. Explore Lake Ilopango

This is another one of the great things to do in El Salvador. 

Actually, Lake Ilopango is more like a beach. I say that because it’s got little “beaches” around it and the locals all flock there like it’s the beach ( temperatures are pretty hot year-round which makes it perfect for sunbathing ).

There are lots of restaurants to dine by the lake, and you can rent a boat and have a romantic boat ride on the lake too!

Located east of San Salvador , it’s a really cool place to explore for the day. You can get there and back via Uber for around $8 which isn’t bad!

There is a random little waterpark by the lake too, which I think is mainly for kids, but if you’ve got children, then this is a pretty good place to take them.

You can also visit Lake Ilopango with this guided tour , where you’ll take kayaks out around the lake and enjoy the awesome volcanic landscapes and wildlife.

11. Explore the colonial town of Suchitoto

This is El Salvador's equivalent to the Antigua of Guatemala, except much smaller and much less touristy. 

There aren’t exactly many accommodation options up in Suchitoto, so most people opt to explore the colonial town on a day trip from the capital .

You’ll find that they’re pretty good value tours too, which include all transport and visit various attractions with your own local guide.

But, if you wish, you can go there yourself, either by Uber or by taking the local chicken buses from San Salvador . I would ask your hotel to guide you on what buses to get!

Suchitoto is full of cute churches, colorful buildings and a nice market too! 

It’s also close to another beautiful lake, so it’s definitely worth visiting for a day to see both attractions.

You can also head here on this half-day trip from San Salvador if you have less time free, where you’ll visit the main highlights such as the Saint Lucia Church and the House of Crafts.

Suchitoto is located roughly 50 km north of San Salvador , and can be reached in around an hour and a half using public transport.

Take this awesome valued tour to Suchitoto

12. Swim at Lake Coatepeque Caldera

So, when you hike the Santa Ana volcano, you’ll see this incredible lake from the views at the top. 

It’s a vast lake and a beautiful place to visit, either after your hike or just on a day trip!

You can get there via chicken bus or taxi, and it’s only an hours drive from Santa Ana .

There are lots of lovely restaurants around the lake for a bite, and you can also swim or rent some kayaks and spend the day relaxing at the lake.

You can stay overnight (or for a few days) to enjoy the more relaxed setting. Captain Morgan Hostel is the perfect place to stay, offering both private rooms and dorm beds. They also have an on-site bar, garden and sun terrace right on the lake.

If you like to have everything sorted for you in advance, then you can head on this day tour from Santa Ana , where you’ll also hike the volcano and have all transport included.

Are you staying in San Salvador? Then you can join this convenient tour , where you’ll spend plenty of time at Lake Coatepeque (including both hotel pick-up and drop-off).

13. Eat Pupusa

Pupusas are one of the most common and popular foods you can find in El Salvador - and you’ll find people selling them on the streets everywhere!

It’s basically like a round bread type thing stuffed with either cheese and beans, or mince and cheese. I’ve had both and they’re delicious!

They typically cost around $1 for 2 although I’ve seen 3 or 4 for $1 too. If you want a quick lunch, or a quick snack, then you have to eat pupusas!

They’re also really good when you want food after a night of drinking. A little lady sells them on the streets of El Tunco at like 2-3am haha ( perfect for reducing those day-long hangovers! ).

You’ll also want to head to Pupuseria Tita at least once whilst in Santa Ana, who are highly-renowned for their tasty pupusas. They’re open from 5:00pm until 9:00pm, Tuesday until Sunday.

14. Visit the El Imposible National Park

Literally meaning “The Impossible Natural Park”, this region already has an awesome name, so it’s worth visiting!

It’s a great spot for hiking and camping, and if you’ve got a spare night or two, you should definitely get your hands on a tent and spend time here.

The surroundings of El Imposible National Park are beautiful, so be sure to bring your camera fully-charged with you!

It’s best to visit during the week as it’s less busy. The region is open for both hiking and camping all hours of the day, all days of the week (except when it’s closed on Sundays).

Btw, it’s steep walking, so it’s not for the faint hearted.

There are 3 main trails: Cerro Leon (8 km) , Los Enganches (11km) and Piedra Sellada (8 km).

You can opt to visit with a tour, or you can make a DIY trip on your own.

It’s free to camp and you can rent tents at the entrance (I think), and it’s $6 to enter the park.

Transport to and from will be via chicken buses and won’t cost more than $1.

You can also join an organized tour in order to save yourself the hassle. On this day trip you’ll spend time exploring various breathtaking waterfalls, which are perfect for a quick cool-off from the hot El Salvadorian sun.

The El Imposible National Park is located close to the Guatemalan border , with the closest city of Santa Ana roughly 2.5 hours away.

You can do an organised tour here to save hassle.

15. Visit San Andrés, El Salvador

San Andrés is a pre-columbian archaeological site that’s really worth the visit, and therefore easily makes our list of top things to do in El Salvador.

This is one of the largest pre-Hispanic archaeological sites in the country , and is only 45 minutes from San Salvador .

As a result it’s a worthwhile day trip to do from the capital, and you can use either  Uber or chicken buses to get there.

Or, you could rent a driver for the day to take you there amongst other sights in the area.

If you’re in San Salvador, then we recommend joining this day tour where you’ll visit San Andrés ruins, as well as the ruins of Tazumal and Joys de Cerén.

Those up for more adventure can instead head with this action-packed tour that also visits numerous volcanoes and Lake Coatepeque!

16. Camp at Conchagua

This is a great area of natural beauty and one Bradley and I missed out on. 

Actually most of the research is in Spanish on Google, so it’s hard to get exact information, but this is a wonderful place to camp.

It’s better to visit Conchagua via car and actually some people opt to sleep in their car rather than camp, but that’s up to you.

Conchagua Volcano is the only one that is located in the coastal plains of El Salvador, which offers a completely different setting compared to the rest further in-land.

There is a viewpoint here called Soul of the mountain, which is said to offer some of the most beautiful views in all of El Salvador!

The owner of the “viewpoint” organizes a tour that costs $10 for transport to and from and entrance to the viewpoint, which isn’t bad.

He is called Luis Diaz and his contact number is +503 7824 7766. You can gain more information via him!

Conchagua Volcano is located right in the extreme south-east of El Salvador , close to Honduras. The closest city to the region is San Miguel, which is around an hours drive away.

17. Chill at The Santa Teresa Hot Springs

When it comes to El Salvador attractions, this should easily make the list. 

However the Santa Teresa Hot Springs is actually quite an undiscovered hidden gem of El Salvador, and it doesn't make it on many of the backpacking itineraries or lists of things to do in El Salvador. But it should!

I love a good hot spring, and there is actually a “luxury” resort area here called the Santa Teresa Park which offers you the unique opportunity to appreciate the largest Ausol in Central America.

Here you can also see the magic pool, trail of the lagoons, the romantic pool as well as the blue lagoon, which all together make the hot springs of Santa Teresa the main tourist destination in the West of El Salvador.

These are beautiful hot springs, all well organized, and I REGRET NOT KNOWING ABOUT THEM!

I wish I had gone, but even when I did my initial research, this wasn’t on the list of things to do in El Salvador, so if you go to El Salvador, please go and tell me what you think!

You can head on this day tour from the capital , which includes pick-up and drop-off and gives you plenty of time to really relax at this underrated site.

The Santa Teresa Hot Springs are located close to the city of Ahuachapan , and are open from 8:00am until 10:00pm all days of the week.

So there you have it, my guide on the top things to do in El Salvador! I hope this guide has given you some inspiration to the many amazing and different things there are to do in El Salvador.

It’s truly an undiscovered country that’s slowly but surely rising in popularity, so if you can, visit before it becomes overly backpackery (not a word but I like it haha), and so you have it all to yourself (and whilst there are no drone laws!!)

On that note, be sure to check out our guide on the best travel drones .

Why visit El Salvador?

El Salvador is often overlooked by backpackers but it shouldn’t be.

It’s home to the stunning Santa Ana volcano, amazing waterfalls and natural beauty, and some of the best surf in the world, that’s consistent all year round!

Simply scratch the surface and you’ll soon discover a country with amazing places to visit, people to meet and beauty to discover.

Is El Salvador safe to visit?

Yes. I am well aware of the reputation that El Salvador has for having one of the highest homicide rates in the world. Which it does, or did.

But the people of El Salvador are actually very much aware of this reputation too. And whilst there is no denying there is violence in the country (just like there is in any country), it doesn’t target tourists.

I have to say, I didn’t feel uneasy for a single minute in El Salvador, and Bradley and I used chicken buses to get from place to place and it felt safe.

The people were friendly, and not once did we feel threatened.

So I can say that it’s safe, or it was for us. Just take normal precautions such as don’t walk around alone at night, don’t get drunk and put yourself in a vulnerable position (especially at night), and don’t flash the cash or expensive jewelry.

Also ,don’t get involved with drugs.

Follow those rules and you will have a fuss free and wonderful experience in El Salvador!

When is the best time to visit El Salvador?

The dry season or summer of El Salvador runs between November and April, so I would say this is the best time to visit.

The wet season runs from May and October.

Bradley and I visited in February and the weather was dry and super warm. El Salvador is a very warm country and the temperature sits at around 33-35 degrees Celsius every day.

Read Also: How To Plan A Trip

How to get to El Salvador?

As I mentioned before, El Salvador is actually quite a small country. You could get from one end to the other in around 4-5 hours.

This means there is only one airport in the country and that’s located in the capital: San Salvador.

You can get flights to San Salvador from a variety of locations, and if you’ve been visiting Mexico or Guatemala, you can get flights for around £60.

If you’re flying from England or the USA the chances are you will have a stopover somewhere before you land in San Salvador.

For those travelling by bus/on land, you can get to the beaches of El Salvador easily by shuttle bus from Guatemala. You can also get to the capital too.

If you want to go to Santa Ana, you will have to leave from Guatemala city, not Antigua as no direct shuttles go to Santa Ana from there.

If you’re coming from the other end (Honduras or Nicaragua), you can use Tica bus to get to San Salvador!

Visa Requirements for El Salvador

El Salvador is part of the C4-4 agreement (El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala and Nicaragua). This agreement gives tourists 90 days to travel in any of the 4 countries. NOT EACH COUNTRY ( a common mistake).

You can request a 30 day extension, which gives you 120 days in the 4 countries.

If you're from Australia, Belgium, Lavtia, or Croatia you are required to purchase a visa card on arrival which is $10 and lasts 30 days.

You can find more information here.

How long do I need to backpack El Salvador?

Since it’s such a small country, you don't need a lot of time to see everything. I would say 2 weeks is suffice, but you could take it slow and do 3, especially if you are surfing.

You could do it a lot quicker if you’re only making a few stops! I know people who spent less than a week here but I don’t think that’s enough time to get to know the country and truly appreciate its beauty and check off all the top things to do in El Salvador!

Where to after El Salvador?

El Salvador is usually part of a full Central America backpacking list, so depending on whether you’re going north or south, it would make sense to visit Guatemala afterwards, or Nicaragua !

Both countries are amazing, and if you have time, you should definitely visit both. To date, I haven’t visited Honduras as it wasn’t really safe at the time, but I will return and visit it in the future - don’t worry!

Hotels In El Salvador

The hotel industry in El Salvador is nowhere near as big as other countries, so for that reason, I’m going to list a hotel recommendation for each area I visited!

• El Tunco: Casa De Mar ‍
• Santa Ana: Pool House Hostel ‍
• San Salvador: Cinco hotel B&B ‍
• Ruta De Flores: Casa Degraciela Hotel Boutique

You can find the best accommodation in San Salvador here .

The equipment we use when travelling

In case you're wondering what cameras we used for these photos.

• ‍ Canon G7x Mark II : Brilliant little point and shoot, video recording for creating travel videos and vlogging camera. A great all-in-one when you don't want to carry lots of equipment. ‍
• Tripod:  We carry a travel tripod to take some pictures together or get unique shots.
• Memory cards: I use 64G sandisk, sometimes sandisk gold for my drone footage. ‍
• Mavic Pro Drone:  Our baby mavic is high quality, worth a lot of money and worth it for the beauty it captures. There are more new drones out, but this is honestly perfect.

If you’ve got anything else you think I should add to my list of the top things to do in El Salvador, then please comment below.

Happy travelling!

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The Ultimate 2-Week El Salvador Itinerary

“Do not skip El Salvador”, says the country’s tourism tagline. We could not agree more.

Often tossed out from the tourist trail of Central America, we believe El Salvador deserves more attention. This small country is blessed with a Pacific coastline consisting of incredible surfing beaches, idyllic mountain towns and excellent coffee production, volcanoes, lakes and waterfalls, and a rich history spanning from the ancient Mayans to colonial rule to now, groundbreaking modern decisions that catch the attention of the world.

But traveling in El Salvador is not just about checking off a list of places to see. Whether gobbling up pupusas or withdrawing Bitcoin from ATMs or experiencing the warm hospitality of the Salvadorans, there are several unique travel memories to take back home from here.

We have created this 2 week El Salvador itinerary that allows you to explore the country’s best highlights, ideal for first time visitors. In this article, we are going to share a day wise travel plan, and also address some other key questions and logistics that will help you plan the perfect trip of 14 days in El Salvador.

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Watch this video about our first impressions of traveling in El Salvador:

Table of Contents

Things to Know about El Salvador

• International Airport: San Óscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez International Airport
• Currency: US Dollars. Also, Bitcoin is a legal tender.
• Local Language: Spanish
• Potable Tap Water: No
• Country Capital: San Salvador
• Population: More than 6 million. Most densely populated country in Central America.

El Salvador Itinerary Planning Resources:

• Volcano Hike and Lake
• Waterfalls Hike and Beach
• Flower Route, Coffee Tour and Hot Springs
• Mayan Route Archaeological Sites Tour
• Cities: San Salvador | Suchitoto | Santa Ana
• Mountains: Juayua | Concepcion de Ataco
• Beaches: El Zonte | El Sunzal
• Best Way to Get Around: Rent A Car
• Shop for your El Salvador Packing List on Amazon

Is El Salvador Safe?

Then and now.

Not too long ago, El Salvador used to hold the reputation of being one of the most dangerous places on earth, most crimes cropping up from gang violence.

However, in the recent years, the government has taken active (some may even term “stern”) measures to crack down on the gangs, making the country feel a safer place, for visitors and residents alike. And the crime rate statistics do reflect this drastic change.

Transformation

This is also visually evident as in some places, you may come across armed military patrolling important spots. We had the chance to check with some newly made Salvadoran friends about how they felt about such military presence.

Their responses reflected confidence, safety and gratitude, because growing up, it was not normal for them to hang out on the streets at night just like that, but now it is a real possibility.

So, in case you feel weird about gunned men strolling near where you are, please don’t. They are working towards erasing decades worth of bad reputation.

Our Personal Experience

We traveled in El Salvador for 1 month, backpacking all across the country. We used public transport, walked on streets – during the day AND at night, and even hitchhiked on couple of occasions.

Thankfully, not just did we feel safe in most of the places, but also felt extremely welcomed by the people of El Salvador. Oh the number of tales we can tell about how the Salvadorans went out of their way just to proactively help or guide two random people (us) on the street!

Related Story: That time when we got stuck in an unwanted situation in El Salvador and some Salvadorans came together to assist us – read the full story here . You can also watch the video .

Do Not Forget

Having said that, please do follow the precautions as you would while traveling anywhere else. Check with your accommodation host about local safety and things not to do, take care of your belongings, do not flash expensive things, be aware of your surroundings, and follow your instincts.

How to Get Around in El Salvador?

Unlike Costa Rica , the public transport network in El Salvador is excellent. There is no metro/subway system, and the buses are far from fancy. The buses are slow, have multiple stops along the way, but they do the job of getting you from one place to another, connecting almost all cities and towns all over the country.

If you are backpacking in El Salvador, these buses are your best bet for getting around. Most rides cost between 0.50-2.00 USD. Now, if you have a big backpack that’s going to occupy a seat, some short distance routes may charge you double.

However, if you want to maximize what you can see or do during your 14 days in El Salvador, we recommend renting a car. This way, you will save a ton of time on ground transportation, instead of relying on bus schedules. You will also have the flexibility of creating your custom route, thereby optimizing your El Salvador itinerary.

You can rent the car at the airport upon arrival, and return it at the same spot on the day of your departure. Check Discover Cars to compare and select from the best deals across different car rental companies in El Salvador.

2-Week El Salvador Itinerary: City, History, Volcano, Mountains, Beach

This itinerary is perfect for first time visitors as it gives glimpses of the diverse highlights of El Salvador in 14 days. From big capital city to old colonial towns, from volcanoes and ancient ruins to coffee plantations and mountains, from lakes and hot springs to waterfalls and beaches, there’s a lot to see and do in El Salvador.

We have designed this 2-week El Salvador itinerary assuming you fly in to El Salvador at the international airport, rent a car for getting around and then fly out from the same airport after dropping the rental car.

However, if you plan on availing public transport for seeing all the places on this itinerary, we suggest you to increase the length of your stay in El Salvador.

And, if you do need to stick to 2 weeks in El Salvador but not rent a car, you can book tours that include ground transportation. This way, you will avoid the stress of driving in a foreign country but still get maximum coverage of places and activities.

Day 1: Arrive at San Salvador + City Tour

The first 8 days of this El Salvador itinerary will take you to multiple destinations, changing bases. However, if you prefer a more stationary base and still see as much, we are going to share an alternative itinerary as well. Keep reading.

After arriving at the El Salvador international airport, head straight to San Salvador. Why not start exploring the country from its capital city?

Day: Historic Center of San Salvador

Steeped in history and culture, there are quite a few spots to check out in the city center. Here are some places to add to your self-guided walking route of San Salvador, starting at the Morazan Plaza.

• Morazan Plaza : A vibrant gathering place with a statue of Francisco Morazan. This is your launchpad for exploring the historic center of San salvador.
• National Theater : An architectural gem. Take a guided tour of the theater to learn about this piece of history and culture, or even catch a live performance, of show schedules align with your itinerary.
• Metropolitan Cathedral : The main cathedral in the historic center with grand architectural style.
• National Palace : A grand building with 4 distinctly colored main rooms and a hundred other rooms. Offices for various government purposes, the palace is now a National Monument, open for visitors for guided tours.
• Gerardo Barrios Plaza : Lively public square next to the palace and the cathedral, with monument of former President Gerardo Barrios’s statue as a focal attraction.
• Liberty Plaza : One block down from Gerardo Barrios plaza, this is another plaza where people come together for jolly gatherings. We saw groups of smiling and dancing men and women when we visited.
• El Rosario Church : Unique architecture and magical play of lights through the stained glass windows, this is one of the most beautiful churches we have seen.

After or while checking out these iconic places in the historic center of San Salvador, take a break and grab lunch at one of the fine restaurants around.

If you prefer to get a guided break down of the historical interests in a city, check out this half-day city walking tour . It takes you to the important landmarks and plazas of the historic center, and also includes pupusas tasting!

Late Afternoon: Artisanal Market

If you are up for more exploration, get to another part of the city, to the Mercado Nacional de Artesanias . It is a nice colorful spot where you can walk along alleys, browse trinkets and knick-knacks at the small shops, and shop for your souvenirs.

Be mindful that this artisanal market is for tourists, so you need to be careful about the prices you are asked to pay.

On the way to the artisanal market, you can also check out the Monument to the Divine Savior of the World . It is a tall monument of a concrete based pedestal at the top of which lies a spherical globe, and standing on that is a statue of Jesus.

This is an important landmark, a symbol of faith and hope, holding religious and cultural significance for the people of El Salvador.

Evening: Modern Face of San Salvador

Being the capital city of a country with a rough history, San Salvador sure has stood the test of time. Now it is a thriving modern city. So, when you are in El Salvador, you may want to take some time out to see the urban vibes of this bustling capital city.

To conclude your first day in El Salvador, you can head to Zona Rosa, where the premium shopping arcade Bambu City Center is located. A few miles down the road, you can also check out other shopping centers like Multiplaza , Plaza SOHO and La Gran Via .

Located in another neighborhood, Boulevard de Los Héroes, you will find the Metrocentro Shopping Center . This is touted to be the largest shopping mall in Central America. Worth checking out? Even if you do not plan to shop here, at least you can grab a meal at one of the restaurants. You will even find some familiar ones from back home.

Click here to search for the best hotels in San Salvador

Day 2: San Salvador – El Boqueron National Park

For the second day on your El Salvador itinerary, take a trip to a natural marvel located just on the outskirts of the city. At El Boqueron National Park, this day has in store for you lush forests and volcanic landscapes, and a little hike.

Once you arrive at the park entrance, purchase your tickets and start walking on the trail. It is an easy hike up some carved stairs to a viewing platform. From there, you get to see the massive crater of the San Salvador volcano.

The most striking feature of the San Salvador volcano is its double crater. In 1917, in a major eruption, the volcanic crater completely evaporated and a smaller cone appeared in the center. This smaller crater is referred to as Boquerincito.

After appreciating the majestic views of the volcano, you can take a walk on the trail, along the railing, to get to 3 other viewpoints. You get to see the same volcano, but from different perspectives, each as beautiful in its own right.

I know what you are thinking. Can you actually get closer to the crater of the San Salvador volcano? Interestingly, the answer is yes. But it takes a lot more preparation and planning. You can take the crater trail only with a guide and then a difficult hike through the jungle will get you close to the crater of the San Salvador volcano.

On your way back, do stop to appreciate the views of San Salvador city and the Ilopongo Lake. There are food stalls selling hot beverages which may be your perfect accompaniment while you appreciate the views on a misty morning.

How to Get to El Boqueron National Park

To reach El Boqueron National Park from San Salvador, you will first need to go to Santa Tecla, an important city with impressive architecture and charming vibes. It is the capital city of La Libertad department.

We recommend you to walk around a bit here to get a feel of this place. We saw many interesting murals on the walls of Santa Tecla. Also, this is your place to buy some snacks before you head to El Boqueron.

Now here are 4 options on how you can get from San Salvador to El Boqueron National Park. Pick the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

• Option 1 (Public transport – budget): Take a public bus from San Salvador to Santa Tecla. From Santa Tecla, take the 103B bus to get dropped off at a juncture from where an uphill road leads to the national park entrance. Tip: Ask before boarding the bus if it goes to the volcano. We had mistakenly boarded the 103 bus (not 103B). We were misled as that bus too had El Boqueron written on the front.
• Option 2 (Public transport – comfortable): Book an Uber from your hotel to the National Park entrance. However, you may face challenges for booking the return trip from the national park back to the city.
• Option 3 (Private transport): Rent a car for your El Salvador trip, define your own schedule and eliminate dependencies.
• Option 4 (Guided Tour): Book a guided tour that also includes transportation. This tour is a full-day option that takes you to El Boqueron and also to the nearby rainbow slide attraction, and concludes with a walking tour in the historic center of San Salvador.

Day 3: San Salvador > Suchitoto

Today is a travel day, but an easy one. The next destination on your El Salvador itinerary is Suchitoto, a charming town known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, cultural heritage and vibrant character. To go with the mood of the destination, set the itinerary pace to relaxed for the next couple of days.

Morning: Check out from San Salvador

So, on Day 3, finish your breakfast, pack your things and take your time to check out of your hotel in San Salvador. Suchitoto lies only 50 km (31 miles) to the east of San Salvador, and the drive does not take more than couple of hours.

However, account for longer if you are going to take the public bus. For this option, you need to catch the bus 129 from the new terminal on the east, marked on Google Maps as Terminal Plaza Amanecer .

Afternoon: Introduction to Suchitoto

Once you reach Suchitoto and settle in at your hotel, grab lunch at one of the nice restaurants and set out for an afternoon stroll.

Immerse yourself in the serenity of the afternoon as you walk down the cobblestone street and pass by colorful houses, and head to the Alejandro Cotto Museum . It is the home of the famous Salvadoran filmmaker Alejandro Cotto, known for his remarkable contribution and pioneering journey in the world El Salvador cinema and art. This house has now been turned into a museum where you can find his works of art as well as his personal belongings and furnitures, a museum similar to the concept of Frida Kahlo’s house in Mexico City .

