el salvador tour video

The Pilot Who Explores

Discover expert travel tips, layover guides, and airline reviews from a professional pilot. Enhance your travel experience with The Pilot Who Explores.

The Ultimate 1 Week El Salvador Adventure Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

Related: Our Epic 2-Month Journey Across Central America

El Salvador travel restrictions

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

The best way to get to El Salvador from Abroad

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

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

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

Getting to Santa Ana, El Salvador

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

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

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

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

Crossing the border from Guatemala into El Salvador

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

Easy peasy.

Our one week adventure itinerary across El Salvador

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chasing waterfalls in El Salvador

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

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

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

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

What you must see while in Juayua, El Salvador

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting to Lake Coatepeque

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RELATED: Our Epic 2 Month Central America Road Trip

Keep Exploring the World

The 10 top places you need to visit in guatemala, the 7 best hotels in antigua guatemala, ometepe, nicaragua: 10 ways it’s the best hidden gem in central america, discover more from the pilot who explores.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Guest Posts
Advertising / Public Relations

Two Backpackers

El Salvador
United Kingdom
South Carolina
Photo Galleries
Photo of the Day
Photo Essays

Travel Videos

Short Video Clips
Travel Tips
Trip Planning
Travel Gear
Reflections
Where We've Been
Travel Giveaways

7 Waterfalls Tour El Salvador – Video Ep. 11

| by Aracely | 27 Comments » | Central America , El Salvador , Travel Videos

When we decided to begin our journey in Central America, El Salvador was the country we decided to avoid. The decision was not based on any specific reason, we simply preferred a more direct route south and planned to travel from Guatemala to Honduras to Nicaragua and onwards. However, with Honduras’ political instability, which was causing some border issues, we decided to take a detour through El Salvador instead.

Juayúa, El Salvador

Small towns and villages in El Salvador surprised us with their cleanliness, friendly people and active community events. Juayúa was the highlight with its weekend food festival, colorful street buildings and amazing surrounding landscapes and towns. If you enjoy coffee plantations, Juayua is a great base to visit nearby towns to tour and taste coffee beans.

Hostels in Juayúa

Hotel Anáhuac in Juayua, El Salvador

Our style of travel thus far has been extremely spontaneous; we do the research of where we are going the day before we get there. It has worked out well so far. As usual, we consulted our twitter followers and fellow travelers for their suggestions in El Salvador and they brought us to Hotel Anáhuac in Juayúa (don’t worry I still have some trouble pronouncing that myself). Once again, we’ve found a gem in an unexpected place.

Iglesia Juayúa, El Salvador / Juayua Church

Juayúa is located two and half hours from the west coastal Guatemalan border. It’s a small town in the Routa de las Flores (a compilation of picturesque towns) with much local charm and is most widely known for their weekend food fair. The hotel is perfect: it’s very clean, has a gorgeous open courtyard filled with tropical plants, and the walls of the room display varying local art. Anáhuac also provides walking and adventure tours to neighboring natural attractions, one of them was the 7 Waterfalls , which we eagerly signed up for.

7 Waterfalls Tour

7 Waterfalls Tour in Juayua, El Salvador

Our guide, Mario, met us at Hotel Anáhuac at eight in the morning. He led us through the empty Spanish streets of town towards its outskirts where we would begin to find our way into the thick forest. Before the hike began we stopped at Mario’s house which was at the foot of our hike. Mario and his family live in a small structure built with metal roofing and wooden logs. His brother and five dogs accompanied us on our trek.

Coffee Plantations

As we made our way up the path to 7 Waterfalls Mario explained the different plants and vegetation. During our hike we encountered large El Salvador coffee plantations where we learned about cultivating coffee and how elevation increases a coffee’s grade. Mario told us that most of El Salvador’s high quality coffee is exported elsewhere in the world. Only the lowest grade of coffee stays in the country. Previous hikes have had at a minimum wooden steps or rock laid into steps to reduce difficulty and risks. On this hike not one single portion of the trail is built up and it’s not well maintained. There are large branches to climb over, thorn filled trees to duck under, rivers to cross, rocks to hop over, and waterfalls to repel down from. The reward was majestic views of nature in its purest form.

