Things To Do In El Salvador: Your Ultimate Guide
Written By: Global Grit and Glam
February 2025
Land of Volcanoes (El Salvador)
Welcome to El Salvador! Whilst it may be the smallest country in Central America – sometimes referred to as the "Tom Thumb of the Americas" (Pulgarcito de America) – it’s packed with big adventure! Often overlooked by even the most intrepid and hardy of travelers due in part to its decimated reputation and its larger, more tourist-centric Central American neighbors, El Salvador offers visitors the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
From El Salvador’s cultural highlights and main attractions – the coffee plantations of the western highlands to the stunning Pacific Coast – and everything in between! – this amazing country offers visitors a truly authentic and intimate travel experience. Whether you’re an adventurer looking to hike volcanoes, a history buff excited to explore Mayan ruins and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, or someone simply looking for beautiful beaches upon which to laze away a few days (or weeks!), you’ll certainly find it all in El Salvador.
El Salvador perfectly exemplifies our philosophy, offering opportunities to blend grit-filled exploration with glamorous comfort. A growing reputation for safety and incredibly warm and welcoming people make El Salvador an increasingly popular destination among savvy travelers.
So, without further ado, let’s dive in and explore some of the wonder and beauty that El Salvador has to offer visitors from around the globe. Because we believe this country really should be one you’re checking off your bucket list sooner rather than later, this insider’s guide will provide you with some of our top tips and recommendations to inspire your unforgettable visit.
Quick Tips
Delicious Local Cuisine (El Salvador)
Here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your visit to El Salvador:
Like many countries in the region, El Salvador has two distinct seasons: wet and dry. Make sure to plan your visit accordingly!
Getting around the country is easy: transportation options include local “chicken buses” to taxis to private cars and drivers.
Some of the most visited destinations in El Salvador include the Ruta de las Flores (including quaint colonial towns and numerous options for dipping into natural thermal baths), the surf beaches of the southern coast, and well-preserved archaeological sites.
El Salvador is known as the “Land of Volcanoes” – no trip would be complete without exploring at least one of its majestic peaks!
Waterfalls abound throughout the country and offer visitors hikes with lush scenery and opportunities to swim in clear, turquoise pools.
Consider getting away from the hustle and bustle of the larger towns and visiting one of El Salvador’s peaceful lakes for a picnic and refreshing dip in fresh waters.
Spend some time in El Salvador’s capital, San Salvador, which offers visitors a mix of historical sites and modern attractions, a plethora of local dining options, and a vibrant culture.
No trip to El Salvador is complete without sampling its delicious local cuisine. From pupusas to quesadillas to their famous coffee, make sure to try at least some of the food and drink for which El Salvador is most well known.
Follow these tips and you’ll be ready to visit El Salvador and enjoy.
Plan Your Trip
View from El Zonte (El Salvador)
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Planning a trip to El Salvador? Take advantage of the following recommended resources.
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Search TripAdvisor for things to do In El Salvador
Use GetYourGuide for tours, guides, and skip-the-line-tickets
Check out WeGoTrip for self-guided audio tours available for immediate download
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We highly recommend Hotel Michanti in El Zonte
Book hotels in El Salvador with Trip.com
Search hotels in El Salvador with Booking.com
El Salvador VRBO apartment rentals
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Search flights to and from San Salvador.
We've also relied on Skyscanner and Booking.com as great flight comparison tools.
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Car rental in San Salvador
Economy car rental in El Salvador
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While it’s tempting to skip the extra cost, travel insurance should be considered for domestic travel, and it’s a must for international travel.
TravelInsurance.com is an excellent comparison tool.
EKTA provides affordable plans with different coverage levels.
If you're planning outdoor activities like hiking or kayaking, consider travel insurance that covers those activities.
Visit our Resources page for additional planning tips, strategies, and companies we recommend.
Why El Salvador Should Be on Your Travel List
Turtle Hatchlings (San Blas, El Salvador)
Despite being the smallest country in Central America, El Salvador is a powerhouse of natural beauty, warm hospitality, cultural richness, and culinary delights (you can never have one too many pupusas…). We’re excited to share our Top 10 Reasons to Visit El Salvador in our article Why El Salvador Should Top Your Travel Bucket List. This list will enhance the recommendations for things to do and see whilst there, which you’ll find below.
