tourist location in el salvador

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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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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The 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.

Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? We have an incredible selection of trips all over the world, including plenty of epic adventures in Central America, like our trips in Mexico , Costa Rica , Belize and Guatemala .

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.

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.

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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.

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.

Lake Llopango

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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Alex Robinson contributed additional reporting to this article.

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El Salvador Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

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

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

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

The prices are lower too.

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

Table of Contents

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

Top 5 Things to See and Do in El Salvador

1. Visit the Montecristo Cloud Forest

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

2. Hang out in El Tunco

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

3. Go to Puerta del Diablo

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

4. See the Cihuatán Ruins

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

5. Visit La Libertad

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

Other Things to See and Do in El Salvador

1. hike the volcanoes.

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

2. Visit Joya de Cerén

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

3. Get cultural in San Salvador

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

4. Go diving

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

5. Visit El Imposible National Park

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

6. Spend a day at Los Chorros

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

7. Shop at La Gran Via

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

8. Tour the Museum of Popular Art

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

9. Wander through colonial Suchitoto

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

10. Hang out on the Coatepeque Caldera

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

11. Take the Ruta de Las Flores

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

El Salvador Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking El Salvador Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

El Salvador Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in El Salvador

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

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

How to Get Around El Salvador

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

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

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

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

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to El Salvador

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in El Salvador

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

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

El Salvador Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

El Salvador Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

How to Get Around Central America on a Budget

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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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12 Places to visit in El Salvador. Get to know them today.

The best places to visit in El Salvador are the colorful towns of Apaneca, Juayua, or Suchitoto. Also, natural areas such as the Cerro Verde National park and the Planes of Renderos. Urban areas such as Santa Ana or the San Salvador historic district are fantastic places to visit.

This small nation undoubtedly has many places that could have been included in the following list. Nevertheless, it had to be narrowed down to the top 12.

• 1. Cerro Verde National Park
• 2. The Chalchuapa Archaeological Site

3. Suchitoto and the Surrounding Area

4. the san salvador historic district.

• 5. The City of Santa Ana
• 6. The Gulf of Fonseca
• 7. The Town of Juayua
• 8. Los Planes de Renderos
• 10. The Beaches of El Salvador
• 11. Ilopango Lake
• 12. El Imposible National Park

1. Cerro Verde National Park.

For anyone who likes nature, the Cerro Verde National Park is the place to visit. Here, at this park, you will find three volcanoes, Izalco, Santa Ana, and Cerro Verde.

The Izalco and Santa Ana volcanoes are the most popular in the country when it comes to hiking to the summit. Whereas the Cerro Verde Volcano is more of a mountain covered with dense vegetation.

From any of these three volcanoes, you will get amazing views of the surrounding area. Nonetheless, if you hike to the summit of either Santa Ana or Izalco, the scenes are even better. Also, from the summit of either volcano, you will be able to see the Pacific Ocean and Lake Coatepeque .

SEE ALSO: What is the Best Time to Visit El Salvador? Deciding on the Best Time to Explore El Salvador!

2. The Chalchuapa archaeological site.

The area known as the Chalchuapa archaeological site is home to some of the best Maya ruins in El Salvador. It is the ideal place to visit and get to know about the Salvadoran Indigenous culture.

The area is home to sites such as El Tazumal , Casa Blanca , Trapiche, Las Victorias, and a few others; these are some of the best Indigenous ruins in the country.

It is located in the municipality of Chalchuapa , about 15 kilometers from the city of Santa Ana.

The Suchitoto area is a fantastic place to spend a day or a few days; this area is home to the colorful town of Suchitoto and Lake Suchitlan. Furthermore, the iconic Guazapa volcano is not that far away.

Suchitoto is a colorful colonial town with plenty of customs and traditions; it is a peaceful town that still has cobblestone streets and adobe homes. Additionally, Lake Suchitlan , the largest man-made lake in El Salvador, is a few kilometers away.

In the Suchitoto area, you will get to explore the colonial town and the remarkable artificial lake. Also, you can venture a little further away and explore the Guazapa volcano , with all its civil war history.

The San Salvador historic District is a must-see touristic spot in the country. Why is that? Well, it has iconic buildings such as the National Palace and the National theater.