Waterfall Nature Pictures

Chorros de Calera - 7 Waterfalls Tour

Once we arrived at the top of the mountain there was yet another large wall of waterfalls that fed a pool of fresh water where we swam. This area was popular for the locals to picnic, however we never passed any along our hike. We assume they take a different trek. Unfortunately, there was quite a bit of trash around the swimming area. Mario explained the cultural challenge of changing this problematic behavior. Of course, since Mario benefits from tourism in El Salvador directly, he is able to see the benefit of a cleaner environment. We all enjoyed fresh sandwiches filled with tomatoes, onions, avocado, eggs and salt and pepper. They were probably some of the most refreshing simple subs we have ever had.

Ultimate Adventure Tour

Stick Insect Landed on My Hand

As we ate, the local families were jumping from rocky cliffs into the water. Jason eyed the possibility of jumping from the waterfall. Mario escorted him up to a rock that stood out slightly from the wall. He jumped and softly hit the sand in the bottom of the pool. It was only about 9-10ft deep and the area that was safe to jump in was considerably small. Next, Mario climbed another 2.5 meters up the wall and dove head first into the shallow pool. As he entered the water he curled his body immediately to avoid being paralyzed. It was very impressive.

Water Channel Tunnels

Mario Taking Our Portrait With the Largest Waterfall

Along the hike Mario also explained to us that there were tunnels or caves we could explore. Once at the pools we realized they were man made tunnels bored for sending the water to a hydro station. At first I was up for it, but when we got to the opening of the tunnel and I watched Mario go in first, I decided to back out. It was very dark, the water came to his shoulders and there was hardly any head room. I knew Jason wanted to do it; I told him I would wait for them at the opening. After they returned and heard about their adventure, I was jealous.

Just as we began to pack up for our return, clouds rushed into the valley at our elevation and suddenly we were engulfed in clouds full of mist. The scene of the clouds squeezing into the valley seemed very Jurasic Park. It wasn’t a slow process, the clouds came in fast at five miles per hour. I still carry this scene in my mind. We could hear heavy rain hitting the leaves of all the trees in the valley, but we didn’t see or feel any on us. I can only assume it was raining below. We arrived back at Mario’s home where he changed again into jeans and a clean shirt to walk us back through town to our hostel. You won’t find any locals wearing shorts in the streets of El Salvador. The rain did catch up to us during our walk back through town, but it felt simply refreshing.

A Challenging Hike

Although we’ve already been on a few hikes during this trip, the hike to the 7 Waterfalls in Juayua was still unique due to its primitive trails, abundance of rivers and waterfalls and varying terrain. The trek was not difficult from an endurance perspective, but it was a hike that required a lot of focus and caution. It’s muddy, wet, slippery, itchy and wonderfully adventurous. Juayua is a must see in El Salvador, and the 7 Waterfalls hike is their hidden gem.

Weekend Festival in Juayua, El Salvador

How Can You Help?

When Mario isn’t conducting tours to the Seven Waterfalls he is looking for work doing odd jobs in construction, harvesting and anything else he can find. We kept him busy over the next few days, since we highly recommended the tour to every traveler that wandered into the hostel. We booked the tour through the hostel, but you can book the 7 waterfalls tour by contacting Mario’s family directly, providing his family greater income. If you plan to book directly, then please send an email well in advance (doesn’t have access to a computer daily) to douglas.martinez1203(at)gmail.com. I set up an email account for them and taught them how to access their mail. Mario and his brothers William and Douglas were the kindest of people and we encourage you to enjoy their tours and friendship. They speak Spanish only, so please email in Spanish as well.

Photo of the Day: Elderly Woman, El Salvador
Discover Flowers of Alegria El Salvador
Photo of the Day: Marching Band in Juayua, El Salvador
Santa Ana Volcano, El Salvador
Finca El Paraiso Waterfall – Video Ep. 5

Written by Aracely

27 responses to “7 waterfalls tour el salvador – video ep. 11”.

