el salvador tourist destinations

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 .

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Enjoy your trip to 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Things to Know Before Visiting El Salvador

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Top 18 Best El Salvador Tourist Attractions you must Visit

Apart from history, this country has a lot of natural beauties . These are in the forms of the volcano, volcanic terrain, lakes, seacoast, and more. El Salvador is a bit behind from its famous neighbors, CostaRica, and Panama. But what visitors don’t realize is that El Salvador is a small country. It has a large collection of national parks and historical sites.

There are many reasons to visit El Salvador . It has fantastic beaches where you can spend your evening after a tiring day. Other than that, there are archeological sites filled with mysteries and historical stories. You can also perform many outdoor activities, including hiking and climbing stunning views. El Salvador offers travelers a huge variety of foods, which will make you want to travel to El Salvador.

Some Facts About El Salvador

You will find plenty of crafters and artists. They make jugs, bowls, and plates so you can decorate your home after a vacation to El Salvador. And when you arrive at

El Salvador is most famous for its warm welcome for tourists. There are many travel guides to guide you to visit every part of El Salvador without your time.

Despite retaining its dated reputation for being an unsafe country. But now El Salvador is one of Central America’s safest countries to visit. You should also keep in mind that crime happens anywhere. Even if you are visiting El Salvador, you have to stay alert. To know more about the tourist attraction in El Salvador, keep reading.

Top 18 Best El Salvador Tourist Attractions You must Visit:

1. san salvador.

The first place that comes in our list of the best El Salvador tourist attractions is San Salvador. San Salvador is one of the most famous El Salvador cities. It is the capital city of El Salvador and is in the central plateau region. It is also the second-largest city in Central America. Despite the colossal size, many visitors appreciate this place. This is because of its easy-going atmosphere.

San Salvador has some unique aspects, even if its country’s largest metropolis visitors are a few minutes away from the city’s inspiring natural beauty. From amazing volcanoes and stunning crater lakes to the best parks in the country.

Tazumal is also among the most popular El Salvador tourist attractions. It is the most famous Mayan ruin in El Salvador. And the estimation done by the archeologist suggests that this place dates back to 5000BC. But people left the place during AD 1200. The architectural complex faced expensive restoration and evacuation during the 1940s and 50s. But there are still many ruins that have not undergone evacuation yet.

Many believe that Tazumal is an important center of trade. And the language in the K’iche means pyramid, where they would burn the victims. You can explore this vast site and get to learn more about the history of the Maya civilization. This is possible through an onsite museum.

3. Suchitoto

The next place that comes in our list of the best El Salvador tourist attractions is Suchitoto. Suchitoto is 50km northeast of the capital city. This tourist destination is a formal colonial city and is a current cultural hub of the country. Food festivals and Arts occur all the time. The streets usually have a lot of visitors around the country and beyond. You can also enjoy a stroll on this city’s cobblestone streets to have a fantastic and amazing view. With well-preserved Spanish colonial buildings and hike around the area to find waterfalls and caves.

This city is in a bird migration zone. The country’s civil war that was from 1980-1992 caused damage to this city. But now it has turned into a great mountain getaway for all the tourists.

4. Ruta De Las Flores

Ruta de la Flores is among the most visited El Salvador tourist attractions. It is a trail that leads the visitors through the most beautiful villages of El Salvador. It is popular for the wildflowers that grow along the road, and it looks best when it’s winters. The travel route starts from Sonsonate through Juayua, Ataco, for around 40km. And along the trail, you will see a lot of the culture and history of the area. From all Spanish colonial buildings to all the famous local food options. Everything has something special. The area has stunning views and weekend markets. Here you can get souvenirs for your family or friends.

While traveling, the travelers will find an amazing waterfall, towering churches, landscapes. You can visit the place by driving a car. It will give you much more control over where you want to stop. You can also trial and can also travel by bus.

5. The Cerro El Pital

The Pital Hill comes with many nature and adventure destinations, making it one of the best El Salvador tourist attractions. This captures the tourist attraction in El Salvador. This is something you will not want to miss. This is the most mountainous and elevated place in El Salvador. The hills are one of the most important in the department of Chalatenango. They have more elevation of more than 2,700 meters above sea level. This is the best place to visit for tourists who are winter lovers. And that’s because the temperature reaches 10-degree Celsius at night.

Many tourists consider this place as one of the best places to go camping in El Salvador. It also has a huge variety of hotels. And the most amazing part of all is that they have a lot of camping areas. Most of them offer hikes to the surroundings such as the Zumpal river, vegetables, and fruit crops. If you are a lover of nature , photography, then this is the best place to visit in El Salvador.

6. El Tunco Beach

El Salvador is very famous for its beautiful beaches. Each year many tourists chose El Salvador as a destination for surfing because of the best waves. There are many beaches in the country. And they all are wonderful, but El Tunco Beach is the most visited beach . The name of this beach is “El Tunco” because of the rock formation on the shore of the place. It is quite like the shape of a pig in El Salvador.

Besides having these beautiful and a huge variety of beaches and strange rock formations. It also has a variety of hotels of all sorts of prices, restaurants, bars and also surf lessons here. El Salvador is an extraordinary country. It is full of amazing culture, adventure, surfing, and more. It assures you that you will have beautiful memories after visiting this famous place in El Salvador.

7. Montecristo National Park

Montecristo National Park is a national park that is full of high peaks and low valleys, and a dense canopy. This makes it one of the most visited El Salvador tourist attractions. The laurel trees and cloud forest of oaks can grow up to almost 30m tall. And mushrooms, mosses, and lichens grow all over the forest floor. You can also take a tour through the park to experience the beauty of a natural rainforest.

Most visitors will see rare animals like spiders, monkeys, pumas, coyotes, and agoutis. But the most common ones are squirrels, porcupines, black shrew mice, and white-tailed deer. There are 300 bird species, including green toucans, white-faced quails, and quetzals. All these are only in the Montecristo National park.

8. Puerto del Diablo

Puerto del Diablo is popular for having a dark past featuring death and horror. This makes the tourist keep visiting this place again and again. Puerto del Diablo is not only among the most visited El Salvador tourist attractions, but it is also one of the creepiest. The striking of this place is ‘Devil Door’. The rock formation comprises two tall boulders. This forms a window looking out at El Salvador’s lush landscape. A pathway leads you up to the viewpoint where you will see the indigenous town Panchimalco from there.

You can also view the lake IloPango on the left side and the twin-peaked San Vicente volcano straight ahead. There are almost more than 60 established rock climbing routes in these areas. They also have adventurous activities like Zip lining, caving, canopy tours, and rappelling.

9. Coatepeque Caldera

This volcanic caldera came into being tens of thousands of years ago. Lake Coatepeque is one of the largest lakes in the country. It has clean, blue water that reaches into a depth of 120m. Plus it also has very steep mountainous slopes in the surroundings. The amazing attractions in Coatepeque Caldera make it one of the best tourist attractions in El Salvador.

There’s also a highway which is on the ridge of the crater. It gives onlookers incredible panoramic views. The visitors can get up close and personal with the lake by taking a boat onto the water. The beach houses which are around the shore of the lake are popular weekend getaways.

10. Santa Ana

Santa Ana is a place for those looking for a bit of a mix between San Salvador’s modern city life ten Santa Ana is the best choice. It is one of the most popular El Salvador attractions so far. It is also the second-largest city in El Salvador. You can spend the days here in happiness as the streets are very peaceful. Also, this city has a lot of museums which attract the tourist’s attention.

There are also fantastic bars and restaurants in Santa Ana. So you can flavor all the famous food in this country. You can also find the Santa Ana Volcano, which is the highest volcano in El Salvador. Plus a lot of other lush green mountains.

There’s a zoo in Santa Ana located on 20 acres at Prentice park with plants and animals. This zoo includes fascinating rides and attractions. There are also many interesting animals for tourists to see including Howler monkeys, green iguanas, white-faced saki monkeys, giant anteaters, and birds.

11. The Ancient Ruins Of Joya de Ceren

Among so many places in El Salvador, Joya de Ceren is worth a visit. The ruins of Joya de Ceran are in the liberation department of El Salvador. They are also known as ‘Pompeii of America.’ This habitat is more than 3000 years old. The Mayan people were living here under threat from the local volcano. But in the end, they had to evacuate this place because of the rising fear of volcanoes. This makes Joya de Ceren one of the most historical El Salvador tourist attractions.

This city went under volcanic ash only to be safer much later. But now this has become a tourist spot for tourists who love the mysterious history of this place.

12. Cerro Verde National Park

It is a popular belief that this park was named after the volcano Cerro Verde. It contains three different volcanoes. The other two volcanoes are Santa Ana, Izalco. Verde is the most popular. And one of the main reasons for its popularity is its magnificent peaks and cloud forest. This gives an incredible view of the countryside. It’s a great tourist attraction for tourists who love discovering, making it one of the best El Salvador tourist attractions.

Cerro Verde has a beautiful park. And awesome viewpoints from which you view the majestic volcanoes and the park is an excellent place for bird watching, outdoor games, walking on the trails and due to the frequent rains, constant mist and high humidity the area is always greener so you enjoy the healthy air.

13. El Zonte Beach

The next place that comes in our list of the best El Salvador tourist attractions is the El Zonte Beach. The humble little hippie beach town in EL Zonte is in the south of San Salvador. The beach is massive boulders, and the waves on the beach are trashy. It is not ideal for swimming in the water, but it’s better for experienced surfers.

This is a perfect place for tourists to enjoy their day. And that’s because of the cheap and rustic hotels, cheap food, and beverages. All these attract tourists to have a visit.

14. Costo del Sol

This area is popular for a reason, which is that it’s gorgeous. And popular means it’s sparsely populated and has a very beautiful and amazing beach view. That’s why Costo del Sol is among the most popular El Salvador tourist attractions.

This area also has a theme park named Atlantis Water Park. It has some lush jungle and exotic wildlife in its surroundings. It’s definitely worth a visit. You can also ride many rides and coasters here, which is amazing if you are on vacation with your kids.

15. Pelourinho

Next up in our list of the best El Salvador tourist attractions comes Pelourinho. Pelourinho is a tourist spot that was the governmental and residential center. But that’s when the city was the capital of the colony of Brazil. This beautiful city is the finest ensemble of the 17 and 18 centrum buildings in Latin America.

It is best for tourists who want to have more knowledge of the historical matter of Pelourinho. You can see the colorful buildings which attract the tourists a lot.

16. Playa El Esternón beach

Playa El Esteron beach is a beautiful beach and is as popular as other beaches in El Salvador. The surf is gentle, and the beach is always quiet because the area is not filled with much crowd. If you want to have a peaceful and good day with your friends or alone you can visit this beach. The Playa El Esteron beach is among the most popular beaches when we talk about El Salvador tourist attractions.

The food at Playa El Esternon beach is quite amazing. Tourists love visiting this spot because of the food there. There are so many varieties including seafood such as calamari, shrimp, clam, crab, lobster, fried stuffed fish, shrimp cooked in butter, these are the most authentic food you will ever find in El Salvador.

17. Playa El Sunzal Beach

This beach is located around La Liberated, tranquil El Salvador Beach, which is quite striking, with beautiful black glittering sand. Tourists who love swimming or surfing this beach has shops, swimsuit stores and so much more. And it’s the best place for tourists who surf.

There are also many hotels available at Playa El Sunzal Beach. There is nothing like waking up to the sound of huge waves and the sea air floating into your bedroom. These are one of the best hotels in El Sunzal beach Casa de Mar Hotel And Villa, Kayu Hotel, Hotel, and Bar La Guitarra, Los Almendros El Sunzal. They provide you all the facilities with the best services.

18. Playa El Majahual

This is a busy village of El Majahual, which is a top El Salvador backpacker destination. This beach is one of the cleanest beaches because its sand is really smooth, and the water is also quite clear, which attracts the tourist to visit this spot.

This village is very famous for restaurants here because they have delightful and tasty varieties of food which will leave the tourists shocked. Here are the top 5 restaurants famous for their delicious food El Majahaul, Rancho pacifico Azul, Rancho Benitez, Rock, and Roe Fish Shop. Tourists can go here and enjoy all types of food they crave for.