Furthermore, it has astonishing parks such as Gerardo Barrios plaza, Liberty Plaza, and Plaza Francisco Morazan. These plazas have been at the center of many historic events n the country.

Also, here, you will find notable churches such as the National Cathedral , El Rosario Church , and El Calvario Church. Undoubtedly, these are three of the best churches in El Salvador .

All things considered, the San Salvador historic district is definitely one of the best places to visit in El Salvador.

5. The city of Santa Ana.

The city of Santa Ana is the second largest in the country and one of the top places to visit in El Salvador. Some of the best tourist locations in the nation are near the city.

In the city, you can visit the downtown area and explore the Santa Ana cathedral and the Santa Ana theater. Also, the city is well-known for its shopping and gastronomy.

By all means, if you venture outside the city, you will find great touristic spots. For instance, Lake Coatepeque, Cerro Verde National Park, and the Chalchuapa archaeological area are not far away.

This city is in an ideal location to stay in and take day trips to explore tourist spots located nearby.

6. The Gulf of Fonseca area.

Another of the best places to visit in El Salvador is the Gulf of Fonseca area . This tri-national body of water has islands to explore, the Conchagua Volcano to hike, and amazing beaches to relax.

Here, you can take a boat ride and explore some of the islands. Meanguera, Conchagüita, Zacatillo, Conchagua, and Martin Perez are some of the islands belonging to El Salvador that you can explore.

Emphatically, the Conchagua Volcano is a top place to visit around the Gulf of Fonseca. This volcano has fantastic locations for hiking and camping. Additionally, from high up in the volcano, you will get amazing views of the Gulf and its islands.

If you don’t want to venture into the nearby islands or hike the Conchagua volcano, you can simply unwind at any of the many beaches in the area.

7. The town of Juayua.

The colorful town of Juayua is located at a high altitude in the western part of the country. This small town is one of the main attractions in the La Ruta de Las Flores tourist route.

The town is well-known for the astonishing murals it has all over, painted by local artists. Also, it is known for its gastronomy, which you can taste every day, but especially on the weekend food festival. Moreover, the area produces some of the best coffee beans in El Salvador, which you can sample all over Juayua.

8. Los Planes de Renderos.

Los Planes de Renderos is an area located in the department of San Salvador, near the nation’s capital. It is shared among the municipalities of San Salvador, Panchimalco , and San Marcos.

In the Planes of Renderos, you can enjoy the pleasant climate and also the fantastic natural views. Furthermore, you can enjoy the outdoors at the natural parks and then taste the local gastronomy at various locations. . When visiting the area, I recommend doing the following. Spend the day exploring one of these spots, Balboa Park, La Familia Park, or the devil’s doorway area.

Afterward, towards dinner time, go to the El Mirador area. Here, you can try the local gastronomy that includes most of the typical Salvadoran foods . Additionally, you will be able to see astonishing night views of the city of San Salvador and the surrounding areas.

Apaneca is another one of the colorful towns, which is part of the La Ruta de La Flores tourist route. It is a mountain town, with a relaxed environment, located at an elevation of over 1,400 meters above sea level.

Apaneca is known for numerous things, which include the Labyrinth of Albania, coffee production, and extreme sports activities. Undoubtedly, Apaneca is one of the top places to visit in El Salvador.

10-The beaches of El Salvador.

The beaches of El Salvador are part of the best places to visit in the country. The country has fantastic Pacific Ocean beaches that offer different things to visitors. It is difficult to narrow it down to a single beach or a few beaches.

If you like surfing in a crowded area, go to El Tunco, Punta Roca, El Sunzal, or El Zonte beach. On the other hand, you can visit a secluded surfing spot such as Mizata, Las Flores, or Punta Mango beach. All of these beaches are part of the best surf spots in El Salvador .

If you like the beach for relaxation, go to El Tunco, La Costa del Sol, El Majahual, or La Libertad beach. Keep in mind that these beaches get crowded, especially on the weekends. On the contrary, beaches such as San Diego, El Espino , Los Cobanos , or San Blas, don’t get as crowded.