Great video, those waterfalls are stunning. I love that the hike is left in its natural state and that it is not maintained. These are the hikes that seem most rewarding and this one certainly looked challenging. The corn plants are cool too. Very interesting how they block the wind to protect the coffee plants. It’s unfortunate to hear about the trash around the falls, but it seems that it is a common thing in CA. We are constantly picking up trash on our beach from the locals, and hoping that one day they realize the impact they are making by leaving it all around. Great post, I will definitely try and make it here. Cheers!

It is an exciting day hike to do, and mostly because of it’s natural state. But, this also did contribute to its difficulty. Well worth it.

Loving the pictures and the story. Will definitely keep this hike in mind (with a name like ’7 waterfalls’ it might not be that hard to remember) for when we’re in El Salvador.

I have the same problem. In this video I say, “These are the most beautiful waterfalls I have every seen.” Aracely points out to me that I say every time I see a waterfall. It’s true, I do say that.

Great to see you guys are back with a new video. Looking forward to seeing more!

I know, it’s been a terribly long time. Aracely has been pressuring me to get them out. I was going to wait for the new website design, but that is taking longer than expected too.

I like the new introduction, and end credits. I’ve jumped from a few waterfalls, but the higher one the local did looked super sketchy!

Glad you enjoyed it Dave. Right now we have 3 different intros that we alternate in each video. Currently in the process of updating all the old video posts with the newly edited videos.

could almost feel the water spray and thought the info about the plants interesting also pics of wildlife. the print part is also interesting and colorful… Nice job… Miss hearing Jason’s choice of background music but understand copyright issues.

I know right! I love having good music in there, but I gotta watch my back now.

Great video! I love adventure travel and you two are definitely adventurous! Sorry about the bruise on your foot. I hope it healed nicely. This makes me want to climb a waterfall now!

That bruise was a painful one. Took about 2 weeks to not hurt anymore, but I survived! Thanks for watching Tai!

“…the one spot where survival is possible.” Love it…glad you made it into that spot!

And great vid! Looks like an awesome place!

A little dramatic right? I was trying to remember back to how scared I was and that I didn’t speak Spanish. I could only assume I was to jump to where I could see white sand below. Everything else was rocks. What was most frightening was that I couldn’t ever get good footing on the moss covered rocks. As soon as I let go from behind I just jumped for fear that I would end up falling. It was a great adventure, but a crazy one there at the end.

I have been to Juayua like 5 times and have never been able to go to the Chorros de la Calera. I tried to do once but locals told me I needed a guide for security reasons. I need to contact the guy who guide you.

It’s a great day hike Ruth. It’s challenging, but worth it. They guys were wonderful, but do speak Spanish only. They actually live in forest, so they know it very well.

I am absolutely amazed at your video editing skills!

And what a beautiful location.

Thanks Valerie, it’s much appreciated. We love doing videos… more than anything else. I wish you great success putting together your new travel blog.

Love the video! Can’t wait to see more! The new introduction sequence looks good.

Thanks Wendy, we are just as excited to see the footage too. It’s been a while since we sifted through all of it.

Yes, very, very slippery. We are working on the Juayua weekend food festival video now. We tried to make that one adventurous by finding some armadillo to eat, but unfortunately we never found any.

Looks like one great destination to visit. Great photos.

I stayed at the same hostel and it was one of my favorites for all of Central America. It was also really easy to meet other travelers there (not sure why, but some hostels simply are better that way though you can’t point to any specific reasons why in general). Also did the waterfall tour with Mario and had a great experience. And, LOVED the weekend food festival. The only negative was that the food stops being served quite early and I wasn’t hungry after a big lunch in time for an early dinner!

I would also point out the great amount of street art to be found in Juayua and surrounding towns along the ruta de las flores.

We enjoyed that hostel too and their bar that they run. Our next video, out next week captures the food festival.

I just love your videos. They are fully original not too long not too short. Really enjoy watching these. And it makes me dreams of my own departure for latin america.

Name (required)
Email (required)

XHTML: You can use these tags: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <strike> <strong>

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail

Hot Articles

Amazing photos, cool commenters.