With its …
warm weather (and distinct wet and dry seasons – make sure to plan your visit accordingly!),
stunning landscapes (from the Pacific Ocean surf beaches of Playa El Tunco and Playa El Zonte to the towering volcanoes of Santa Ana and Izalco) and
vibrant culture (with a strong emphasis on family unity, eating traditional foods, and using traditional medicinal practices),
this small country has become a hidden gem in Central America. Whether you explore ancient Mayan sites such as Joya de Cerén, sip coffee along the Ruta de las Flores, or catch some gnarly waves on the southern coast, El Salvador delivers unforgettable moments. It’s the sort of place that starts you wondering why you never visited earlier and how you’ll ever be able to leave.
Let’s start by looking at …
The Top 7 Things to Do in El Salvador
Discover the Ruta de las Flores
Iglesia El Calvario (Ataco, El Salvador)
The Ruta de las Flores, or Route of Flowers, is one of the most visited destinations in El Salvador. But just because it’s on the well-worn “tourist trail” certainly doesn’t mean you should skip it (which is something Beck might typically do to ensure she gets a little more “off the beaten path” - for that see El Salvador Hidden Gems: Off The Beaten Path Adventures …)!
Ruta de las Flores (El Salvador)
This scenic 36km (22 mi) stretch of road in western El Salvador, less than an hour from the Guatemalan border, takes you through the country's cooler highlands and some of the most charming and colorful colonial towns you’ll ever see. Each town has its own unique personality, mixed in with numerous coffee plantations nestled amongst the hills and markets brimming with local crafts and food.
Highlights along Ruta de las Flores include:
Juayúa
Iglesia Santa Lucia (Juayua, El Salvador)
It is a colonial town known for its brightly colored murals and festivals that feature live music and local markets. Whilst another main draw for visitors are hikes to surrounding waterfalls (Las Siete Cascadas – The Seven Waterfalls was our favorite waterfall hike of our entire time in El Salvador!), if you’re in town on a weekend you simply cannot miss the weekly Juayua Food Festival, a celebration of local cuisine, with vendors offering everything from pupusas to exotic meats.
Santa Teresa Hot Springs
Santa Teresa Hot Springs (El Salvador)
Home to the largest geyser in Central America, here you can relax in the warm water pools (it’s quite a large complex and the thermal pools each have a different temperature), which are perfect for unwinding after a long day of exploring the surrounding area.
Coffee Tours
Coffee Tours (Ataco, El Salvador)
There are numerous coffee (and tea!) tours available to visitors throughout the Ruta de las Flores. These tours offer visitors an opportunity to learn more about El Salvador’s world-class coffee production, whilst sampling fresh brews.
Cafe Albania
Rainbow Slide, Cafe Albania (Apaneca, El Salvador)
Cafe Albania is a must-see along El Salvador’s Ruta de las Flores, in the picturesque town of Apaneca. Amid the Apaneca-Ilamatepec coffee region, a beautiful 2-hour drive west of San Salvador, you’ll find this outdoor amusement park combining natural beauty and innovative activities. From the main attractions of the adrenaline-pumping rainbow slide and bike zipline, to the serenity of sipping on locally-grown coffee in the park’s lush green grounds, Cafe Albania offers something for every type of traveler.
Make sure to visit Cafe Albania for an outdoor adventure park experience that rivals Disney (at a fraction of the price!) and is sure to bring a big smile to visitors of all ages. With Cafe Albania located in the heart of Ruta de las Flores, make sure to put aside some extra time to explore the greater region surrounding the park.
If you’re keen to get away from the hectic busyness that is San Salvador – and even nearby Santa Ana – head to Ruta de las Flores for a few days: base yourself in one of the quaint villages (we chose to stay in Juayua, but would have also loved to stay in Ataco!) and explore from there.
We highly recommend visiting this part of El Salvador during the Spring (March to May), when the flowers along Ruta de las Flores are in full bloom, creating a truly colorful, picturesque setting (photographers rejoice!).