11- Ilopango Lake

Ilopango Lake is an active volcanic caldera located near the city of San Salvador. This crater lake is shared between the departments of San Salvador, Cuscatlan, and La Paz.

Lake Ilopango is a result of extensive volcanic eruptions that occurred thousands of years ago. The outburst happened between 410 and 535 AD, it desolated the Mayan cities in the area.

12- El Imposible National Park

For Nature lovers, the El Imposible National Park is one of the top places to visit in the country. This national protected area is the largest in the country. It is located at a high elevation in the department of Ahuachapan.

The park has plenty of space with abundant flora and fauna for visitors to explore and enjoy. Also, it has a comprehensive ecosystem that works as a sanctuary for a diverse population of wildlife.

In this astonishing natural area, you will find over 500 species of plants, in addition to an extensive number of mammals, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and butterflies.

Places to visit in El Salvador

Without a doubt, many people who read this post will disagree with the places I have listed. Not that they don’t belong there, but that others should have been included.

For being such a small country, El Salvador has plenty of locations that can be considered a top place to visit . So, when possible, visit one of the top places to visit in El Salvador and enjoy everything they have to offer .

More About El Salvador

• El Salvador travel guide.
• Is El Salvador safe to visit?

La Ruta de Las Flores El Salvador. Exploring unique towns!

El Salvador Arts and Crafts: The Craftsmanship of Salvadoran Artisans

El Salvador

15 places you should visit in el salvador.

• Author david
• Date September 22nd, 2016

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

San Salvador

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

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

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

Check out Things to See and Do in San Salvador

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

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

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

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

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

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

Joya de Cerén

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

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

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

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

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

Check out The Best Mayan Ruins in El Salvador

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

Lake Coatepeque

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

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

Cerro Verde National Park

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

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

Ruta de las Flores

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

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

La Libertad

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

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

Costa del Sol

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

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

Check out The Best Beaches in El Salvador

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

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

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

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

Check out the Fab 4 Beers of El Salvador

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

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

Playa El Cuco

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

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

Ruta de Paz

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

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

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

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

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

Additional El Salvador Travel Information

Official name: Republic of El Salvador

Time zone: GMT -6

Language: Spanish

Currency: U.S. Dollar ($)

Currency converter: XE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

International Airport El Salvador (SAL)

+503 2339 9455

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

Best time to go: October through April

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

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

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Britney Fuentes says:

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

Yanik Belliveau says:

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

Ana Vanegas says:

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

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El Salvador Is Great For

Eat & drink

4 perfect days in El Salvador

Nov 15, 2022 • 10 min read

Planes de Renderos in El Salvador © Luis Siguenza/Lonely Planet

Rejuvenated and forward-looking, this stunningly beautiful Central American country has momentum building that landed it a spot in our Learn category. 

El Salvador's idyllic beaches are catching the attention of professional surfers from around the world as it works hard to establish itself as Surf City. The country is quietly becoming the place where those in the know come to catch waves and hone their surfing skills.

There's so much to learn about this country. Lonely Planet guidebook author Paige R. Penland plans out your four-day getaway to its coastal waters, quaint towns and volcanoes.

I’ve visited El Salvador a dozen times since 2006, when I was lead author on Lonely Planet Nicaragua & El Salvador . I’ll be taking my 9-year-old son on the next trip, to visit Isla de los Pájaros and the epic waterparks for which this country should be better known. (Search for Apuzunga, Turicentro Atecozol and Canopys del Rio Sunzal to see what I mean.)

Why I think you should visit El Salvador

El Salvador offers almost everything travelers to Latin America are looking for, just three hours by plane from Miami: sunny beaches, quaint colonial towns, stunning volcanoes, colorful handicrafts, low prices and arguably the finest cuisine in Central America .

It is compact, with dramatic topography and excellent (main) roads. You could literally surf La Libertad all morning, relax over lunch in Spanish Colonial Suchitoto and watch sunset from a chilly 8000ft (2400m) at Hostal Miramundo – and only spend about four hours total in the car. 

All of this makes El Salvador an easy escape for North Americans on a long weekend. If time is no object, however, two to four weeks would be ideal.