El Majahaul beach is one of the most visited beaches. It’s an excellent tropical beach to visit and relax with your family and friends and this beach is mostly crowded. The shores are filled with stores made out of palm trees and woods selling hand made souvenirs.

So these are 18 of the best El Salvador tourist attractions. Exploring these things to do in El Salvador is a must when it comes to tourism. But most people do not know much about tourist attractions and famous places in El Salvador. Tourism in El Salvador is no doubt an interesting and enjoyable experience. All the tourist attractions that we mentioned above provide the best views, enjoyment, and more.

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El Salvador Travel Guide And Tips How To Stay Safe

Planning a journey to El Salvador? You’ve arrived at the perfect page!

As a travel enthusiast who has explored the beauty of this Central American gem, I’m thrilled to present a comprehensive El Salvador travel guide .

Whether you’re into beautiful beaches, green landscapes, history, or just soaking in local vibes, this guide has all the info you need!

We’ll chat about the basics – like where is El Salvador located, how to get there, best things to do, great places to stay, and more!

So, if you’re someone who loves nature, enjoys a good adventure, or just wants to soak up some local culture, keep reading for the ultimate El Salvador travel guide. Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

• El Salvador is a small but mighty Central American country with diverse landscapes and a rich history.
• Before you go, it’s important to know essential information about traveling to El Salvador, including the currency, language, and safety precautions.
• This El Salvador travel guide covers everything you need to know, from travel logistics to cultural insights, to make the most of your trip.

Related Posts:

• El Salvador

About El Salvador

If you’re planning a trip to El Salvador, there are a few things you should know before you go. Here’s some essential information to help you prepare for your trip.

Where is El Salvador located?

Where is El Salvador located? That is a question I have heard very often. The location question arises because the country is not particularly overrun with tourists.

In short, it is not a popular destination. The country is located in Central America and borders Guatemala and Honduras.

To illustrate, I have attached a map with the location of El Salvador.

Fact! Tourism is one of the major industries of the country. San Salvador offers tourists amazing beaches and the best surfing spots on the pacific coast. El Salvador received 707,000 tourists in 2020, which places them 113th in the world in absolute terms.

It is clear that smaller countries consistently rank lower than absolute numbers of visitors.

If we relate the number of tourists to the number of inhabitants of Salvador we get a somewhat more similar picture: with 0.11 tourists per capita, Salvador ranked 118th in the world. In Central America, in 5th place, behind Panama .

History of El Salvador

El Salvador has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The country was once inhabited by the Maya and Pipil civilizations, and was later colonized by the Spanish in the 16th century.

El Salvador gained independence from Spain in 1821 and has since experienced periods of political turmoil and civil war. Today, the country is a democratic republic with a growing economy.

Language of El Salvador

The official language of El Salvador is Spanish. While many people in the country do speak English, it’s always a good idea to learn some basic Spanish phrases to help you get around and communicate with locals.

El Salvador Currency

The official currency of El Salvador is the US dollar, so there’s no need to exchange your money. However, it’s always a good idea to carry small bills and coins for purchases at local markets and street vendors.

Time in El Salvador

El Salvador is in the Central Standard Time zone, which is 6 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-6). Keep this in mind when planning your travel itinerary or scheduling activities.

Weather in El Salvador

El Salvador has a tropical climate, with an average temperature of around 80°F (27°C) year-round.

The rainy season runs from May to October, so be sure to pack a raincoat or umbrella if you’re traveling during this time. The dry season runs from November to April, which is the best time to visit if you’re looking for sunny weather.

Travel Advisory for El Salvador

It’s important to be aware of any travel advisories before visiting a foreign country .

As of November 2023, the U.S. Department of State has a Level 2 Travel Advisory for El Salvador, which means travelers should exercise increased caution due to crime. Be sure to research the current situation and take necessary safety precautions while traveling.

Electricity

El Salvador uses the same electrical outlets as the United States, with a voltage of 120V. If you’re traveling from a different country, you may need a voltage converter and/or adapter to use your electronic devices.

It’s important to take necessary health precautions before traveling to El Salvador.

The CDC recommends getting vaccinated for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies, as well as taking malaria medication if you’re visiting certain areas.

Be sure to drink bottled or purified water and avoid street food to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Emergency Services

In case of an emergency, dial 911 in El Salvador.

It’s a good idea to have a copy of your passport and other important documents with you at all times, and to keep emergency contact information on hand.

El Salvador economy

In 2020, El Salvador generated about 661.01 million euros in the tourism sector alone.

That corresponds to 3.1% of the gross domestic product and about 4% of all international tourism revenues in Central America. Tourism is one of the most important sectors of El Salvador’s economy .

Often unknown, this country has something to surprise between volcanoes and lakes and between colonial cities and beaches of the Salvadoran coast. 

Travel Logistics

When planning a trip to El Salvador, there are several important travel logistics to consider. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Flights to El Salvador

There are several airlines that offer flights to El Salvador, including American Airlines, Delta, United, and Avianca.

You can find cheap flights to El Salvador by using flight search engines like Kayak or Skyscanner.

If you’re flying from Los Angeles, you can find direct flights to El Salvador from LAX .

↳ For a seamless and affordable flight booking experience, secure your tickets by  clicking here

Flight Duration

The flight duration to El Salvador depends on your departure location. For example, a flight from Los Angeles to San Salvador takes around 5 hours. If you’re flying from New York, the flight can take around 7 hours.

Distance from El Salvador to Other Countries

El Salvador is located in Central America and shares borders with Guatemala and Honduras. It is also close to Nicaragua and Costa Rica . If you’re planning a multi-country trip, El Salvador can be a great addition to your itinerary.

Payment Methods

In El Salvador, the official currency is the US dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, but it’s always a good idea to carry cash for smaller purchases. Bitcoin is also accepted in some places, particularly in tourist areas.

• 7 Top El Salvador resorts with the best ocean views

Exploring El Salvador

El Salvador is a small Central American country that boasts a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals.

San Salvador

The capital city of El Salvador is San Salvador, which is a great place to start your journey. Here you can explore the historic downtown area, visit the National Palace, Catedral Metropolitana, and the Antiguo Cuscatlán.

Best beaches in El Salvador

If you’re looking to relax on some of the best beaches in El Salvador , head to La Libertad. This surf city El Salvador has some of the best waves in the world and is a popular spot for surfers from all over the globe.

One of the most popular beaches in La Libertad is El Tunco, which is known for its black sand and vibrant nightlife.

Ruta de las Flores El Salvador

If you’re interested in exploring more of El Salvador’s natural beauty, take a trip along the Ruta de las Flores.

This scenic route takes you through picturesque villages, coffee plantations, and stunning landscapes.

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit some of the best places to visit in El Salvador, including the charming town of Juayúa and the stunning waterfalls of Los Chorros.

When it comes to accommodation, Yali Hotel El Salvador is a great option. Located in the heart of San Salvador, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, great amenities, and a convenient location.

There are plenty of things to do in El Salvador, from exploring the country’s rich history and culture to enjoying outdoor activities like hiking, surfing, and snorkeling. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, El Salvador has something to offer everyone.

• San Salvador Travel Guide 2024
• Lesser known volcanoes to visit in El Salvador

Culinary Delights

El Salvador is known for its vibrant and diverse culinary scene that reflects the country’s cultural heritage.

The cuisine is influenced by a mix of indigenous and Spanish cultures, as well as the flavors of neighboring countries like Mexico and Guatemala. If you’re a foodie, you’ll definitely want to explore the delicious food in El Salvador.

Traditional food in El Salvador

One of the most popular dishes in El Salvador is the pupusa, a traditional Salvadoran dish made of cornmeal or rice flour filled with cheese, beans, and/or meat. You can find pupusas in almost every corner of the country, and each region has its own specialty.

Some of the best pupusas in El Salvador can be found in La Libertad, a coastal town known for its seafood and street food scene.

Typical El Salvador food

Another must-try dish is the yuca con chicharrón, a hearty dish made of fried cassava (yuca) and pork cracklings (chicharrón). This dish is often served with curtido, a pickled cabbage slaw, and tomato sauce.

If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll be delighted to know that El Salvador offers plenty of fresh seafood dishes. Pescado a la Plancha, or grilled fish, is a coastal favorite often served with rice, salad, and fried plantains.

For something a bit different, try Salvadoran ceviche. Unlike its Peruvian counterpart, Salvadoran ceviche often features shrimp and is served with a tomato-based sauce, giving it a unique twist.

When it comes to drinks, you can’t leave El Salvador without trying the horchata, a refreshing drink made of ground rice, cinnamon, and vanilla. Another popular drink is the tamarindo, a sweet and tangy drink made of tamarind fruit.

Best restaurants in El Salvador

If you’re looking for the best restaurants in El Salvador, San Salvador, the capital city, has plenty of options.

Some of the best El Salvadorian food can be found in La Pampa Argentina , a steakhouse that also serves traditional Salvadoran dishes, and La Ventana , a restaurant that offers a modern twist on Salvadoran cuisine.

Overall, El Salvador offers a wide variety of delicious and unique dishes that are sure to satisfy any foodie’s palate. Make sure to try the traditional food in El Salvador and explore the local street food scene for a truly authentic culinary experience.

El Salvador Interesting Facts

El Salvador is a small country, but it has a lot to offer travelers. Here are some interesting facts about El Salvador:

• El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America.
• The country is known for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and stunning volcanoes.
• El Salvador is also home to many ancient ruins and archaeological sites, including the Mayan ruins of Tazumal and Joya de Cerén.
• El Salvador is one of the few countries in the world that does not have a standing army.

El Salvador Facts About Culture

El Salvador has a rich and diverse culture that is influenced by its indigenous roots, Spanish colonial past, and modern-day influences. Here are some interesting facts about El Salvador’s culture:

• El Salvador is known for its vibrant music and dance scene, including the national dance, the “punta.”
• The country is also famous for its arts and crafts, including pottery, weaving, and woodcarving.
• El Salvador has a strong tradition of Catholicism, with many religious festivals and celebrations throughout the year.
• Family is very important in El Salvadorian culture, and extended families often live together and support each other.

What is El Salvador Famous For?

El Salvador is famous for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Here are some things that El Salvador is known for:

• Surfing: El Salvador has some of the best surfing in the world, with world-class waves at spots like El Sunzal and La Libertad.
• Coffee: El Salvador is known for its high-quality coffee, which is grown in the country’s lush mountain regions.
• Pupusas: This traditional Salvadorian dish is a thick corn tortilla filled with cheese, beans, and/or meat, and is often served with a side of curtido (a pickled cabbage relish).
• Volcanoes: El Salvador has over 20 active volcanoes, including Santa Ana, which is the highest volcano in the country.

Practical Tips and Recommendations

When planning your trip to El Salvador, there are a few practical tips and recommendations to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some things to consider:

Travel Tips for El Salvador

El Salvador is a relatively safe country, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in areas that are unfamiliar to you. Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

If you plan on driving in El Salvador, be prepared for heavy traffic and chaotic driving conditions. It’s also important to note that many roads are in poor condition, so take caution when driving and consider hiring a local driver.

What to Pack for El Salvador

El Salvador has a tropical climate, so lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended. Pack comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, as well as swimwear for the beaches. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Does El Salvador Have Uber?

Yes, Uber is available in El Salvador. It’s a convenient and affordable way to get around, especially in the cities. However, be aware that Uber drivers may not be familiar with all areas of the country, so be prepared to provide directions if necessary.

Is El Salvador Expensive?

El Salvador is generally an affordable destination, especially compared to other Central American countries. However, prices can vary depending on where you go and what you do. Expect to pay more in tourist areas and for activities like surfing and zip-lining.

• Plan your perfect one week itinerary in El Salvador

Safety and Concerns

The country has had a reputation for high levels of crime and violence in the past, but the situation has improved significantly in recent years.

According to  ElSalvadorInfo.net , the homicide rate in El Salvador has declined to its lowest level in over 30 years. This means that, overall, it is safe to visit El Salvador in 2023.