Surf Paradise on the Pacific Coast
Playa el Majahual (El Salvador)
El Salvador is renowned for its Pacific coastline, boasting world-class waves and a laid-back atmosphere. Popular surf spots include the following, attracting surfers of all levels:
Playa El Tunco
Pacific Ocean Surf (El Salvador)
Less than an hour south of San Salvador, Playa El Tunco is a favorite amongst surfers and backpackers, offering excellent waves and a vibrant nightlife and stunning sunsets.
Playa las Flores
About 20km (12.5mi) east of Playa El Tunco in La Libertad, is another hotspot known for its stunning landscapes and world-class surf. Las Flores is the perfect place to surf in nature, with accommodation options that give you easy access to its pristine and less-crowded environment.
El Zonte
The Beach Break Hotel (El Zonte, El Salvador)
We chose to base ourselves in El Zonte (we drove here straight from the airport upon arrival), and whilst much quieter than some of the other beaches, we didn’t regret it for a second: amazing views, wonderful accommodation options, excellent dining, and peaceful sandy beaches.
Sunset over the Pacific (El Salvador)
Tips for surf enthusiasts:
Rent a surfboard or take surf lessons from a local surf school.
Visit during the dry season (November to April) for consistent wave conditions.
Even if surfing isn’t your thing, these beach towns are worth visiting for their beautiful scenery (some of the best sunsets we’ve ever seen!), warm water, and their laid-back atmospheres.
Explore Ancient Archeological Sites
Parque Arqueologico Cihuatan (El Salvador)
El Salvador’s rich history includes significant archaeological sites that offer visitors a glimpse into the country’s ancient past. Unlike the crowded ruins in neighboring countries, El Salvador’s Mayan sites are quieter, yet equally fascinating. Consider visiting one or more of the following during your time in El Salvador:
Joya de Cerén (Parque Arqueológico Joya de Cerén or “Jewel of Cerén”)
Joya de Cerén (El Salvador)
Dubbed the “Pompeii of the Americas,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves a pre-Columbian village buried by volcanic ash. Located in the Zapotitán Valley, about 36km (22.5mi) northwest of San Salvador, this ancient Mayan site is easy to explore on your own and we recommend allowing at least 1.5 hours to explore the area, including the excellent museum, in its entirety. When we visited, there was a US$3 entry fee for foreigners.
Cihuatán Archaeological Park
Cihuatán Archaeological Park (El Salvador)
This was one of our favorite historical sites in El Salvador. Spread across a large area less than 45km (28mi) directly north of San Salvador, this major pre-Columbian site – the largest archaeological site in El Salvador – dates back to the Early Postclassic period (c. 950–1200 AD). Exploration of the site by modern-day archaeologists began in the 1970s, and by 1980 some 63 hectares had been mapped out, covering an area that included over 900 different structures. We spent some time exploring the area and especially loved the goats helping to mow the grass! Entrance costs vary, depending on your nationality and the type of vehicle you are driving: for us, it cost US$5 each. Note that the park is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly!
Tazumal (Parque Arqueológico Tazumal)
Another pre-Columbian archaeological site, Tazumal showcases well-preserved Mayan ruins, including ceremonial pyramids and tombs. It sits within the larger complex of the ancient Mesoamerican city of Chalchuapa in western El Salvador, less than 30 minutes from Santa Ana, making it a great visit to combine with a hike up to the top of the Santa Ana Volcano.
These historical sites provide a captivating journey through El Salvador’s past and are among the country’s most popular destinations.
Hike Volcanoes and Through National Parks
Land of Volcanoes (El Salvador)
El Salvador is known as the “Land of Volcanoes,” and no trip would be complete without exploring its majestic peaks. The country provides visitors opportunities to explore active and dormant volcanoes, with trails ranging from a leisurely 5-minute stroll to challenging multi-day treks.
No matter your fitness level and no matter which option you choose, you’ll be afforded stunning views of crater lakes, deep lush valleys, and the Pacific Ocean. And if you are interested in waterfalls, there are enough to keep you occupied for at least several weeks: more than simply picture-worthy sites, these “cascades” provide ecological and adventure tourism destinations.