After the museum visit, make a pitstop at the Casa 1800 Suchitoto Boutique Hotel . Lounge with a cup of coffee and admire spectacular views of the Lake Suchitlan. It is a pricey place but some may argue that it is worth the experience.

We have to warn you though that you may feel like staying at Casa 1800 for much longer that a coffee break. A simple solution to that desire is to book the hotel in advance as your accommodation choice in Suchitoto.

Check availability and prices at Casa 1800 Suchitoto.

Evening: Town Center at Night

Once back at the town center, watch the daylight making way for the darkness of the evening. Grab a seat at a pupuseria by the plaza and watch life go by while gorging on delicious pupusas. watch the white church wear different colors and the plaza come alive with people gatherings and food vendors.

Return to the central park the next morning and see the same spot in new light.

Click here to search for the best hotels in Suchitoto

Day 4: Suchitoto – Town + Waterfall

Dedicate Day 4 to a full day exploration of Suchitoto.

Morning: Town Center, Church, Markets, Museums

Pick up from where you left the night before, and see the center of town, the Parque Central bustling in broad daylight. Start your Suchitoto sightseeing from here. These are the spots that you can add to your self-guided walking route for the morning.

• Santa Lucia Church : The main church of Suchitoto with soothing white exterior and pleasant architecture.
• Parque Central : The bustling town center with cobblestone streets, church, market and eateries on its periphery.
• Arte Añil : A cultural center and store where you can attend workshops to learn about traditional indigo dyeing and also shop for art and apparels dyed in indigo.
• Museo de la Moneda : Museum with a collection of coins and bills, currencies collected from across continents.
• Parque San Martin : A nice park with well-maintained landscaping and shades seats ideal for a little rest on a sunny day.
• Centro Arte Para La Paz : A cultural center that promotes peace through creativity and imagination through various forms of arts and performances.

All of the places mentioned above are within walking distance of each other within half a mile radius. So, depending on your interests, you may switch the order of the spots. Yet you should be able to visit all of these in half a day.

Afternoon: Los Tercios Waterfall

After all the walking in the sun, treat yourself to a hearty meal at a restaurant.

Once you have refilled your fuel levels, set out for a longer walk, but this time to spend time in nature. This afternoon, you are going to visit the waterfall Los Tercios.

To get to the waterfall, you will need to complete a short but steep downhill hike on rough rocks, often needing to concentrate on how to balance yourself. But once you get there, actually from even before, the views are going to be rewarding.

Los Tercios waterfall looks like no other because of its unique and interesting formation. The water slides down piles of big hexagonal stones placed in layers. Reminded us of the infamous throne of the Game of Thrones!

However, this waterfall is highly seasonal and has flow of water only during the rainy season. We visited Los Tercios in the month of January when there was no trace of water at the waterfall.

We still enjoyed this waterfall visit as the landscape is truly impressive. Also, at this waterfall location, you can walk to a Mirador from where you get expansive views of the Lake Suchitlan.

Related Reading: Things to Do in Suchitoto + City Guide

Day 5: Suchitoto > Santa Ana

After a relaxing couple of nights in an old town, now it is time to move to your next destination and look forward to some nature and outdoor activities in the coming days. Next stop on your El Salvador itinerary: Santa Ana.

Morning: Transfer to Santa Ana

Santa Ana is a couple of hours drive away from Suchitoto. So, a comfortable morning start should get you to Santa Ana by midday and leave plenty of time to explore the town in the afternoon.

If you are not renting a car , the public bus route here is a little more complex than a direct transfer, but still it is doable. You will need to change buses a couple of times. Now, there are two ways to go about it, one via San Salvador, and the other one bypassing the traffic of San Salvador city traffic.

Public Transport via San Salvador

• Take bus #129 from Suchitoto to San Salvador. It arrives at the new Terminal de Oriente (Terminal Plaza Amanecer) .
• Transfer within city from this terminal to the terminal on the west, Terminal de Buses de Occidente by a public bus or Uber.
• From this terminal, take the TUDO bus #201 from San Salvador to Santa Ana.

Public Transport bypassing San Salvador

We have personally not traveled on this route. But research tells us that this is a viable transfer option which helps you to skip the city traffic of San Salvador.

• Suchitoto to Aguilares by bus #163
• Aguilares to Apopa by bu #119 or #125
• Apopa to Santa Ana by #276

Note that, on this route, you will be embarking and disembarking between the end stops. So, for each ride, it would be wise to have a chat with the driver about where you should be dropped off to catch the next bus.

In our personal experience of bus rides in El Salvador, the drivers and/or the helpers are helpful and pay attention to remind you of your next stop. The fellow co-passengers are also usually very friendly and proactively guide you for your journey.

Afternoon: Santa Ana Town

After you are done with the check-in formalities at your hotel in Santa Ana, take the afternoon to get to know the pulse of the city.

Walk the quiet streets and pass by colorful neighborhoods, and head to the main square in town, Parque Libertad , which is always bustling with people and activities. You can pick up a snack from one of the several food vendors surrounding the central park.

The two iconic spots around this square are the Santa Ana cathedral and the National Theater of Santa Ana .

The cathedral was originally built in the 16th century and went through damages and reconstructions over the centuries. It is now a national monument of El Salvador, a beautiful white architecture standing tall as the icon of Santa Ana’s history and cultural heritage.

The theater also attracts visitors with its impressive architecture. You can book a guided tour of the theater or catch a live show to get glimpses of the interior too.

To know more about this important city of El Salvador, read our Santa Ana city guide and watch our Santa Ana YouTube video .

And while you are out and about exploring the town of Santa Ana, indulge in a few pupusas for an early dinner.

Click here to search for the best hotels in Santa Ana

Day 6: Santa Ana – Mayan Ruins + Hot Spring Waterfalls

Day 6 on your El Savador itinerary is a fantastic combination of history and nature.

Morning: El Tazumal and Casa Blanca

In the morning, visit El Tazumal Archaeological Park , located in the town of Chalchuapa, about 14 km (8.6 miles) from Santa Ana.

This archaeological site is home to the Mayan ruins dating back a few centuries. Here you can see the main pyramid and other structures, like temples, columns, oratory and ball courts. The site is open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm everyday except Mondays and the entry costs 5 USD per person for foreigner adults.

To know more about this historic site and plan your visit, read our Tazumal visit guide and watch our El Tazumal video on YouTube .

To complement the visit to Tazumal ruins, make your next stop the Casa Blanca Archaeological Park . It is only about a mile from El Tazumal. At Casa Blanca, you get to see mounds and structures which once made up a ceremonial site in the pre-Hispanic times. Also, visit the museum where you get to learn more about the Mayan history and appreciate the interesting architecture and layout of the museum itself.

Finish up your morning in Chalchuapa with a nice lunch or pick up a packed lunch. Then prepare for a wild and wonderful afternoon.

Afternoon: El Salto de Malacatiupan

Next stop is El Salto de Malacatiupan. This beautiful place, kind of in the middle of nowhere, is among our top favorites of all the places we visited in El Salvador. It is a place of hot spring waterfalls! Yes, hot springs AND waterfalls. What a delightful mix that is for people with affinity towards water 🙂

There are multiple waterfalls. You can go close to the falls and feel the cold stream of water running over your body. Immediately after, you can get into the natural pools, where you soak in the warm water of the hot spring. If you feel adventurous, you can also jump off the edge of a cliff into the bigger hot spring pool.

To plan your visit, read our complete guide to El Salto de Malacatiupan , and to get a feel of what to expect, watch our YouTube video of the hot spring waterfalls .

Enjoy sitting in the shade of the trees, jump from the edge in to the big pool, swim a bit, come up latching on to a rope, walk back and get back under the cold stream of waterfalls, relax in the smaller hot spring water natural pools. Oh we could do this cycle on repeat for the whole day!

But that is when we are reminded of Robert Frost’s famous lines:

After a fun-filled afternoon, head back to Santa Ana, take it easy in the evening, rest well at night and prepare for an exciting next day.

Day 7: Santa Ana – Ilamatepec Volcano Hike + Coatepeque Lake

Start the day early, have a filling breakfast, and get ready for an adventure that can turn out to be the highlight of your El Salvador trip.

Morning: Santa Ana Volcano Hike

On Day 7, you are going to hike up to the top of the Ilamatepec Volcano, the highest volcano in El Salvador. This volcano, also known as the Santa Ana volcano, is 2381 meters (7812 feet) high and is active with last recorded eruption in the year 2005.

This volcano hike, as thrilling as it may sound, is NOT an extremely difficult hike. In fact, compared to the Acatenango Volcano Hike in Guatemala, one may find this one easy.

Of course you will need to walk uphill and downhill, on rocks and winding paths, at times in the shades of Cerro Verde National Park, but most of the times directly under the sun. Still, it is an enjoyable hike for anyone with a good fitness level and without any obstructing health condition. Just make sure you prepare well and know what to expect from the Santa Ana volcano hike .

At the summit of the Santa Ana volcano, you will be rewarded with the views of an emerald color crater lake, the neighboring Izalco volcano, the striking blue Coatepeque Lake and lush mountains and valley. Not just at the summit, you will get arresting scenery views on the way up and down as well. So, during the hike, take your time to pause and admire the beauty around you.

Afternoon: Coatepeque Lake

After the Santa Ana volcano hike, a common next stop is the Coatepeque Lake. It is a big volcanic lake with magnificent blue color water.

Most hikers take some time after the volcano hike to visit Coatepeque or have lunch at one of the restaurants with panoramic views of the lake. That is what we did. But we have planned one better for you 🙂

Head to Coatepeque not just for a visit, but to actually stay there. So it is not just the impressive sight of the lake, there are plenty of things to do too in and around the Coatepeque Lake.

Tip: Since you are going to stay at Coatepeque, in the morning, check out with all your things when leaving Santa Ana town in the morning. You can arrange to store your luggage at the front gate before starting the Santa Ana volcano hike, or leave it with your Santa Ana hotel luggage storage for couple of nights.

To conclude the day of your Santa Ana volcano, check in to your hotel in Coatepeque, munch on a meal and sip on a drink while you sit back and enjoy the views of the lake.

Because of its location and all the amenities and socializing opportunities it offers, Captain Morgan Hostel is a popular choice for affordable stay in Coatepeque, as well as for day visits. For accommodation choices, the hostel offers private rooms, dormitories and even hammocks.

Day 8: Coatepeque Lake

Spend the whole day by Coatepeque Lake, whether you want to relax or dive in straight to the activities.

Before we get into the details of the activities at the lake, let’s talk a bit about the accommodation.

You are spending two nights at Coatepeque Lake where the lake itself is the primary attraction. So it is important that you choose your accommodation carefully.

We say, pick something that lets you stay close to the lake, offers lake views, and helps you plan and participate in activities. Check this hostel for fun vibes , and this place for apartment style accommodation with lake views .

Now for the activities, there are several things to do at Coatepeque Lake. Some of the common options are swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking and jet skiing. But if you are willing to sign up for something adventurous, go scuba diving in Coatepeque Lake.

The unique aspect of Coatepeque Lake scuba diving is that you will be diving in a volcanic caldera located between the Ilamatepec Volcano and the Izalco Volcano. As you dive into this crater lake, you may get to see some last remaining secondary volcanic activities as well as species of fish.

However, note that, Coatepeque Lake is not a common dive destination in El Salvador, so these are not always on a regular schedule. Check with PADI certified dive schools if they offer dives here. La Libertad Diving is one such dive school.

(Day 1 – Day 8) Alternative Itinerary

For Day 1 through Day 7, instead of moving around a lot, you can base yourself in San Salvador and take multiple day trips to explore most of the places listed above. If you choose to take this route, you can book these tours. All of them start from San Salvador, and include ground transportation and the services of a certified guide.

• San Salvador City Tour + El Boqueron National Park
• Santa Ana Volcano Hike + Coatepeque Lake
• Mayan Ruins (3 Sites) + Santa Ana Town Center
• Suchitoto Day Trip

The next two destinations on this El Salvador itinerary, Ruta de las Flores and Surf City , can also be done as day trips from San Salvador. But we strongly suggest to spend at least 2-3 nights in each of those destinations. Else you will only see the highlights there.

So, read on for your El Salvador itinerary plan from Day 9 onwards.

Day 9: Coatepeque Lake > Ruta de las Flores

After exploring cities and towns, history and culture, volcanoes and lakes of El Salvador, now it is time to head to the mountains. Next destination on your El Salvador itinerary: Ruta de las Flores.

Ruta de las Flores, Spanish for The Flower Route, is a scenic route between the towns of Ahuachapán and Sonsonate . Tucked between these two towns are five other smaller towns – Nahuizalco , Salcoatitán , Juayúa , Apaneca , and Concepción de Ataco .

The Flower Route gets its name from the wildflowers that bloom along the sides of the road between the months of November and February. So if you want higher chances of seeing these wildflowers, plan your trip within this window. But even if your planned trip does not fall in that period, include Ruta de las Flores as a must visit on your El Salvador itinerary.

Quaint mountain towns, colonial architectures, coffee plantations, adventure parks, waterfall hikes, colorful art, local markets and food festivals – there is plenty to see and do along the Ruta de las Fores.

You can base yourself in one of the towns and explore the top attractions of the nearby towns too. Juayua is the most popular among tourists. We had stayed in Concepción de Ataco as our base, and absolutely adored the vibes of that charming mountain town.

Whichever town you choose to stay at, go out for a walk and visit the town center in the evening. The main square of the town is usually a nice spot from where you can see all the happenings around.

Click here to search for the best hotels in Juayua

Click here to search for the best hotels in Concepcion de Ataco

How to get to Ruta de las Flores from Coatepeque Lake

Depending on which town you choose to base yourself along the Ruta de las Flores, there are couple of options for the transfer between destinations.

• Option 1: By driving your rental car in El Salvador.
• Coatepeque Lake to Santa Ana by bus #242
• Santa Ana to Juayua by bus #238
• Juayua to Concepción de Ataco by bus #249

Day 10: Ruta de las Flores – Juayua

Start your first full day in Ruta de las Flores by exploring its most popular town, Juayua. Let us plan this day as a mix of nature, culture and food.

Morning: Seven Waterfalls Hike

As the name suggests, the Seven Waterfalls Hike in Juayua takes you to seven different waterfalls. But this is not merely a walk in the jungle.

You will be hiking on, occasionally uphill, dirt paths and jungle trails, wading in knee deep river water and scrambling on big rocks. On this 6-hour long adrenaline rushed tour, a time will come when you will doubt the feasibility of this activity. This is where you will have to rappel up a waterfall, behind the curtain of the waterfall and climb up the huge wall of rock, in order to get to the next set of waterfalls.

You can possibly imagine by now that the Seven Waterfalls Hike (Siete Cascadas, in Spanish) can be carried out only under the supervision of a skilled guide. Before you sign up for the tour, ask your guide or tour provider about the arrangements for the rappelling equipment. This is very important for your safety during the hike.

During our Seven waterfalls Hike, for some reason (year end holiday, probably) , the rappelling equipment team was not present on site. So our guide asked us to just climb the huge wall of rock behind the curtain of the waterfall, using our four limbs only. Not a single other support equipment! What did we do? Watch this video to find out.

We did the tour with Christian from Pulunte House in Majada. He is a nice and friendly guy who spoke about the history and geography of the place. You can contact Christian by WhatsApp +503 7729 9173 or on Instagram @puluntehouse

Afternoon: Juayua Town

After the Siete Cascadas hike, take the afternoon to explore the town of Juayua. Walk along the streets, observe local markets, shop souvenirs from the craft stores. Hang out around the town center and visit the Cristo Negro Church. It has white and red exterior walls and houses inside the statue of Black Christ.

If you can make your Juayua travel plan for a weekend, do not miss the Juayua Food Festival . A weekly affair, when various food vendors set up stalls on the streets and allure visitors with delectable food and inviting beverages.

During early January every year, the church celebrates the Festival of Cristo Negro. While the festival holds religious significance for practicing Catholics, for visitors, it can be an opportunity to see an otherwise tranquil town in different moods and colors. This is when people of Juayua come together to celebrate the festival with costumes and parades, food and drinks, flaming bulls and fireworks.

Day 11: Ruta de las Flores – Concepción de Ataco + Apaneca

On Day 11 of your El Savador itinerary, visit another couple of towns along the Ruta de las Flores, Concepción de Ataco and Apaneca . Although Juayua is the most popular, these two were our favorites out of all the towns of Ruta de las Flores.

Morning: Apaneca

Start with visiting the center of Apaneca town. Walk the pretty streets, visit the local markets and see the cute wall murals. Grab a cup of coffee and smell the crisp mountain air for a peaceful start to the morning.

Then jump in (literally and figuratively) for adventures. Head to the Insta famous adventure park Cafe Albania .

The most popular attraction at this park is their labyrinth. Here you walk in to a maze, get to the center of the maze and climb a staircase to get to a platform and ring a big bell, and then work your way out of the maze. It may sound like an interesting kids thing to do. But we as full-grown adults, as well as many other fellow adult visitors, had fun working this challenge. Once you get to the platform top to ring the big bell, the views are also pretty nice.

At Cafe Albania, they offer several other activities, some of which can be adrenaline pumping. Apart from a regular canopy tour and a colorful rainbow slide, you can also go for activities such as pendulum swing, air surfing and bike zip-lining.

The entry to Cafe Albania costs 5 USD per person and includes access to the labyrinth and the restaurant and cafe. However for other activities, you have to purchase tickets separately for each one. You can check the latest pricing and schedule on their website (it is in Spanish).

You can also grab a bite and a drink at the restaurant here with nice views of the scenery as well as the adventure activities.

Afternoon: Concepción de Ataco

For the second half, get yourself to Concepción de Ataco. It is a picturesque mountain town adorned with cobblestone streets, colorful markets, attractive wall murals, and surrounded by beautiful mountain landscapes.

For an afternoon in Ataco, walk around, get a feel of the place, visit the church, hike up to the Cerro de la Cruz viewpoint. Eat from the street vendors and shop at the art and craft stores.

Ataco takes pride in its coffee culture. There are a few farms around where you can sign up for a coffee tour experience. El Carmen Estate is one such option, where you get to choose from two different tours, a basic one, called “Traditional Tour”, and another full-service full-experience tour, called “Integral Tour”.

Another interesting thing to do when in Ataco is to visit a hot springs center nearby. We went to the Alicante Hot Springs in Ahuachapan. Another nearby hot spring property in Ruta de las Flores is the Santa Teresa Hot Springs .

Honestly, although the Alicante Hot Springs property is nice, it felt underwhelming compared to the hot springs in La Fortuna, Costa Rica , where you get more of a dreamy experience.

Day 12: Ruta de Las Flores > Surf City

It is now time to head to the last destination on your El Salvador itinerary. We have saved the beach R&R for the end.

So, on Day 12, pack your bags, bid your bye to Ruta de las Flores and head to the Pacific coast of El Salvador.

The country is known for some of the best surfing spots in Latin America. And the El Salvador tourism board has done a fantastic job of packaging its best surfing beaches under the umbrella name of Surf City. The waves are endless, the sun is shining, and the surf culture is thriving in this part of El Salvador.

There are multiple beaches to choose from for your stay in Surf City. If you are a surfer and looking for the most popular surfing spots in El Salvador, look no further than El Tunco beach. It is a small but busy beach where you will find plenty of resorts and hotels, restaurants and bars. Souvenir stores and surf shops line the streets. As you can imagine, the nightlife in El Tunco is quite busy.

If you are looking for a quieter place to stay, our pick is El Zonte . You will still find many beautiful places to stay in El Zonte, as well as good waves to surf. And if you feel like being in the middle of action one fine evening, you are only a 15-minute drive away from El Tunco.

You should be able to get to your beach destination just in time to catch a spectacular sunset. And then, if you are up for it, go out and check out the night scene of El Tunco.

How to Reach Surf City from Ruta de las Fores

From Juayua or Ataco in Ruta de las Flores, driving a car can take around 2-2.5 hours to reach El Tunco or El Zonte.

If you avail the public bus, you need to break the journey in to couple of legs and the journey time is much longer. There are couple of ways to do this. We recommend the first option as the frequency of microbus 102A is much higher that bus #287.

• Option 1: Travel to San Salvador. Then take the microbus 102A which passes by El Tunco and El Zonte.
• Option 2: Travel to Sonsonate. Then take bus #287 to the beach towns.

Did you know El Zonte is also referred to as the Bitcoin Beach. This is where it all started – El Salvador’s revolutionary decision to make Bitcoin a legal tender in their country,

Click here to search for the best hotels in El Zonte

Click here to search for the best hotels in El Sunzal

Day 13: Surf City – Tamanique Waterfalls + Beach Time

Are you up for yet another hike? I know Surf City was supposed to be for beach R&R. But this activity is worth having on your itinerary if you like chasing waterfalls and also get some workout done in the process. Sounds convincing?

Morning: Tamanique Waterfalls Hike

In the morning hike the Tamanique Waterfalls, a series of some magnificent waterfalls and cascades.

This invigorating hike takes you through jungle trails with lush vegetation and vibrant flora. Along the route, you come across open lookouts to picturesque landscapes. When you reach closer to the first waterfall, the soothing sound of cascading water starts to accompany you.

There are waterfalls of varying heights and volumes to see. Standing close to the waterfalls, you can feel the cool mist on your face. To beat the heat, take a dip in the crystal-clear natural pools and get refreshed instantly. If you are feeling adventurous, you can even jump off the edge into a pool, or slide down a waterfall. If you fancy waterfalls with natural slides, check the Catarata Uvita in Costa Rica .

For Tamanique waterfalls hike, start early because it gets more hot and humid as the day progresses. Wear your hiking shoes for the trail and carry your water shoes for swimming in the natural pools.

Read our Tamanique Waterfalls Hike guide and watch our YouTube video for more details on what to expect from this hike.

Afternoon: Beach R&R, Surfing and Sunset

Let’s finally get you that beach time for your penultimate day in El Salvador.

Grab a seat at a nice ocean view restaurant and indulge in a good meal. Gaze at the rhythm of the waves while you sip on a cool drink.

However, like us, if you prefer to have more activities on your itinerary than relaxation time, take your surfboard out to ride some of the best waves. If you are new to surfing or a beginner, may be sign up for a lesson with a surf school or a private instructor. After all, you are in a surf mecca that beckons travelers from around the world. You may want to know why.

Whichever way you choose to spend your afternoon, do not miss a beach sunset to start your last evening in El Salvador. And we will tell you exactly where to catch an gorgeous one with intesresting perspectives.

If you go to the west end of El Zonte beach, you will find some cave formations. You can walk past them, or for some thrill, through them. Climb the stair to get up to a vantage point on the side of the cave. Grab a spot to sit and enjoy a spectacular sunset. Check this YouTube short to get a glimpse of what we are talking about.

Day 14: Surf City > Airport: Fly Out

Last morning in El Salvador, enjoy it as you like it the best. Go for a morning walk on the beach. Have breakfast by the beach. Just sit on the sand and watch the ocean waves crash on to the shore. Or may be, sneak in one last surf session?

After checking out from the hotel, you can go straight to the airport to catch your flight out of the country. It takes about 70-90 minutes to commute from El Tunco or El Zonte to El Salvador international airport. Remember this where you can also return your rental car .

Best Time to Visit El Salvador

El Salvador has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons, rainy season and dry season.

The best time to visit El Salvador is during the dry season, between the months of November and April. You can expect clear weather and sunny days. But to escape the peak season price rises, you may want to avoid traveling during Christmas, New Year and Easter.

Rainy season runs from May through October when the greenery is at its lushest. However, hiking trails may become slippery thus limiting the possibilities of outdoor activities. The prices of hotels and tours drop during this period as it is the low season.

We traveled in El Salvador in December and January, and got excellent weather thought our 1 month stay. Yes, we did spend Christmas and New Year there, but not at the beach, where it’s the priciest.

What to Pack for your El Salvador Itinerary?