That being said, it is important to exercise caution and take certain precautions to ensure your safety while traveling in El Salvador.

The U.S. Department of State has issued a travel advisory for El Salvador, urging travelers to reconsider travel due to crime.

The advisory notes that while the government has taken steps to improve security, crime remains a serious problem in the country. It is recommended that travelers exercise increased caution, especially when visiting certain areas.

One of the main concerns in El Salvador is the gang problem.

Gangs, or “maras,” are present in many parts of the country and are responsible for a significant amount of the crime.

It is important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid areas where gangs are known to operate. Avoiding wearing flashy jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash can also help reduce the risk of becoming a target.

When traveling in El Salvador, it is also important to be aware of the local laws and customs. The possession of drugs, including marijuana, is illegal and can result in severe penalties. It is also important to avoid political demonstrations and large gatherings, as these can sometimes turn violent.

Overall, while there are still safety concerns in El Salvador, it is possible to have a safe and enjoyable trip by taking certain precautions.

By staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding high-risk areas, and following local laws and customs, you can minimize your risk and have a great experience in this beautiful country.

Safe places to visit in El Salvador 

There are many safe places to visit in El Salvador. I tried to avoid cities and see as many places outside of them as possible. It was a very thoughtful decision. 

Lac Coatepeque

A stunning blue pool nestled beneath the peaks of the Cerro Verde, Izalco, and Santa Ana volcanoes and bordered by sloping sugar and coffee plantations.

Lake Coatepeque is one of El Salvador’s most enchanting natural attractions, located at the edge of Cerro Verde National Park. It is nearly 6 km long.

There are many safe places to visit in El Salvador. I tried to avoid cities and see as many places outside of them as possible. It was a very thoughtful decision.

Volcan Santa Ana (Volcán Ilamatepec)

Cerro Verde National Park’s star attraction is also its most threatening – Santa Ana Volcano (Volcán Ilamatepec), El Salvador’s largest and most active volcano , which last erupted in 2005 when the force of the eruption hurled car-sized rocks. For more than 1.5 km.

Parc national du Cerro Verde

With its trio of volcanic peaks encircled by lush jungle, an extensive network of hiking trails, and the nearby crater lake of Coatepeque, Cerro Verde National Park presents some of the most stunning scenery in El Salvador.

Parc National El Boquerón

With a trio of peaks surrounding the spectacular volcanic crater of El Boqueron, the wildflower-covered slopes of El Boquerón National Park are a scenic hiking spot, and less than a 30-minute drive from San Salvador, it is a popular choice for a day trip from the Capital.

Théâtre national d’El Salvador

Built between 1911 and 1917, the magnificent National Theater of El Salvador (Teatro Nacional de San Salvador) in San Salvador is not only one of the city’s main monuments but also a national monument and the oldest theater in Central America.

The archaeological site of Joya de Cerén 83

A pre-Columbian Mayan agricultural village dating back to 600 A.D. and the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in El Salvador, the impressive ruins of Joya de Cerén were discovered in 1976 and have since become one of the most visited archaeological sites in the country.

El Imposible National Park

The largest of El Salvador’s four national parks, El Imposible National Park, is home to one of the world’s most fragile ecosystems, providing a haven for several endangered plant and animal species.

It is located on one of the country’s most important historical trade routes; El Impossible is known for its treacherously steep gorge that has claimed the lives of many travelers and mules over the years.

Why is El Salvador dangerous?

El Salvador has a bad reputation, which it is struggling to shake off: a legacy of the civil war, which ended more than two decades ago, and the violence between rival gangs, which generates a very high homicide rate.

However, the victims are mainly linked to criminal groups or victims of their racketeering. The risks are much lower for tourists, especially since the tourist police have taken the initiative to secure some of the most important sites.

Guards will escort you, for example, to the top of the Santa Ana volcano to ensure you don’t get robbed on the way!

It would be best if you avoided unsafe neighborhoods, did not hang around in the city after dark – as everywhere in Latin America, in fact -and remained discreet in all circumstances.

For withdrawals from ATMs, do not take large sums of money and prefer shopping centers, hotels, or banks, which are safer.

El Salvador dangerous areas

In El Salvador, there are many dangerous areas that I do not recommend going to, especially tourists.

On the other hand, there are also many safe places for tourists. San Salvador and Santa Ana are considered the most dangerous cities.

There are also places where you can feel 100% secure. Importantly, gang violence very rarely targets tourists. Shootouts occur between rival gangs. 

Interestingly, it gets dangerous in most Latin American countries when the sun goes down. That doesn’t just apply to moving as a pedestrian.

When driving a car after dark, it’s good to remember to keep your windows closed. Car hijackings are common.

The mentioned attacks are possible and shared in the Capital, San Salvador, and outside the city. There have been cases of criminals following tourists from the airport to their accommodation. In case of an attack, it is better to hand over valuables than risk your life. 

Most violent crimes came from gangs like MS-13 or 18th Street Gang. After Salvadorans elected Nayib Bukele as president, the crime rate dropped nearly 60 percent in one year. The drop was also likely due to the coronavirus pandemic and numerous blockades in the streets.

Apopa 

Apopa is classified as a dangerous place. The place is a suburb of San Salvador. The gang’s Barrio 18 and MS-13 are active there.

Apopa is a relatively safe place for tourists but certainly less safe than downtown El Salvador. The crime rate is still high there. That’s because of fights between rival gangs.

Sonsonate is one of the most dangerous place in El Salvador. The locality has the highest homicide rate. Gang members are there and is a strategic place in the trafficking of drugs to other countries.

Lake Ilopango has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. Nature-filled crater lake with a volcanic caldera. Ilopango is one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world.

This fact alone makes this place one of the most hazardous in El Salvador. Let me add that the risk of eruption is shallow.

As a tourist, it is worth remembering that this place is potentially dangerous because of robberies, car thefts, and pickpockets. It is worth going there with an experienced guide who knows the area very well. 

Mexicanos is a place known as a suburb of San Salvador. Locals often buy vegetables and fruits there that come in from the surrounding areas. It is not a place with many activities for tourists or accommodations. It is worth avoiding this place due to gang activity.

Izalco is a stratovolcano located just over an hour’s drive from the capital city of El Salvador. The famous volcano is located near the Santa Ana Volcano.

Tourists are very eager to visit and climb this volcano. It is equally an ideal place for all kinds of thieves. Tourists are very keen to see and climb this volcano. It is similarly a perfect place for all sorts of thieves. You will certainly be shocked when an armed bodyguard accompanies you on your climb.

Beyond Borders

If you’re planning a trip to Central America, you may be wondering how El Salvador compares to its neighboring countries.

Here’s a brief comparison of El Salvador versus Costa Rica and Panama , as well as Peru versus El Salvador.

El Salvador vs Costa Rica

Costa Rica is often touted as one of the most popular travel destinations in Central America, but El Salvador has its own unique charm.

While Costa Rica is known for its lush rainforests and eco-tourism, El Salvador offers visitors a chance to explore its cultural and historical sites, as well as its beautiful beaches and natural reserves.

In terms of safety, both countries have their own issues, but El Salvador has made significant strides in recent years to improve its security situation.

El Salvador also tends to be less crowded and less expensive than Costa Rica, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

El Salvador vs Panama

Panama is another popular destination in Central America , known for its canal and vibrant city life. However, El Salvador offers a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and adventure .

Both countries have a rich history and culture, but El Salvador’s indigenous heritage and Mayan ruins set it apart from Panama. Additionally, El Salvador’s beaches are less crowded and more pristine than those in Panama.

Peru vs El Salvador

While Peru is located in South America, it’s worth comparing to El Salvador as both countries offer visitors a chance to explore ancient ruins and cultural sites.

Peru is known for its impressive Machu Picchu and Inca heritage, while El Salvador’s Joya de Cerén offers a glimpse into the daily life of the Mayan people.

In terms of natural beauty, Peru’s Andes Mountains and Amazon rainforest are unmatched, but El Salvador’s Montecristo Cloud Forest and Ruta de las Flores offer their own unique charm.

Additionally, El Salvador tends to be less crowded and more affordable than Peru, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

Overall, El Salvador offers visitors a chance to explore a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore ancient ruins, or hike through lush forests, El Salvador has something for everyone.

FAQ El Salvador Travel Guide

What are some must-see views in el salvador.

El Salvador has a lot of natural beauty to offer. Some must-see views include the Montecristo Cloud Forest, the Santa Ana Volcano, and the El Boqueron National Park.

These locations offer stunning views of the natural landscape of El Salvador.

What should be included in an El Salvador travel itinerary?

When planning your El Salvador travel itinerary, it is important to include a mix of natural and cultural experiences.

Some must-visit destinations include the colonial town of Suchitoto, the Mayan ruins of Tazumal, and the beautiful beaches of La Libertad. Additionally, make sure to try some of the delicious local cuisine and visit the local markets.

What are the current travel advisories for El Salvador?

As of November 2023, the US Department of State has issued a Level 3 Travel Advisory for El Salvador, recommending travelers to reconsider travel due to crime. It is important to stay aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.

What are the requirements for traveling to El Salvador?

All travelers to El Salvador must have a valid passport and a return ticket. Visitors from certain countries may also require a visa.

What are some all-inclusive vacation packages for El Salvador?

There are a variety of all-inclusive vacation packages available for El Salvador. Some popular options include beach resorts in La Libertad and eco-lodges in the Montecristo Cloud Forest. It is important to research and compare packages to find the best fit for your travel needs and budget.

What are some recommended activities to do in El Salvador?

El Salvador has a lot of activities to offer visitors. Some recommended activities include surfing at El Tunco Beach, hiking the Santa Ana Volcano , exploring the Joya de Cerén archaeological site, and visiting the San Salvador Cathedral.

Additionally, make sure to try some of the delicious local cuisine and visit the local markets.

What is El Salvador’s National Dish?

El Salvador’s national dish is the pupusa, which is a thick corn tortilla filled with cheese, beans, and/or meat. Pupusas are often served with a side of curtido, which is a pickled cabbage relish. Pupusas are a staple of Salvadorian cuisine and can be found at street vendors and restaurants throughout the country.

In conclusion, El Salvador is a hidden gem in Central America that is worth a visit. With its beautiful beaches, stunning natural landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, there are many reasons to visit El Salvador.

Here are some of the top reasons to consider visiting this amazing country:

• Beaches : El Salvador is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Central America. From El Tunco to El Zonte, the country’s coastline is dotted with picturesque beaches that offer great surfing, swimming, and sunbathing opportunities.
• Natural Landscapes : El Salvador is a biodiverse country with lush forests, volcanic lakes, and cloud forests. The Montecristo Cloud Forest is a must-visit for nature lovers, as it is home to diverse flora and fauna.
• Rich Culture : El Salvador has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its art, music, and architecture. The country’s colonial-era towns, such as Suchitoto, are a testament to its history and offer a glimpse into its past.
• Delicious Cuisine : El Salvador is famous for its delicious cuisine, especially its national dish, pupusas. These stuffed tortillas are a must-try when visiting the country, and you can find them in almost every street corner.
• Affordability : El Salvador is an affordable destination, with low prices for accommodation, food, and transportation. You can travel on a budget and still enjoy all the country has to offer.
• Friendly People : Salvadorans are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. You’ll feel welcome and at home when visiting the country.
• Adventure Activities : El Salvador offers a range of adventure activities, from hiking to surfing to zip-lining. You can explore the country’s natural landscapes and get your adrenaline pumping at the same time.
• Mayan Sites : El Salvador has several Mayan sites that are worth a visit, such as Joya de Cerén and Tazumal. These ancient ruins offer a glimpse into the country’s pre-Columbian history.
• Off the Beaten Path : El Salvador is still relatively undiscovered by tourists, which means you can explore the country’s hidden gems without the crowds.
• Easy to Get Around : El Salvador is a small country, which makes it easy to get around. You can travel from one end of the country to the other in just a few hours, making it a great destination for a short trip.

Overall, El Salvador is a fantastic destination that offers something for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture, you’ll find it all in this beautiful country.