Cerro Verde National Park (Parque Nacional Los Volcanes)
Parque Nacional Los Volcanes (El Salvador)
Cerro Verde National Park (also known as Parque Nacional Los Volcanes) is located 63 km (39 mi) northwest of San Salvador and is home to three volcanoes (Cerro Verde, Izalco, and Santa Ana). The park's main attraction is the volcanoes, which offer lush trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including vistas as far as the Pacific Ocean.
Santa Ana Volcano
Santa Ana Volcano (El Salvador)
The hike to Santa Ana Volcano is an unforgettable experience—and well worth it, no matter your fitness level (and even if you’re not really a nature enthusiast or hiker at heart). Yes, it’s a steep climb … but it's so worth it for the breathtaking views of the turquoise crater lake at the summit!
Santa Ana Volcano Hike (El Salvador)
We began the hike relatively early in the day (just after 8.30am) and were at the peak by 10.30 am, with several breaks along the way (this took a little longer than we were told is the “average hike time” to the top, but we weren’t in a hurry!). We only stayed at the summit for about half an hour, taking many photos of the breathtaking views surrounding us – partly because it was a tad windy at the top and partly because it started to get very crowded with other hikers around 11 am! The day was otherwise perfect for the hike – sunny and clear blue skies.
Start of the Santa Ana Volcano Trail (El Salvador)
If you wish, you can borrow walking sticks left by other hikers at the bottom of the trailhead, but replace them upon your return. Entrance to the park (and the trail leading to the volcano) costs US$9 per visitor, and it’s recommended you also hire a guide (we had our own already, but you can hire one at the entrance for around US$3).
Pro Tip: If you’re taking the time to hike up the Santa Ana Volcano, consider also visiting the nearby town of Santa Ana itself, where you’ll find the Santa Ana Cathedral, a neo-Gothic beauty with twin towers.
Tamanique Waterfalls
Tamanique Waterfalls (El Salvador)
For adventure-seekers, the Tamanique Waterfalls are a must-visit. Following an early morning sea turtle hatchling release in Playa San Blas, we headed to these falls, about 26km (16mi) north of where we were staying in El Zonte. From the entrance to the hiking trail, and after securing a local guide (note you must hire a guide to visit the falls – we hired Pedro and he was great!), it takes about 30 minutes to hike through tropical vegetation down to the lower falls, where you’re able to take a refreshing swim in the cool, clear water.
Cliff Jump (Tamanique Waterfalls, El Salvador)
You can also hike to the quieter, upper falls (as we did), where you’re able to be a little more adventurous with some cliff jumping – which we thought was pretty awesome!
Entrance to Tamanique Waterfalls (El Salvador)
It takes a little longer to hike back up to the main town (it took us 40 minutes – as it’s uphill the entire way…), where you might find yourself feeling quite hot and sweaty … we were certainly grateful to discover a local tienda selling bottled water right near the taxi stand!
You may also consider visiting El Boquerón National Park, just outside San Salvador, which has easy trails and stunning views. Outdoor adventurers should also consider Parque Nacional El Imposible, which is known for its natural beauty and more challenging trails.
Relax by the Lakes
Lake Suchitlan (El Salvador)
El Salvador’s lakes are as beautiful as they are diverse, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure. Here are two lakes you may wish to consider visiting during your time in El Salvador:
Lago de Coatepeque
Lago de Coatepeque (El Salvador)
This large, stunning crater lake in western El Salvador – one of the largest lakes in the country – is surrounded by wooded hills and offers boat trips and swimming opportunities in its clear blue turquoise water. Migratory birds are often seen around Lago de Coatepeque, making it a haven for birdwatchers. El Congo is the nearby gateway village to Lago de Coatepeque, and if you’re planning a hike up the Santa Ana Volcano, you’ll be afforded incredible panoramic views of the lake from the top. In the lake’s southwest corner is Teopán Island, once a sacred site for the ancient Maya. And if you’re hungry, there are plenty of local restaurants along the way, also offering stunning views and delicious local dishes.