Some of the essentials you need to pack for El Salvador are:

• Light and comfortable clothing for tropical climate
• Light jacket for the top of Santa Ana volcano
• Swimwear for waterfalls, beaches and hot springs
• Hiking shoes for volcano and waterfalls hike, comfortable walking shoes for the cities, and flip-flops for the beach
• Insect repellant. We like this insect repellent as it is a spray and not a cream or lotion, and hence easy to apply.
• Sunscreen. Use a reef safe sunscreen like this when swimming in the ocean.

Your packing list will remain more or less the same for traveling to all countries in Central America. For reference, check our Costa Rica packing guide for a detailed list. It also comes with a FREE checklist!

Final Thoughts on El Salvador Itinerary

From our years of travels in Latin Ameria, El Salvador is one destination that took us the most by surprise.

Before arriving, we knew that there were waves to surf, volcanoes to hike, Mayan ruins to see, and pupusas to taste. We did all of that and they did quench our travel thirsty souls. But at the time of leaving the country, what filled our hearts the most was the incredible hospitality of the people of El Salvador.

We say, give this country a chance. Do not skip El Salvador. Be open to embrace experiences and take back wonderful memories.

But start with planning the trip well, because this country is still in its nascent stage of tourism development journey. So prior planning and preparation can help you make the most of your trip. Hope this El Salvador itinerary can be a good starting point for that.

For more travel planning resources, check our El Salvador content library .

Travel Planning Logistics

• Accommodation: For several years now, Booking.com has been our platform of choice for booking accommodation while traveling. You can apply all the desired filters and shortlist the ones that meet your criteria. On continued use, you will keep unlocking their Genius benefits. For long term stays, we use Airbnb . Of late, we have also started browsing Hostelworld for finding hostels.
• Tours: When traveling to new destinations, you can plan ahead and book your activities. Check for highly rated tours on Viator and Get Your Guide .
• Packing: From swimwear to sunscreen, hiking pants to insect repellents, buy your vacation packing essentials on Amazon .
• Flights: We always start our flight searches with Skyscanner and Momondo . They are aggregators that display flight options, compiling information across airlines and combinations. What we like the best about these flight aggregators is that you can put “Anywhere” as your destination, so that you find the best flight deals from your city of departure.

If you enjoy reading our free travel guides, tips and stories, you can buy us a coffee and help us keep this website ads free. Thanks for supporting Paradise Catchers .

Disclosure: Please note that this post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or a booking through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you.

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We are Pubali and Indranil, an Indian couple living in Costa Rica and slow traveling Latin America and Caribbean.

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The Ultimate 1 Week El Salvador Adventure Itinerary

From the outside, many people discard El Salvador due to its now expired reputation of street violence, MS-13, drugs, and crime. But the country has made strides, and it’s now one of the safest in Central America .

Our experience in El Salvador was that it’s a welcoming, warm country with tons of incredible sites to visit. I visited recently after two years, and I was shocked by how far the country has come with cleanliness, safety, and hospitality. I’m certain El Salvador will soon become a major tourist hotspot.

We were there during the Semana Santa, or “Holy Week” (Easter). As a result, we were able to participate in some pretty incredible parades, celebrations, and festivities. It was a very lively time filled with markets, music, and friendly, inviting people.

That being said, our time in El Salvador wasn’t always perfect. There were a couple hiccups that could have been avoided – and hopefully after reading this, you won’t have to face them yourself!

Though it’s a small country, El Salvador is filled with stunning things to see. As a result, one week there is the perfect amount of time to get just enough of a taste of it.

Related: Our Epic 2-Month Journey Across Central America

El Salvador travel restrictions

Keep up to date on the latest travel restrictions and visa requirements on the iVisa website .

The best way to get to El Salvador from Abroad

You can fly directly into the San Salvador (SAL) airport, or fly into Guatemala City (GUA) and take a bus to El Salvador.

We struggled finding bus companies that were still running between countries in Central America after Covid. Our struggles led to us finding Tica Bus . They were the most reliable, most convenient, and most accessible bus company we found.

With Tica Bus, you can actually select stops along the way as your final destination instead of continuing all the way to the next capital. Not knowing anything about the towns in El Salvador, we chose Santa Ana as our final destination.

Getting to Santa Ana, El Salvador

Though Santa Ana is a cute town, it’s not really special. If you plan to take the Ticas Bus, I’d just get off in Ahuachapan to start on the Ruta de las Flores, an incredibly cute array of 6 towns up in the mountains surrounding volcano Santa Ana. Ahuachapan is actually one of the first stops so you won’t have to sit as long on the bus, and you’ll be in a decently cute town to start with.

Alternately, you can ride the bus all the way to San Salvador from which you can rent a car. That’s probably the best option – as you’ll read below, getting around El Salvador is tough .

The Tica Bus cost us $25 each, and was overall decent. The ride always takes longer than predicted, especially with how slow the border crossings can be.

Related: The Ultimate Guide to One-Way Car Rentals Across Central America

Crossing the border from Guatemala into El Salvador

Out of all the border crossings we did in Central America, this one was actually the easiest. We disembarked in Guatemala to collect our exit stamps but did not actually have to step off the bus in El Salvador. Instead, a border agent came on the bus, collect everyone’s covid test results and passports, and returned with stamps.

Easy peasy.

Our one week adventure itinerary across El Salvador

A quick preview of our trip through El Salvador, starting from Santa Ana and ending in San Salvador to catch the bus to Tegucigalpa.

Getting Around El Salvador: Renting a car vs taking public transportation

Getting around El Salvador was the biggest struggle and hiccup of our trip there. At the time, pretty much none of the shuttle services were running. We had no trouble finding them in Guatemala, yet in El Salvador we had to resort to taxis, private transport, or public buses.

We were hoping to rent a car in Santa Ana, but none of the rental car agencies shown on google (even those with working websites) were responding. So if you want to rent a car, make sure to go all the way to San Salvador (or perhaps El Tunco, where there are some rental car companies running). The airport (SAL) has many rental car companies and is pretty close to the beaches.

As you can see, public transportation is definitely an option for many of the more popular segments of this itinerary.

As for the other tougher parts of the journey, Shreya writes, “you can also find motorbike rentals for $15/day and go on a few days trip to most of the places around El Salvador. There are definitely cheaper options for transportation other than a rental car or private transfers if others are looking for that.”

The roads in El Salvador are excellent all around, even the dirt ones. Driving is relatively easy and painless.

Consider reading: 10 Best Places You Need to Visit in Guatemala in 2022

Where to stay in Santa Ana, El Salvador (included: an awesome affordable hostel with private rooms)

We had an amazing time at the Casa Verde hostel in Santa Ana. Carlos, the owner, is a super cool and helpful guy with all the contacts for tours, transport, and maximizing your time in El Salvador.

Santa Ana itself is not very touristy. It has lots of local (and very cheap) markets, a cute central square, but is otherwise not exceptional town. The street food is pretty good but there isn’t much selection of restaurants. And if you’re vegetarian, forget it.

Must Do: Visiting the Ruta de las Flores in El Salvador

After failing to arrange a rental car, we got ourselves an uber to our first stop on the Ruta de las Flores: Apaneca. Though it was an hour away, Uber only charged us $30.

An off-duty police officer picked us up, so we got to ask about violence and crime first-hand. He told us that El Salvador’s tourism initiative involved the government bulking up security forces including national police and even the military. There are some rough spots, but there is security basically anywhere that tourists would want to go.

It all seemed to have good effect. We never felt uncomfortable walking or driving around, even at night.

Our favorite town on the Ruta de las Flores was Ataco . It’s one of the bigger towns and simply has more to offer in terms of food and nightlife.

Speaking of nightlife, Nahuizalco ‘s night markets are not to miss. They’re lively, exciting, and sprawling.

Chasing waterfalls in El Salvador

Central America has so many waterfalls that by the end, you should be tired of them… but you’re not.

We heard a local tip about some waterfalls close to the border with Honduras called the Salto de Malacatiupan . These are actually hot spring waterfalls and truly a must-see if you’re in the area.

Afterwards, we finished our tour of the Ruta de las Flores, exploring these incredibly cute towns during the Semana Santa. The streets were filled with locals flocking from all over the country, coming together to celebrate Easter with parades, parties, festivities, live music, great food, and awesome dancing. It was truly a spectacle.

Our full day tour of the Ruta de las Flores ended costing us $90 (total).

What you must see while in Juayua, El Salvador

We finished the night in Juayua , a tiny pueblo (town) with another must-see: the Feria Gastronomica , a weekend market filled with street food vendors. You’ll find everything from bao to barbeque to vegetarian food.

5 minutes from Juayua are the Chorros de la Calera , an amazing natural pool surrounded by cascades. At the moment, the cascades (main attraction) are closed, but you can still do a 2-3 hour hike to 7 waterfalls nearby.

There’s also a pretty cool maze nearby which features zip lining, biking on suspended lines, and other family-friendly activities.

The coolest place to chill out in El Salvador: Lake Coatepeque

Lake Coatepque is a ginormous crater lake situated between some gorgeous volcanos basically smack in the middle of El Salvador.

In my mind, Lake Coatepeque is the Lake Atitlan of El Salvador. It’s that nice. And during our stay, everything (hotels, restaurants) was basically fully open.

Here, you can spend the day relaxing on a hammock enjoying volcanic views, take a jetski out, or go for a swim.

Getting to Lake Coatepeque

Remember how I said getting around El Salvador was tough? As we couldn’t find a shared shuttle, we hired a private driver to get us from the Ruta de las Flores to the lake. Cost: $65. And we definitely searched around.

This is where having a rental car would be an enormous help.

We stayed at the only place that had rooms left during the busy Semana Santa: the Captain Morgan hostel. We quickly realized why there weren’t rooms left. It’s extremely noisy until late at night, the shared bathrooms are horrid, and the service is absolutely lackluster.

Instead, we recommend staying at the Cardedeu hotel (or residences if you fancy) to full take in the tranquility of this incredible lake.

RELATED: 16 Ultimate Tips for Your Next Rental Car in Guatemala

Surf City: El Salvador is the surf capital of Central America

Next, we took yet again another $65 private transfer to El Zonte, the “surf city” of El Salvador.

Surfers flock here from around the world to catch world-class swells and enjoy some of the cheapest beach living you can find on this side of the planet.

We stayed at Palo Verde “Sustainable” hotel , which was great but in no way “sustainable”. It’s right on the beach and has a lovely pool and great restaurant. You can also take surf lessons – unless red flag conditions, like we had, are present.

Food in El Salvador: great for meat-lovers, terrible for vegetarians

El Salvador was probably the toughest place to find good vegetarian food. Instead, you’ll probably eat side dishes most of the time – if they even let you. Most restaurant workers are simply confused by a request. When you say “no meat”, their reply is typically “ok so chicken?”

But in El Zonte, we caught or lucky break (surf pun?). The only place that was still open at 9PM, the last place we found, ended up being the best food we had in El Salvador outside of the capital.

The lovely restaurant, Beach Break , doubles as a boutique hotel close to the beach (obviously), and the owners are super friendly. You can eat with your feet in the sand while enjoying views on the river.

Best for last: Suchitoto and Cinquera, ex-civil war hotbeds

Another expensive private transfer later and we found ourselves flabbergasted by the beauty of the next area. Nestled in the highlands of El Salvador is a colorful, lively town with a background of civil war hardships, guerrilla warriors, and absolute devastation.

Seeing how far El Salvador has come since then is nothing short of mind-boggling. The town of Suchitoto was the closest thing we saw to Antigua, Guatemala except that the surrounding scenery was, in our opinions, even more beautiful.

We had dinner at a wonderful restaurant called 1800 Casa . WOW. Views. When you’re overlooking the massive Lake Salcoatitlan and its surrounding tallest mountains in El Salvador, you won’t want to leave. Trust me.

The next day, we took a tiny TukTuk to the ex-guerrilla headquarters of Cinquera , a town fraught with death, destruction, and violence. We took a tour into the forested highlands where guerrillas hid, lived, and fought to the death.

Our guide was the niece of an ex-guerrilla and much of her family had been directly affected by the tragedy and violence of the war.

As a result, hearing her firsthand stories felt like re-living the experience, the peril, the devastation. It was certainly more real than any movie or book I’ve ever seen or read.

It was truly touching and quite a meaningful end to our week in El Salvador.

RELATED: Our Epic 2 Month Central America Road Trip

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12 comments.

[…] Your Ultimate 2021 El Salvador Travel Guide […]

[…] The Ultimate 1 Week El Salvador Travel Itinerary (2021) […]

Great Post!!! I truly believe that there is much more to explore new places. The world has incredible beauty which makes us visit new places for sure.

Thank you so much!! I couldn’t agree with you more. 😊

[…] normal times, there are also shuttles from Antigua Guatemala to beach locales in El Salvador, but none were available when we did our […]

Great guide, thanks for writing it! I’ll be travelling soon to El Salvador and was wondering how you found the private driver. I’d be thankful for any tips.

Hi Cin! For the private drivers, we basically hire them a la carte. Usually we found contacts via the hotels/lodges we were staying at, but sometimes we found people through friends! We had maybe 4-5 different drivers across the country.

Hi! Thank you so much for the summary of your wonderful trip! I am taking my own family to El Salvador in one week to see my birthplace & where I lived the first 6 years of my life. As a war refugee (not officially recognized by the US, but that is my family’s story), I would love to take the tour you did with the niece of the ex-guerrillero. Do you happen to have her information? Thank you so much for your help.

Hi Melissa, it’s my pleasure. I’m glad that you’re rekindling your roots, that’s super cool! As for the guide, I unfortunately never got her information, but if you ask at the tourist office in the main square of Cinquera I’m certain they can find her, or someone else with direct lineage from the guerrilleros.

Sounds like you had a great trip!

The public buses, or chicken buses as the tourists call them, are actually very easy to take and cost a fraction of the price of what you were paying for Ubers and transportation. Taking the chicken bus from Santa Ana to San Salvador to El Tunco was very simple, took maybe 2 hours, and only had one bus change. Safety wise, I also thought it was fine. Maybe getting to places farther away with a chicken bus is harder, like Suchitoto. But you can also find motorbike rentals for $15/day and go on a few days trip to most of the places around El Salvador. There are definitely cheaper options for transportation other than a rental car or private transfers if others are looking for that.

Thanks Shreya, will add these details to the blog. This is sound advice!

Hey Shreya! Wondering about these motorbike rentals … are these for people who have motorcycle licenses or are these basic scooter type motor bikes that are easy to use? Also, what do you think the chances are of these getting stolen?

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• El Salvador
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The 13 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in El Salvador

Tucked at the bottom of Central America on the way to nowhere, El Salvador often gets overlooked even by overlanding backpackers. Which is a shame – with Mayan ruins, avenues of smoking volcanoes, sleepy Spanish-colonial villages set in flower-filled valleys and long, broad stretches of surf-friendly Pacific coast, it’s as enchanting as its more celebrated neighbors. And at around the same size of New Jersey, you can see the most beautiful spots at your leisure in a few days.

1. suchitoto.

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

Head northeast of the capital, San Salvador , and you’ll reach this former colonial city. It suffered structural damage in the Civil War (1980-1992), but now it’s a great mountain getaway, and a national magnet for culture, with arts and food festivals forever filling the streets. You might amble round the cobblestone streets gazing up at beautifully preserved Spanish-colonial buildings. Head beyond town for waterfalls and caves. Or take your binoculars to Lake Suchitlán, where migratory species include the country’s largest duck populations.

2. Playa El Tunco

Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark

Welcome to a funky two-street beach town, very popular with backpackers and surfers – waves on the pebbly black beaches are best early in the morning. Stroll the quaint streets or visit the beach caves when the tide is low. Playa El Tunco is popular with Salvadorans as well as travelers, and is always packed on weekends. Don’t miss the stunning sunsets every evening (top tip: there’s an amazing view from the hotel Monkey Lala). At night, the bars are fabulously upbeat – and the crowd can get quite rowdy.

3. Lake Ilopango

Natural Feature

What used to be a volcano 1,500 years ago is now a blue expanse of freshwater in central El Salvador. At an altitude of 1,450ft (442m), edged by towering cliffs, it is much loved by divers and boating enthusiasts. An eruption, sometime between CE 410 and CE 535, shattered the cone, killing and displacing hundreds of thousands of people for miles around. The bowl-like caldera that remained filled to form the 28sqmi (72sqkm) Lake Ilopango. Travelers are bewitched by its serene beauty, and locals dive for fish in waters that fall away to 787ft (240m) or more.

4. Puerta del Diablo

The past is dark – filled with death and horror – but today the views are awesome and uplifting, ensuring a steady flow of tourists. Devil’s Door is a rock formation composed of two tall boulders, forming a window out over the lush El Salvadoran landscape. From the viewpoint, accessed along a winding pathway, you’ll see the indigenous town Panchimalco directly below, Lake Ilopango to the left, and the twin-peaked San Vicente volcano straight ahead with the Pacific beyond. Unsurprisingly, for the intrepid, there are more than 60 rock climbing routes in the area, with zip lining, canopy tours, caving and rappelling on the agenda, too.

5. Santa Ana

Architectural Landmark

A drive of some 40mi (65km) from San Salvador brings you to Santa Ana, the second-largest city in the country. An idyll of tree-lined streets and vibrant buildings, it amassed its wealth from the coffee industry. It feels grand, and there’s a blossoming cultural scene, drawn by the all-round beauty. It’s a good place to base yourself if heading out to explore the Tazumal ruins or the Ruta de las Flores. While here, make sure you explore Santa Ana’s towering neo-Gothic cathedral, completed in 1913, with an exterior liberally covered in intricate carvings.

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Ruins, Historical Landmark

Tazumal is the most impressive Mayan ruin in El Salvador – first settled around 5,000 BCE, archaeologists estimate, and abandoned in the 13th century. The architectural complex was excavated and extensively restored in the 1940s and ’50s, but many of the ruins remain unexcavated. Tazumal is believed to have been an important center of trade, and its language in the K’iche’ language means “pyramid where the victims were burned.” Explore this vast site and learn about the history of the Maya civilization through the on-site museum.

7. Ruta de las Flores

Named for the wildflowers that grow roadside (at their best from November to February), this Flower Route leads you through some of the most beautiful villages in El Salvador. From Sonsonate you drive for some 25mi (40km), through Juayúa, Ataco, Apaneca and Ahuachapán. Along the way, you’ll pass Spanish-colonial buildings, towering churches, weekend markets and great little pit-stops for food, not to mention stunning views of waterfalls and coffee plantations. You’ll have more independence if you self-drive, but the trail can also be covered by bus.

Playa el Esteron

Here’s a charming stretch of coast that, for whatever reason, somehow isn’t as popular as many of the others in El Salvador. The surf is gentle, and the ambience is tranquil thanks to the absence of the usual shore crowd, heavy on rowdy backpackers. The sands stretch out endlessly in either direction, not quite as black as the kind you find further west. If you need a tranquil beach getaway in El Salvador, stop at Playa El Esteron for a lazy beach day in beautiful, if unremitting, sunshine. You’re bound to end up swigging cold beer and swinging in a rented hammock as you watch the sunset colors form.

Montecristo National Park

This national park is nature with the volume turned up to 11 – from the highest peak (El Trifino, at 7,933ft/2,418m) to the lowest valleys. It looks like a long-lost world, with dense canopy of oaks and laurel trees soaring up to 100ft (30m) above, and mushrooms, lichens and mosses running rampant across the forest floor. And yet you can visit easily as part of a tour. You might glimpse the rare likes of pumas and anteaters, spider monkeys and and coyotes. Even if you don’t, sightings of squirrels and porcupines, black shrew-mice and white-tailed deer are common. All that and 300 bird species, including quetzals, green toucans and white-faced quails. Keep your eyes peeled.

Coatepeque Caldera

Filling a volcanic caldera forged tens of thousands of years ago – much older than Ilopango – Lago de Coatepeque is one of the larger lakes in the country. Surrounded by steep slopes, the clean blue water descends 394ft (120m) – a miraculous view seen from the highway on the ridge of the crater as you approach. There’s plenty to do – perhaps taking a kayak or boat out over the rippled depths. As you paddle, notice the beach houses on the shores: weekend getaways for the very lucky.

When it comes to pre-Colombian ruins, neighboring Guatemala gets all the limelight. Which is good news, because while Tikal is tourist-teeming, El Salvador’s more modest Mayan cities are deserted. Even though they’re just 45 minutes north of San Salvador, you’ll have the pyramids and ancient ball courts at Cihuatán to yourself, if you come midweek. With no roads nearby, the air is meditatively still, except for the calls of toucans and tanagers in the surrounding forest.

Laguna de Alegria

Central El Salvador is rugged with forest-swathed volcanoes, cut with plunging valleys and dotted with crater lakes. Emerald green, iris-round and sitting in a bowl of rainforest at the summit of Tecapa volcano, the Laguna de Alegria in the Cerro Verde mountains, is one of the prettiest. It’s easy to reach by road from the nearby village of Alegria (aka “Happiness”), and trails run from the shore into the surrounding forest to hot springs and fumaroles.

Playa el Espino

Many of El Salvador’s beaches are sticky and muscavado-brown. Not Espino, a place of palm-tree shade and demerara sand stretching for more than 12mi (20km) between the waterfall-laced Periquera mountains and the wild, dolphin-populated bays of Jiquilisco. Things get busy around the village, where there are restaurants, hotels and surf shops. However, the sand is empty and wild at the beach’s eastern and western extremities, with more nesting turtles and cawing terns than tourists.

Alex Robinson contributed additional reporting to this article.

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El Salvador Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

El Salvador is the smallest and most densely populated country in Central America . Somewhat bypassed on the tourist trail (it’s tucked away from the main route people take through Central America), this country is filled with natural beauty, forests, beaches, and even the opportunity to view some archaeological sites.

While the country has had a turbulent past (it was ruled by a dictator from 1931-1979 and then experienced a civil war from 1980-1992), El Salvador has slowly been coming into its own and is now a popular spot for intrepid backpackers looking to get off the beaten path.

El Salvador is the perfect place to experience the great outdoors without the crowds as you make your way around Central America. Everyone is super friendly and generally happy to have visitors and the crowds here are much smaller than you’ll find in neighboring Costa Rica and Panama .

The prices are lower too.

This travel guide to El Salvador can help you plan your trip, save money, stay safe, and make the more of your time in this underrated destination!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on El Salvador

Top 5 Things to See and Do in El Salvador

1. Visit the Montecristo Cloud Forest

This cloud forest is home to diverse flora and fauna, including ferns, orchids, mosses, spider monkeys, and anteaters. The area is incredibly biodiverse and is believed to contain 7% of the world’s species. Within the cloud forest, you can explore Trifinio Fraternity Biosphere Reserve, established in 1987, which was the first protected area in El Salvador. Hike to the highest point, El Trifinio, with an altitude of 2,400 meters (7,874 feet), where the borders of El Salvador, Honduras , and Guatemala converge. One of the most popular attractions in the cloud forest is the Garden of the Hundred Years which contains over 100 different types of orchids. There’s a limit to how many people can visit the park each day, so it’s best to arrive early.

2. Hang out in El Tunco

One hour outside of San Salvador is this backpacker’s paradise. The tiny town is packed with hostels and is a popular place for relaxing beach vacations and lively party weekends. The name of the town translates to ‘the pig’ and it’s named after the landmark just offshore — a huge rock that resembles a pig. Cheap hostels, cheap drinks, a great party scene, and world-class surfing await in this beachside town. Besides the nightlife, El Tunco is known for its beautiful black sand beaches and gorgeous sunsets.

3. Go to Puerta del Diablo

Also known as the Devil’s Door, this rock formation serves as a lookout, offering sprawling views over San Salvador, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding mountains. Nowadays, it’s a beautiful place to visit and a popular tourist attraction, but its history is shrouded in darkness. During the civil war, it was a site where prisoners were held and tortured. Once a single rock, the formation has now separated into three boulders. The climb to the overlook is steep, with an ascent of 1,250 meters (4,101 feet). Take the bus from San Salvador and then it’s a quick walk to the boulders.