So why not add El Salvador to your travel bucket list and start planning your trip today with the help of my El Salvador travel guide?

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I’m Magdalena – Globetrotter, Free Spirit, and your personal travel guide. Since 2017, I’ve been calling France my home while exploring and falling in love with 35+ diverse countries, from the frost-kissed ski towns to the sun-kissed beaches of Costa Rica and El Salvador. Thrive and Wander is a testament to my adventures, filled with destination guides, travel itineraries, and tips for solo female travel. So grab your backpack, let go of your fears, and join me on this journey to explore our beautiful world!

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The Top 15 Things to Do in El Salvador

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It may be Central America's smallest country, but El Salvador packs a lot into its 8,124 square miles — from black sand beaches to colonial villages brimming with new life after a destructive civil war. Here are 15 ways to thoroughly enjoy the vibrant culture, history, and beauty that the “Land of Volcanoes” offers. 

Dine Endlessly on Pupusas

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They're El Salvador's national dish: thick, handmade tortillas stuffed with ingredients like cheese, Salvadoran chicharron (crispy pork), and loroco (a local edible flower), grilled in oil and served alongside a bowl of curtido (cabbage salad) and a spicy red sauce. A common and affordable staple food that's been passed down through generations, pupusas are served everywhere throughout the country — at roadside stands, restaurants, and at dedicated pupuserias where pupusa-making is an artwork. In fact, the second Sunday in November is National Pupusa Day in El Salvador, with events such as pupusa-eating contests and street fairs held countrywide, though a large collection are held in San Salvador — El Salvador's capital city.

Hike an Active Volcano

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El Salvador is a literal hotbed of seismic activity, with at least 23 active volcanoes — many which are accessible by travelers. The tallest of these is Santa Ana, a 7,812-foot-tall stratovolcano located within the Parque Nacional Los Volcanes, also known as Cerro Verde National Park, which is also home to volcanoes Izalco and Cerro Verde. Hiking to Santa Ana's peak is a great workout and you're rewarded with stunning views, including view of the volcano's own highly acidic green crater lake with the stunning Lake Coatepeque in the distance, as well as verdant coffee plantations and Izalco's barren slopes. The round-trip journey takes a few hours, trekking from Santa Ana's main crater and across private land to the park's official entrance, then up through cloud forest and along an open, rocky stretch to the top. Both a guide and a couple of armed security officers are required for the scheduled hike, which is usually done in a large group.

Learn About Local Art and Create Some of Your Own

Artisans reign in El Salvador's many towns and villages, where handicrafts have a long local history. To truly experience this wealth of creative offerings, a drive along its Ruta Artesanal or “Artisan Route” is a must. Each town along the route showcases its own individual craft — San Sebastián is known as the city of “colorful textiles,” while Ilobasco boasts “surprise” miniatures: egg-size ceramics that open to reveal a scene such as a nativity or a woman making pupusas — with opportunities to purchase handmade works and try crafting something of your own. Swing by Suchitoto's Arte Añil Gallery to learn about traditional indigo dyeing and create your own souvenir scarf. After you're done, head over to La Palma — a mountain town just under 8 miles away from the Honduras border. border with Honduras — to see tiny copinol seeds painted with bright and colorful depictions of daily-life. Local artist Fernando Llort popularized this simplistic style of painting, known as Arte Naif, which can be seen on murals throughout town. 

Discover Suchitoto: El Salvador's Cultural Hub

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Suchitoto is a picturesque mountain town along the Ruta Artesanal lined with cobblestone streets and colonial architecture that are brimming with pupuserias, art galleries, and cafes — and it's El Salvador's cultural capital. Suchitoto was largely deserted during the country's Civil War from 1980 to 1992, but is today flourishing. The chalk white Santa Lucía church — with its impressive ionic columns — overlooks Suchitoto's central square, and nearby you'll find places like Teatro Alejandro Cotto (“Theater of Ruins”) and Centro Arte Para La Paz (“Art Center for Peace”), both bastions of creativity — especially during February, when the town's month-long International Festival of Arts and Culture occurs. 

Travel the Spectacular Ruta de las Flores

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During the months of October through February, El Salvador's Ruta de las Flores, or “Route of Flowers,” bursts to life with wildflowers in bright shades of pink, red and purple, though this 22-mile mountainous route has plenty to offer the rest of the year, too. Beginning 46 miles west of San Salvador in the town of Nahuizalco, the Ruta de las Flores winds its way along past coffee farms and through picturesque villages, providing spectacular views as it goes. Stops along the way include Nahuizalco, known for its indigenous heritage and wicker and tule handicrafts, and Juayúa, which hosts a popular food festival every weekend where you can taste grilled prawns, chorizo sausages and pupusas. The village's “Seven Waterfalls” trek also provides the perfect cooling-off excursion for El Salvador's sometimes stifling heat. 

Get Adventurous in Apaneca

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At the end of the Ruta de las Flores sits Apaneca, a 4,757-foot-high mountain village that's an ideal hub for thrill-seekers. Embark on a dune buggy adventure along Apaneca's cobbled streets and ascending through cloud forest to reach Laguna Verde, an often mist-shrouded lake at the end of a long mountain pathway. Later, soar through a stunning rainforest canopy on a zip-lining course that overlooks coffee farms and spectacular valleys, with an occasional toucan or two joining you in the trees. 

Drink Like the Locals

The closest thing to a national beer that you'll find in El Salvador is Pislener (yes, the extra “e” is intentional) and it's everywhere: popped open at al fresco beach bars, served up at street-side pupuserias, and on the menus at comedores (neighborhood restaurants) from Suchitoto to San Salvador. But no worries if alcohol isn't your thing. El Salvador is home to a wealth of interesting beverages, like horchata, a drink made of rice and ground nuts, flavored with cinnamon and sweetened with sugar; a sugarcane-flavored, almost bubble gum-tasting soft drink called Kolashampan; and Ensalada, a drinkable fruit salad filled with diced fruits like pineapple and mango.

Hit the Beach Backpacking Circuit

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El Salvador may be the only Mesoamerican country with no Caribbean coastline, but what it lacks in eastern seas it more than makes up for with laid-back Pacific beach towns and legendary right-hand point breaks. The bulk of U.S. tourists to El Salvador are surfers who head to coastal towns like La Libertad, El Tunco, and El Sunzal for the warm waters and long rides. However these beachfront properties are also some of El Salvador's hottest backpacker hubs, with plenty of hostels, loads of pupusa vendors, and tons of shops and bars. Strolls along El Tunco's black sands and La Libertad's Fisherman Pier — where fresh catches of tuna, snapper, and eel appear daily — are a must. It's worth splurging a little ceviche, too. 

Experience Concepción de Ataco, the Town of Murals

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There's something extra special about Concepción de Ataco, or “Ataco” for short, a mountain town along El Salvador's Ruta de la Flores that's covered in colorful artwork. The latter is the result of a 2004 government-sponsored competition to help beautify the country's towns and earned Ataco the nickname “Town of Murals.” The art adorns shops and colonial-era buildings all along its quiet cobblestone streets. With nearby hillsides covered in coffee fields and brimming with singing birds, as well Ataco's own Axul Artesania — a colorful arts and crafts shop that features brightly woven blankets, painted wall-hangings and pillows, and wind chimes — this scenic village is a little slice of charm. 

Explore San Salvador's Old Town

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San Salvador is El Salvador's capital city, and Old Town is its historic center — the heart of its political and religious happenings. The neighborhood's most notable buildings only date back to the 19th and early 20th centuries, since natural disasters such as earthquakes destroyed many of its original Spanish Colonial structures, though the architecture is still impressive. Old Town is home to El Salvador's National Palace, the French Renaissance style National Theater, and the Metropolitan Cathedral, where the remains of Monsignor Oscar Arnulfo Romero — El Salvador's first Catholic saint, recently canonized in October 2018 — currently reside. One of the neighborhood's most illuminating buildings (in the literal sense) is Iglesia El Rosario Catholic Church. Sculptor Ruben Martinez designed this stunning late-20th-century structure, and while its arched-roof concrete exterior seems more akin to an airplane hangar, once inside you're awash in a rainbow of light: resulting from a series of stained-glass windows completely unnoticeable from the outside. 

Savor a Traditional Salvadoran Breakfast

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It's part of the overall Salvadoran experience: a traditional breakfast made up of eggs, refried beans, fried plantains, and cream or cheese. A plate of thick tortillas is usually served on the side, and coffee is par for the course. If you can partake in this daily ritual from an outdoor courtyard or overlooking one of El Salvador's spectacular lakes or mountainsides — all the better.

Trek Alongside a Former Guerrilla

From 1980 to 1992, El Salvador's Civil War wreaked havoc on the country and turned many local communities into ghost towns. One that's recovered from the ashes of despair is Cinquera, where rebel soldiers once killed more than 60 soldiers in a day-long siege of the town. Today, Cinquera is a peaceful community that doesn't turn its back on its past, but instead embraces its history. In the neighboring Cinquera Rainforest Park you can hike among blue morpho butterflies and cascading waterfalls while learning local civil war history first-hand with a former guerrilla fighter as your guide. This tropical nature reserve still features many remnants from the war, including an L-shaped trench where snipers hid and the remains of Rattlesnake Camp, with its former kitchen and improvised hospital for the wounded still standing. 

Learn About Mayan History

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Joya de Ceren is known as “El Salvador's Pompeii.” It's a pre-Columbian Mayan farming community buried under volcanic ash around A.D. 500. Unlike Pompeii, Joya de Ceren's villagers were able to escape — though they left behind everything from furniture to food. A family happened upon the ruins in 1976, and today Joya de Ceren is the only place in the world where you can truly experience the way Mayans lived their daily lives. This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes the remains of adobe structures, obsidian jewelry, and structural recreations (such as that of the village's original sauna) that you can actually enter. Maybe of the buildings were built like mazes to keep spirits out, but the ongoing excavations don't deter El Salvador's national bird — the turquoise-browed motmot or Torogoz — from making use of the space. 

Nosh on Salvadoran Sweets at a Local Panaderia

You can order a quesadilla in El Salvador, but don't expect your typical corn or flour folded tortilla pan-fried and oozing with cheese. In this country, quesadillas are more of a sweet, spongy cheese bread—the kind that goes perfectly with a steaming cup of Salvadoran coffee. Quesadillas Salvadoreña, as they're known, are popular menu items at Salvadoran panaderias , or bakeries, alongside empanadas de leche, delicious custard-filled empanadas sprinkled with sugar and made with plantains. Absolutely divine! 

Help Save Sea Turtles

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El Salvador is home to 500 bird species, 1,000 butterfly species, and four of the world's seven species of sea turtles, which come to nest along the country's Pacific coasts. It turns out that about 40% of the world's Eastern Pacific Hawksbill sea turtle population spends time around Jiquilisco Bay, an enormous biosphere reserve and mangrove-lined estuary that's of prime importance to their conservation. You can actually assist in the release of sea turtle hatchlings and take place in tagging programs through organizations such as FUNZEL SV (the Zoological Foundation of El Salvador). 

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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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Counting Our Footsteps

19 Best Things To Do In El Salvador in 2024- Central Americas Hidden Gem

This is our guide to the best things to do in El Salvador, Including ALL of our favourites from our time there!

El Salvador is a small and beautiful country right in the heart of Central America. It has long stretches of black sand coastline along the Pacific Ocean, as well as Volcanos, national parks, an abundance of waterfalls and so much more. Luckily for us, despite its small size, there are plenty of awesome things to do in El Salvador.

Its convenient location should make for an ideal stop on any backpacker’s itinerary. Sadly, many travellers skip El Salvador due to its shady past and not-so-shiny reputation.

The fact that you are reading this means despite what you may have heard elsewhere, you’re curious and I can already tell you are up for an adventure.

We know how you feel. Having Googled El Salvador, you really do get bombarded with just bad news. We very nearly skipped it. In the end, we decided to go for it and I couldn’t be more thrilled that we did!

El Salvador was nothing like we expected and in the best ways!

Is it safe to visit El Salvador?