Lago Suchitlán
Lago Suchitlán (El Salvador)
Also known as the Cerrón Grande Reservoir, this large reservoir (filled between 1973 and 1976) is located close to the colonial town of Suchitoto [link to article #2 about hidden gems], just north of San Salvador. With a surface area of 52 square miles, Lago Suchitlán is the largest body of fresh water in El Salvador – but unfortunately also one of the most polluted in all of Central America. Named after the Nahuatl word meaning “place of flowers”, this peaceful lake is perfect for birdwatching, fishing, boating, and kayaking: it’s populated by 12 of El Salvador’s 14 native fish species, with numerous bird and plant species also calling it home. We thoroughly enjoyed an early evening boat ride out to Bird Island, where we witnessed one of the most incredible sunsets we’ve ever seen! The scenery was stunning, once we were able to somehow “ignore” all the trash in the water…
Immerse Yourself in San Salvador’s Culture
Catedral Metropolitana de San Salvador (El Salvador)
San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador, is a bustling hub of activity, offering visitors a solid mix of historical sites and modern attractions, a plethora of local eating options, and a vibrant culture. We must admit we were pleasantly surprised by this large city – with a population of just over half a million, it felt far more modern than the likes of New York City or Melbourne, and we were impressed with how clean it was!
City of San Salvador (El Salvador)
The friendly local Salvadorans and colorful markets add to the city’s charm, making it one of the best places for travelers seeking a truly authentic city experience. With most international arrivals landing first in San Salvador, it’s also the perfect starting point for exploring the country.
We recommend you consider visiting the following during your time in San Salvador, whether you stay a day or a week!
Iglesia El Rosario (The Rosary Church)
Iglesia El Rosario (San Salvador, El Salvador)
Designed by sculptor and award-winning Salvadoran abstract artist Ruben Martinez, this church – completed in 1971 – forms a part of the history of modern art in El Salvador. Most well-known for its unique architecture and colorful stained-glass windows, many consider Iglesia El Rosario one of the finest churches in Central America – if not the finest. It might not look the most spectacular from the outside, but once you’re inside, the simple stained glass windows create a rainbow of natural light rushing across the altar and bouncing off the inner metal and rock – it’s truly quite remarkable! Try to visit early in the morning or in the late afternoon, when the light has the most dramatic effect. Note also that the father of Central American independence, Padre Delgado, is buried here.
National Palace of El Salvador
National Palace (San Salvador, El Salvador)
This historic building, located near the main square of San Salvador, replaced the old National Palace built in 1866–1870, which was destroyed by fire in 1889. Constructed between 1905 and 1911, the new project was completed with funds from new legislation that collected one colon for every quintal of coffee exported from El Salvador. Housing government offices until the mid-1970s, the Palace has recently undergone a restoration: there are four main rooms inside (with over 100 secondary rooms), each with a distinctive color (red, yellow, pink, and blue). The Blue Room was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1974. We found the tour guides at the Palace to be friendly and knowledgeable, and we highly recommend utilizing their services to get the most out of your visit.
Mercado Nacional de Artesanias (National Craft Market)
Mercado Nacional de Artesanias (San Salvador, El Salvador)
Are you looking to shop locally and pick up a souvenir or two? Head to San Salvador’s National Craft Market, an easy and safe 25-minute walk from Bambu City Center (a large, clean, modern shopping mall in the city center): it’s a moderate-sized local market with multiple vendors selling everything from woven headbands to pupusa logo t-shirts to handcrafted wooden ornaments. Items are well-priced, though don’t be shy to shop around, as we noticed prices did vary from stall to stall, and that most stall-owners were also willing to bargain. They have super friendly vendors and we never felt hassled or pushed to make a purchase. But perhaps our favorite part of the entire market after we’d spent about 30 minutes wandering the stalls? The huge mural at the very back of the complex!
Mural at Mercado Nacional de Artesanias (El Salvador)
San Salvador is very walkable, and its modern, lively vibe and cultural significance for El Salvador make it a great place to start your adventure – or to even spend a few days and make it your home base whilst exploring nearby attractions. The city also boasts a lively dining scene, from street food to upscale restaurants serving traditional Salvadoran cuisine.