4. See the Cihuatán Ruins

Cihuatan was founded after the collapse of the Mayans around 900 CE and quickly became a regional capital. It lasted for 100 years before unknown invaders burned the city in the 10th century. It’s located near the modern-day town of Aguilares, about 30 kilometers (19 miles) outside of San Salvador. The Pre-Columbian archeological site covers over 180 acres and includes pyramids, Mesoamerican ball courts, and religious sites which were first excavated in the 1970s. By the 1980s, over 900 structures had been uncovered. You can visit the ruins and the museum explaining the history of the area as a day trip from El Salvador. Admission is $3 USD.

5. Visit La Libertad

La Libertad is a popular beach town alternative to El Tunco, with Punta Roca offering huge waves for surfing. The port city was established in 1770 and is a tropical paradise, with beautiful sandy beaches, palm trees, and opportunities to surf, sunbathe, and snorkel or scuba dive. Nearby you can explore Walter Thilo Deininger National Park which is rich in wildlife. If you want a real taste of the local life, visit the busy daily fish market on the waterfront. Otherwise, this place is all about relaxing, enjoying reggae music, and soaking up the sun.

Other Things to See and Do in El Salvador

1. hike the volcanoes.

El Salvador has its share of volcanoes to explore, and the best place to see several of them is Cerro Verde National Park. This park is home to Cerro Verde, Izalco, and Ilamatepec. The trails all allow you to get up close to the volcanoes, including a walk around the Cerro Verde crater, where you’ll find a cloud forest full of tropical birds and plant life. Ilamatepec is the highest point in the park, at 2,381 meters (7,811 feet) at the summit. There are lots of tours from San Salvador starting from about $85 USD, or you can show up and just pay the $3 USD entrance fee.

2. Visit Joya de Cerén

Joya de Cerén is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that tells a story about the everyday lives of the Mayans. Once a small Mayan farming settlement, the town was buried under volcanic ash in 595 BCE when the Laguna Caldera Volcano erupted. The site includes a Temazcal (sauna), and other important buildings like storehouses, a kitchen, and a religious building meant for communal events. There’s also an excellent preserved shaman’s home and a collection of agricultural tools. This site is the Mayan version of Pompeii . It’s $7 USD to visit.

3. Get cultural in San Salvador

Although most people don’t spend a lot of time in San Salvador, there are a few highlights to see. Most of the city’s activity centers around the Plaza el Salvador del Mundo, where you’ll see the iconic Savior of the World statue (with Jesus standing on a globe). Walk around downtown, try some pupusas (delicious El Salvadorian flatbread stuffed with cheese, pork, squash, or refried beans), and visit the domed Metropolitan Cathedral which is filled with colorful stained glass. At the National Palace, peruse the old government rooms and the courtyards, and if you want to do some souvenir shopping, head to the National Handicrafts market for some local artwork. (Note: Sometimes downtown San Salvador experiences gang violence. Read our safety section to learn how to keep yourself safe.)

4. Go diving

El Salvador has some of the best diving in Central America. The warm waters of Los Cóbanos (a resort beach area on the westside of El Salvador) contain reefs, underwater rock formations, and even shipwrecks. If you’re a beginner, you can learn to dive in volcanic crater lakes like Coatepeque and Ilopango, where the freshwater provides mild conditions for anyone who isn’t ready to tackle the open waters. There’s not a lot of marine life to see in the lakes, but visibility is clear and the azure waters of the lakes are stunning. Expect to pay around $85 USD for a two-dive trip and around $415 USD for an Open Water certification course.

5. Visit El Imposible National Park

This is the largest park in El Salvador and is named for its deep gorge. It’s part of the Apaneca Ilamatepec mountain range, with mangrove forests and a total of eight rivers, as well as plenty of waterfalls. You might see pumas, anteaters, antelopes, and even wild boars while here. Due to the delicate nature of the park, you’ll need to have a guide to explore it (you’re not allowed to hike alone). It’s $6 USD for the park entrance fee, and then you can request a guide (it’s usually about $10 USD for a group). You can also do a day trip from San Salvador with Impossible Tours for $130 USD.

6. Spend a day at Los Chorros

Los Chorros is a nature park composed of a series of natural swimming pools that cascade from overhanging volcanic cliffs, set against a backdrop of ferns, flowers, and moss. It’s 20 minutes outside of San Salvador. For only $3 USD to visit, it’s one of the most scenic ways to beat the heat!

7. Shop at La Gran Via

Located in the heart of San Salvador, this is an outdoor shopping center filled with restaurants, movie theaters, music, bars, live shows, and more. This is a nice place for an afternoon out, and at night it’s where the locals come for drinks and clubbing.

8. Tour the Museum of Popular Art

This museum is home to some of the country’s most valuable Salvadoran works, including works from over 177 artists such as paintings, sketch drawings, and sculptures from Rosa Mena Valenzuela and Salarrué (the most well-known writer and painter in El Salvador). It also has a huge showcase of miniature pottery, wood carvings, weaving, and jewelry. It’s a quirky, family-friendly place to visit. There are often craft-making sessions that you’re invited to join. Admission is only $1.50 USD.

9. Wander through colonial Suchitoto

Suchitoto (“Suchi”) is a small colonial town located on Lake Suchitlan in the mountainous northern region. Well-known around the country for its artistic community, most weekends draw hordes of Salvadorans from San Salvador (and other neighboring towns) looking to visit the many galleries and markets. There are easy looped walking trails all around Suchi that can take you to the lake, various waterfalls, and even caves to explore. Just find a trailhead and start walking!

10. Hang out on the Coatepeque Caldera

If you’re not learning how to dive here, spend at least a day on the caldera just enjoying the still, bright blue lake and its quiet village of El Congo in western El Salvador. You can hire a boat to take you around, go for a swim, or visit some of the village’s small restaurants.

11. Take the Ruta de Las Flores

The “Route of the Flowers” is a popular day trip from San Salvador, where you can visit small colonial towns and villages as well as coffee plantations. Pause in colorful towns like Nahuizalco, Apaneca, Juayua, and Ataco, where the main squares are busy with cafes and markets, and the buildings are covered in murals. Apaneca and Ataco are home to some of the best-known coffee plantations, like the El Carmen Estate, and if you’re visiting between November and February you’ll see the coffee beans flowering. You can do the route on your own, or take a tour from the city for around $90 USD.

El Salvador Travel Costs

Accommodation – During peak season, a bed in an 8-10-bed dorm costs $10-15 USD. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast. Private rooms with an ensuite bathroom cost around $25 USD per night (there is no real difference in prices during the high or low season).

Nightly rates for a budget two-star hotel room start at $40 USD. You’ll pay about $60 USD for a place on the beach, or a place with a pool

There are lots of Airbnb options in El Salvador. Private rooms start around $15-20 USD though they average double (or even triple) that. An entire home or apartment starts around $30 USD though prices usually average closer to $75-100 USD.

Food – Like its neighborhoods, the cuisine here is a mix of indigenous traditional foods with influence from the Spanish conquest. Pork, seafood, and corn are major staples and can be found at most meals. Pupusa is the national dish, a thick flatbread stuffed with cheese, chicharrón (pork), and refried beans. Cured pork, deep-fried cassava, tamales, and meat soups are other common meals.

Overall, food in El Salvador is very affordable. Like most Central American countries, you can find big plates of rice and beans for $3-5 USD. Breakfasts of eggs and plantains are also $3-5 USD. Fill up on the pupusas for less than $1 USD each.

Mid-range meals of pizza or a fried fish dinner are about $8-10 USD. A vegetarian meal is about $5-8 USD. A burger and fries is $10 USD. A beer to go with it will only cost between $1.50-3 USD.

There are some “high-end” dining spots around El Salvador, but most dining is pretty casual. You can find seafood dishes like ceviche between $15-19 USD, while a nice steak dinner ranges from $16-24 USD. Pasta dishes are between $12-15 USD.

Overall, the food is very cheap here, so take advantage of it when you can! If you do plan on cooking your own meals expect to spend around $25-35 USD per week, depending on your diet.

However, that said, given how few places have kitchen facilities, I wouldn’t buy a lot of groceries if I was here. I’d just get the cheap local eats!

Backpacking El Salvador Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking El Salvador, you’ll spend as little as $35 USD per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, cooking some meals and eating cheap street food, limiting your drinking, taking the bus to get around, and doing most cheap and free activities like swimming and hiking.

A mid-range budget of about $90 USD covers staying in a private Airbnb room, taking the occasional taxi, enjoying a few beers at the bar, and eating out for all your meals. You’ll also be able to visit more museums, ruins, and parks or do some guided hikes.

On a “luxury” budget of $245 USD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat any meals you want, enjoy as many drinks as you want, take taxis to get around, and do lots of tours. This amount of money goes a long way in a country like this and you’ll want for absolutely nothing if you’re coming here for luxury. The country is your oyster if you’re spending this or more!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

El Salvador Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

El Salvador is one of the cheapest countries in Central America, so you’ll find it easy to save money here without much effort. Regardless, here are some ways to save money during your visit:

• Snack on fruit – Fruit in Central America is super affordable. You can pick up a bag of mangos for around $0.50 USD at any roadside stall or market vendor, and even smoothies will cost less than $3 USD. Eat healthily and save money!
• Show up without reservations – It’s easy to just show up in a town like La Libertad or El Tunco and just barter for a room. If there’s availability, you could get your room for a fraction of what you’d be paying by booking online. A lot of accommodations don’t even have online reservation systems, so showing up and booking a room is the only way to do it in some cases.
• Go camping – While hostels are pretty cheap, you can camp at many of them for half the cost (for as little as $6 USD per night). Bring your gear and sleep under the stars!
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who will not only give you a free place to stay but also serve as a local tour guide and introduce you to the cool stuff only locals know about in town. There are not a ton of hosts here, however, so be sure to send your requests early.

Where to Stay in El Salvador

Hostels in El Salvador are affordable, fun, and safe. Here are my suggested places to stay in the country:

• Hostal Cumbres del Volcan Flor Blanca (San Salvador)
• Hostel Casa Verde (Santa Ana)
• Hostal Punta El Zonte (La Libertad)

How to Get Around El Salvador

Bus – Buses are the primary way to get around El Salvador’s cities as well as the country as a whole. You can get just about anywhere in one of El Salvador’s brightly painted school buses. Cities and towns often have designated bus depots with rides that cost less than $0.50 USD. You can easily move between towns for about $2-5 USD (it’s $2 USD to travel between San Salvador and Both La Libertad and El Tunco). San Salvador to Suchitoto is $1 USD. Fares may go up by 25% on the weekends due to more traffic.

Minivans – In most touristy areas in El Salvador you’ll find small tour offices that sell seats on minivans or minibusses. They’ll take you just about anywhere you need to go in the country (and onward into neighboring countries). These minivans cost more than the regular buses, but you still shouldn’t have to pay more than $10 USD wherever you’re going. You can also barter prices in this case, and if you can round up people from your hostel/accommodations to book as a group, you’ll save even more money.

Taxi – Taxis are easy to come by in El Salvador, although in smaller towns they take the form of tuk-tuks. Most are unmetered, so make sure you negotiate your price beforehand. Tuk-tuks are the cheapest option, and you can get a few blocks for less than $1 USD. Ask your hotel/hostel staff for price estimates before you head out so you know you’re not getting ripped off.

Car rental – Rentals start at $25 USD per day. Driving here is relatively safe compared to other Central American countries as the roads are much better maintained. You need to be 21 in order to rent a car here. An IDP (International Driving Permit) is also required.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to El Salvador

Like the rest of Central America, El Salvador’s dry season is between November and April, while the rainy season is between May and October.

The dry season is peak season, with travelers escaping the cold temperatures up north. Daily highs average about 30°C (86°F) here, and it rarely ever dips below 10°C (50°F). This is definitely the best time to visit.

Prices don’t fluctuate much in the off-season, so you have no real reason to visit during the rainy season. On the other hand, April to October is the best time for serious surfers.

How to Stay Safe in El Salvador

Unfortunately, El Salvador has a high rate of gang violence. Although it’s rarely targeted at foreigners, you should avoid certain areas. Most of that crime takes place in San Salvador, so avoid parts of Soyapango, Apopoa, and Mejicanos at all costs. Also, avoid the area around the Tica bus station in San Salvador, as there are sometimes attacks there against tourists. You’re not likely to spend a lot of time in these neighborhoods, however, and the more touristy places are patrolled by policemen.

La Libertad, Soyapango, and Usulutan also have some gang activity. Like San Salvador, police heavily patrol touristy areas.

In any destination, don’t be out on the street (or beach) alone after dark. Avoid traveling at night in general, as hijackings or muggings are known to happen.

You might encounter petty crimes, like theft, especially on public transportation. Do not flash any of your valuables around, or keep them at all. Credit card skimming is also a problem here, so try to use only ATMs at shopping malls, hotels, or banks.

You can more about common travel scams to avoid when you travel.

Solo female travelers should be cautious here. In addition to the tips above, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

El Salvador Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

El Salvador Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Central America travel and continue planning your trip:

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

How to Get Around Central America on a Budget

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El Salvador

15 places you should visit in el salvador.

• Author david
• Date September 22nd, 2016

El Salvador is a destination rich in both geography and culture. Sitting in the heart of the Central America region, this small country boasts incredible national parks, long stretches of beautiful beaches, a plethora of inland attractions, and relatively lax visa requirements. Despite retaining its dated reputation for being an unsafe country, El Salvador is actually one of Central America’s safest countries and best places to visit .

San Salvador

With its violent civil war over two decades in the past, visitors of all backgrounds and interests are quickly discovering the array of attractions this country has to offer. Among the long list of destinations, are the following 15 places in El Salvador you should visit in El Salvador:

San Salvador is El Salvador’s capital city. Located in the central plateau region, it is the second largest city in all of Central America (second to Guatemala City.) Despite its colossal size, visitors are generally surprised to find laid back locals, an easy going atmosphere, and a relatively slow pace to the city. Infrastructure, though on the mend since the millennium, is still hit or miss, with earthquakes and war showing their scars throughout the city.

If you’re interested in connecting with the local culture, you might want to learn some of their slang words used by the residents, as it can be a fun way to immerse yourself in the city’s unique vibe.

Check out Things to See and Do in San Salvador

From the crumbling remains of original Spanish colonial architecture to the large gap between rich and poor, San Salvador has a long road ahead. There is still violence in the city, however it’s mostly concentrated in the poorest neighborhoods, far from the tourist sectors, where inter-gang violence is high.

One of the most unique aspects about San Salvador is its location. Despite being the country’s largest metropolis, visitors are only minutes away from awe-inspiring natural beauty. From gorgeous volcanoes and the stunning crater lake to some of the best parks in the country, natural beauty is always just around the corner. With San Salvador being a maximum of four hours from any destination in the country, it makes for a great home base when exploring El Salvador.

Two hours northwest of San Salvador, La Palma is famous for being the town where national artist Fernando Llort taught. Utilizing bright colors, childish images, and religious themes, Llort captured the hearts of the El Salvadoran people, making La Palma a nationally recognized artistic hub. Even today the vast majority of its residents make a living by practicing Llort’s artistic style.

Due to its close proximity to the Honduran border, many visitors choose only to stay in La Palma for convenience purposes. With a vast array of galleries and workshops however, visitors should definitely spend some time soaking in the town’s beautiful artistic heritage. From wall paintings and town murals to workshops, quaint Llort-inspired souvenirs, and the mosaic Central Park, a visit to La Palma is definitely worth the stop.

Suchitoto is amongst the few towns in El Salvador that still retain its colonial architecture. Offering a laid-back ambiance, beautiful panoramic views, and quaint cobblestoned streets, this town is one of the country’s most charming. One of Suchitoto’s most popular sites is the Museo de los Recuerdos Alejandro Cotto (admission 4$). Here visitors can explore beautiful grounds, colonial architecture, great views, and classic fountains. Also boasting one of the country’s most impressive art collections, this museum (open daily) is like a town in and of itself!

For those seeking a dose of the outdoors, head for the 39-foot Los Tercios Waterfall, the hot springs of Agua Calienter (2.5 miles further down the road), or the nearby tourist-friendly towns of Palo Grande, El Sitio, and La Mora— all rich in natural beauty.

Joya de Cerén

Joya de Cerén is an extraordinarily well preserved Mayan village. The village was abandoned in a hurry as residents fled the eruption of Laguna de Caldera in 640 A.D. The town was buried in volcanic ash, leaving the city hidden, but intact. It wasn’t until 1976 that Joya de Cerén was discovered.

The second-largest city in El Salvador, Santa Ana offers visitors an urban appeal with a slightly more tranquil environment when compared to San Salvador. Its early 20th-century neo-Gothic cathedral, elaborately decorated theatre, and picturesque main square (Parque Libertad) have won the attention of tourists, making Santa Ana a (more than) worthwhile day trip.

For those seeking a more in-depth experience in Santa Ana, the aforementioned theatre (Teatro de Santa Ana) is a stunning visit both inside and out, and still holds the occasional live performance. If you’re a lover of the arts, be sure to check its schedule when in town!

Founded around 400 A.D., Tazumal is a cluster of unusual step pyramids, the tallest reaching up to 75 feet in height (the largest in the country.) Its autonomous status lasted until Spanish forces moved into El Salvador in the 1520s, after which the local people were conquered and exploited.

The on-site Stanley H. Boggs Museum is a fascinating visit, displaying artifacts uncovered during the excavation. From incense burners to pottery and statues, the remains uncovered by Boggs are a small glimpse into Tazumal’s past.

Check out The Best Mayan Ruins in El Salvador

Perhaps the most notable item in the museum is the Stone of Victories statue— an artifact that provides rare evidence of a connection between modern-day El Salvador and what is now Veracruz, Mexico.

Lake Coatepeque

Lago de Coatepeque, or Caldera Coatepeque, is a lake located in the heart of a volcanic crater. At 10 miles in diameter, it’s one of the largest lakes in El Salvador. Formed nearly 72,000 years ago by a series of violent eruptions and volcanic collapses, what remains today is one of the country’s most beautiful natural sites.

Pristine waters make the ideal conditions for swimming, and a range of water sports are available from jet skiing and scuba diving to fishing and aquatic bicycling. Other lake activities include a ferry ride to Teopan Island (in the lake’s center), motorboat excursions, and lake tours, running from 20$/half hour to 50$ for full lake tours. Admission to the lake itself is free.

Cerro Verde National Park

While this park is home to three magnificent volcanoes (Izalco, S anta Ana Volcano hike , and Cerro Verde), the latter (and its namesake) is generally considered the most popular. Boasting one of the country’s few ‘cloud forests’ and a great hiking trail, visitors should plan for a (minimum) one-day visit to this national park. The hike, or La Ventana a la Naturaleza (Window to Nature trail), brings visitors through the oldest forest in the park, going directly through the crater and passing century-old trees along the way. Also home to some brilliant flora and fauna, guided bird watching, horseback riding tours, and great views of the other two volcanoes, a visit to this park is unforgettable.

While Cerro Verde hasn’t erupted in over 2,500 years, the other two have a long history of eruptions. Izalco was once considered the “Lighthouse of the Pacific,” for its 200-straight years of eruptions (until the 1960s.) Santa Ana, ironically one of the most popular climbs in the country, is the most active of the three, with steam constantly rising from one of its craters’ sulfurous lagoons. Park fees are 1$ and local guided tours are highly recommended.

Ruta de las Flores

La Ruta de las Flores is a 20-mile mountainous road beginning out of Sonsonate. Its namesake (Route of Flowers) comes from seasonal bursts of flowers (October-February) that dot the side of the road.

A great side trip for those looking to escape the coastal “surfer scene,” the route is known not only for its floral bursts, but also for the charming colonial towns, lagoons, and waterfalls that dot its 20-mile stretch.

La Libertad

La Libertad (Freedom) is a small port named after El Salvador’s independence from Spain. It offers a quaint port (25 cent entrance fee), and some of the best beaches in El Salvador for shore angling and surfing (Playa La Paz). For those who want to get on the waters, reasonably priced fishing day trips can be organized with local boat captains.

If there’s one thing La Libertad is most famous for, it’s the ceviche. A seafood dish of raw fish “cooked” in lime juice and tossed with spicy pepper and onion… it’s an absolute must-try!

Costa del Sol

A sandy beach just 30 minutes from San Salvador airport, Costa del Sol is becoming an increasingly popular tourist spot. Divided into three sections (San Marcellino, Los Blancos and Costa del Sol), this wide beach is popular for sporting events, vacationing tourists & locals, and all-inclusive retreats.

One of the highlights of the area is a mangrove boat tour of the Jaltepeque estuary. Located at kilometer 56, this is a protected area home to various bird and fish species. A three-hour boat ride from La Puntilla will take you through mangrove tunnels and where the country’s longest river, Rio Lempe, meets the Pacific Ocean.

Check out The Best Beaches in El Salvador

Another popular attraction in this highly touristic area is the Atlantis water park. Activities include slides, swimming pools, and floating rides.

El Tunco is one the most popular of the northern coastal towns for tourists. Named after the “pig-shaped” rock located off its coast, it’s a craggy, powerful region not conducive to swimming… but a surfer’s dream come true. For those looking to hit the waters, surf classes and board rentals are available through local surf shops.

Because El Tunco is such a popular tourist spot, it’s also it’s a great place to meet other travelers and exchange stories. It offers plenty of boutique shops, restaurants, and cafés, as well as a plethora of entertainment options. One of the best nightlife scenes on the northern coast, just ask your hotel’s front desk for the best places to go when you are in town.

The country’s third largest and most populated city, San Miguel is a popular, though slightly less developed, tourist destination. Its historical downtown offers some noteworthy landmarks, from the 19th century Cathedral and Francisco Gavidia Theatre to the San Miguel Market and bustling Avenida Roosevelt (great nightlife!)

Check out the Fab 4 Beers of El Salvador

Hugging the country’s small eastern coast, it also offers close proximity to several beach towns boasting some of Central America’s best surf. A major center of trade, San Miguel’s coastal locale also provides some of El Salvador’s highest quality seafood. One of the hottest destinations in the country… remember to wear cool clothing as summer temperatures reach 109 degrees Fahrenheit!

Beyond surfing, several other outdoor sports are available around the city. The nearby San Vicente volcano in El Salvador offers some of the country’s most challenging trail-less hikes (guides are recommended- available through the town’s Mayor’s Office) and the highly active San Miguel Volcano offers breathtaking views… however hikes should not be done without a credible guide due to reports of bandits on the mountain. Lake Olomega, another of the country’s largest, provides a less strenuous visit, with casual nature treks and local boating tours available.

Playa El Cuco

Easily accessible via bus from San Miguel, Playa El Cuco is a beach town offering vendor huts, seafood restaurants, and a shaggy palm-lined shore. The waters are calmer than some of the nearby surfer towns, making it a better option for those interested in swimming.

El Cuco is popular is amongst vacationing Salvadorans since the wide shores make it perfect for beach sports such as volleyball and soccer. If you are interested in staying over, we recommend the Hotel Miraflores, located on a cliff with incredible views of Nicaraguan mountains, nearby volcanoes, and, of course, the Pacific Ocean.

Ruta de Paz

Ruta de Paz, or Path of Peace, is a popular tourist itinerary that winds through the area hit hardest by the civil war. Visitors will encounter beautiful mountains and quaint colonial towns, with three main stops along the route (San Fernando, Arambala, and Perquín.) The path itself is located in the department of Morazán, which was the former hub of the guerrillas. Highly damaged during the war, Morazán still remains quite underdeveloped. However, as tourists take an increasing interest in this tumultuous yet naturally stunning area, the status is slowly changing.

Among its three stops, Perquín is the most popular (it also has the most accommodation.) The capital of the revolution and heart of the rebel resistance, the town’s center houses the Museo de la Revolución.

Five rooms display artifacts and war memorabilia, there’s an interactive reconstructed guerrilla display, and many of the guides are ex-guerrillas… so their poignant experiences/stories are well worth hearing. Just down the road, locals occupy what was once a guerrilla camp; for an extra $1 visitors can wander into the tunnels for a unique experience that offers insight into the rugged life of the guerrilla fighters.