Budget travelers can enjoy El Salvador on $40 per day, and much less if you plan carefully. Mid-range travelers will be comfortable on $100 per day (not including rental car). Luxury lovers will find a small selection of excellent resorts and restaurants for about half what they’d pay in more-popular Latin American destinations.

Travelers may read the international criticism of El Salvador’s current government and worry that their money is supporting it. There is some truth to that. On balance, however, I think tourism favors the little guy – Jack Ma taught himself English as a tour guide, after all. Think before you spend, and try to support local businesses with El Salvador’s best interests at heart.

El Salvador’s official currency has been the US dollar since 2001, another convenience for US travelers. In 2021, President Bukele made Bitcoin El Salvador’s second official currency, and it’s widely accepted through smartphone apps. That decision was controversial, to say the least – yet tourism has since grown an astonishing 30%.

I appreciate the Bitcoin bump because not every article about El Salvador begins with “war-torn” anymore. It’s not. This is a small country with big dreams, still willing to believe in the future. And that’s the real reason why you should come . 

Start with a perfect day in the capital

This itinerary assumes travelers have rented a car ($40–80/day). If you use public transportation, double travel times or check online bus schedules.

Our journey begins at Romero International Airport – or, if you’ve already been relaxing with the sun and surf along El Salvador’s 186mi (307km) coastline, 20 minutes away in La Libertad. Whether you’ve been here all week or just arrived, we’re headed up to the capital, San Salvador. 

10am – Pupusas for breakfast 

Pull off the highway in Olocuilta, where a tidy strip of pupuserías serve up stacks of the city’s signature rice pupusas , more delicate and refined than the more widely available corn masa versions of El Salvador’s cheap, filling national dish. If you’re looking for a more elegant brunch, enjoy gourmet tamales, omelets and tost secreto (Salvadoran-style avocado toast) at Tu Jardín Secreto. The relaxing garden setting is in Planes de Renderos, a popular escape from the city with parks , horseback rides and the family-friendly, 20-minute hike up Puerta del Diablo, a startling rock formation with views to the Pacific Ocean from the top.

11am – Arrive in Colonia Escalón

Our base in the capital is posh Colonia Escalón, with upscale shopping, dining and accommodation options. After coffee at Tipicos Margoth, catch a cab to the Museum of Anthropology for an overview of El Salvador’s history, including pre-Columbian relics, Spanish Colonial art and exhibits that explore modern challenges, from the civil war to gang violence and mass emigration.

From there, it’s a short walk to the National Craft Market, where artisans sell quality handicrafts from around the country, including comfortable hand-woven hammocks, clever ceramic dioramas from Ilobasco and the colorful naive folk art of La Palma – which you’ll see firsthand tomorrow.

2pm – Head to Centro Historico

Take a taxi to the Centro Historico, home to the National Palace , National Theater and Metropolitan Cathedral , the final resting place of St Oscar Romero. As you explore the city center’s parks, plazas and markets, don’t miss the somber Monument of Memory and Truth in Parque Cuscatlán, engraved with the names of those lost during El Salvador’s civil war (1980–92), and be sure to step inside Iglesia El Rosario to see the symphony of rainbows its windows play upon the sculptural interior.

4:30pm – Check out Volcán San Salvador

Grab a cab to the top of Volcán San Salvador ($20, 40 minutes) and watch the sunset and city lights over exquisite grilled meats and seafood served with sweet potato biscuits at Las Brumas.

9pm – Enjoy San Salvador's nightlife

There’s time for a disco nap before the country’s best nightlife begins. Look forward to an ever-changing assortment of clubs and bars: enjoy laid-back city views at The Rooftop, dinner and live music at Republik and all-night dance parties at AliVE. 

A perfect day in the Central Highlands

10am – Arrive at Suchitoto’s tiny Puerto San Juan , a cheerful cluster of souvenir stores, restaurants and a dock overlooking Lake Suchitlán, just 45 minutes from the capital. Boats ($35) offer one-hour tours around the islands , including Isla de Los Pájaros (“Bird Island”), its trees shrieking and singing with the voices of some 400 species of mostly migratory birds: jabiru storks, seagulls, cormorants, pelicans and many more. 