Satisfy Your Hunger and Thirst with Salvadoran Food and Drink
Juayua Food Festival (El Salvador)
No trip to El Salvador is complete without sampling its delicious local cuisine. Salvadoran food is a mix of indigenous, Spanish and African influences, offering visitors a mouth-watering combination of flavors and textures.
From pupusas to quesadillas to their famous coffee, you’ll never be short on fabulous food and drink during your time in the region. Try at least one of the following during your time in El Salvador!
Pupusas
Pupusas (El Salvador)
El Salvador’s iconic dish can be found almost anywhere in the country, but you’ll want to ensure you check out Olocuilta. You can find pupuserias in nearly every town, selling these delicious thick, round corn or rice doughs stuffed with everything from cheese and shredded meat to spinach and beans (and everything in between). Pupusas are usually served with salsa and curtido (pickled cabbage): a must-try for visitors. For less than US$4, you’ll be treated to an incredibly satisfying and filling local meal every time! Consider, as we did, taking a pupusa-making class whilst you’re in El Salvador.
Sopa de Gallina (India)
Sopa de Gallina India (El Salvador)
The star ingredient of this traditional Salvadoran soup (or broth) is free-range chicken (known as gallina india). After being cut into large pieces, the chicken is typically cooked in water and then combined with a variety of chopped vegetables (for example, carrots, onions and tomatoes), herbs and spices (including parsley, red pepper and basil), and other seasonings, to create a delectably rich flavor. Eggs, rice and other meat may also be added.
Tamales
Steamed corn dough filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, tamales are a snack often served on special occasions, but they can also be eaten at any time!
Empanadas
Pastry pockets filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables: great for a quick bite on the go!
Pastel de tres Leches
Translated as “three milk cake”, this is a must-try dessert. Whilst it’s believed this cake originated in neighboring Nicaragua, it has become popular throughout Central America, and is a staple at most bakeries and grocery stores across El Salvador. Soaking the cake in three different types of milk (usually sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and a third milk which could be heavy cream, whole milk, or half-and-half) gives it a rich, dense quality, almost like a cheesecake.
Quesadilla
A quick heads up: Salvadoran quesadillas are nothing like your standard, typical Mexican quesadilla. We were just as surprised as most! A quesadilla salvadoreña is actually more like a cake: a “pan dulce”, or sweet bread, similar to pound cake (I know, right?). Made with rice flour and white hard cheese or parmesan, this sweet bread is then usually topped with sesame seeds and served with coffee, either as part of breakfast or a snack.
Sopaipillas
Sopaipillas (El Salvador)
Fried dough balls sprinkled with sugar, this Salvadoran dessert is best when served warm.
Fresh Fruit
Feel like you’ve had too much dough or too many sweet delicacies on your trip so far? Why not opt for some fresh fruit, which El Salvador is famous for: mangoes, papayas, and bananas, which are perfect at any time of the day!
To accompany the above dishes, try some of El Salvador’s popular drinks:
Fresh Coconut Water
A refreshing and hydrating drink, excellent on especially hot days.
Horchata
It is a sweet, milky drink made from rice, cinnamon, and vanilla. Certainly a unique flavor!
Fresh Fruit Juice
Enjoy the fresh fruit juices made from El Salvador’s very own crops: orange, mango and pineapple.
Beer
El Salvador might be known for its rum and coffee, but it also has numerous local beers of its own, including Pilsener (the country’s most popular beer, made with natural ingredients) and Regia (an intense-flavored beer that’s been in production for almost 70 years).
Coffee
Coffee (El Salvador)
El Salvador produces some of the world’s finest coffee, so be sure to have a cup o’ Joe or two during your visit. El Salvadoran coffee is known for its smooth, well-balanced flavor, grown in the fertile volcanic soil of the country’s higher altitudes. Be sure to check out some of the most popular varieties of coffee grown in El Salvador: Catimor, Pacamara, Bourbon, or Pacas. A tour of one of the numerous coffee plantations spread throughout the country (we recommend visiting one in the Santa Ana region, known for producing some of the best coffee in El Salvador) – where you can participate in a coffee tasting (or coffee “cupping”) experience – is highly recommended for those seeking an authentic, grass roots coffee experience.