While smaller than the state of Massachusetts, El Salvador condenses a brilliant amount within its borders. Framed by the Pacific, Honduras, and Guatemala (U nesco World Heritage Site ), visitors will have everything from surf, sun and sand to active volcanic hikes, cascading waterfalls, and amazing wildlife to explore.

When it comes to visiting El Salvador , timing can be the most challenging aspect. The rainy season (May to October) offers lush beauty, cooler temperatures, and nature at its finest… while the dry season boasts the perfect weather for the beach. Between the food, people, culture, natural and manmade marvels however, El Salvador will not disappoint… regardless of when you visit!

Additional El Salvador Travel Information

Official name: Republic of El Salvador

Time zone: GMT -6

Language: Spanish

Currency: U.S. Dollar ($)

Currency converter: XE

Getting around: Getting around El Salvador is easy. The majority of the country is easily navigated through a series of inner city and national bus routes. Though buses may seem overwhelming because they are rarely labeled clearly and the stations are chaotic, it’s very easy to figure out by communicating with the locals. Most bus operators will try to hustle you onto their bus, so be sure to double check its destination with someone else before boarding.

Many people planning to venture outside of the major cities opt to rent cars for the sake of convenience which isn’t a bad option so long as you fork out the extra cash for secure parking. The country’s newly constructed road system and well-marked signage makes it fairly east to navigate.

In the larger cities such as San Salvador, Santa Rosa, and San Miguel, taxis are easily hailed on the street. Acacya Taxis and Metro Taxi are two dependable taxi companies that have been around for a long time. Smaller towns will usually have small moto-taxis (tuk-tuks) in lieu of taxis. With rates of approximately 10¢ per block, they are considerably less expensive than regular taxis.  

Shopping: In San Salvador everything can be found from local markets to giant shopping centers. San Benito and Paseo Escalón are two high-end shopping areas in the San Salvador’s district of La Zona Rosa. This area is also home to, a classy shopping center with decadent dining options.

In local markets and artesian shops all over the country visitors can find pottery, local indigenous styled paintings, jewelry, textiles and handmade furnishings. Located in the center of San Salvador and open seven days a week is El Mercado Ex-Cuartel, a reasonable site for buying economically priced souvenirs.

When leaving San Salvador, handicrafts are best shopped for along the small pueblos of La Ruta de Las Flores since the coastal towns tend to have lesser quality goods at higher prices since the products are many times brought from other regions. For those looking to do their own grocery shopping, Super Selectos has several locations throughout the country.

When going to small beach towns, it is wise to buy groceries before leaving a major city since prices tends to skyrocket while the availability of many goods will decrease.

Hours of operation: Business hours usually run from 8 a.m. to noon and from 2 p.m. to 4 or 5 p.m. during weekdays and 8:30 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. Most businesses are closed Sunday. Many national tourist sites are open Sunday but closed Monday.

Tips: A 10% tip is customary at restaurants and bars. Some places may automatically include tip on the bill, so it is always a good idea to double-check.

Electricity: 110 volts AC, 60 Hz (same as United States) however, three-prong outlets are not always available so it is best to bring a three-to-two prong adapter for American electrics.

International Airport El Salvador (SAL)

+503 2339 9455

Entry requirements: Valid passport, and according to your home country, a $10 tourist visa may need to be purchased upon arrival, which is valid up to 90 days

Best time to go: October through April

NOTE:  Need information about which travel documents you need for your next international trip? Check out my  essential travel documents  guide!

Have you visited any of the 15 places you should visit in El Salvador? Leave us a comment below! 

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Britney Fuentes says:

Recently spent the whole month of December in El Salvador and it was amazing. In my opinion the best time to go is December. Throughout that month they have a 23 day celebration to celebrate towns with free music and bands. Prices are extremely low compared to the norm in the U.S., a decent meal can range from $1- $7 , drinks included, and maybe an extra entree. Bahia Del Sol, is a great place to stay at, Decameron is amazing as well. San Miguel is a great city, so is La Union. Hiking is great there because of the amazing views and sights. The people are so sweet. Going to El Salvador made me value all I have in life. Tip is never necessary there, but honestly with a $5 tip they can do so much. I just had a great time, don’t let the stereotypes keep you away from such a beautiful country.

Yanik Belliveau says:

Booked a flight for late Jan 2018, in some of the beach town I’m not finding much hostels on hostelworld. Any suggestions? Didn’t think prebooking was necessary but might be wrong. Good job David!

Ana Vanegas says:

It’s interesting to know of all those great places to visit, my friend and I are planning a trip to El Salvador in the near future, after reading about the nice places to go,we are very motivated to visit. Thanks for this wonderful information.

Related Posts

Things to See and Do in San Salvador

Top Towns to Visit in Eastern El Salvador

The Best Beaches of El Salvador

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Travel to El Salvador – Things to do, places to visit and activities

Have you ever considered El Salvador travel?

Located just 5h from San Francisco, this tiny country is a beautiful land of volcanoes and beaches with lots of interesting activities from the obvious volcano trekking to surfing  to the most remote Mayan UNESCO sites.

Central America’s smallest country is also its most active. Be a pioneer and travel to El Salvador, you will very much enjoy the day excursions, the colonial heritage, the beach or surf resorts, the local hospitality and the lovely Salvadoran food . Continue reading for a comprehensive list of things to do in El Salvador written after my trip.

Watch me explore El Salvador in the video below:

Travel to El Salvador: Where is the country and its capital?

In the map above you can see the location and all the things to do in El Salvador which we will be discussing in this article. You can also see how close they are to each other and to the ocean.

El Salvador, warmly known as “El Pulgarcito” or the pinky finger of Central America , is the smallest country in Latin America measuring just 300km long by 100km wide and bordering Honduras , Nicaragua, Guatemala and the Pacific Ocean. The country should not be confused with its capital that shares a similar name, San Salvador .

San Salvador is located about 30 minutes from the beach of La Libertad, the most popular beach resort area in El Salvador, and it’s where the international airport is. The city received its name from the Spanish conquistadores who wanted to honour the most popular saint of the time.

There are about 6 million Salvadorans in El Salvador, and about 1.5 million overseas, mostly in the US, as a result of the migration movement caused by the civil war in the 80s. This has resulted in about 17% of the country’s GDP coming from remittances sent in by immigrants that are making a good living abroad.

Travel to El Salvador: Is it Safe?

Perhaps the most obvious and first question that comes to mind to anyone reading this is post and considering to travel to El Salvador is: Is El Salvador safe?

Tourism to the country is, and has been, historically low, and this is mostly because of the country’s reputation for poor safety. In fact, El Salvador used to top the list of the countries with the highest murder rate when countries at war are excluded.

I have written a separate post about El Salvador’s safety and how to stay safe in El Salvador, so please take a look at that one for all the details and background about the dangers of tourism in El Salvador .

I would not let the crime rate statistics prevent you from visiting , but you should be smart and draw your route and itinerary accordingly. I never saw any violence nor did I see any signs of crime anywhere I visited but the statistics should not be taken lightly and precautions are essential.

Additionally, since 2019, the US has downgraded its safety concerns towards the country from the highest level, so things are indeed improving and with so many things to do in El Salvador, perhaps the time has come to consider visiting.

A bit of background and history of El Salvador

El Salvador was a Spanish colony from the 16th century until the 19th century. The 300 years of colonialism left an imprint on the country’s culture, heritage and traditions.

This heritage can be seen in the architecture, the customs and the food across the country which make up for a lot of the things to do in El Salvador.

When the Spaniards discovered El Salvador in 1525 , the area was inhabited by the Pipil Indians, descendants of the Aztecs , who migrated to the region in the 11th century. The colony was a major production area for sugar, indigo (blue dye) and livestock for the Spanish Crown. 

Indigo, which is made from the leaves of a bush plant endemic to El Salvador, died in importance in the 19th century when chemical dyes were invented (this also affected Guatemala and even water towns like Wuzhen near Shanghai ) but it is making a comeback as an organic and all-natural dye.

Some of the sugar plantations have survived until today and can still be seen across the country. In the 19th century coffee replaced less valuable alternatives as a crop and today covers about 10% of the territory .

All of Central America declared independence from Spain in 1821 and created a federation of Central American states that was dissolved in 1838. During the years that followed independence, El Salvador went through several revolutions, wars and invasions to and from neighbouring countries. 

Various military dictatorships ruled from 1931 until 1979 when civil war exploded between the government and the leftist guerrilla. War ravaged the country for over a decade until a peace treaty was signed in 1992. There were horrifying massacres , 75,000 perished and thousands of Salvadorans emigrated to neighbouring countries and to the US to find peace.

El Salvador sits on the Ring of Fire and is the center of many earthquakes and natural disasters . The 1998 Hurricane Mitch , one of the deadliest on record, destroyed 80% of Honduran infrastructure and 30% of El Salvador’s.

Over 20 years later, the infrastructure has recovered and the roads are in very good shape, connecting all the major places to see and ready for those looking to travel to El Salvador.

Travel to El Salvador: Getting in

El Salvador International Airport is the link between the country and the other Central American countries or major international hubs like San Francisco , Miami or New York as well as regional flights to Panama and other cities.

Almost all of El Salvador travel starts at the airport, although a fair amount of longer term travelers arrive by roads from Honduras (the Mayan ruins of Copan are quite near) or Guatemala (Antigua is a few hours away).

Avianca recently bought the local Salvadoran airline TACA and now owns rights to most of the airport slots and uses the airport in San Salvador as a major hub in the region to connect North and South America and the Caribbean. For example, you can now fly to La Havana from San Salvador.

Flying times from California or New York to San Salvador are 5-6h and Miami is less than 3h away, making San Salvador easily reachable for an extended weekend getaway .

The airport in San Salvador is clean, compact and easy to navigate so it is a convenient stopover if you are continuing onto other destinations.

If you only have one day in El Salvador

While this article is mostly written for those who want to explore the country in detail, the great connections that TACA offers via El Salvador have brought an influx of visitors who only have half or a full day to travel El Salvador and want to make the most of it.

For short period of time, I would consider joining one of the tours that Get Your Guide offers because, should there be any delays on your flight, you can always cancel them. Below are the best layover tours in El Salvador below.

• Take a trip to the beach: This full day stopover tour will take you right to the beach with lunch and towels included and pick up and fast-track at the airport. The resort you will be taken to has facilities so you can freshen up.
• Explore San Salvador: If you want to explore the capital, best visited during the day on an escorted tour, this tour will take you around the city and its main museums with a pick up from the airport. Or drop the museum part in favor of an adventure park with this tour .
• Visit lakes and mountains: Nature lovers will enjoy El Salvador’s many volcanoes and national parks and this tour includes the famous Coatepeque Lake and Cerro Verde park so you can get out of the airport for a day in nature.
• Discover the Mayan ruins : If you are more of an archeology fan and would like to see the country’s only Mayan ruins and UNESCO site, this half day tour will take you to Joya de Ceren and they can pick you up from the airport for an additional charge.
• Combo with Mayan ruins: Combine volcanoes and Mayan ruins with a full day tour  or a half day option. You can also combine Mayan ruins with the capital in this tour .

Best things to do in El Salvador

Now on to those of you who are planning on some serious El Salvador travel by staying longer.

I have put together this guide to  the best things to do in El Salvador to help you plan your trip. The country is pretty small, as mentioned above, and the roads are in good shape so driving around is easy and since most of El Salvador’s tourist attractions are near each other, it is easy to cover a lot in a short period of time. In a week, you should be able to cover everything on this list.

There are quite a lot of things to do and places to visit in El Salvador. Its mountainous topography , its many volcanoes and the lush greenery make the country an outdoor lover’s paradise . In recent years, El Salvador has become a surfing mecca  thanks to its stable all year round waves.

Book your flights to San Salvador and use this list of the best places to see to build your itinerary. El Salvador is possibly Central America’s most underrated destination .

One of the best things to do in El Salvador is hiking a volcano

El Salvador has 20 potentially active volcanoes , some of which erupted during the last decade. The country’s volcanic landscapes are the result of its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire so it has been given the nickname “The Land of Volcanoes” .

El Salvador often sees real volcano aficionados coming in search of the many volcanic attractions, like the Pompeii-like effect in Joya de Ceren , a very unique Mayan archeological site in El Salvador that has been listed by UNESCO and was caused by one of the most recent volcanic explosions (recent in volcanic years).

The best way to explore the volcanoes in El Salvador is to climb up the rim of at least one. Unlike other more touristic volcanoes like Mount Etna in Sicily , volcanoes in El Salvador can only be explored on foot.

And unlike volcanoes in other parts of the world, El Salvador volcanoes show constant seismic activity. The last major eruption took place in 2013 at the Chaparrastique Volcano .

Hiking up Santa Ana Volcano

The hike up Santa Ana Volcano, locally known as Ilamatepec for its Nahuatl name, is one of the best places to visiting El Salvador and probably the country’s best known tourist attraction.

From above, the view of nearby volcanoes and national parks all the way to the sea is stunning and the four concentric craters and blue lake that fills the inner one is a popular image of El Salvador and a half excursion well worth the effort. You can read all about my hike up Santa Ana Volcano in this post .

Santa Ana Volcano is active with its last eruption in 2005 and is responsible for the landscapes in El Salvador. The rim is 2,400m above sea level and the trek up will take you about an hour from the ranger station which is already at 2,100, depending on how fast you walk.

The path is well maintained and there are hundreds of people covering it daily. However, because of safety concerns and past attacks, you cannot do it on your own but need to join an escorted group that departs from the main entrance at set times.

Times may vary by day and season but there are always a few going everyday. The easiest way to climb Santa Ana is on a tour which will pick you up and drop you back off. If you travel to El Salvador, you need to make sure to add Santa Ana Volcano to your list of places to see, it was definitely the best thing I did in El Salvador.

Click here to book your guided hike up Santa Ana volcano.

Izalco Volcano

Izalco Volcano is just shy of 2,000m in height and is a perfectly conical volcano that looks exactly like the volcano emoji Yep, this one -> 🌋🌋.

The volcano was nicknamed “The Lighthouse of the Pacific” because its constant eruptions used to be seen from the ocean, which is not far away, by passing ships.

Izalco Volcano is harder to climb than Santa Ana because of its steep path and the fact that the slippery volcanic rocks and sand paths mean you take one step up and then slide down two. The path up snakes through the volcano in a zigzag and takes a bit longer than Santa Ana.

At the top, there is no lake but rather an empty crater with fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean and the neighbouring Cerro Verde and Santa Ana volcanoes. Izalco needs to be climbed with a guide and there are daily departures.

Cerro Verde

A less steep and more leisurely hike can be done around the Cerro Verde volcano and park. The area is lush and green and it’s more of a nature lover’s destination . There are many hikes that can be followed at various altitudes and for all levels of difficulty.

From some viewpoints, the area has stunning views over Coatepeque lake, a caldera that was filled with water thousands of years ago and which is today the playground of the rich and famous. If you want to enjoy some time outdoors but don’t feel like hiking a volcano, Cerro Verde is a great alternative, full of locals in the weekends.

A great way to explore the park is on a combo tour that includes other volcanoes, like this one , or a combo tour that takes you to the country’s Mayan ruins as well like this one.  As mentioned before, the country is pretty small so it’s easy to combine several El Salvador tourist attractions in a day tour. 

Book your Cerro Verde National Park tour here .

Chill around Coatepeque Caldera

If you want to enjoy some relaxed views and the feeling of nature, Coatepeque Caldera is where the rich and famous have second homes. Don’t just see the caldera from the surrounding volcanoes but come enjoy a half day closer to the water.

The ancient extinct volcano now filled with water has an island in the middle which you can visit, several look-out points and a few villages, restaurants and shacks. Think about it as the Lake Como of El Salvador. The main village around Coatepeque is El Congo.

The best way to explore the lake is by going to its shore and hiring a boat for a couple of hours. You can swim in the lake, much like you would at Atitlan in Guatemala, and you may just as well be the only one. There are several wooden piers that jet into the water for boats and people and the shore is a mix of sandy and rocky but the water is very clear.

Check out the restaurant El Solsticio which has lake-side views and makes awesome coffee. This is one of the more refined places to eat or relax.

San Salvador volcano or El Boqueron

The volcano named after the capital of El Salvador received the nickname “El Boqueron” because of its very large crater measuring almost 3 km in diameter (boqueron can either mean “anchovy” or “big mouth” in Spanish, as in “boca”).

San Salvador volcano is only 1,800m above sea level and constantly towering over the city. No matter where you stay or travel in El Salvador, you will be circumnavigating San Salvador volcano. But if you want, you can also climb it and hike to the top.

As the San Salvador volcano last erupted in 1917 , it is expected that it will erupt again soon as legend and science seem to believe that these volcanoes erupt every hundred years . Take this tour to El Boqueron that also stops at the town of Santa Tecla and admire the wonderful landscapes that make El Salvador so unique.

Visit the Mayan Ruins of El Salvador

El Salvador has a rich Mayan heritage and some unique archaeological sites that are UNESCO listed like Joya de Ceren, known as the Pompeii of the Americas. Joya de Ceren is one of the most important tourist attractions in El Salvador and you need to make sure to include it in your list of things to do in El Salvador.

Unlike Tikkal in Guatemala or Chichen Itzal in Mexico, the Mayan ruins in El Salvador receive practically no visitors and are well outside the popular Mayan tours of Central America making them more remote and less visited.

That is definitively not because they are of lower archaeological or aesthetic value. In fact, the Salvadoran Mayan ruins are quite unique and different from Mexico’s or Guatemala’s because they provide a rare insight into the farmer’s life during the Mayan empire, since they were preserved under ashes and mostly disappeared elsewhere.

If you like history and taking a peek at how Mayan people lived, El Salvador has the most remote Mayan ruins in existence. Best of all, the country is so small and they are so close to each other that you can visit all the relevant ones in a day.

Apart from the three main Mayan sites mentioned below, Joya de Ceren, Tazumal and Casa Blanca and San Andres, you can also visit Cihuatán Archaeological Park and Santa Leticia both of which I have marked in the my Google map of El Salvador above.

The best way to visit all the Mayan archeological sites in El Salvador is to go on a tour . A guide is almost essential as there is little information available at the sites and you will miss half of the story otherwise.

I selected a few of the best tours in El Salvador with Get Your Guide and a couple of them include the main Mayan ruins plus other options like some of the volcanos or Coatepeque lake. Click one or a few of the options below to book your personalised tour. 

Book a day trip on the archeological route here .

Joya de Ceren

The most relevant Mayan site in El Salvador is Joya de Ceren, an entire village hidden under layers of ashes that was only discovered in 1976 when construction was slated to take place in the area.

What makes Joya de Ceren a unique tourist attraction in El Salvador and Central America is the fact that it constitutes the only remaining vestige of how the lower Mayan classes lived at the time . All the temples and ruins found in other Mayan sites are representative of how the elite population lived. Their houses and temples were the only ones which survived the passing of time.

Meanwhile, the more humble classes lived in clay and mud houses which disintegrated with time. All but Joya de Ceren, which was perfectly preserved by six meters of hot volcanic ashes that covered it all in 600 AD after an eruption, hence the name The Pompeii of the Americas.

The ruins reveal a lot about the Mayan population, as it seems they escaped in a rush leaving half-finished meals and tools as they were. Unlike Pompeii, there were no bodies found as the 200 inhabitants of Ceren had enough warning to evacuate.

Thankfully, at Joya de Ceren you will not be harassed by street sellers , or anybody trying to get you to buy a fridge magnet, because the ruins are largely devoid of the tourist hordes crowding the more famous Mayan ruins so make sure to add this in your list of things to do in El Salvador.  

Tazumal and Casa Blanca

Competing with Joya de Ceren for the most important Mayan archaeological site in El Salvador is Tazumal.

Tazumal dates from 100 to 1,200 AD and includes the remains of a Mayan drainage system, tombs, an impressive 14 step pyramid and palaces. The area was inhabited for over 1,000 years until it was abandoned in 1,200 AD, but the Mayans only lived there in the 9th century AD when the local Pipil population came to occupy the city.

The ruins are the best preserved in El Salvador and are believed to occupy an area of 10 square km, so some parts are buried under today’s towns.

As Tazumal is near Casa Blanca you can visit them both together. Casa Blanca is known for its relatively high (15m) pyramid structure.

San Andres Mayan Archeological site is another one worth a visit. This Salvadorian Mayan site is in a very good state due to the volcanic eruption of 1687 which covered it in ashes thus preserving it from the elements, just like Joya de Ceren. This is the same eruption which created the beautiful volcanic plain of El Playon.

The site has a small museum that offers a glimpse into what the city must have looked in its heyday. San Andres was inhabited by 12,000 people so it was of a much bigger dimensions than Ceren.

Things to do in San Salvador

El Salvador’s Capital, San Salvador, is a city that you could  skip if you don’t have time . It looks much like other central American cities in that it has clogged traffic, illegal market stalls occupying the main arteries (and contributing to the bad traffic) and people trying to make a living selling anything and everything.

It is less chaotic than most Asian cities because there seems to be a lower population density and the infamous scooters taking over the streets of Vietnam or Cambodia have not yet made it to El Salvador. But the city is not representative of the country’s beauty, natural wealth and stunning landscapes. It is also one of the most dangerous parts of the country together with La Libertad.

This is not to say the capital is not worth it, there are a few interesting things to do in San Salvador, but if you are pressed for time and need to prioritise, I would focus on the rest of the country instead.

That being said, if you have half a day or at least a couple of hours, you might want to visit San Salvador and see what it has to offer. During my visit, the historical city center was undergoing a massive renovation effort that had all of its plazas upside down, as the mayor embarked on a complete overhaul and beautification of the city .

You can book a tour of the city together with the San Salvador volcano with Get Your Guide here . Or simply focus on the capital on a full day tour that covers it all. Visiting with a tour is probably the best way to explore the capital, for safety and so that you learn more about the country.  If you want to go alone, below is a list of the best things to do in San Salvador to get your started.

Iglesia El Rosario

Perhaps the most important and interesting place to see in San Salvador is the controversial Iglesia El Rosario. This ugly looking concrete oval building is reminiscent of the brutalist and communist architectural style and looks more like a plane hangar than a church. It was received with mixed feelings by the very Catholic locals but makes for a very cool visit.

Dirty grey concrete with small rectangular windows that look as dirty as the façade hide an explosion of light in rainbow colors inside . Do not miss a visit inside Iglesia El Rosario to prove that one can never judge a book by its cover.

The architect and sculptor, Rubén Martínez , wanted this church to work with natural ventilation and to illuminate with the sun so the windows are covered in stained glass in all colors, exactly like Sagrada Familia . From the outside, no one could ever guess its inner beauty, which was probably the intention of the architect.

Metropolitan Cathedral

The cathedral of San Salvador is the largest church in the country . It is modern inside and out and it has a crypt where the country’s most famous martyr, Monsenor Romero , is buried. The intricate church interior as well as the chapel where he is buried are worthy places to visit in San Salvador.

Monsenor Romero is known to all Salvadorans as the martyr who defended the voice of the people during the civil war. He was killed by the guerrillas in his own church during a service and was beatified by the Pope post mortem. His pictures and name are everywhere in El Salvador and there are even tours that take you around his legacy and main points of interest. Look out for his name when you book a flight to El Salvador as the airport is named after him.

Best spots to go surfing in El Salvador

El Salvador is starting to make an appearance in the surfing world as the next secret surf destination. Its constant and almost predictable waves , its rugged coastline and its lack of mass tourism make it one of the best places to learn to surf , especially on right hand waves.

Surfing in El Salvador is also convenient as the main surf spots are near San Salvador, by the coast, and the country is very affordable. Unlike Nicaragua, veering towards surf tourism on the higher end, good beach and surf resorts in El Salvador are reasonably priced so a lot of people travel to El Salvador in search of great waves at affordable prices.

Here’s a nice documentary on surfing El Salvador to get a feel of the waves.

There are a few beach towns known as surfing destinations. Check the list below for a brief description of the best surf spots in El Salvador. Most of them are located along the coast, West of San Salvador.