Noon – Lunch at Villa Balanza

After lunch at artsy Villa Balanza, it’s time to check in at the meticulously restored, 200-year-old mansion that is now one of El Salvador’s most luxurious properties, Los Almendros de San Lorenzo . The courtyards are hung with marvelous art and Moorish details, and filled with gardens and a sparkling pool: an architectural gem even by Suchitoto’s high standards. 

1:30pm – Stroll through the city

Just strolling the cobbled streets of this breezy Spanish Colonial city is a delight. The rich blue textiles fluttering from the doors are dyed with indigo, grown here since Pipil Mayans ran the place. Arte Añil, across from picturesque Iglesia Santa Lucia, offers classes (90 minutes, $100 per group) where you can try your hand at this ancient art.

4pm – Mayan-influenced art in La Palma

An hour north of Suchitoto is La Palma, birthplace of the vibrant, Mayan-influenced naive art that has become synonymous with El Salvador itself. It was pioneered by artist Fernando Llort in the 1970s to help local artisans thrive; today, you can visit workshops covered with murals, and watch artists create the vibrant pieces from wood, glass and other materials. After Llort’s most famous piece, on San Salvador’s Metropolitan Cathedral, was destroyed in 2011, artists recreated it using digital mapping and projected it onto the facade.

9pm – Back to Los Almendros for Dinner

Although Suchitoto has several excellent restaurants, we’ll return to Los Almendros for dinner, where chefs use Salvadoran ingredients and French techniques to create award-winning recipes. Try the mariscada , a traditional Salvadoran seafood stew with lobster and cream; the dijon chicken baguette; or the vegetarian lasagna. If you’re game, Suchitoto’s nightlife scene is small but always festive. 

Pyramids and Volcanoes

After a leisurely breakfast at Café 1800 , it’s an hour to Joya de Cerén , also called Central America’s Pompeii. While you’ve probably seen the massive stone pyramids and ballcourts of the Classical Mayan capitals (if not, the ruins of Copán are 5 hours north of Suchitoto), the modest lives of Mayan villagers are mostly lost to time.

Except here. Preserved since 600CE beneath 33ft (10m) of volcanic ash, small, lovingly decorated adobe homes, a temezcal (sweat lodge) and the oldest cultivated yuca (manioc) make this one of Central America’s most important archaeological sites. Fifteen minutes away, San Andrés was the regional Mayan administrative center, with small stone pyramids and the remains of a Spanish Colonial indigo-processing facility.

1pm – Volcanoes in Cerro Verde National Park

It’s another hour to Cerro Verde National Park , with three magnificent volcanoes and several hikes, including an easy half-mile (1km) loop with unforgettable views. Athletic travelers can arrange steep, three- to six-hour guided hikes ($9) to the top of either Izalco Volcano’s barren, steaming cinder cone, or to Santa Ana’s nested calderas and scenic lakes. These hikes leave at 10am and must be done with a guide, which might mean shifting your itinerary.  

4pm – Stay overnight at Lago Coatepeque

There are great places to stay in the park, but we’re headed to the enormous (10 sq miles/25 sq km), sparkling crater lake you were admiring on your hike, Lago Coatepeque. It’s another impossibly scenic hour in the car to the lakeshore, which is lined with hotels, restaurants and bars, most with swimming docks

Lodging along the lakefront runs from $10 to $200 per night, so you’ll have a pick for your budget. Dinner at La Octava Maravilla costs about $20 – and it’s mandatory. I’ll be having the mojarra rellena , a whole fried fish stuffed with shrimp and other shellfish. 

After dinner, order an ice-cold beer at one of the lakefront bars. The party can go all night.

Stop and smell the flowers in El Salvador

After breakfast on the lake, it’s another hour to Entre Ríos Ecopark ($3), outside the town of Izalco. Slip into one of the natural hot and cold pools to relax, or try the water slides. When you’re ready, order brunch right to your hammock.

1pm – Visit Ruta las Flores

Ruta las Flores is El Salvador’s most popular inland attraction, a strand of lovely little towns and accessible natural wonders in the coffee-growing highlands between Sonsonate and the Guatemalan border. If it’s Saturday, we’ll stop at Juayúa’s famed Gastronomic Festival, which runs every weekend with stands selling styrofoam plates piled grilled meats, spiced prawns and tasty rice dishes, and where souvenirs, cocktails and artwork are for sale while live music plays and “Zorro” offers horseback rides. Otherwise, it’s onto Ataco.