First things first, the main question on everybody’s mind is; is El Salvador safe?

Like all of Central and South America, it is wise to be cautious when visiting this part of the world. Remember all of the basics like don’t flash your valuables, remove expensive jewellery, don’t walk alone at night, don’t get in random unmarked vehicles, you know the drill.

With that being said we didn’t feel unsafe once whilst we were in El Salvador.

In the last few years, the country has seen some huge changes, thanks to its new president. Once elected he got straight to work cleaning up the justice system and replacing all of the corrupt judges, with new ones.

He also made changes to the way criminal trials worked, to give prosecutors more time to present evidence. These changes have led to 70,000 gang members being imprisoned in the last 3 years alone.

Where El Salvador was once under the control of gangs and its citizens lived in fear, they are now happy and free and it really shows.

All the locals we spoke to, were so excited to tell us about their new president and the great changes he had made. They were all so happy that more tourists were starting to visit too, reassuring us all the time how safe it is now.

In addition to this, street security has been amped up to the max. Meaning there are armed police, security guards and even soldiers everywhere. You will spot them patrolling parks, on-road checkpoints, in every shop and restaurant, literally everywhere.

This isn’t a bad thing as their presence deters any trouble and just makes everyone feel extra safe. Plus, it’s not that different from the touristy places in Mexico.

Why visit El Salvador?

One of the biggest draws of any traveller to a new destination is how much of an authentic experience they will get from this new place. El Salvador is the perfect example of exploring a country in all of its natural glory before tourism has taken over.

If that isn’t appealing enough then we have put together a list of 19 things that I just know will make you want to book your tickets ASAP.

19 of the BEST things to do in El Salvador

Just a note** At most tourist attractions there will be armed guards or police present. This is not to scare you. They are there to make visitors feel safe and it works. It is all part of the country’s efforts to increase security and crack down on crime. We LOVE IT!

So let’s dive in…

1 – Hike Santa Ana volcano

Top of the list is our number one thing to do in El Salvador and the highlight of our time in the country. Hiking up Santa Ana Volcano was one of our favourite hikes we did in Central America .

Sitting around an hour’s drive from the city of Santa Ana lies the country’s tallest volcano. Santa Ana volcano is still active and last erupted in 2005. Despite its size, it is actually a relatively easy hike for people of all ages and abilities.

You can go on a tour, take a private car or even get a chicken bus to the start of the trail and from there you pay a $6 entrance fee and $3 per person for the guide. You can’t go up without a guide and this is to keep everyone safe.

The hike is around 1.5/2 hours up and is a very gradual slope, nothing too tricky. It is worth wearing trainers or hiking boots because towards the top the path gets rockier and we don’t want any twisted ankles.

The treat when you get to the top is the fluorescent green lake sitting in the crater, steaming away. It can get pretty chilly up there and very windy so don’t forget to take an extra layer with you.

2 – Las Siete Cascadas (The seven Waterfalls)

From Santa Ana, you can visit Las Siete Cascadas, The 7 waterfalls. This is a daily tour that is run by a local woman called Elizabeth. You meet in Juayua at around 8.30 am and she will take you on an adventure to all 7 waterfalls.

You can find the location here on Google Maps .

This is a full-day tour as there is some hiking in between the waterfalls, and of course, time to stop and swim along the way. In fact, we heard at parts you have no choice but to climb up the waterfalls themselves, so wear shoes that can get wet. A dry bag will also be a good idea for this day out, to keep your things dry.

To book this day out with her, just send a message via WhatsApp to (+503)61137277. She will be able to explain to you how to get to Juayua by chicken bus or you can also take a taxi.

3 – Ruta De Las Flores

The flower route is another popular day out. It is a stretch of road around 32km long that passes through 5 towns – Nahuizalco, Salcoatitán,  Apaneca, Ataco and Juayua. The route gets its name thanks to the colourful wildflowers that grow the whole way along the road.

They bloom between November and February making these the best months to do this activity.

You can either hire a driver for the day or take the local chicken buses stopping in each of the towns. Here is a map of the route;

TOP TIP *** For an extra treat, try to plan this day out at the weekend to experience the famous street food festival in Juayua.

4 – Lago de Coatepeque

A visit to Lake Coatepeque is a great way to spend a day or even just an afternoon. Under an hour’s drive from Santa Ana, this beautiful lake fills a volcanic crater and gives some incredible views.

There are multiple viewpoints on the road that goes around the lake on the edge of the crater.

It is safe to swim in the lake or hire kayaks and explore the edges some more. If it gets a little too windy for you then there are plenty of restaurants around the lake to try out for lunch.

5 – Go Surfing in El Tunco

Having the whole west coast of the country on the Pacific Ocean makes El Salvador a surfer’s paradise.

El Tunco is a haven of surf shops offering board rentals or lessons for beginners. Having sat on the beach and watched the sea for many hours, we can see why surfers love it here so much. The waves are awesome and there’s plenty of space for everyone.

El Tunco is by far one of the most popular spots for tourists and surfers on the coast of El Salvador so if you’re looking to connect with other travellers, this is the place to be.

6 – Visit the Port town La Libertad

Not too far from the popular town of El Tunco lies La Libertad. Home to many beautiful beaches and Popular surf spots.

If you’re a fan of beach life then I would recommend taking the time to explore this stretch of the Pacific coast and all the small gems it has to offer.

7 – Salto de Malacatiupan – a naturally hot waterfall

Perhaps one of the most relaxing things to do in El Salvador is a great day out, that will take you up close to the Guatemala Border. A trip to Salta de Malacatiupan in Atiquizaya.

This is the location in Google Maps .

These naturally warm waterfalls are a unique experience created by thermal activity from the nearby volcanos. Heated to a pleasant 30-35 degrees, they are totally safe to swim in and enjoy the warm water.

This visit will only set you back around $2 to park your car and $1 to enter.

8 – Joya de Ceren Archaeological Park

If you’re a history lover then a visit to this ancient archaeological site is definitely for you.

Located between Santa Ana and San Salvador, it is easily accessible from either city by car or public transport.

The impressive site is home to the well-preserved remains of an ancient farming community, that was long since buried by a volcanic eruption. A great spot to learn some of the colourful histories behind this part of the world.

If you feel like doing your homework and reading up on the site before your visit then I would recommend taking a look at the UNESCO world heritage site .

9 – San Andrès Mayan Ruins

Just down the road from Joya de Ceren Archaeological Park, you will also find San Andres Ruins. Why not make a full day of it and explore both?

These ruins are still relatively unexplored making them really intriguing. As you catch glimpses of the Mayan Pyramids peeking out from under the grassy hills, I can bet your mind will be going wild imagining what this huge area looked like in its prime.

It is possible to take a guided tour of both sites (and a couple more) in a day so you don’t miss a thing.

👉 Check out this guided tour of both sites!

10 – Explore the Local Markets and Parque Libertad In Santa Ana

Known as one of the safest cities for tourists to visit in El Salvador, Santa Ana is a great place to explore and get a feel for local life.

Ask anyone to point you in the direction of the markets or from Parque Libertad, find the corner with Pollo Campestre and head down that street. You will hit the markets in no time.

Whether you spend time people-watching in Parque Libertad, shopping around the local markets or eating the street food in the main square, you will feel like a local in no time. Well, maybe not totally local but you’ll get a really good feel for local life that’s for sure.

We had a lovely experience with a local family in the park when their little girl asked to come and say hello to us. They don’t see tourists too often so they were excited to learn more about us.

11 – Cascadas de Don Juan

This hidden gem is one of the best, secret things to do in El Salvador. Well, maybe not a secret, but it is not frequently visited and you are likely to get the whole place to yourself. Sounds great to me!

Ideally, to visit these waterfalls you will need to have your own car or hire a driver to take you as they are a bit trickier to reach by bus.

You can see the location of the waterfalls on Google Maps here .

Once you get there, the waterfalls are only $3 to enter, as they are on private land. It is then a short, easy walk to the waterfall. Once you see them you will find yourself unable to understand why they aren’t more popular, with the tall cascades and lush green surroundings.

Ideal for a picnic and a swim, or just to sit back and marvel at Mother Nature’s beauty.

12 – San Salvador volcano and Boquerón crater

It might sound daunting but this is a super family-friendly activity. It takes just 15-20 minutes to hike to the crater of San Salvador Volcano, making it ideal for people of all abilities and ages.

Just a short Uber ride from the city and you can ask to be dropped off right at the entrance to the hiking trail.

Once you arrive at the top of the volcano, you will be treated to views over the vast crater filled with lush green forest. Not exactly what you would expect to find in the crater of a volcano but a sight to behold nonetheless.

13 – San Salvador Guided Tour

Not that it is not possible to visit on your own, but with a guided group tour you will be shown all the highlights of the city and make sure you don’t miss a thing.

They will also be able to steer you clear of any unpleasant neighbourhoods and answer all of your questions.

Free walking tours are always a great way to explore new cities and learn about their history. We have used GuruWalks before and they were great and really easy to book with.

Just remember that despite being technically free, it is expected that everyone tips at the end however much they can afford or feel the tour was worth.

14 – Visit Santa Ana Cathedral

Right on the edge of Parque Libertad in the centre of town, you will find Santa Ana Cathedral.

The Cathedral is free to enter and look around or you can pay $3 to go up onto the roof and get a full panoramic view of the city from above.

If architecture and history are your things then you will love this stunning building. Both the inside and the outside are impressively maintained and looked after.

15 – Check out the Colonial town of Suchitoto

Another great location only a short drive from El Salvador’s Capital city is the charming town of Suchitoto. As the country’s very first Capital way back in the 1500s, this town is packed with history.

You’ll need at least a full day here, if not longer. To be able to fully appreciate it for all its glory. A great starting point would be the town’s iconic, white church – Santa Lucia Church. Located in Parque Central, you can miss it as it towers above the rest of the town.

16 – Tamanique Waterfalls

From El Tunco you can easily visit Tamanique waterfalls by public bus. We visited these beautiful (and very tall) waterfalls and would highly recommend taking the trip.

You can check out our Guide to these amazing waterfalls for full details on how to get there and the hike itself.

You will probably need a full day for this one and don’t forget to take lunch and water as it is completely off the beaten path, with nowhere to get anything once you start the hike.

It is possible to join group tours from El Tunco to the waterfalls but this will cost you around $40 per person.

17 – Go Whale Watching

This is a slightly trickier one to achieve but El Salvador is unsurprisingly a prime spot for spotting various whale species during November – March as they migrate south.

Due to the lack of tourism infrastructure, whale watching is only practically possible from the beach town of Los Cobanos. Ideally, you will want to stay in this town to make this activity possible, but it is not cheap here.

We asked around and to go whale watching from El Tunco, we would have to pay a driver $80 for the day and then a boat would be arranged and the more people the cheaper it would be, naturally.

For just the 2 of us, it would cost us $140 for the boat. Definitely one of the more expensive things to do in El Salvador, that’s for sure.

If this is something that interests you, all you need to do is inquire with the owner of your hostel or Guest House and they will always know someone who can help you arrange everything. This seems to be the way most things are done in El Salvador.

18 – Enjoy the sunset on El Tunco Beach

As well as being a prime spot for surfers, El Tunco is the PERFECT place to enjoy breathtaking sunsets.

Whether you opt for one of the many beachside bars or restaurants to enjoy the view or grab a couple of beers and head to the beach as we did, you won’t be disappointed.

19 – Eat Pupusas Like a Local

Perhaps one of the cheapest things to do in El Salvador, considering this is referring to some pretty tasty street food that you really should try.

Pupusas are the go-to street food for literally any meal of the day. Yep, that’s right, breakfast, lunch or dinner.

They are essentially a thick round flat bread stuffed with cheese and whatever filling you like; beans, meat, spinach, mushrooms, garlic, you name it they’ve probably got it.

I even managed to have a vegan version by having some made without the cheese.

19 Top Things to Do in El Salvador

Good to know before you go, what is the best time of year to visit el salvador.

The rainy season in El Salvador is typically from May – October. The best time to visit would be November to April during the dry season.

We visited in January and it was perfect.