1. Punta Roca: Punta Roca is a break just 25 minutes out of the city that can be reached by public bus, so it is frequented by the locals. 2. El Zunzal : El Zunzal has developed into a notable surf town with a few accommodation options, bars that provide atmosphere and that surfer lifestyle, and hostels renting beds for $30. 3. El Tunco : Well known surf town in El Salvador, here you can find a well developed surf community with lots of travelers not too far from San Salvador. This is a great place to learn and mingle. 4. El Zonte : Near El Tunco but more chilled out and quiet. 5. Las Flores : one of the best known surf spots in El Salvador and also home of a boutique hotel of the same name

As the country is still being discovered as a surf destination, the list of surf breaks is increasing. Here is a list.

La Libertad

La Libertad is the closest city town to San Salvador and also the country’s second largest city and one of the most popular places to base yourself if you are after surf. However, bear in mind that it is also one of the most dangerous places after the capital so you should be extra careful at night and in dangerous spots.

La Libertad is worth visiting for its fish market , located along a covered jetty. The fish and seafood there could not any fresher as the boats literally get in and out of the water at the end of the jetty and the fish doesn’t go farther than a few meters until it reaches the market stalls.

Here you can buy really cheap seafood and also observe the comings and going of the fishermen and the market stall owners. For a really fresh lunch, pick one of the two sides of the jetty. On one side there are the local casual eateries while on the other side you will find the slightly more upscale restaurants.

La Ruta de Las Flores

La Ruta de Las Flores is a well-known day excursion from San Salvador, one of the most interesting things to do in El Salvador and a great chance to discover its heritage, culture, food and traditions.

The name is Spanish for the route of the flowers and, contrary to what you may read elsewhere, it is not because the area is particularly well known for its wild flowers or because the coffee beans flower at a specific time of the year.

The name was an attempt by the government to brand an itinerary along a few of the well known colonial towns and villages in the West side of the country by planting lots of flowers on the main road thus turning it into an appealing tourist attraction. You can still see some of them on particular stretches but there in fact, another part of El Salvador that is actually known for its flowers instead.

As my knowledgeable local hosts and hoteliers indicated, La Ruta de Las Flores should be known as the coffee route instead because this is where most of the coffee plantations are.

So what is there to see in La Ruta de Las Flores? There are lots of stops along the way but the below are the main towns you should be sure to stop at.

You can visit them as part of a day tour, you can self-drive or you can visit each separately but since they are quite close to each other, La Ruta de la Flores makes for a great day trip, especially on weekends when the towns are lively, packed with locals and the street food markets are on so you can sample all the great Salvadoran snacks and dishes.

You can book your tour with Get Your Guide here . The only way to cover the route in a day is by going on a tour or having your own car, public transportation will not allow you to cover it all in a day (and is more dangerous).

Go on a relaxing Thermal Spa and Coffee Plant Tour in Ataco along the Ruta de Las Flores. Book here .

The fresh Mercado de Las Velas  market that lines the main square and explodes during the weekends was my favorite part of Nahuizalco. The market’s name comes from the fact that it used to be popular with all the locals coming from nearby towns in the afternoon. As its popularity grew, the market started to open until later and later, until the late night so candles were needed to light the stalls.

The town is quite high in altitude and the farmers in the area all come down in the weekend to sell their produce so it is a great chance to see vegetables, fruits and even herbs that are hard to find elsewhere.

Nahuizalco is also known for its artisanal products including handmade furniture, baskets, woven crafts and other items that are typical of the indigenous population in the area and which can be seen on display along the main streets.

Be sure not to miss the 17th century San Juan Bautista Church with its red roof.

This is the first town you are likely to stop at in La Ruta de Las Flores. When I was there the town was celebrating a feast for one of the virgins and the entire town was filled with music, dancing, processions and food.

Nahuizalco deserves a stop along the Ruta de las Flores because of its colonial look and feel and because it preserves some of the most authentic indigenous heritage in El Salvador. You can also visit the Náhuat Pipil Community Museum in Nahuizalco to find out more about the local culture.  

In Juayua you can find a fantastic weekend food market where all the Salvadoran dishes are represented. The market is located right in front of the main church, Iglesia Santa Lucia , known for its black Christ statue, Cristo Negro . You can just go into the church to take a look.

Undoubtedly, the best reason to visit Juayua is the weekend food fair where food abounds. The market is covered so you can get some shelter from the rain or from the blazing tropical sun.

Sit down and enjoy the great food and don’t miss out on some of the delicacies and snacks that are being passed around by street sellers. There are lots of meat dishes with sausage and some of the least common protein options.

Make sure to try the fried yuca with the typical Salvadoran tomato sauce. There is a small train that covers the main tourist spots in the town on the weekends too.

Juayua is also known for the three connected waterfalls at Los Chorros which can be reached by tuk tuk from the main square or by a 45min walk. The natural pools formed have depths of up to 2m. These are popular on weekends and are clean and fresh.

Apaneca is known in the local Nahuatl language as “the river of winds” . The town is the highest habitation in El Salvador and is located at 1,400m above sea level. The square of Apaneca has a market with souvenir shops and food stalls.

But the main attraction in Apaneca is the surrounding coffee plantations with coffee bushes lined in a checkered shape and topped with three crosses. The landscapes are beautiful here.

Apaneca is the adventure and ziplining destination in El Salvador. You can go on buggy excursions or jump on a zipline above the coffee plantations. Make sure to check out the 18th century church located atop a staircase giving it a dramatic entrance.

You can get to Apaneca from Juayua on the Conga bus with live music , a bit like a party bus. Don’t leave without stopping by the Axul store where you can buy plenty of local souvenirs, products, coffee and locally weaved textiles the indigenous people are so well known for. The small cafe by the store is a great place for a slice of cake and a coffee from the nearby plantations that give some amazing views from the town.

In Nahuatl Ataco means “place of high springs” . This pretty cobblestoned town along La Ruta de Las Flores is filled with color and a cultural blend between colonial Spanish influence and indigenous heritage, even if you don’t follow La Ruta de las Flores in full, Ataco should be on your list of things to do in El Salvador.

The town reminded me a lot of other Latin American towns which are steeped in heritage, like Antigua in Guatemala, or Granada in Nicaragua (check this guide with the best things to do in Granada  if you are planning to visit).

Many of the facades in Ataco are painted with murals and there is a particularly interesting one right by the main square. Talking of which, the main square in Ataco is filled with a weekend food market and lots of local bars, cafes and restaurants on the covered ground floors of the main buildings lining the square. Ataco is as hip and cool as it is traditional and preserved.

Next to the typical pupusas we found a German-Salvadoran couple selling small empanadas in the shape of a samosa. The square is happening . It has people dressed up to take photos with kids and ice cream stalls. Arts and crafts are everywhere and nowhere else along La Ruta de Las Flores will you feel more of the Nahuatl culture as in Ataco. A great way to end your day touring La Ruta de Las Flores.

There is another Axul store in Ataco, for a second chance at that beautiful handmade gift for your loved ones.

Coffee plantation tours

La Ruta de Las Flores should be known as the coffee route because of the many coffee plantations many of which are open for visits. This is why some of the tours combine La Ruta de las Flores with a visit to one so you can learn about the end to end coffee roasting process. It is quite an interesting thing to do in El Salvador that is lesser known . Check this tour which has both.

If you have never learned how coffee is made, this is your chance. Plus the coffee plantations in the country are very beautiful.

Other interesting places to visit in El Salvador

Apart from the capital, the volcanoes, the Mayan ruins and the surfing, there are a few other things to do in El Salvador slightly further away from the capital and which I am listing below. 

Panchimalco

This mountain village above San Salvador is a lovely place to retire to. Local Salvadorans have started to buy weekend houses here or come here to spend a Sunday walking the trails and enjoying the views. As Panchimalco is higher up the weather is always cooler and the mountain air is refreshing so it makes for a nice place to visit in El Salvador. 

There is a sculpture park you can check out and lots of art and handicrafts including a small gallery-workshop-shop called Casa Taller Encuentro that tells you more about the fabric and weaving tradition in El Salvador and other artistic traditions.

I stopped by the house studio of a famous local artist that is quite well known outside the country. Have a look at the Baroque church which has picturesque views against the backdrop of Devil’s Door.

Inside you can still see the original wooden columns and the altar if the church is open, both of which are quite impressive and well preserved considering they date from the 18th century.

Panchimalco is especially interesting during the Festival de Las Flores y Palmas on the first Sunday of May when the local women spend hours decorating the palm fronds with lots of flowers which will then be shown around town in a procession carrying the two virgins the celebration is for.

This is a tradition similar to what we do in Spain for Easter when we get fresh palms from our godparents and hang them outside the balcony until they dry.

This pretty cobblestoned town about 90min from the airport is a lovely colonial town well worth a visit. The town is so small you can walk it all in half an hour, so it gives you the feeling of being part of the community straightaway, and it is one of the last remaining towns in the country with the original colonial cobblestoned streets. The town is located by the largest lake in El Salvador, a picturesque location.

Suchitoto is a great place to base yourself in and is where I spent my nights . There are very few tourists here so everybody will immediately know you. It is also close to the border with Honduras and Guatemala so a good place to stop on your way to or from Copan in Honduras.

Even if you don’t choose to base yourself here, Suchitoto is an interesting half or full day excursion from San Salvador or elsewhere in El Salvador as there are a few interesting things to see. Perhaps the easiest way to explore the town is on a day tour as it is 1.5h drive from San Salvador. I recommend this one which covers the most important things including the town itself and Lake Suchitlán.

In Suchitoto, pay a visit to a very authentic and genuine indigo store called Arte Añil run and owned by Irma who has taken it upon herself to revive the old tradition of the blue dye that is endemic of and originally from El Salvador.

As companies and consumers turn to more organic dyes and materials, indigo (añil in Spanish) is making a comeback and returning to the fashion industry. Irma has a store where you can buy items that have been dyed with indigo using her own hands (her workshop is right at the store itself) but she is also happy to show you how it is done.

I got to dye my own scarf/table runner in a nice design she taught me how to do. Irma’s passion and work has been featured across the world including Elle magazine and Le Figaro.

It was fascinating to understand more about how indigo is made and how it is purely the color that a bush plant’s leaves provide when simply left to soak in water. The water is then strained and kept in a pot and clothes are soaked in it for a few minutes in different shapes and bundles to make the psychedelic and beautiful designs.

So interesting to see an ancient tradition being revived by committed entrepreneurial people who love their heritage. More so to realise the fashion industry is allowing that to happen thanks to conscious consumers looking for natural fabrics and materials.

Worth noting that añil or indigo cannot dye artificial fabric so if you ever are sold a lycra item and told it was dyed using indigo, you’ll know it is not true unless it underwent a chemical process, defeating the point of an organic and natural fashion item. To find out more and get Irma to explain just pop by her store on a corner of the main square.

At the other end of the main square I was given a very interesting insight into local Salvadoran life . As you will read in the food section below, Salvadoran food is great and many of the Salvadoran recipes and dishes use maize flour or maize paste as their base.

Because of the large quantities used and the fact that many families cannot afford to have their own blender, there are public mills where you can bring your own maize and blend it all in with water.

The local women take plastic bowls filled with sweet corn and leave with a mountain of maize paste used to make tamales and the famous pupusas among other things.

I took a peek inside the mill right by the side of the church in Suchitoto and stood there just watching, mesmerised at the turning wheels. The locals were happy to show me how it worked as I watched in awe. A sense of community and of being all together permeated it all and I thoroughly enjoyed being a witness to such an age old tradition which would be hard to see in San Salvador.

There are other nearby places of interest in Suchitoto including the massive Lake Suchitlan, the largest in the country, which was formed when the government flooded the area to make a damn that is used for electricity and agriculture, and the interesting waterfalls.

Cascada los Tercios is a waterfall near the town , about a kilometer away and it looks very much like the Irish Causeway with large rectangular shaped stone slabs that let a large water stream fall down the small stream below. If you want to climb down the base of the waterfall make sure to wear trainers as it is very slippery and full of spider webs.

The Lempa River is right next to Suchitoto and is a beautiful place for a boat ride . The Lempa River Basin occupies 49% of El Salvador’s territory but it originates in Guatemala and reaches El Salvador after crossing into Honduras. A large dam created a huge lake right where Suchitoto is and you can have lovely views of it from the Casa 1800 Hotel and restaurant.

I highly recommend going to San Juan Embarcadero (pier) and hiring a local fisherman to take you on an hour’s boat ride around the lake. Not only is it massive, but it is also filled with birds and lots of small islands, some of which have holiday homes.

In the evening, head over to the main square and sit at one of the pupuserias for a meal with the locals. They are incredibly busy in the evenings.

Book your full-day Suchitoto guided experience here .

Places to visit from El Salvador

El Salvador is a very small country so it is not unheard of for tourists to head to either Copan in Honduras or Antigua in Guatemala , for a long but interesting day.

Day trip from El Salvador to Copan, Honduras

It may sound strange but one of the best aspects of traveling to El Salvador is its proximity to Copan which is otherwise hard to get to from Tegucigalpa . Copan is near the border between Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador and it is a wonderful Mayan archaeological and UNESCO site I visited when I was living in Honduras in 2002 . Back then there were absolutely no tourists, no signs and no guides.

Today, Copan has evolved and is much more developed but it retains an air of mysticism and is much less popular than the Mayan sites in Mexico or Guatemala , primarily because it is not as large and it is much harder to get to.

Copan can be visited as part of a day tour from el Salvador which you can book here . It will be a very long day, I won’t lie to you, because the drive is 3-4h and you need to clear border procedures twice on both sides. But if you are in El Salvador for longer and want to explore this part of Honduras, it will be easier to get there from El Salvador than from anywhere, even from Guatemala tours to Copan are offered from Antigua but the drive is much longer (5-6h each way).

Day trip from El Salvador to Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua is another great day trip from El Salvador. The city is a bit further away (perhaps 4-5h drive) than Copan but is one of the most beautiful ones in Central America. In Antigua you will get a real sense of colonial heritage mixed with indigenous culture and traditions and the muted Pipil, Aztec and Mayan heritage that is lacking in El Salvador is in full bloom in Antigua.

The cobblestoned streets, the painted facades and the colorful clothes of the locals all add a dose of history worth the trek.  Plus you can enjoy Guatemalan food (similar but different to Salvadoran), or continue on your travels in Guatemala by going on more volcano trekking at Acatenango , the real active ones with lava. Near Antigua is also Hobbitenango , if you want to briefly transport yourself to New Zealand.

You can book a day tour to Antigua here . It will be another long day but the city is well worth it.

Hotels and resorts in El Salvador

El Salvador has some beautiful colonial boutique hotels and some international chains in the capital city, but is otherwise quite low key when it comes to luxury accommodation. You will not find any over the top or five star property like you can find in most countries in Asia.

I find the best hotels in El Salvador are the ones run by locals  who are rooted in the country and who can also play the role of great hosts. These tend to be inland and not so much by the coast. The best beach resorts in El Salvador are on the smaller side and tend to focus on the surf audience.

I have compiled the list of the best places to stay in El Salvador based on my experience, my extensive research and lots of conversations with my hosts at Los Almendros de San Lorenzo who shared with me their insider knowledge on the other properties and also the hotels they would recommend.

While I have briefly mentioned the best places to stay in each area below, I have also written an in-depth article of where to stay in El Salvador with in-depth descriptions of each luxury hotel. Click on the button below to view this article.

See the best luxury hotels & resorts in El Salvador here .

Best hotels in Suchitoto

Best hotels in san salvador, best beach resorts in el salvador, best surf resorts in el salvador, what to eat in el salvador – the best salvadoran food.

A list of what to do in El Salvador cannot be complete without a list of its best foods because nothing speaks of a country as well as its food. Here is a more comprehensive article about food in El Salvador , and below is an abstract.

You need to travel to El Salvador to appreciate its unique cuisine, which is hardly ever found outside the country. Although there are some similarities with Mexican Food , Salvadoran food has some items that are exclusive of the country. ‘The most traditional food from El Salvador is the pupusa . This flat mix between a Mexican tlacoyos, an Indian paratha and a pancake is sold at Pupuserias and is available everywhere. It was my most favourite Salvadoran food and eating it is practically a social affair.

Pupusas are eaten at all times, especially at breakfast and dinner. They are made with either rice flour or maize flour and filled with condiments to add flavor and consistency. The small parcels are then flattened out and cooked over a flat hot stove.

Stands preparing and cooking pupusas can be found everywhere in El Salvador. If you visit the country you cannot leave without trying the two versions, with rice and with maize flour. As you break a piece with your hands the melted cheese is likely to pour out and escape through your fingers. Pupusas are delicious!

You can choose to fill your pupusas with cheese, frijoles (red beans), zucchini, minced meat, and all sorts of local herbs that you will not find anywhere else. Although pupusas are not usually spicy, chilli sauce is given on the side. You can enjoy them on the spot or to take away.

Aside from pupusas, Salvadoran food includes lots of unique items you cannot eat anywhere else. Here are a few popular Salvadoran foods to try.

• Quesadillas (not to be confused with the Mexican variety) which is a sort of wet pound cake made with cheese (hence the name queso).
• Gallo en chicha , rooster meat cooked in a special sweet sauce made with fermented pineapple liquor.
• Tamales (similar to the ones in Mexico) which can be sweet or savoury parcels of sweet corn paste combined with herbs, spices, chicken and sometimes sugar and cooked in banana leaves.
• Horchata (similar to the Mexican version) made with roasted seeds, nuts, spices and rice which are mixed with water and strained.
• Merienda is a combination of cooked ears, tongue and cheek. Very important not to confuse this with the Spanish version which involves tea time food (sweets, breads and pastries).
• Arroz con leche which is exactly like what we eat in Spain, rice cooked with milk, sugar and with added cinnamon.
• Atole de elote is a version of the roasted sweet corn that is served with sugar.
• Pastelitos de carne are small cakes made with boiled sweet corn blended in a paste and filled with minced meat and vegetables.
• Ceviche is also popular in El Salvador and usually made with white fish.
• Other staples include fried yuca , commonly available everywhere and eaten with a side of tomato sauce, casamiento (side dish of rice with mashed frijoles), and grilled meats of all kinds, including the famous chicharon or sausage.

The food of El Salvador is lesser known than that of other Latin American countries like Mexico or Peru, but I found it very tasty and interesting . It reminded me of the food in Honduras a bit, but it was quite unique despite the many influences from the rest of the countries in Central America and the common heritage shared.

What to pack for a trip to El Salvador

El Salvador is a tropical country but you should not be fooled by its ocean location near the Equator, it can get pretty chilly up in the high mountains and volcanoes so it is important to have the right packing list with items both for the beach, surfing (if that is in your plan) and for hiking. The best places to visit in El Salvador will all require different clothing so bear that in mind.

Also, remember a lot of the towns along the Ruta de Las Flores and in places like Suchitoto are cobblestoned so flip flops will not be a good choice and you’ll end up hurting your feet. Wear comfortable and closed shoes instead.

Sunscreen & Protection

1. Sunscreen and lip balm – I always have these items with me whenever I travel, no matter where or for what, it always comes in handy. I like using the ones below because the lotion is silky and not greasy at all (I hate putting on sunscreen then being all oily, especially when not at the beach) and I can put makeup on top of it if necessary or I feel like it.

These are some of my favourite packing items to protect from the sun:

• Biore sunscreen . If you have read some of my beach posts you will know that I have been using Biore for years and I love it because it comes in pots that are less than 100ml so I don’t need to check-in my luggage because of clunky pots but most importantly, I love Biore because it is not sticky, greasy or oily and it does make my body or face all shinny. You can even put it on and then apply make up on top, how amazing is that for a sunscreen? It is a daily sunscreen that you can apply every morning before going out. You can trust the Japanese to deliver the best in cosmetics. Sadly you cannot buy their spray on version (for the next level in beach laziness), on Amazon but they do sell it in stores in Singapore and in Japan.
• Oakley sunglasses . If you are going to spend hours on a boat or staring at the sea with the strong sun rays reflecting on the white sand beach, you better make sure your eyes are protected. You could use a pair of stylish sunnies but trust me, you are always best off going for something which protects you. I was a lifeguard for six years on the beaches of Sitges staring at the sun for more than eight hours a day and I can tell you, Oakley is the only sunglasses we used. Make sure they are polarised so your eyes are protected. Leave the stylish sunglasses for your away from the water, boats and beaches and make sure your eyes are protected and you do not get a headache from bright sun rays.

Hiking Shoes for Men & Women

2. Proper walking shoes or light hiking boots – Trust me, you will appreciate taking my advice here. I had a pair of trainers and a pair of ballerinas which I usually travel with because they are very comfortable. I was not properly geared for the volcanos or the cobblestoned streets and I ended up with bruises on my soles. The key here is to wear shoes which are light but have a hard sole.

These are some of my favourite choices for hiking and trail running:

• Salomon Speedcross 4 . Even though these are officially trail running shoes, I have used them for hiking and they were really great. They fit snug, the lacing system is super convenient, the out sole is really grippy and the best part – they come in some amazing colours!
• Salomon Quest 4D II GTX . I’ll stick with the same brand for the more serious trekker. If you want more ankle support and think that the trail runners won’t do, then I recommend these for your treks. While they are super comfy, durable and water resistant, one of the only downfalls is that they are a bit on the heavy side.

Other Tools for your Adventure

3. A cap – Protect yourself from the sun, it is critical when climbing the volcanoes as you will have the sun on your head. I always get burnt my head because my hair is very fine so a cap is essential for me. I like this  Tilley Endurables LTM6 for a wide brim choice and this Outdoor Research Swift for a normal peak cap version. They’ve both got great ventilation and are pretty stylish for hiking hats. Both hats are unisex and come in various sizes.

4. A battery pack – I always travel with that because I need to use my phone a lot. My lovely guests from Los Almendros de San Lorenzo had a WiFi router in the car so we always had internet and I managed to charge my phone in the car’s outlet but for the planes and longer trips or if you book any other tour, a battery pack will be useful to stay connected. I love this one because it will even charge my laptop.

5. A refillable water bottle – I travel with a water bottle because it helps me reduce my footprint and ensures I can always be hydrated, very important when you travel to a hot country or are exercising, like when climbing a volcano. I found the weather in El Salvador (perhaps because of the time of the year) a bit dry, so water was even more important. I always use collapsable water bottles, like this one from Baiji as they roll up nicely which is convenient when packing.

• Check if you need a visa, get help processing it at iVisa .
• Never ever leave without travel insurance. Get affordable coverage from World Nomads or long term insurance from Safety Wing .
• I find all of my flights on KAYAK . Check their Deals section too.
• Search for all your transportation between destinations on the trusted travel booking platform Bookaway .
• I book all my day trips and tours via GetYourGuide , they are the best and their tours are refundable up to 24h in advance.
• Get USD35 off your first booking with Airbnb .
• Compare hotels EVERYWHERE at HotelsCombined and book with Booking.com .
• Compare car rental prices at Rentalcars.com

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El Salvador Travel: What to Know Before You Go

John Coletti / Getty Images

El Salvador has suffered a history containing too much pain for its tiny size. Though it has almost entirely rebuilt itself since the brutalities of the Civil War in the 1980s, crime-wise El Salvador still remains the most dangerous country in Central America.

However, bold backpackers and other El Salvador travelers keep visiting El Salvador. They’ve got good reasons to. The locals are outstandingly welcoming. Generations of international surfers testify that the breaks of El Salvador’s Pacific coast rival the best of the world. And the nation’s natural beauty—volcanoes, verdant coffee plantations, isolated beaches—is stunning, though its destruction and deforestation are near catastrophe.

Where to Go

The crowded capital of San Salvador hasn't historically drawn much in the way of travelers, but a number of areas have been revitalized in recent years. The city is also central to many of El Salvador's attractions, like the beaches and San Salvador volcano. Nearby Santa Ana is much more attractive, surrounded by coffee plantations and sugarcane fields—travel to the Mayan ruin of Tazumal , the erstwhile setting of human sacrifice! Two hours north, La Palma offers cool weather and beautiful views.