3pm – Handicrafts shop at Axul Artesanía

After coffee at El Jardín de Celeste , we’ll explore the ancient city, making sure to visit Axul Artesanía. The handicrafts shop is an experience in itself, with working looms and unique paintings that flirt with high art. The owners are also responsible for for Ataco’s superb collection of selfie-friendly murals. Later, we’ll learn more about the coffee growing all around us on El Carmen Estates ’ plantation tour ($6; 75 minutes).

6pm – Drinks at Casa Degraciela

Wherever we dine in Ataco, we’ll finish with drinks in the courtyard of Casa Degraciela, a sprawling, 150-year-old coffee plantation mansion that’s now a luxurious B&B. Someday we’ll come back, but tonight we’ve reserved the Japón suite at Santa Teresa Hot Springs Resort, just 20 minutes away. 

7pm – Enjoying the private hot spring

We splurged on this spacious suite because it comes with a private hot spring, drawn from the same natural thermal waters that flow like a river through the resort gardens and surrounding coffee plantation. Relax beneath the stars as you plot your return to El Salvador.

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Cheap Flight Deals This April For Less Than $550 Round Trip

A pril is one of the last months to travel for a great price. It comes at the cusp of Spring Break yet before summer season travel, which usually commences during Memorial Day Weekend. In some locations, April marks the tail end of shoulder season, where the flight prices and accommodations are below average, and the busy crowds haven’t made their way to the destination.

Use the month of April to fulfill your promise to travel more in 2024. From Central America to South America and even Europe, explore these exciting and inexpensive destinations to cross off your travel bucket list this April.

San Salvador, El Salvador For Less Than $200 Round Trip

The cheapest destination to travel to this April is San Salvador. According to Skyscanner data, El Salvador’s capital city is more than 40% cheaper than the average flight prices in some cities. Another benefit of traveling to San Salvador in April is it’s the last month of the dry season. The dry season is one of the best times of the year to visit and explore the natural wonders of El Salvador, such as El Boqueron National Park, which is located in the crater of the San Salvador volcano. Another great national park to visit is Devil’s Gate, but it’s not for the faint of heart. Known locally as Puerta del Diablo, or “Devil’s Door” in English, it’s a steep yet rewarding hike.

While there, head to La Dalia to be part of history. It’s a billiard bar and the oldest running bar in the country. People go for a drink and to play pool. Another top activity is the iconic colorful rainbow slide to channel your inner child. It’s an adrenaline-pumping ride that offers amazing views of the city if you can keep your eyes open.

Despite being the smallest Central American country, El Salvador is known for its large yields of coffee. Thanks to its rich soil and climbing altitudes, the country produces some of the best coffee in the world. Whether you’re a coffee drinker or not, visiting a locally-owned coffee shop or producer is a great way to support the local economy and learn more about how coffee plays a significant role in El Salvador’s culture.

According to Skyscanner, flights from Miami, Houston, Tampa, Dallas, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Charlotte, New York City, Washington, D.C., and Austin cost less than $175 round trip . The cheapest option is from Fort Lauderdale. Use April 14 through April 21 as your travel dates for a flight for less than $150 .

Guatemala City, Guatemala For Less Than $200 Round Trip

If Guatemala City has been on your radar, April is a great time to visit for huge travel savings, according to Skyscanner data. Travelers in some states will see more than 40% savings on plane tickets. Like El Salvador, April is also the last month of Guatemala’s dry season.

There is so much to love about Guatemala, starting with its two coastlines, bordering the Caribbean and the Pacific Ocean. Mixing in the volcanoes, mountains, and tropical rainforests, Guatemala has a unique landscape and ranks high in the world for biodiversity. For the best of adventure and relaxation take a day trip for a Pacaya Volcano and Kawilal Hot Springs tour.

During the day, take a stroll down Paseo de la Sexta, which translates to the Walk of the Sixth. Here, you will find a ton of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shopping. After shopping, head to Los Tres Tiempos for the city’s best views.