What currency does El Salvador use?

El Salvador uses US dollars. There are ATMs everywhere and we had no issues at all getting cash out when we needed it.

Interestingly, El Salvador is also the only country in the world to make Bitcoin a legal currency. It hasn’t been a huge success, but still fun to know in case it ever pops up in a pub quiz.

Can you pay by card in El Salvador?

Yes, you can pay by card in most places such as restaurants and supermarkets. Keep in mind that often in Guesthouses and small hotels or hostels it is not possible to pay by card as they are small family-run businesses.

Do you need a visa to enter El Salvador?

We entered El Salvador by land border and it was one of the easiest and fastest border crossings I have ever done.

We didn’t need a visa or to do anything beforehand, we just showed up with enough passport pages and at least 6 months left before it expired. That is for UK and EU citizens at least. There was also no fee required to enter.

It is worth mentioning that Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua all grouped together. When you enter any of these countries you have 90 days in total to visit all of them.

How long do you need in El Salvador?

We spent a week in El Salvador and could’ve easily stayed for twice as long. So at a bare minimum, I would suggest a week.

How to get to El Salvador

If you are visiting only El Salvador then you can fly into San Salvador airport. This will be the cheapest airport to fly to and all other parts of the country are easily accessible from there.

We always use SkyScanner for flights!

The other option is you will be arriving by land border. We came from Antigua, Guatemala to El Salvador via a tourist shuttle bus. This service runs every day. You get picked up around 10/11 am and it takes around 6-8 hours to get to Santa Ana. It is easy to buy a seat on the shuttle by visiting any of the many tour shops in Antigua, they all sell the seats. The cost for this was around $30 per person.

You can also arrive via shuttle from Nicaragua or Honduras. Or Via Chicken buses from all 3, if you’re feeling extra adventurous or are on a tight budget.

Where to stay in El Salvador

We stayed in Santa Ana and El Tunco and would say these two spots are perfect for seeing the best of what El Salvador has to offer. Especially if you only have a week or less, you don’t want to be moving around too much.

Where to stay in Santa Ana

In Santa Ana, we stayed at Casa Vieja Guesthouse. If you only take away one thing from this blog, let it be to book a stay here.

The owners are the most lovely people we have come across on our travels. They will go out of their way to make sure you have a great time and do everything you want to do. Not to mention the rooms are spot on with comfy beds, working AC, and hot showers and the breakfast was super yummy.

Trust us, Luis and his family will not disappoint.

👉 Book this fabulous guesthouse right here!

Where to stay in El Tunco

In El Tunco we stayed in Hotel Eco del Mar. Which is less of a hotel and more like a small bunch of apartments. Really nice big apartments with balconies and even a small pool.

It’s a minute’s walk from the beach and in the other direction, 30 seconds from some great restaurants.

👉 Book Hotel Eco Del Mar now!

How to get around El Salvador

El Salvador is a pretty small country which means getting from one place to the next doesn’t usually take very long.

I will mention now that El Salvador doesn’t have tuk-tuks like its neighbouring countries and tourist shuttles within the country are also hard to come by(due to no demand). But not to worry, to get around you have plenty of options…

Chicken Buses

Firstly chicken buses, like the rest of Central America are the cheapest option. There are buses everywhere you could possibly want to go and they will cost pennies.

They can be a bit confusing for us tourists to navigate but don’t worry, the locals are always happy to help point you in the right direction. You can also check out this website we found that has tonnes of info on all routes you may want to do.

To give you an idea we took a 30-minute chicken bus journey and it cost us $0.75 each!

El Salvador conveniently has Uber, so this is another easy and relatively cheap option you can use.

We didn’t see many marked Taxis and stopping cars on the street is not recommended anyway.

Private tours or drivers

If you ask your hostel or guesthouse how to get to a waterfall or volcano. They can tell you how to get there by bus but the chances are they will know someone with a car who can be your driver for the day.

We did this when we visited Santa Ana volcano. It’s a little more pricey at $20 per person but he waited for us while we did the hike, stopped at viewpoints on the way there and offered to take us to Lake Coatepeque for lunch on the way back.

You can also hire a car and drive yourself. It is perfectly safe to do so and the roads are top quality. Just maybe try to avoid driving at night time if possible.

Is it expensive in El Salvador?

It all depends on your travel style, as always, there is a way to travel for less if you want to. You can check out our blog on how to travel on a budget for some ideas. But I’ll give you an idea of some prices we paid for things;

Example Transport Costs

• 30-minute chicken bus ride – $0.75
• Private driver, depending on time and distance – $40-80
• 50-minute Uber ride – $30

Example Accommodation costs

• Private room in a Guest house in Santa Ana – $25 per night (including breakfast)
• Private room in El Tunco – $65 per night (including breakfast)

***Both are on the cheapest end of the scale

Example Food and Drinks costs

• A takeaway pizza in Santa Ana – $6
• A meal for 2 people in a restaurant in El Tunco – $30
• A speciality Coffee – $4
• A Coffee – $2
• A beer in a bar – $2
• Buying supermarket veggies and noodles to cook for yourself – $10
• Street food (Pupusas) – $1 each

Is it worth going to El Salvador?

The short answer is YES, Absolutely!

I would highly recommend El Salvador to anyone. Not only has it already come leaps and bounds towards being a much safer destination than it used to be but I truly believe it is a total gem that has something to appeal to every type of traveller.

From volcanoes to waterfalls, cathedrals and colonial towns, National parks to beaches, cities and ancient ruins…what else could you possibly need?

Where to Travel After El Salvador?

If you’re interested in exploring more of Central America on your trip, then you’re in luck. El Salvador already borders 3 countries you can choose from; Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua.

I would personally recommend heading either north or south to Guatemala or Nicaragua. Feel free to check out our posts on these countries to get some more inspiration;

• Guatemala Travel Guides
• Nicaragua Travel Guides

You can easily book a seat on a tourist shuttle and go to either of these countries. We used Rooney Shuttles and they were great. They have a direct door-to-door service to Antigua In Guatemala or Leon in Nicaragua.

You could also head to Utila Island after visiting El Salvador like we and so many other backpackers we met planned to do. Utila is every diver’s Dream destination so if this is for you then check out our guide on how to get from El Tunco to Utila , I promise it will save you a lot of time and hassle.

Things to do in El Salvador – Final Thoughts

Hopefully, we have given you enough information to feel safe and confident in visiting this beautiful country. Time to start filling up your itinerary with all these fun things to do in El Salvador. We really loved our time here and my only regret is not staying longer.

I am already looking forward to going back someday!

Happy Travels!

Callie runs this blog alongside Guido. She has been travelling for the last 10 years both as a solo traveller as well as with Guido. She has been to 46 countries and specialises in adventure travel on a budget. Callie is also an expert at creating personalised and unique travel itineraries.

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:

My 1 Week Costa Rica Road Trip Itinerary

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?

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Best things to do in El Salvador  | 30 destinations and tips!

El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America and one of the region’s least visited. But that will soon change, as the security situation has finally improved. El Salvador is a hidden gem with beautiful beaches, shimmering lakes, volcanoes you can climb, national parks and pretty colonial villages. Not to mention the waves; they belong to the best in the world. El Salvador is a country where you can still walk around a Mayan temple by yourself and be on the edge of a volcano crater with only a few other visitors. But what to do in El Salvador? In this article you will find an overview of the most beautiful destinations and best things to do in El Salvador, including tips for hotels, tours, transportation, safety, and culinary and cultural experiences. I am sure El Salvador will be on your bucket list after reading this article.

• Enjoy the Pacific Coast  

El Boqueron volcano

National park el imposible, try the pupasa, traveling in el salvador – transportation and tours.

Best things to do in El Salvador  | 30 destinations and tips  

Suchitoto is one of the most beautiful destinations in El Salvador. This small colonial town is located on Lake Suchitlán, which provides beautiful views. You can stroll around the streets for hours, past colored houses and flowers, have a chat with the locals and enjoy the lovely atmosphere.

You can also get acquainted with the blue gold of El Salvador, Indigo. At Arte Iñil, beautiful products are sold and different workshops take place. Do not forget to visit the waterfall Los Tercios because of its special formation. And of course you have to try the El Salvadoran pupusa. In the evening when it cools down, you will see countless stalls with local people preparing their pupusas in front of you.

Suchitoto is a wonderful place to stay in El Salvador. In the next article you will find the best things to do in Suchitoto in El Salvador, including tips for activities, tours, waterfalls, hotels and restaurants.

Tips for hotels in Suchitoto El Salvador

• Casa 1800 Suchitoto
• Los Almendros de San Lorenzo

Ruta de las Flores – best things to do in El Salvador

One of the most beautiful itineraries you can make in El Salvador is La Ruta de las Flores – the flower route. This route runs from Sonsonate to Ahuachapán and is known for its many coffee fields, waterfalls and small villages with flowers, murals, markets and little shops

Each village has its own atmosphere and things to do. And the surroundings offer waterfalls and lakes, that you can reach in an adventurous way. Take your time for this route. Even though the distances are short, there is a lot to do and experience.

Curious about La Ruta de las Flores in El Salvador? I loved this area so much that I ended up spending a full week here. In the next article I will tell you everything you want to know about La Ruta de Las Flores in El Salvador , with tips for things to do, tours, transportation, hotels and restaurants.

Tips for hotels along La Ruta de las Flores in El Salvador

• Casa 1800 in Los Naranjos
• Casa 1800 Ataco
• Hotels in Juayua
• Hotels in Ataco

Santa Ana volcano hike

Where in some countries you have to hike for hours to reach the top of a volcano, in El Salvador you can reach the top of Ilamantepec volcano , better known as the Santa Ana, within 1.5 hours. At 2300 meters, Santa Ana is the highest volcano in the country. At the top you look straight into the crater, which consists of a beautiful green crater lake. Moreover, on a clear day you have an amazing view of the surroundings. But the way up is also worth it. You walk through a misty forest and pass special trees and plants. Of course there are a few steep parts, but the walk is doable for anyone with a normal physical condition. The Santa Ana volcano hike is one of the top things to do in El Salvador that you should not miss.

Do you also want to hike the Santa Ana volcano? A guide is mandatory. You can book a tour  here .

Enjoy the Pacific Coast  

A visit to the beach of El Salvador should not be missed in this list with tips and things to do. You will find several good beaches, each with its own atmosphere. My personal favorite is El Zonte, because it is quiet and super nice. In the morning the surfers are in the water early and apart from surfing not much happens. There is a wide and beautiful black sand beach where you can take walks and visit caves.

Hotels along the coast

A stay at hotel Palo Verde makes your trip complete. This wonderful hotel with swimming pool and restaurant is located on the beach and is one of the first sustainable hotels in El Salvador. Trust me, a place you don’t want to leave anymore. Curious about a stay at Palo Verde? In the next article you can read everything you want to know about this sustainable surf hotel, including the story of a passionate entrepreneur. Are you looking for a party vibe? Then you want to book a hotel in El Tunco .

Scenic things to do in El salvador

Cerro verde.

Cerro Verde offers one of the most beautiful views of the Santa Ana Volcano and Lake Coatepeque. And when it is clear, you can even see the coast and  Guatemala   with volcanoes such as Fuego,  Acatenango   and Pacaya in the distance. Cerro Verde is an inactive volcano, located 2030 meters above sea level. The crater is eroded and covered by a thick cloud forest. Cerro Verde is part of El Salvador’s Los Volcanes National Park, which consists of five volcanoes: Santa Ana, Izalco, San Marcelino, Coatepeque, and Cerro Verde. You can drive to the top by car, take short walks, visit an orchid garden and go for some bird watching.

Try to make a reservation at  Casa 1800 Cerro Verde , located on the Cerro Verde and one of the most beautiful hotels in El Salvador. From the restaurant but also from your own room you look straight out over the Santa Ana volcano. You can also walk to a platform during sunset where you enjoy the most magical sunset. Are you curious about other unique hotels in El Salvador? In  the next article   you will find an overview of the best places to stay in El Salvador.

Cerro Verde can be reached from Santa Ana. Read more about the best things to do in Santa Ana in El Salvador here .