Because El Salvador is so small, travelers are never far from the country’s Pacific beaches. And what beaches they are. The water is over eighty degrees on average, the wave breaks are perfect, and the sands are rarely crowded. No wonder surfers flock to El Salvador’s beaches all year long—the favorites are La Libertad , Las Flores, and Playa Herradura. The beaches of Costa del Sol and San Juan del Gozo are better for non-surfers, boasting soft white sands and calmer waters.

Four hours north of San Salvador, the Montecristo National Park is a mysterious and beautiful cloud forest, located in the exact spot where the borders of Guatemala , Honduras, and El Salvador come together. The El Imposible National Park is another lovely natural destination—follow the 9km trek to the high point, Cerro Leon, for some unforgettable vistas of still-smoking volcanoes.

Sight-Seeing

Disastrously, up to 98% of El Salvador’s forests have been stripped in the last 30 years. The remaining bits mostly belong to Montecristo and El Imposible National Parks, as mentioned above. These forests are home too over 500 species of birds and several mammals, which the fantastic organization SalvaNatura is striving to save.

Good news: El Salvador, once called the coffee republic, is still host to numerous plantations. These high-altitude plantations provide refuge more many of the country’s birds, mammals, and other animals. So drink up—and even when you’re home, buy coffee from El Salvador (especially if it’s labeled Fair Trade).

Getting There

El Salvador is tiny, but its tourist infrastructure makes internal travel more difficult than you might expect. The public bus system is inexpensive, but buses are crowded and usually, don’t have luggage racks—not ideal for luxury travelers. Renting a car is a popular choice (especially for travelers with surfboards), or hiring a driver with a minivan.

The efficient international bus system Ticabus stops in San Salvador on its route from Guatemala City south (or reverse). El Salvador’s international airport in San Salvador is renovated and modern.

Believe it or not, in 2001 El Salvador adopted the US dollar as legal tender. Costs in El Salvador are extremely low—no more than $3 USD for your average meal. However, the airport departure tax is hefty at $28 USD and must be paid in cash.

Best Times to Visit

El Salvador’s rainy season is between May and November, and its dry season is between December and April. Even in the rainy season, sunny days are the norm. Thunderstorms are short and strong, usually occurring late in the day.

During the Easter Holy Week, called Semana Santa, El Salvador’s hotels and beaches are packed with local tourists. Christmas and New Years are busy as well—make sure you have reservations long in advance if you plan on visiting during these holidays.

Street crime and even violent crime is a big problem in El Salvador. Obviously, most travelers visiting the country leave without incident. But it’s crucial to follow some ground rules when traveling in El Salvador—and in any Central American country, for that matter.

Don’t walk around at night in the cities, especially in San Salvador. Multiply that times ten if you’re a woman, and times ten thousand if you’re a woman traveling alone. Take a taxi, even if your destination is a couple of blocks away. Keep copies of your passport in different locations. Don’t flash anything of value, especially money—keep it in a money belt under your clothes. If you are robbed, do as the robber asks —your camera isn’t worth your life.

As for health, it’s advised to get vaccinated against Hepatitis A and B and Typhoid and make sure you’re up to date on all your boosters. Malaria prophylaxis with chloroquine is recommended if you’re traveling in rural areas, especially Santa Ana, Ahuachapan, and La Union.

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The Top 15 Things to Do in El Salvador

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How to See El Salvador Like an Insider

The first thing you notice about Rafael Hernandez is his smile. Bright, youthful, and beaming, it’s a toothy grin you’d think belonged to a child. But now in his late 40s, Hernandez is anything but a babe in the woods.

As the head park ranger at the Cinquera Forest, located in the Northeast corner of El Salvador, Hernandez takes his job seriously. And really, you can’t blame him. He spent the better part of a decade protecting the rugged landscape and the people hiding in it from total destruction during the country’s gruesome civil war.

In Cinquera, on a day with air so thick you could cut it with a knife, Hernandez walked our small group through the national park. Along the way, he named nearly every bug, plant, and animal, and even warmly greeted the stray puppy who apparently frequents the trail. He was so connected to each leaf you’d swear they were saying “hello” back.

At the top of the trail, Hernandez stopped to tell us his life story. In deliberate and frank terms he explained how he and a few dozen other guerilla fighters lived in this very forest during the war. Here, they shot down helicopters, fought off government-led insurgents, and ensured the safety of the people. He even lifted a pant leg to show off the shrapnel scars to prove it.

After a decade of fighting, the war ended. But Hernandez knew the fight for his nation’s wellbeing had only just begun. So, it was then that he transitioned from fighter to lover in an attempt to care for the rich landscape we stood on as — of all things — an official government worker.

“Then, I’d die for the people,” Hernandez said of his time as a guerilla in the civil war. “Now, I’d die for the land.”

Hernandez is just one man, but he’s the perfect representation of why you should be visiting El Salvador right now too.

Nestled under Guatemala, sandwiched by Honduras and the Pacific Ocean, the tiny nation might just be Central America's best-kept secret.

With just 8,124 square miles of space and a mere 6 million citizens, El Salvador is surely tiny, which is how it got its nickname of El Pulgarcito de Centroamérica or "The Thumbelina of Central America." It’s a nation rich with history, experiences, and beauty. Of course, it’s also one also brimming with controversy and a whole lot of misunderstanding.

Right now, El Salvador comes with a level 3 travel warning by the U.S. government that reads: "Reconsider travel to El Salvador due to crime. Violent crime, such as murder, assault, rape, and armed robbery, is common. Gang activity, such as extortion, violent street crime, and narcotics and arms trafficking, is widespread."

The U.S. Department of State didn't give El Salvador a 4, which means don't go. Instead, it warned travelers to be aware of their surroundings, which is sage advice for traveling to just about anywhere. It is important, however, to find the right people to guide you.

If you can work up the gumption to see a new place, want to engage with a population of people like Hernandez who are more than ready to show you a side of a country that doesn’t make it into the headlines, and are willing to take safety precautions, El Salvador is for you. Here’s where to go, what to see, and how you can take a hike with Hernandez too.

Invest in a guide.

This point cannot be stressed enough: Get a guide, get a guide, get a guide. (Did I mention you should get a guide?) Though beautiful, there are still plenty of places visitors should avoid. And that’s where a trusty local comes into play.

On our trip through the nation, we happened to have one of the best guides on the market: Benjamin Rivera, a tour guide with Salvadorean Tours . On the tour, Rivera arranged our every move from hotel to hotel, lunch place to dinner, and helped translate every word we couldn’t. Hire him, or someone like him, to do the same for you.

Get ready to buy a lot of art.

Like the other Central American countries surrounding it, El Salvador has long been home to artistic talent.

For a prime example, pay a visit to Arbol de Dios, the gallery and art shop of the renowned Salvadoran artist Fernando Llort . Llort, who died in August of 2018, is perhaps one of the nation's most important and prolific artists. In 1985, he founded his art house as a way to showcase the culture of his beloved El Salvador. Inside, visitors can learn and pay homage to the man and even take part in a small tile painting workshop.

Try all the delicious food.

If you’ve ever tasted Latin food, then you have a sense of what you’re in for. But, El Salvador is also home one culinary treat so divine you could (and probably will) eat it for every meal: pupusas.

Pupusas, considered the national dish of El Salvador, are thick corn tortillas stuffed with smashed beans, cheese, or pork, or some combination thereof. They are then served alongside a tomato sauce and cabbage and vinegar garnish.

While you can get your hands on pupusas on just about every corner, there’s perhaps no better place to indulge than Casa 1800 , a boutique hotel and restaurant located in Suchitoto, the “Cradle of History and Culture," in El Salvador.

Also known as the "Place of the Bird Flower,” Suchitoto offers visitors the ideal view of the country’s history thanks to its landscapes, architecture, and, of course, through its meals. Take a quick detour off the cobblestone streets, through the large wooden doors of Casa 1800, and you’ll be smacked with a view so vast you’ll think it never ends. There, you can cook alongside the hotel’s chef, who will attempt (with a great deal of patience) to teach you how to perfect the pupusa too.

Get ready to adore tie-dye once more.

El Salvador happens to be one of the biggest — and best — producers of indigo in the world. And, because tie-dye is having such a major fashion moment, your 2019 trip to the country wouldn’t be complete without taking part in an indigo workshop to make a piece for yourself. Head to Suchitoto, where you can create a piece alongside master indigo creator Irma Guadron at her shop for just $25 per person.

Be prepared to fall in love with the landscape.

The best part about visiting such a small nation is the fact that you can literally see it all. On our trip, we spent time in the forest, hiked a volcano (located at the El Boquerón National Park , which comes with an entrance fee of just $2) and hit the beach, in a span of just a few days.

To hike with Hernandez, head to the Northeast section of San Salvador to the town of Cinquera. There, you may get lucky enough to see Hernandez, the head park ranger at the Cinquera Forest (otherwise known as Parque Ecologico Bosque de Cinquera) and have him hike beside you. Don’t worry, if Hernandez isn’t personally available there are still plenty of staffers to help you.

Though the forest is beautiful, there was perhaps nothing like looking out onto the Pacific Ocean in the coastal town of El Zonte and realizing it had one of the most perfect right waves on Earth. In El Zonte, we cozied up at the Palo Verde hotel ($129/night), an eco-friendly surf retreat where the owner will personally help guests sign up for surf lessons and ensure their every need is tended to.

Now, all you need to do is book your flight (several non-stops are available from both New York City and Los Angeles). Soon, you will be singing the praises of travel to El Salvador to anyone who will listen, too.

Related Articles

Why Visit El Salvador. 10 Reasons to Visit El Salvador this Year

El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America and not your usual tourist destination. Most travelers looking to visit Central America look first at popular destinations such as Costa Rica or Panama.

However, visitors shouldn’t dismiss visiting the smallest nation in Central America. El Salvador has plenty of reasons to visit; it has plenty of places for tourism and plenty of activities to keep visitors busy for days.

10 Reasons Why You’ll Want to Visit El Salvador

1. the amazing beaches, 2. the colorful small towns, 3. the ecotourism, 4. the archaeological sites, 5. the surfing, 6. the diverse traditional foods, 7. the arts and crafts, 8. the historic buildings and churches, 9. the cost of visiting, 10. the capital city, san salvador.

Why visit El Salvador this Year?

You should visit El Salvador because of the tropical beaches perfect for surfing or relaxing, the colorful towns full of history and traditions, the excellent ecotourism activities, and the impressive archaeological sites.

Other reasons to visit El Salvador are the cost to visit, the culture, the traditions, the arts and crafts, the food, and many others. A visit to El Salvador is worth doing!

Some reasons to visit El Salvador this year are the tropical beaches, the colorful towns, the ecotourism, the archaeological sites, the year-round surf, the cost, and the culture.

SEE ALSO: What is the Best Time to Visit El Salvador? Deciding on the Best Time to Explore El Salvador!

The following are the top ten reasons why you should consider visiting El Salvador.

El Salvador has a fantastic pacific Ocean coastline filled with superb beaches to accommodate all types of visitors. The country has plenty of beach options. Travelers looking to enjoy the Pacific’s warm waters have plenty of choices all over the coastline.

Are you looking for a beach to relax in? You can stay near the capital and visit La Costa del sol, El Puerto de La Libertad, or San Diego beach.

If you don’t mind traveling, go to the eastern part of the country, and enjoy the endless stretch of soft sand and clear waters at El Cuco beach.

If surfing is your thing, you are in luck! El Salvador has some of the best surf spots in Central America.

Go surfing at popular locations such as El Tunco, El Sunzal, or Punta Roca; these beaches get many visitors, especially on weekends. If you prefer to surf with fewer people, go to El Zonte, Las Flores, or Punta Mango beach.

To learn more about Salvadoran beaches, visit the following pages, “ Best beaches in El Salvador ” or “ Best surf spots in El Salvador .”

El Salvador is home to some great little towns with history and traditions that date back to colonial times or even before. These towns are all over the country; so, finding one you can visit and explore will not be difficult.

Some of the most visited small tourist towns are Panchimalco, La Palma, Suchitoto, Ataco, Juayua, and Nahuizalco. You can view and enjoy many different things in any of these unique colorful towns.

For example, you can appreciate the colonial architecture, learn about local customs, explore historic colonial churches, and taste the local gastronomy.

Visit our “ Salvadoran Towns and Cities ” pages to see a list of the most popular towns to visit.

If you are looking looking for ecotourism activities, El Salvador is a viable option. The country has a vast array of volcanoes, lakes, and natural parks that can be visited and explored at any time of the year.

The country has over 20 great volcanoes scattered over its territory; some are active and have constant volcanic activity.

Hiking and exploring these volcanoes is a top activity to do in El Salvador. Some of these volcanoes are easy to hike as they have well-marked trails.

However, other volcanoes are more challenging as they don’t have paths and are not easily accessible. Exploring these volcanoes is more for experienced hikers.

Visit our “ Volcanoes in El Salvador ” category to learn more details and see which is the one for you to hike.

El Salvador is home to impressive lakes; there are three that you should visit and explore. The first is Lake Suchitlan, a man-made lake located near the colorful town of Suchitoto.

The other two are volcanic calderas, Ilopango and Coatepeque. These two are impressive volcanic caldera lakes that are still active.

Visit our “ lakes in El Salvador ” pages to learn more details regarding these lakes.

Natural Parks.

El Salvador is a small country with plenty of natural parks for you to explore . Some of them are near largely populated areas, and some are in remote areas of the country.

You can go to the Cerro Verde National Park; here, you will find two impressive stratovolcanoes and plenty of Flora and Fauna. This park is near the city of Santa Ana.

You can also stay near the big city and visit the El Boqueron National Park, which sits just outside the nation’s capital.

If you don’t mind traveling to remote areas, go to El Pital National park. This bi-national natural park is near Honduras.

Visit our “ Park in El Salvador ” category to see all the natural parks options available.

El Salvador’s ecotourism is one of the top reasons why you should visit El Salvador. These fantastic parks, lakes, and volcanoes are ideal for spending time outdoors enjoying nature.

The archaeological sites in El Salvador might not be as impressive as the ones in Guatemala or Belize. Nonetheless, these archaeological sites are exceptional and should be on the must-see list in El Salvador.

If you make it to El Salvador, visit Tazumal, Joya de Ceren , San Andres, or Cihuatan. You will get to see and enjoy the historical, and cultural value these sites bring to the region.

To learn more about archaeological sites in El Salvador, visit our “ Archaeological sites in El Salvador ” category.

A top reason to visit El Salvador is the year-round surf; the country has plenty of beaches where you can get some surf done the entire year.

If you are an experienced surfer, it is best to visit during the wet season as the waves are better.

El Salvador is a top destination for surfing in Central America and is getting better. The Salvadoran government is pushing surf to attract new tourism into the country.

If you are new to surfing, don’t worry! There are plenty of surfing schools around to teach you how to ride a Salvadoran wave.

Visit our “ Best surf spots in El Salvador ” page to know more about which is the best spot for you to surf or learn how to surf.

El Salvador offers visitors a variety of traditional Salvadoran foods to eat. If you visit the beach, you will have plenty of fresh seafood dishes to taste.

Now, if you are away from the beach, you will find plenty of great local foods to try . One item that you must have is Pupusas , which is considered the national dish of El Salvador.

By the way, most of the country’s small towns have food festivals on the weekends. At these local gastronomy events, you will find tasty local foods to enjoy.

Learn more about the traditional Salvadoran foods and drinks by visiting the following pages “ Best Salvadoran Foods ” and “ Top drinks from El Salvador .”

El Salvador has a lot of pride in its arts and crafts; the traditional way of making them dates back to pre-Colonial times. The Salvadoran arts and crafts are great to decorate homes or to give as gifts.

In many local markets across El Salvador, especially in smaller towns, you will find plenty of local crafts such as bowls, mugs, plates, hammocks, and other decorative items.

Arts and crafts are a big part of Salvadoran culture . El Salvador has an art and crafts tourist route. This route takes you to colorful towns where making these crafts is a way of life.

Also, in 2020, the government is using local art pieces created by a local Salvadoran artist to attract tourism back into the country.

If you want to know more about Salvadoran Arts and crafts or the small towns on the Arts tourist route, visit the “ El Salvador crafts ” page.

Another reason to visit El Salvador is to explore the historic buildings and churches. These beautiful structures have a great history to share.

In San Salvador , you will find fantastic government buildings and intriguing churches for you to explore. The majority of these buildings are at the historic downtown center .

The most popular and unique colonial-style churches are in smaller towns. So, make it a day an visit one of these small towns, explore the local church, and participate in all the local activities.

If you want to know what churches or buildings to visit, go to the following pages “ Best churches in El Salvador ” and “ Famous building in El Salvador .”

El Salvador is not an expensive country to visit. Airfare is usually the item that will cost travelers the most. Nonetheless, by not flying direct and during non-peak traveling days, it can cost less.

There are options available to visitors regarding the reduction of other expenses, such as accommodations and food.

If you are traveling on a budget, you can find low-cost, safe accommodations for about $30 per night at the capital; or $10 per night at a beach town like El Tunco or El Zonte.

Now, if money is not an issue, you can stay at fancy hotels that can cost you upwards of $150 or more per night.

Food is another item that is not expensive; unless you want to eat at a proper restaurant. You can eat a typical meal in local markets for $2.50 to $6.00, including a drink.

The cost associated with visiting El Salvador varies depending on activities and accommodations. The good news is that there are options available to reduce costs.

San Salvador, the capital city, is another top reason to visit El Salvador. This city is the cultural, political, and business center of the country.

San Salvador has museums , historic buildings, unique churches, great shopping, tasty gastronomy, and plenty of accommodations.

Most travelers use the nation’s capital as a stepping stone to get to other destinations in the country. But, San Salvador has plenty of things to offer.

To get more information about the nation’s capital, visit our “ San Salvador ” page.

The top reasons to visit El Salvador listed above are not the only ones. This Central American country has plenty of other reasons why you should visit El Salvador this year.

Also, you might not know it because of what you hear on the news about El Salvador. But, Salvadorans are one of the most friendly and hospitable people on the planet.

Take a trip to El Salvador Today

If you haven’t traveled to El Salvador, this is the time to consider doing it. Even though the country is small and is still underdeveloped, there are plenty of reasons to travel to El Salvador this year.

Take advantage of the low cost of visiting. Explore the archaeological sites, take surfing lessons, relax at the beach, hike or volcano, or hang out at the nation’s capital

Visit this small nation, get to know the locals, and learn about the country’s great history and culture.

What is the Best Time to Visit El Salvador? Deciding on the Best Time to Explore El Salvador!

Downtown San Salvador. Exploring the San Salvador Historic District

The 5 Best Places to Visit in El Salvador

• Post last modified: May 9, 2024
• Post author: Danielle Zito
• Post published: November 8, 2021
• Post category: Central America

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El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America , and often gets overlooked. But despite its size, there is actually a ton of great things to do in El Salvador! Full of striking volcanos, gorgeous waterfalls, and black sand beaches, there is so much to explore. Here are the 5 best places to visit in El Salvador.

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Best Places to Visit in El Salvador #1: San Salvador

San Salvador is the capital of the country. So it's no wonder that this city is on the list of places to visit in El Salvador. Although it isn't our favorite place, we definitely think it still deserves a visit.

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San Salvador is the main hub of El Salvador, and where you will find that all international flights come from. It is in the center of the country, so it also makes for a great home base if you just have a few days on your trip.

Some of the main highlights are the historical center and roaming around the giant markets that take over the city. If you plan on keeping this as your home base, we have some great day trips from San Salvador to share with you. Just check the article below for more info!

11 Great Day Trips From San Salvador to Take in 2023

Chances are that if you're going to El Salvador, you will be in the capital at some point. Unlike many other capitals, San Salvador isn't one with a whole lot going on. However, if you decide to base yourself there, we have some fun things that are just less than

Best Places to Visit in El Salvador #2: El Tunco

El Tunco is one of the most popular places to visit in El Salvador, and even more-so with young tourists and backpackers.

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This small beach town has plenty of great restaurants, shops, and hotels for those that want to stay a few days. Not to mention there are some other great beach towns nearby for day trips.

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El Tunco is just 45 minutes from the capital, and can be reached by public transportation as well. Known for its great waves, it is actually home to Surf City, an annual surfing competition that brings surfers from all over the world.

El Tunco is a backpacker's paradise.

But even if you don't like to surf, El Tunco is a great beach to go to. Characterized by striking rock formations on shiny black sand, it is really one of the best beaches in El Salvador.

Want to check out some of the best waterfalls in El Salvador? Well,  Las Cascadas de Tamanique are just 20 minutes away as well!

Cascadas de Tamanique: Central America’s Best Secret

Want to know about the hidden gem of Cascadas de Tamanique? When traveling through Central America, there is an endless amount of natural beauty, and this is a spot you don't want to miss.Between the giant volcanoes, turquoise seas, and lush jungle, it's no wonder this area of the world

Want to take a tour to El Tunco or Tamanique Falls? Here are a few different ones that you can choose from:

Take a look at the map below for accommodation options in El Tunco:

Best Places to Visit in El Salvador #3: La Ruta de Las Flores

La Ruta de Las Flores is one of the best places to visit in El Salvador for those that want to soak up the culture of El Salvador. 

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This is a stretch of land in the western highlands of the country. It is known for its delicious food and even more delicious coffee.

Each small town is unique in its own way, offering a variety of features such as viewpoints, labyrinths, and colorful street art.

La Ruta de Las Flores is the perfect weekend trip. Enjoy the famous food festival in Juayua, hike Siete Cascadas , or take a ride up to Los Ausoles . There are so many ways to enjoy the nature and towns alike of La Ruta de Las Flores.

Want to learn more? Well, we have a full guide for everything to do, where to stay, and what to expect while visiting this awesome region.

Everything to Know About La Ruta De Las Flores

El Salvador isn't particularly known for its booming tourism. However, the country has so much to offer, and should not be missed when traveling through Central America. One of the most popular (and one of our favorite) areas to explore in the country is La Ruta de Las Flores.You may

Limited on time and want to take a day trip to Ruta de Las Flores? Here are a few excursions that you can choose from:

Best Places to Visit in El Salvador #4: Santa Ana

This is the best place to stay in El Salvador for volcano lovers! Santa Ana is surrounded by several volcanos, many of which you can climb to the top. The city is cute, and the nature surrounding it is really breathtaking.

Just outside of Santa Ana also lies Lake Coatepeque. This unique place is a turquoise lake that is situated in the crater of a volcano. There are even plenty of restaurants, shops, and hotels right along the lake for you to spend a full day or even a weekend.

Santa Ana is surrounded by amazing nature like volcanos and a crater lake.

Santa Ana is located just an hour and a half north of San Salvador, and an hour east of La Ruta de Las Flores. With its prime location for lots of places to visit in El Salvador, we really think it's a great place to spend a few days. Or you can make it your home base during your trip.

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Best Places to Visit in El Salvador #5: San Miguel

This is one of the places to visit in El Salvador that usually gets skipped! But we're here to tell you that San Miguel is definitely worth a few days of your time. 

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San Miguel is situated in the south of the country, a few hours away from San Salvador. The city itself doesn't have so much to offer per say. However, it is a great spot to keep yourself for some awesome day trips.

Take a ride over to Alegria for a stunning lake and a colorful viewpoint. Head south for the views from Conchagua volcano, or west for some of the best beaches in El Salvador.

Want to see all of the best things to do in San Miguel? Well we have a guide for the best spots to check out in the South of El Salvador, which you can check out by clicking the link below.

The 8 Best Things to Do in the South of El Salvador

When most people visit El Salvador, they head straight to the capital, or to the beaches closest to it. But what many people don't know is, that when it comes to things to do in El Salvador, the south has so many great spots too! That's why we headed down

Want to book a place to stay in San Miguel? The map below has all of the different options:

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El Salvador is definitely one of the most underrated countries that we have been to. This small corner of Central America is full of hidden gems, and can be explored best in one to two weeks.

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Now that you've seen some of the best places to visit in El Salvador, you can check out our other guides. Here we share plenty of other spots to check out throughout the country.