Pupusa making workshop (El Salvador)
Perhaps you’re really keen to get into Salvadoran cuisine? Great news, because aside taking a pupusa-making workshop and ducking into small local restaurants away from the tourist crowds, El Salvador has several food festivals to celebrate its delicious food:
Pupusa Festivals
Several pupusa festivals are held in El Salvador annually, celebrating the country’s national dish with food, music, and other entertainment. And happen to be in El Salvador on the second Sunday in November? You’ll be just in time to celebrate National Pupusa Day, which is marked by fairs in San Salvador and other major cities around the country.
Juayua Food Festival
Juayua Food Festival (El Salvador)
If you’re in Juayua on a weekend, you simply cannot miss this weekly celebration of traditional cuisine and culinary heritage. The festival is in the streets around the main square and cathedral, with vendors offering everything from pupusas to exotic meats. It’s a true sensory experience of traditional Salvadoran food.
Planning Your Visit to El Salvador
Planning Your Visit (Suchitoto, El Salvador)
When to Visit El Salvador
El Salvador is a country worth visiting at any time of year, but the best time to visit depends on your preferred type of travel and what you plan to do whilst there.
The dry season (which runs from November to April) is best for those who prefer sunshine and hot, dry weather. This is also the peak tourist season in El Salvador, with many festivals and other events being hosted, adding to a more party-like, summer atmosphere. Whether you choose to wander the streets of San Salvador or catch some waves at El Tunco Beach, the dry season is the perfect time for your adventure.
And then there’s the rainy season (which runs from May to October), bringing cooler temperatures and green landscapes. This is the best time to visit for a more relaxed, peaceful adventure. The rains turn El Salvador’s countryside into a lush green paradise, perfect for hiking in El Imposible National Park or exploring the Ruta de las Flores. And with fewer tourists around at this time of year, you’ll find better prices and often a more authentic experience.
Getting Around El Salvador
Apaneca Buggy Adventure (El Salvador)
As the smallest country in continental America, it’s easy to see a lot in a small amount of time in El Salvador. El Salvador is easy to get around, offering visitors various transportation options to help you explore and maximise your time in the country.
Local Buses
For a truly authentic experience in El Salvador, consider taking local buses. These buses may be slower than a private vehicle, but they are cheap and a great way to experience daily life in El Salvador.
Private Drivers
For a bespoke and (generally!) hassle-free experience getting around El Salvador, consider hiring a private car and driver. This is an especially great choice if you’re traveling in a group or are seeking a more customized itinerary that you can revise along the way. Private drivers will be able to whisk you from the streets of San Salvador to the countryside of Santa Ana and beyond in a matter of hours.
Taxis
Available in major cities like San Salvador and Santa Ana, taxis are another good option for getting around. Make sure your driver uses the taximeter, else agree on a fare, before you start the ride, to avoid any surprises.
Ride-Sharing
Uber operates in El Salvador, especially in larger urban areas. Uber is often a convenient – and cheaper – option than taking a taxi.
Tourist Shuttles
Planning to hang in one spot for awhile? Many tour operators offer tourist shuttles to places like El Tunco and Santa Ana. This is a great way to connect with fellow travellers and travel in comfort.
Final Thoughts
Colorful Mural (Ataco, El Salvador)
The Top 7 Things to Do in El Salvador
El Salvador may be small in size, but it’s brimming with opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. From its beautiful beaches and striking volcanic region, and from its numerous archaeological sites to its friendly, welcoming locals and vibrant markets, this Central American gem is the perfect destination for travelers seeking unique, authentic travel experiences. Don’t let the now out-of-date “it’s too dangerous to visit, don’t go there!” adage about El Salvador deter you from visiting: because we assure you any visit to this country, no matter the time of year, will be an unforgettable one.
So pack your bags, book those flights, embrace the spirit of discovery, and get ready to embark on an adventure to uncover the wonders of El Salvador. The Land of Volcanoes is calling, and it’s ready to share its treasures with you.
Now … it’s time to plan your trip!