• Conchagua volcano

Curious about the most beautiful viewpoint in El Salvador? In the southeast of El Salvador, near the border with Nicaragua, there is the Conchagua volcano. And from the viewpoint Mirador Espíritu de la Montaña, you can observe this 1200-meters high inactive volcano. But once at the top, it’s not just the volcano you see, on the platform you have a 360 degree view of the Gulf of Fonseca, overlooking the islands of El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua. Of course you have to be a bit lucky with the weather but wow, this view will leave you speechless. It is one of the things to do, that you should not miss, when visiting El Salvador.

The Conchagua volcano can be easily reached by four-wheel drive. It is also possible to spend the night at the top. Do you want to visit the Conchagua volcano? Check the prices and availability and book your tour  here . In this article you can read more about visiting the Conchagua volcano.

Viewpoints & chairs of Casa 1800

If you see something about El Salvador on Instagram, there is a good chance that you will come across the chairs of Casa 1800. And that is for a good reason. Casa 1800 has managed to claim some of the most beautiful viewpoints and build a restaurant and boutique hotel around them. From a platform, including a big wooden chair you can take great shots of the Santa Ana volcano, Lake Suchitlán, the Izalco volcano and the valley around Ataco. You can even explore El Salvador by going on a special chair route, where you stay in all Casa 1800 hotels. Casa 1800 is one of the best things to do in El Salvador if you want to spend the night in lovely boutique hotels or if you just want to take great pictures.

Hotels Casa 1800

This is an overview of Casa 1800 hotels in El Salvador:

• Casa  1800 Ce rro Verde
• Casa 1800 Los Naranjos

I stayed in 3 of the 4 Casa 1800 hotels myself. In the next article you’ll read more about my stay at Casa 1800 in El Salvador.

Coatepeque Lake

When you are in El Salvador you should definitely visit the Lago de Coatepeque. This crater lake located in the Los Volcanes National Park was created more than 70,000 years ago and is one of the largest lakes in El Salvador (26 km2). You can enjoy the views, take a boat trip and eat delicious fish in one of the surrounding restaurants. It is recommended to book a hotel on the lake, so that you can fully enjoy the surroundings. Lago de Coatepeque, is half an hour’s drive from Santa Ana.

Hotels around Coatepeque

• Hotel Equinoccio  

Lago de Suchitlán

Lake Suchitlán is one of the largest lakes in El Salvador with 135 km2. It was artificially created in 1976 along with the construction of the Cerrón Grande Dam, which was to provide electricity to the area. Today Lake Suchitlán is an important reserve for fish and birds. Especially early in the morning and at the end of the afternoon, when it is not so hot, numerous birds can be seen here. In the harbor of Suchitoto – Puerto Turistico San Juan – it is easy to find a skipper and rent a boat.

Tip: One of the best things to do in Suchitoto in El Salvador is to take a boat trip on the lake around sunset. The sky becomes truly magical.

The Izalco volcano

Another volcano that you can climb in El Salvador is the Izalco. This volcano is located at an altitude of 1950 meters but is more difficult to reach because you first have to walk all the way down to climb up again. And then of course the same way back. A guide is also required here. Don’t feel like a steep climb? Then you can also  book a tour  where you enjoy views of both the Cerro Verde and the Izalco volcano.

Because of its location, the Izalco volcano is also called the “The lighthouse of the Pacific”. The erupting volcano is said to have served as a landmark for ships for years up to 1966. The black-colored cone volcano is the youngest in the country with a height of 1950 meters.

• Bahia de Jiquilisco

When you think of the largest mangrove forest in Central America, you may not immediately think of El Salvador. Yet Bahia de Jiquilisco , with 100,000 hectares, is the largest mangrove area in the region. You will find small islands, bays, canals, sandy beaches, forests and a freshwater lagoon. There are numerous national and migratory birds, many of which are endangered species. It is also an important breeding ground for turtles, including the hawksbill turtle, an endangered sea turtle species that emerge here annually between August and January and nest along the banks.

Discover the bay and surroundings

The best way to explore the nature reserve is by boat. You sail quietly through the channels, along the mangrove where you observe birds and occasionally see a turtle head sticking out of the water. If you’re lucky and get here on a clear day, the peaks of the volcanoes rise above the mangrove in the distance. Along the way, stop at one of the islands for a swim and a walk on the beach with hundreds of pink crabs. Impossible to photograph them because as soon as you take a few steps closer, they disappear under the sand.

Do you want to visit Bahia de Jiquilisco? You can book a tour to Bahia de Jiquilisco  here .

Hotel tips Bahia de Jiquilisco El Salvador

Are you planning to visit Bahia de Jiquilisco? Then you want to spend the night at Puerto Barrillas. You sleep in comfortable cottages right on the water. From your cottage you immediately board the boat for a beautiful trip

From Puerto Barrillas you can visit a private sanctuary for monkeys. They have been rescued from captivity and now live here in freedom. With your visit you support this local project.

Less than a 20-minute drive from the center of San Salvador, on top of the San Salvador volcano, is  El Boqueron national park . This volcano caused an eruption in 1917 that destroyed large parts of the city. Today you can visit the inactive volcano, which consists of two craters. And it is definitely one of the things to do in San Salvador during a morning or afternoon. There are hiking trails, surrounded by pine trees and flowers, that allow you to view the crater from different sides. It is also a popular place for the locals, especially on weekends.

There are numerous restaurants with views over San Salvador on the road up to the volcano. I recommend Pampa or Picnic where you can enjoy tasty dishes in an outdoor setting surrounded by fountains, a slide and photo spots. Do you want to visit El Boqueron?  Here  you will find a number of tours from San Salvador.

Active things to do in El Salvador

Laguna verde.

One of the best things to do when you are around La Ruta de las Flores in El Salvador is to visit Laguna Verde.  This lake is surrounded by mountains and lots of greenery and is located near the village of Apaneca. It is a nice place to walk, picnic or take a boat trip. But the road to get there is probably the most fun. With a buggy you drive from Apaneca, through villages and past coffee plantations, to the lake within 20 minutes. Of course together with a guide who accompanies you during the buggy tour. Even if you are not that adventurous, this trip is highly recommended!

Do you also want to go on a buggy tour? Here   you will find prices and availability. Want to read more about Laguna Verde? Continue reading in my article about the best things to do around La Ruta de las Flores in El Salvador.

The waterfalls route – adventurous things to do in El Salvador

Do you want to see 10 different waterfalls in 2 hours? Along La Ruta de las Flores in El Salvador you can make a spectacular hike along waterfalls: La Ruta de las Siete Cascadas. With a local guide you walk through a tropical area with flowers and trees, through the river past seven waterfalls. The highlight is the ascent of a 55-meter high waterfall. Yes really, you climb over the rocks of the waterfall, with your bare hands and your shoes on. Quite nerve-racking but once you are at the top, you actually want to go back and do it again. After the hike of the seven waterfalls, you’ll continue the trail past coffee plantations to the three waterfalls of Chorros de la Calera. Here you can take a dip and cool off a bit from the sweaty hike.

La ruta de las siete cascadas & Chorros De La Calera are part of La Ruta de las Flores in El Salvador, an interesting route along coffee fields, waterfalls and small villages with flowers, street art, markets and nice shops.

Surfers have known their way to El Salvador for years and that makes perfect sense. El Salvador is one of the very best places in the world to surf. The weather is always nice, the water warm and 95% of the year there are perfect waves. It won’t surprise you if I tell you that one of the best things to do when you are in El Salvador is to take a surf lesson. Or just rent a board yourself and enjoy the great waves. The people on the coast do nothing else than surfing and are happy to share their knowledge and passion with you. Of all the surf lessons I’ve taken in my life, I had the best lesson and the most fun here.

You want to go surfing in El Tunco or in El Zonte. If you choose El Zonte, book an overnight stay at Palo Verde, a hotel that is all about surfing and sustainability. You can book a surf lesson with the Alex Novoa.

Looking for a place to go hiking in El Salvador? Then take a look at tours in the Imposible National Park, a large tropical forest known for its great diversity of flora and fauna. You will find idyllic rivers and gorges surrounded by greenery. With 4000 hectares, it is also the largest national park in the country. Imposible means impossible and refers to the dangerous canyon that took the lives of many farmers and mules, who transported coffee to the port of the Pacific Ocean. It is also the habitat of wild bears, countless birds of prey, butterflies, cougars and other felines. Of course they are not easy to spot, but the fact that they live there says something about the environment where you are.

It is good to know that you have to walk quite a bit to see the most beautiful places in the park. You also need a special permit to enter the park and a guide is mandatory. It is therefore important to plan your trip in time. Keep in mind that it is warm so dress lightly and bring plenty of water.

Cultural things to do in El Salvador

San salvador.

A visit to the capital of El Salvador, San Salvador , should not be missed. What used to be one of the most dangerous cities in the world is now a great place where you can enjoy yourself as a tourist. Visit the old center and observe buildings such as the cathedral, the palace, the national theater and the el Rosario church. In the different museums you can learn more about archaeology, modern art or El Salvador’s famous artist Fernando Llort.

San Benito is one of the nicest neighborhoods to stay in with fine restaurants, lunchrooms and wine bars. Book a night at Nico Urban Hotel and reserve a table at El Xolo, one of Latin America’s best restaurants. 

In the next article you can read more about what to do in San Salvador with tips for places to visit and your stay.

Hotels San Salvador

• Hyatt Centric
• Hotel Barceló
• Nico Urban Hotel

Santa Ana city

Santa Ana is the second city of El Salvador and the capital of the province. The city is a good starting point for amazing volcano tours in the surroundings, a visit to Lake Coatepeque and the Mayan ruins of Tazumal. But the center is also worth exploring. On the central square called Parque Libertad, you will find a number of beautiful buildings including the cathedral, which is also on the Unesco World Heritage List, the town hall and the national theater. It is nice to sit on a bench to observe daily life and schedule a lunch at Simmer Down, a lovely place on the plaza, with tasty pizzas and pastas.

Curious about Santa Ana? In the next article you will find a city guide with many things to do in Santa Ana El Salvador.

Learn more about coffee

Did you know that El Salvador exports fantastic coffee? There are many coffee plantations along La Ruta de las Flores and it is recommended to visit one of them. And where you have many  tours around coffee plantations in a country like Colombia , in El Salvador you can visit small factories as well, showing you a different part of the process. The quantities are smaller than in the surrounding countries but due to the high quality, El Salvador can compete well with its neighboring countries.

During a visit you will learn more about the process: From the moment the beans are brought in to the moment of export. And of course you can also taste coffee yourself afterwards. Check out one of the tours here .

Meet Fernando Llort – cultural things to do in El Salvador

From the first moment I was introduced to his work I was impressed.  Fernando Llort  is one of El Salvador’s most important artists and even seen as the national artist. His art colors the country’s official logos. Fernando Llort’s work can be described as colorful, folkloric and a bit childish. It is sometimes compared to that of Miró and Picasso.

Fundación Fernando Llort – El Arbol de Dios, located in San Salvador is a small museum with a shop and workshop where his work is honored. The town of La Palma also plays an important role. For years, Fernando Llort lived here and taught the locals how to make money by creating art. If you are interested in art, looking for the works of Fernando Llort is for sure one of the things you want to do in El Salvador

Curious about what to do in San Salvador? In the next article you will find a comprehensive guide to San Salvador.

Tips for archaeological things to do in El Salvador

Many people think that Mayan ruins can only be seen in Mexico, Honduras and Guatemala. But El Salvador also has a number of archaeological sites. Perhaps less spectacular than Tikal , Copán and the Mayan temples in Mexico, nevertheless worth a visit. Especially if you are interested in history. Moreover, there is a good chance that you are one of the few visitors walking around here. Here are a few tips for archaeological things to do in El Salvador.

One of the things to do in El Salvador if you are interested in Maya history is to visit Tazumal . This Mayan pyramid is located in the middle of the town Chalchuapa, near the border with Guatemala, and is part of a larger archaeological complex. Tazumal is known for its great Mayan pyramid and is considered the most important and best preserved ruin in El Salvador. The pyramid was used as a temple and consists of several platforms, connected by long staircases. There would be tombs under the pyramid.