Ready to plan your trip? Well, with Scratch Your Mapa Travel Planning we can help you explore more, and even save money in the process! Want to learn more? Schedule your free consultation today.

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Is El Salvador Worth Visiting? + 15 Pros and Cons (2024)

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Is El Salvador worth visiting? That’s a big YES from me! 

As a solo female traveler who has spent the past 2.5 years exploring all corners of the globe, I have had the pleasure of spending seven months in Central and South America, including several weeks in El Salvador. 

El Salvador wasn’t originally on my radar as somewhere to visit – especially as a solo female traveler – and I almost skipped it! It’s a good thing I didn’t, because El Salvador ended up being the highlight of my Central America adventure.

The pupusas (typical Salvadorian dish), the beaches, and the local people make El Salvador a worthy destination. It’s the smallest country in Central America , so you can see a lot in a short amount of time. 

No country is perfect, and there are some things you need to keep in mind like safety, weather, and language barriers.

My experience has taught me that not only is El Salvador worth visiting, but now is arguably the best time to visit before it becomes overcrowded and expensive like its neighbors. It still remains relatively undiscovered, but not for much longer. 

So, is El Salvador worth it? I’ll give you my honest opinion, including the pros and cons of visiting El Salvador, so you can decide if it’s worth a spot on your itinerary.

👉 Book one of these private airport transfers for a stress-free arrival at any airport in El Salvador! Whether you’re heading to San Salvador or straight to El Tunco, these transfers are a great option.

Is El Salvador Worth Visiting?

El Salvador ended up being my favorite country in Central America. 

Hiking up active volcanoes and to hidden waterfalls , eating pupusas with friends from my hostel, and watching the surfers on El Tunco Beach – these are some of my favorite memories from visiting El Salvador!

I wouldn’t consider it a “beginner” destination for new solo travelers, only because they’re still fairly new to tourism and a lot of infrastructure is still being built up. Once you have a couple of solo trips under your belt (or if you’re a really confident traveler), then El Salvador is magical!

Despite the past struggles with crime that once made it unsafe for foreigners – today, El Salvador is much safer than most people think! 

The government’s efforts to crack down on gang violence have seen some positive results in recent years (more on that further down). Now, more than ever, El Salvador can be considered a great destination for backpackers and travelers looking to find something off the beaten path.

And it’s quickly getting popular. 2023 saw a 30% increase in tourists , and the number of U.S. tourists has doubled since 2019. More flights between Canada and El Salvador will result in more North American tourists.

👉 My top pick for the best Ruta de las Flores small group tour is the   Thermal Tour: Café Albania + Hot Springs + Ataco + Lunch , with a near-perfect 5-star rating. You’ll visit Salto de Malacatiupan waterfalls, Santa Teresa Hot Springs, hop a bike zipline, and more!

Pros and Cons of El Salvador from a Solo Female Traveler (Reasons to Visit El Salvador)

1. pro: beautiful nature and adventure activities.

I’ll admit, the only thing I knew about El Salvador before visiting was the history of crime – I had no idea how much natural beauty this country has!

I hiked up the Santa Ana Volcano, sipped a beer next to Lake Coatepeque, relaxed in hot springs , hiked to hidden waterfalls, watched surfers on the beach, and so much more! 

The Ruta de las Flores tours from San Salvador are worth checking out, too.

El Salvador is a nature lover’s dream, offering tons of adventure activities for travelers to enjoy, such as surfing some of the best waves in the world, exploring the Mayan ruins at Tazumal, and trekking through Cerro Verde National Park. 

If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of El Salvador’s national bird .

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in El Salvador!

2. Con: Lack of Tourist Infrastructure

I hesitate to list this as a con for visiting El Salvador because I actually loved the feeling of being somewhere most tourists will never experience. But, it is important to note that you are in an “up and coming” destination that is just starting to see an increase in tourism.

You won’t find many high-end restaurants or perfectly curated tourist attractions here but if you’re looking for a real adventure with locals, you’ve come to the right​​ place. Accessibility outside main cities can be challenging without a car.

I recommend that you be a confident traveler before visiting El Salvador solo , just because you’ll have to think a little harder than some other places. But, if you’re not afraid of exploring parts unknown, then you’ll love El Salvador!

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3. Pro: Affordable Prices

El Salvador is one of the most affordable countries I’ve ever visited – everything from food to lodging was a fraction of what it would cost me back home or in Europe. 

El Salvador uses the U.S. dollar (and bitcoin, if you have it) so there is no need to exchange money and you can save even more by purchasing items from local markets. You will be able to get a full meal for under $5 in most places.

4. Con: Language Barrier

English isn’t widely spoken in El Salvador, so you may find yourself struggling to communicate with locals or trying to decipher menus that aren’t in English. Luckily, I speak some Spanish so I was able to get by.

I spend the majority of my time in countries where I don’t speak the language, though, and you’d be surprised how much can be communicated with pointing, smiling, and the Google Translate app.

5. Pro: It’s a Small Country

El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America. 

Why is that a good thing? Because you can see A LOT in a short period of time! 

In just a few weeks I was able to visit San Salvador, Santa Ana, the Ruta de las Flores , and the beach, plus several day trips to other towns and attractions. That’s something you can’t do in a bigger country like Mexico or the U.S.

6. Con: Crime and Safety

While El Salvador’s crime rate has been going down each year for the past several years, you’ll still want to be careful, especially if you’re a solo female traveler. More on safety further down.

I followed the same safety tips that I follow in every country I visit and didn’t go out at night alone, and I never felt unsafe.

If you’re going to explore San Salvador, just double-check with your accommodation about which neighborhoods to avoid and keep your belongings close when using public transportation (just like you should do in any big city). 

⛑️ My number one safety tip for travelers, no matter where you’re going or how long your trip is, is to buy SafetyWing insurance to protect your trip .

7. Pro: Pupusas and Fruit

If you know me, you know my favorite thing about traveling is trying local food . I am embarrassed to say I never had pupusas before, and I am OBSESSED. 

Pupusas are a traditional Salvadoran dish consisting of corn dough with cheese, pork or beans, and other fillings. My favorite was the vegetarian loroco (an edible flower) and cheese. But, I don’t discriminate and eat all the pupusas.

I also loved visiting the local fruit markets in El Salvador and tasting all sorts of tropical fruit that I never had before.

8. Con: Chicken Buses Take a While

A “chicken bus” is an old yellow school bus used for public transportation in El Salvador and throughout Central America. They get their name from the chickens that sometimes get transported alongside passengers (not so often anymore). 

They are cheap and convenient but can get crowded, hot, and slow depending on the route.

If you’re short on time and don’t have the luxury of taking your time, renting a car or taking a taxi will save you some hassle.

That being said, I still think taking a chicken bus is an experience worth having. It’s fun and you get to meet locals along the way!

9. Pro: Surfer’s Paradise

What is the tourism like in El Salvador? A lot of tourists come here for surfing!

El Salvador has some of the best surfing in the world, with more than 60 amazing surfing locations , and played host to the 2023 ISA World Surfing Games!

With warm tropical waters, plenty of beaches, and consistent waves, it’s a great destination for surfers looking to test their skills in the water. Punta Roca, Las Flores, and Punta Mango are some of the most popular spots for surfing in El Salvador. 

There are also many excellent surf schools located throughout El Salvador so newbies can learn the basics before hitting the waves. 

Not to mention, El Salvador’s beautiful sunsets make any surfing session that much better.

👉 Find the best local tours with this search engine (and the best deals)!

10. Con: Poor Road Conditions

Many of the roads are in poor condition and have significant damage. Renting a car can be a bit of an adventure , as I found out when my friends and I rented one to explore El Salvador. 

We got stuck multiple times waiting for mudslides to be cleared from the roads (during the rainy season), and we had a few close calls with wild drivers on the many curvy roads. In addition, many cars in El Salvador don’t have working headlights, making it even more challenging to navigate at night time. 

Such road conditions can make it hard for travelers to really explore the country in depth and see some of its hidden gems. But if you’re a confident driver and you know what to expect, you can manage.

🚙 Thinking about renting a car in Central America? I rented a car in El Salvador and was able to see so much more than if I only traveled by bus. I recommend using  Discover Cars to compare costs and get the best deal .

11. Pro: Rich Culture and Festivals

El Salvador is a country of diverse cultural influences, from the original Mayan and Nahua civilizations to the European settlers. 

This rich mix has resulted in a vibrant culture that is evident in various forms of expression, including its music, art, and especially its festivals. 

The country is also renowned for its awe-inspiring murals and captivating artworks that showcase both traditional and contemporary styles. 

Some of El Salvador’s most popular celebrations, such as El Grito de Independencia (Independence Day) during the summer months, as well as Semana Santa and Feria de San Miguel at the end of September, provide visitors with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the customs, traditions, and vibrant art scene of El Salvador.

12. Con: Hurricane Season

El Salvador has an active hurricane season, with most storms occurring between May and October. 

Although this can be a deterrent for visitors, I experienced El Salvador’s storms first-hand when I visited during the shoulder season of October. It was an interesting experience: some days were sunny and bright while others brought heavy rains that lasted all day. 

It’s important to be aware of the risks of hurricane season when planning a visit to El Salvador, but also know that the country still experiences plenty of beautiful days in between storms. By visiting during the shoulder season, you can experience a little bit of both – just make sure to pack accordingly!

13. Delicious Coffee

Coffee-lovers who want to know “Is El Salvador worth visiting?” – YES it is!

El Salvador has some of the most delicious coffee in the world. This Central American country is renowned for harvesting and producing high-quality beans, meaning that a trip to El Salvador wouldn’t be complete without trying a cup of their famous coffee. 

Taking a tour through one of the many local coffee plantations is an absolute must-do activity – you’ll get to learn about the production process of El Salvadoran coffee while tasting samples from different farms. 

If you’re looking for a unique experience during your visit, make sure to check out one of these tours!

14. Pro: Friendliest Locals

The local people of El Salvador are some of the friendliest I’ve encountered in the world. 

Even when there were language barriers, locals in El Salvador were warm and welcoming, often going out of their way to help me feel right at home during my travels there.

Whether you’re in need of directions or advice on where to find the best restaurants, be sure to take advantage of the kindness of El Salvadorans. 

Best Booking Sites:

The two best places to read reviews and book hostels and hotels are HostelWorld and Booking.com .

15. Pro: Easy to Combine With Other Destinations in Central America

El Salvador’s location makes it really convenient to visit other destinations in Central America. I hired a shared transfer from Antigua, Guatemala to Santa Ana, El Salvador for something like $50, which included help at the border crossing.

After spending a few weeks in El Salvador, I took chicken buses all the way to Copan Ruinas in Honduras . 

Other travelers I met went straight to Nicaragua after El Salvador. 

This is just one of the many reasons why El Salvador is worth visiting – you can easily enjoy multiple countries at once with just a short journey in between. 

Is Santa Ana, El Salvador Worth Visiting?

I spent the majority of my time in Santa Ana, using it as a base to visit other parts of El Salvador like the Ruta de las Flores , Santa Ana Volcano, and Lake Coatepeque.

Santa Ana is a great place to explore El Salvador’s culture and history. There are plenty of colonial buildings, as well as marketplaces selling local crafts.

The city also has some great restaurants serving up delicious cuisine. I’d recommend trying the pupusas – they’re an El Salvadorian staple and a must-try dish when visiting! 

Pro Tip: Read reviews on  Hostelworld  – one of the best hostel booking sites – to see what the hostel serves for breakfast. 

How Many Days in El Salvador?

El Salvador is a small country, often overlooked but with plenty of things to see and do. 

It’s easily possible to enjoy a great vacation in El Salvador with just one week, visiting the colorful colonial towns, national parks full of wildlife, and stunning beaches. 

However, for those seeking an even deeper experience and wanting to visit more rural areas and explore less touristy spots, 10 days or more is really ideal to make the most of it. 

With its easy connections to other Central American countries, it’s also convenient to extend your trip and combine multiple destinations in one go.

👉 I’ve solo-traveled all over the world and LOVE to take tours that I find on Viator . They have so many 5-star tours, and it’s easy to see which ones have the best ratings. I’ve also had to use their 24/7 customer service more than once and was helped immediately.

Best Time to Visit El Salvador

The best time to visit El Salvador is from November to April, when the weather is consistently sunny and mild. During this period, there are also plenty of events and festivals going on that add to the overall experience.

The flowers along the Ruta de las Flores typically bloom early in the dry season between November and February.

However, the downside of visiting during these months is that they are also peak season, with higher accommodation prices and more tourists around. 

For travelers looking for a more laidback atmosphere without such high prices, the summer months of May to August can be a great option.

The temperatures in El Salvador remain warm throughout the year, meaning you can still enjoy a beach getaway even during this low season.

✈️ Search for cheap flights to El Salvador here.

How to Get to El Salvador

The easiest way to get to El Salvador is by air, with several international airports offering direct flights from the United States, Europe, and other Latin American countries. 

Flights from US cities such as Los Angeles, Miami, or New York typically take around 5-6 hours.

From within Central America, there are also regular shuttle services to El Salvador from Guatemala City and Managua in Nicaragua. 

If you’re coming from Honduras and want to get to El Salvador the adventurous way, read more about how to take the chicken bus all the way!

Best Hotels in El Salvador

Luxury hotels in el salvador.

• Equinoccio Hotel  (Lake Coatepeque) – a 4-star hotel by Salvadoran standards, this hotel is right on the lake and also has a pool.
• Hyatt Centric San Salvador ( San Salvador) – a brand-new, comfortable hotel that opened in 2022 with a great open-air swimming pool and gym.
• Boca Olas Resort  (El Tunco) – Nice swimming pools, breakfast with a view, and steps to the beach.

Mid-level and Boutique Hotels in El Salvador

• Remfort Hotel  (Santa Ana) – Guests rave about the prime location of this hotel, as well as the great breakfast and pool.
• Hotel Juayua  (Juayua) – Boutique hotel with an incredible view of mountains and a volcano.
• Las Casitas Hostal Ataco  (Ataco) – Convenient location in town, comfortable rooms, and very helpful staff.
• Casa Degraciela Hotel Boutique  (Ataco) – Beautiful boutique hotel with a very attentive staff.
• Papaya Lodge  (La Libertad) – Basic hotel in a great location, with air-conditioning, and a pool.

Budget or Cheap Hotels in El Salvador

• Hostal Casa Verde  (Santa Ana) – This is where I stayed during my time in Santa Ana. It has a pool, a good breakfast, and a caring owner who gives great travel tips.
• Hotel Oasis  (San Salvador) – lovely garden and patio, and decent breakfast that changes daily.
• Hostal Dona Mercedes  (Juayua) – Great base for the Ruta de las Flores with hot showers and helpful staff.
• Pelicano Surf Camp  (La Libertad) – A bare-bones hostel where you stay in a hut right on the beach.

Is El Salvador Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

I spent several weeks solo traveling around El Salvador. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little nervous before I went, but I’m so happy I did. El Salvador was the highlight of my time in Central America.

El Salvador has a reputation for being a dangerous country plagued by crime and gang violence. The country is coming out of a civil war in the 1980s and then several decades of gang warfare. 

At the time of this post, the US issued a level 3 travel advisory for El Salvador due to crime.

And while crime is still a challenge, it’s also true that El Salvador’s crime rates have significantly decreased over the past few years. Although there are some concerns about how the country is tackling its gang problem, there’s no doubt that it’s been effective.

Some parts of El Salvador are still controlled by gangs, but it’s rare that tourists go to those areas or are impacted. Always check with your accommodation about where you’re exploring – they’ll know the latest safety information.

The driver who brought me from Guatemala to El Salvador told me that a couple of years ago, he and his family couldn’t leave their homes at night, and had to pay the local gang for protection. And now they enjoy walks around their neighborhood – day and night – in peace.

I went all over the country, and only had one situation in a hostel where I didn’t feel comfortable, and decided to leave in the middle of the night. That could have happened anywhere, though. 

You’ll want to take some basic safety precautions when traveling around El Salvador:

• Walking around during the day is generally fine, but I wouldn’t do it at night. Instead, opt for Ubers or a car service at night.
• Be aware of your belongings in crowded areas like markets and buses, and have them close to you.
• Avoid wearing flashy jewelry that could attract unwanted attention.
• Ask locals about the safety precautions they take before exploring, especially in San Salvador where some neighborhoods aren’t safe.

Recommended Tour:

Santa Ana Volcano Hike with Privileged Early Access

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  7-8 hours | 😎   BOOK NOW

Why Visit El Salvador FAQs

Is it worth it to go to el salvador.

Yes, it is absolutely worth visiting El Salvador! From discovering thousands of years of history at Mayan ruins to relaxing on pristine beaches and exploring vibrant cities, there are so many incredible experiences to be had in El Salvador. 

Do people go to El Salvador for vacation?

Yes – El Salvador is a great place to vacation! I loved exploring local markets and food festivals, hiking to waterfalls surrounded by lush jungles, and climbing to the top of an active volcano. There’s so much to see and do in El Salvador!

How many days is enough for El Salvador?

A typical vacation in El Salvador could last from 3 to 7 days, depending on what activities you would like to do and explore. Most people can see the highlights of El Salvador within this time frame, but 10 days or more will allow you to see and do a lot more.

Is El Salvador friendly to USA?

Yes, El Salvador is very friendly to the United States. The two countries have a strong diplomatic relationship and share many cultural similarities. It’s also easy for US citizens to enter El Salvador without a visa for visits under 90 days.

What is the best month to visit El Salvador?

The best time to visit El Salvador is typically from December to April. During this period, the weather is generally dry and sunny. It’s also the peak tourist season, with plenty of activities and attractions in the cities and towns. The months of May and November are also good times to visit as they offer fewer crowds but still pleasant temperatures.

Are people in El Salvador friendly?

People in El Salvador are generally friendly and welcoming. You’ll find that locals are eager to share their culture and customs with visitors, and the country has a long-standing reputation as one of the most hospitable places in Central America.

What is El Salvador known for tourists?

El Salvador is best known for its beaches, rainforests, and the ancient ruins at Joya de Cerén. It’s also a great destination for outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and ziplining. Foodies will love the variety of local cuisine, from pupusas to tamales. 

Wrap Up: Is El Salvador A Good Place to Visit?

So, is El Salvador worth visiting?

Yes! And now is the best time to visit, before El Salvador gets crazy popular like Costa Rica and Guatemala. 

With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and welcoming locals, El Salvador is the perfect spot for anyone who loves to explore new places.

That being said, there are also a few reasons why travelers may not want to visit El Salvador. For one, it’s still a fairly new tourist destination, so it’s not as “easy” to travel around yet as some other countries that have had tourists for longer. Some visitors may feel uneasy as the language barrier can be high since most people in El Salvador speak Spanish.

I would recommend you have a couple of other countries under your belt before you venture to El Salvador solo.

If you’re ready for an adventure of a lifetime in El Salvador then now is the time to start planning! 

To make sure you get the most out of your trip, don’t forget to read up on the best tours around El Salvador!

Read More About El Salvador:

• El Salvador Solo Travel: A Solo Female Traveler’s Guide
• Ultimate Travel Guide to Backpacking El Salvador
• Is El Salvador Safe? + 21 Safety Tips for Travelers
• Ruta de Las Flores: Ultimate Travel Guide + 17 Things to Do
• Ultimate Ruta de Las Flores Itinerary for 1-3 Days
• 3 Best El Salvador Hot Springs: Everything You Need to Know
• 10 Stunning Waterfalls in El Salvador that You Must See
• What is the El Salvador National Bird? + 11 Interesting Facts
• 13 Best El Salvador Tours You Can’t Miss
• Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in El Salvador
• Best Time to Visit El Salvador for Outdoor Fun!
• Backpacker’s Guide to Chicken Buses in Central America
• San Salvador to Copan Ruinas via Bus: Easy Instructions
• 11 Delicious Fruits in El Salvador You Must Taste at Local Markets
• Is El Salvador Worth Visiting? + 15 Pros and Cons
• Best Ruta de las Flores Tours from San Salvador
• Seven Waterfalls Hike El Salvador: Epic Juayua Adventure
• Juayua Food Festival Guide (by a Food-Obsessed Traveler)
• Is Santa Ana El Salvador Safe?

El Salvador Travel Tips

🚗 Renting a car in El Salvador i s one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with  Discover Cars , which checks both international companies and local Salvadoran companies, so you get the best rates.

🏩 Accommodation : For El Salvador hotels and hostels,  Booking  is the best site – I get such great Genius discounts!

💵 Money: The currency here is the US Dollar, and there are plenty of ATMs if you need cash.

Credit cards aren’t as commonly accepted outside of major cities, so it’s best to bring cash with you.

🌋 Language: Most locals don’t speak English, so brush up on your Spanish! It can also be helpful to download the Spanish language option on Google Translate if you’re going to be offline.

🌋 Safety: San Salvador is generally safe for tourists, but there are some areas to avoid. Ask your hotel for the most up-to-date information before heading out. Whenever you’re out, be sure to stay alert, stick to busy streets, and avoid isolated areas.

🌋 Uber is safe and cheap in major cities like San Salvador and Santa Ana.

🌋 Tipping: Tipping 10% in restaurants is expected but make sure it’s not already included in your bill as “servicio.”

🌋 Water: You shouldn’t drink tap water in El Salvador. Most hotels will provide filtered water, or you can buy bottled.

📝 El Salvador Travel Planning Guide 🇸🇻🌟

Before you embark on your unforgettable journey to El Salvador, here are the essential tips every traveler should know:

🚑  Should I buy travel insurance for El Salvador?

✅ 100% YES!  — My #1 Safety Tip for all travelers is to buy travel insurance for every trip in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend and use SafetyWing  – it’s cheap and comprehensive.

🛟 Is El Salvador safe for tourists?

✅ YES , El Salvador is generally safe for tourists, but there are some areas to avoid. Ask your hotel for the most up-to-date information before heading out. When you’re out, stay alert, stick to busy streets, and avoid isolated areas. Read more about staying safe in El Salvador.

💧 Can you drink the water in El Salvador?

🚱 No  — It’s recommended to drink filtered or bottled water in El Salvador (but using tap water to brush your teeth is usually fine). I recommend this reusable water bottle! It works great, turning tap water into safe-to-drink water that tastes good.

🚙💨  Is it safe to rent a car in El Salvador?

Yes  —  Renting a car in El Salvador is one of the best ways to see the country! I recommend  Discover Cars , which checks both international companies and local Salvadoran companies, so you get the best rates.

🏩  What’s the best way to book my El Salvador accommodations?

My go-to for El Salvador hotels is  Booking.com . For hostels, I use  HostelWorld . Or get free accommodations with  Trusted Housesitters!

✈️  What’s the best site to book El Salvador flights?

For finding cheap El Salvador flights, I recommend CheapOAir .

🎫  Do I need a visa for El Salvador?

Likely Not  — El Salvador allows visitors from close to one hundred jurisdictions to visit El Salvador without a visa and stay for up to 180 days. US passport holders don’t need an El Salvador visa for stays of up to 90 days , but you must purchase a tourist card for $12 USD upon arrival.

💰 𝗖𝘂𝗿𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆: The currency here is the US Dollar, and there are plenty of ATMs if you need cash. I always withdraw from ATMs to get the best rates (select “no” when it asks you if you accept the conversion rate). Credit cards aren’t commonly accepted outside of major cities.

🪙 Tipping : Tipping 10% in restaurants is expected, but make sure it’s not already included in your bill as “servicio.”

🚕 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Getting around El Salvador is a breeze! Uber is safe and cheap in major cities like San Salvador and Santa Ana. Local buses are generally efficient and easy to use. Renting a car is also a good option.

🗣️ Language : Many locals don’t speak English, so brush up on your Spanish! It can also be helpful to download the Spanish language option on Google Translate if you’ll be offline.

📶 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆: El Salvador has inconsistent internet connectivity – it’s better in the main cities than in rural areas.

Cat is a 35-year-old American solo female traveler on a career break, traveling the world full-time since 2021. She loves meeting new people, considers herself to be a bit of a foodie, and reads a lot.