Skyscanner shows flights from Fort Lauderdale, Chicago, Miami, San Francisco, and Orlando for less than $200 round trip. The cheapest flights are from Houston. Use April 17 through April 26 as your travel dates for a ticket for less than $150 round-trip.

Cartagena, Colombia For Less Than $300 Round Trip

There is never a wrong time to visit Cartagena, Colombia. The weather is perfect year-round for people who are looking to spend time in a tropical climate. April is one of the busiest months for Cartagena, as it is the last month of summer, and the days are warm and long with a low chance of rain.

From the food, music, and cultural tours, Cartagena allows travelers to connect with Afro-Colombian culture . Alex Rocha, founder of The Real Cartagena Travel Agency , takes visitors on a tour through San Basilio de Palenque – the first free town for Africans in the Americas. The community is unique and precious to Colombia. In 2005, UNESCO declared Palenque a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

When the tour is complete, head to Plaza de Los Coches. It’s a lively and historic plaza in Cartagena that, unfortunately, was the primary slave market in the 1500s. Throughout your stroll in the plaza, you will see people along Dulces Alley selling sweet treats. These treats and traditions pay homage to the Afro-Colombian women who launched businesses selling these goodies, such as coconut macaroons or cocadas.

Other fun activities in Cartagena include a bike tour, shopping under Torre del Reloj, and reserving a spot on a catamaran like Bona Vida to snorkel and enjoy the water.

According to Skyscanner data, flights to Cartagena are nearly 30% off average prices from some cities. Flights from Orlando, Miami, Atlanta, Tampa, Cleveland, Charlotte, Chicago, and New Orleans are less than $300 round trip . Other cities include New York City, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., Houston, Detroit, and Nashville. Fort Lauderdale is the cheapest. Use April 21 through April 24 as your travel dates for a round-trip flight for less than $250 .

Montreal, Canada For Less Than $300 Round Trip

Travelers looking for a destination filled with fantastic art and even better food will find solace in Montreal, especially as temperatures begin to warm. Regarding food, Montreal has a reputation for being one of the most unique and innovative food cities in North America. With more than 120 cultures represented in Montreal, you can eat your way through different cuisines from around the world. For local dishes, try a smoked meat sandwich or poutine, and Montreal-style bagels are a great way to start the morning.

Burn those calories from eating by exploring the dozens of art museums you will find. There are more than 40 museums and more than 1,000 public artworks across the city. Place des Arts is a hub for the performing arts and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts is full of fine arts, music, cinema, design, and more. Contemporary Canadian art is celebrated at Arsenal Contemporary Art, and Centre Phi is an immersive art experience that uses virtual reality technology.

Flights from various cities in the United States to Montreal, Quebec can be purchased for nearly 30% off average flight prices. The lucky ones are travelers leaving Fort Lauderdale, New York City, Miami, Chicago, Charlotte, Minneapolis, and Atlanta. These cities have round-trip flights for less than $275 . The real winner is travelers leaving Orlando, where round-trip flights are less than $150 . Use April 9 through April 15 as your travel dates.

Barcelona, Spain For Less Than $550 Round Trip

April marks the official start of spring in Barcelona, and there’s no better place to be in Europe. The gardens in the parks are starting to blossom again, and you can actually smell the flowers because there are hardly any tourists. Crowds peak in the summer, so April is a great time of year to visit to avoid the crowds.

There are many festivals in Barcelona in April. The April Fair, or La Feria de Abril, is full of fairground rides and fair food. St. George’s Day, or La Diada de Sant Jordi, occurs in late April. It’s equivalent to Valentine’s Day in America. Stalls on the streets are filled with flowers and it’s typical for people to exchange flowers and books.

Flights are more than 23% off average prices from the U.S. Round trip flights from Boston, Washington, D.C., New York City, Chicago, Miami, Charlotte, Atlanta, and Durham cost less than $550 . In a rare occurrence, San Francisco is the cheapest departure city, with round-trip flights at less than $250.

Play with the dates in Skyscanner. Our editors used April 14 through April 20 for a round-trip ticket for less than $200 with Air Canada.

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