During your visit, you can walk around and observe the temple from different sides. Along the way you will come across a number of small structures and a former ball court, which played an important role in Mayan life.

Tazumal was an important Mayan settlement between 100 BC to about 1200 AD. Do you want to visit Tazumal from Santa Ana? You can easily book a tour  here.

Joya de Cerén

One of the other things to do in El Salvador if you are interested in archaeology is to visit Joya de Cerén, also called the Pompeii of El Salvador. This former Maya community was destroyed by a large eruption of the Laguna Caldera volcano around 600 AD and completely disappeared under the lava. Multiple eruptions of other volcanoes followed over the years. You can visit this archaeological site today, walking along the excavations, being able to observe the different layers of lava from the volcanic eruptions. In the museum you will learn more about the people who lived here.

Do you want to visit Joya de Ceren? Check prices and availability and book an interesting archaeological tour from San Salvador  here .

What makes Joya de Cerén special is that it is the only ruin complex where houses (made of clay) of the local population have survived. Most Mayan complexes contained temples that belonged to the elite. The site therefore provides a unique view of daily life from that time. Unesco even declared it a World Heritage Site in 1993.

Joya de Cerén was accidentally discovered in 1976 and there is still a lot of research to be done. Only 5% has been excavated. Do not expect spectacular Mayan temples or ruins here. It is the story and history that make your visit to Joya de Cerén worth the visit. Joya de Cerén can best be visited from Santa Ana or San Salvador .

The pupusa can call itself the national dish of El Salvador and there is even a national pupusa day, taking place on the second Sunday in November. A pupusa is a type of flatbread, made with cornmeal or rice flour. It is filled with ingredients that you choose yourself, such as cheese, beans, chicken, meat, loroco, pumpkin and much more. And you eat it together with curtido (a fermented coleslaw), sauce and of course with your hands. Everywhere in El Salvador you will find pupuserias and stalls on the streets that prepare pupusas right in front of your eyes. I love it!

Mini travel guide El Salvador

Best time to visit el salvador.

El Salvador can be visited all year round. However, the best time to travel is from November to April. That is the dry period with the least chance of rain. Keep in mind that it can get very hot in parts of the country during the months of March and April. April to October is the rainy period, meaning there can be some heavy showers at the end of the day. But compared to countries like Costa Rica , it rains considerably less in El Salvador. On the coast, temperatures are warm all year round. In the mountains it is cooler and temperatures can drop considerably, especially in the evening.

Unfortunately, El Salvador does not have the best reputation when it comes to safety. For years El Salvador was even one of the most dangerous countries in the world. This was mainly because of the ruling gangs and involved violence. But this has changed and El Salvador became so much saver. 

Of course, safety also has to do with your own travel behaviour. Just like in any other Central and South American country, you have to pay attention, look after your belongings and don’t stroll around the suburbs of a city you don’t know. Especially not at night. Today (April 2023) there is absolutely no reason anymore to not visit San Salvador. Local people are friendly, helpful and only too proud to show you their country.

Note: El Salvador is a country I visited several times over the years. Even when the safety situation was challenging, there have been always parts in El Salvador that you could visit easily and very safe. It is important to always be well informed before you go out.

Because El Salvador is a small country, travel distances are relatively short. From the capital you can be within 1.5 hours at the coast, in colonial villages, on the edge of a beautiful lake or in a national park surrounded by volcanoes. You can see a lot in a short time. There are several ways to explore the country. For example, you can book hotels at a number of destinations and make trips from here or rent a car and make a tour through the country.

Interested in traveling around El Salvador? You can find my tips for an El Salvador itinerary here .

Curious about tours in El Salvador? This is an overview with tours and things to do in El Salvador:

• City tour San Salvador
• El Boqueron
• Archaeological tour – Joya de Cerén & Maya temple Tazumal
• Tour to Suchitoto
• Hike to the Ilamantepec – Santa Ana volcano
• Cerro Verde + Izalco volcano
• Volcanoes, Coatepeque lake & Ruta de las Flores
• Ruta de las Flores Full Day
• Ruta de las Flores Full Day + hotsprings
• Buggytour Apaneca + Laguna Verde
• More tours in El Salvador

Need a rental car for your trip to El Salvador? Use  Rental Cars  to search and compare your car rental options. A quick and easy tool and no need to have up multiple tabs trying to figure out which company is the most affordable. They also have great discounts and cancellation policies. 

Private guiding

Are you curious about El Salvador? I love traveling through El Salvador and would love to convince you to pay a visit too. Do you have questions? Please send me an email or message on instagram.

Hotels  in El Salvador

In every country I look out for the most beautiful and unique place to stay. Interior design, a nice atmosphere, a lovely setting and good service are important topics for me, when choosing a hotel. In addition, I like to support the locals and love a sustainable approach around a hotel. Are you curious about my favorite hotels in El Salvador? In  the next article you will find an overview of the best boutique hotels in El Salvador.

More about El Salvador

Did you enjoy reading this article with tips and things to do in El Salvador? El Salvador is a small country in Central America with so much to offer. Let me take you on a journey along the most beautiful destinations and things to do in El Salvador. In the next articles you will find my El Salvador travel guides with lots of inspiration and tips. 

• Best things to do in Suchitoto
• Things to do in San Salvador – a comprehensive travel guide
• Santa Ana city guide
• Conchagua volcano – everything you want to know
• Ruta de las Flores – everything you want to know
• Boutique hotels in El Salvador

This article may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something using one of our links, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you, which helps us keep this blog alive. Thank you for your support! Please see our  disclosures  for more information.

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El Salvador

Matador Original Series

El salvador has transformed from dangerous to one of the top travel destinations in central america.

I paused at the top of the Santa Ana Volcano, looking down into the fluorescent green crater lake below to regain my breath. The crisp air filled my lungs as I took in the scene, realizing I was experiencing something special. El Salvador, a country I had once associated with negative headlines, had revealed itself as an incredible Central American country to visit. My journey here had started several years earlier with an online connection and had led to an invitation to explore this misunderstood nation. What I discovered was a country reborn, full of natural wonders, rich culture, and some of the warmest people I’ve ever encountered.

I connected with Joe, a writer based in El Salvador, during the pandemic. Over the following months, he had urged me to visit. Despite my skepticism due to the country’s reputation for gang violence , Joe assured me that El Salvador had transformed into the safest country in Central America. The government has invested heavily in tourism, and he urged me to see it for myself. I’m glad I did.

El Salvador is rapidly emerging as Central America’s hottest travel destination. Its natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality make it an ideal spot for travelers seeking immersive experiences off the beaten path and away from the crowds that overwhelm many other destinations.

A week in El Salvador offers the chance to explore and experience diverse activities, and the centrally located capital, San Salvador, makes for an ideal base. It is very affordable and the official currency is the USD, removing the need for American visitors to exchange currency. From volcanic peaks to pristine beaches and ancient ruins to hip urban districts, this small country, about the same size as Massachusetts, offers so much for those looking beyond El Salvador’s troubled past.

Throughout my time there, I felt safer than in any other city I had visited. I was welcomed by friendly locals eager to promote their country, and their warm hospitality made me feel less like a visitor and more like a part of their community. As the country continues to transform its image, now is the perfect time to visit—before the secret gets out.

El Salvador for the adventure seeker

Photo: Ash Jurberg

Despite its compact size, El Salvador has a wealth of natural wonders. The country has more than 20 volcanoes, many offering exhilarating hiking experiences. With its stunning crater lake, the Santa Ana Volcano provides a challenging, yet rewarding, 90-minute trek leading to breathtaking views (due to the high elevation, sometimes literally breathtaking). For a more accessible option, San Salvador Volcano, located in El Boqueron National Park on the capital’s outskirts, offers newly developed paths with panoramic views of the city skyline and the surrounding countryside.

Water enthusiasts will find plenty to do along El Salvador’s Pacific coast. The beach town of El Tunco, nicknamed “Surf City,” has become a haven for surfers of all levels and hosts a world championship event . The area’s consistent waves and laid-back atmosphere make it the perfect spot to get on the water, or you can simply enjoy the beach town vibes free from large crowds you’d find at similar beaches in other countries.

Fifteen kilometers from El Tunco are the Tamanique Waterfalls, reached by an easy 30-minute hike. The reward at the end is a set of four spectacular waterfalls, offering the perfect place for a refreshing swim. Lake Coatepeque is another must-visit destination. It offers a beautiful setting with its changing hues of blue and turquoise, surrounded by lush greenery and volcanic peaks. The lake also offers opportunities for kayaking, diving, snorkeling, and jet skiing.

El Salvador for food lovers

El Salvador’s coffee is world-renowned, and visiting a plantation is a must for any coffee lover. In the western part of the country, the Ruta de Las Flores (Flower Route) winds through charming artsy towns and market stalls and is home to several coffee farms. I visited El Carmen Estate , where I learned about the coffee-making process from bean to cup and sampled some of the finest brews I’d tasted. Of course, I had to bring a few bags of beans back home.

No visit to El Salvador is complete without indulging in pupusas , the national dish. These fluffy, stuffed corn tortillas served with a side of slaw and a tangy sauce are a staple of Salvadoran cuisine. For an authentic experience, head to a local pupuseria in San Salvador’s historic center. The revuelta — filled with beans, cheese, and chicharron — was my favorite, but there are dozens of choices for fillings, including loroco (a local edible flower) and ayote (a local squash). Accompanied by a refreshing horchata or local craft beer, this is a truly local experience. Just make sure to use your hands and not cutlery, which is considered a social faux pas.

Food carts abound with cheap snacks, including empanadas, pan con pollo, and pastelitos. Seafood lovers will love the freshly caught food along the coast. I recommend combining delicious seafood with fantastic ocean views at Café Sunzal , ideally located overlooking the surfers at El Tunco.

El Salvador for history and culture buffs

Mayan ruins at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Joya de Ceren. Photo: Leonid Andronov /Shutterstock

El Salvador’s rich history is evident in its well-preserved Mayan ruins. The archaeological site of Joya de Cerén is known as the “Pompeii of the Americas.” Volcanic ash preserved this UNESCO World Heritage site, leaving intact structures and artifacts for visitors to explore.

For a more extensive Mayan experience, visit the ruins of Tazumal in Chalchuapa. This impressive complex features a large pyramid and showcases the advanced civilization that once thrived in the region. Nearby, the San Andrés archaeological park hosts the remains of a major Mayan political and religious center. All three sites are close to each other, located an hour from San Salvador, and can be easily visited in a day.

Street art in San Salvador. Photo: Ash Jurberg

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El Salvador Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 17, 2023, el salvador - level 3: reconsider travel.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Reconsider travel to El Salvador due to  crime.

Country Summary:  In March 2022, the Government of El Salvador (GOES) declared a “State of Exception” in response to an increase in homicides. The declaration remains in effect. The State of Exception grants authorities power to arrest anyone suspected of gang activity and suspends several constitutional rights, including the normal protections of criminal procedure such as the right to a speedy trial. Prison conditions are harsh. Several U.S. and other foreign citizens have been detained under the State of Exception, some in a reportedly arbitrary manner. Under its Territorial Control Plan, the GOES also may, without prior warning, restrict access via checkpoints to areas suspected of gang activity. U.S. citizens are advised that access to and freedom of movement within these areas may be limited.

Though there has been a significant reduction in gang-related activity, violent crime remains a concern throughout significant portions of the country. Crime rates vary among departamentos (states) and municipios (municipalities), and areas witnessing higher crime rates are often located in close proximity to lower crime areas or must be crossed in moving between lower risk areas. Local authorities may lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents, although the concentration of resources in resort areas means these areas tend to be better policed than urban areas.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to El Salvador.

If you decide to travel to El Salvador: 

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not walk outside after dark. Do not drive to unfamiliar and/or remote locations after dark.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Engage local guides certified by the national or local tourist authority when hiking in back country areas.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for El Salvador.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, el salvador map, search for travel advisories, external link.

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