Bollywood Rickshaw Art in Bangladesh: It’s just about impossible to imagine Bangladesh without the ... http://bit.ly/e9G4rZ via @umarket April 3, 2024 7:54
Fox Glacier, One Dramatic Ice Field: The last time we walked on a glacier was during our Chevy E... http://bit.ly/fTsQZ1 via @theplanetd April 3, 2024 6:58
A Song for Japan: 311 Love Beyond Borders concert in Hong Kong: Two days ago, on the evening of A... http://bit.ly/fisWBO via @Muzachan April 3, 2024 6:17

El Salvador Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

a volcano in El Salvador surrounded by a sprawling, lush jungle

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!

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

Aerial view of a lush green landscape and beaches 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

People walking around in a plaza with a historic building in the background in San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador

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

View of huts along the beach with a volcano in the background in El Salvador

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

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

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

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

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to El Salvador

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in El Salvador

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

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

El Salvador Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

El Salvador Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

My 1 Week Costa Rica Road Trip Itinerary

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

Get your free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

Where To Stay
Transportation
Booking Resources
Related Blogs

The 6 Best El Salvador Tours For Unforgettable Adventures That Are Achievable & Affordable!

Posted on Last updated: October 13, 2023

Categories Tours , El Salvador

The 6 Best El Salvador Tours For Unforgettable Adventures That Are Achievable & Affordable!

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

Welcome to El Salvador, a nation that offers a mesmerizing mix of natural marvels, extensive history, and kind hospitality. El Salvador is a jewel in Central America tucked away between the Pacific Ocean and thick jungles.

With breathtaking scenery, volcanic peaks, and immaculate beaches, Exploring El Salvador is an experience unlike any other, and the best way to experience this rich and exciting country is, without a doubt, on a multi-day tour.

Beyond the stereotypes and preconceived notions is a nation with a rich history, kind people, and an unmatched sense of genuineness. El Salvador’s soul-stirring scenery, which includes imposing volcanoes, gorgeous beaches, and attractive lakes, provides the perfect setting for extraordinary excursions. El Salvador’s resolve to improve its reputation is a shining example of its tenacity and aspiration. The country is emerging from the shadows of its past to embrace a new narrative of progress and positivity. It has a rich cultural heritage and stunning scenery.

best tour operators in El Salvador - best El Salvador tour package - best tours in El Salvador - best tour companies in El Salvador - best El Salvador tours

El Salvador is exhibiting its undiscovered gems to the globe through creative tourism promotions, eco-friendly initiatives, and infrastructural investment. By overcoming prejudices and embracing a spirit of progress, the nation is luring visitors to experience its genuine attractiveness. El Salvador stands tall as the world looks past preconceived notions and is eager to welcome others into sharing its transformational tale.

But El Salvador’s modest and unassuming charm distinguishes it from its surrounding nations. Since there aren’t any busy crowds or mass tourism here, you may immerse yourself in real cultural interactions and create relationships that will last a lifetime.

El Salvador offers options for hiking, surfing, and touring national parks, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The good news? Many of these excursions can be planned as part of a multi-day trip to ensure you get the most out of the country’s natural splendor and feed your inner adventurer.

In conclusion, El Salvador is a gem waiting to be discovered, full of natural beauty and cultural richness. A multi-day tour provides a thorough and seamless experience, allowing you to explore this intriguing country’s interior and giving you priceless memories of an enlightening adventure. Here is a look at the top six best tours in El Salvador.

Page Contents

Highlights of El Salvador

Tour to el salvador: culture, history & nature, taste of el salvador 4 days, best el salvador tailor-made tour with daily departure, 7 days discover el salvador, 3 day surf & stay adventure in el salvador.

Welcome to Explore Tours’ Highlights of El Salvador, a fascinating trip through the best of this undiscovered jewel in Central America. Learn about the stunning natural beauty, fascinating past, and dynamic culture that make El Salvador a truly unique travel destination.

This expertly planned tour guarantees an amazing experience, including visiting ancient Mayan ruins, unwinding on stunning beaches, and exploring lush rainforests and charming local villages. Prepare to uncover El Salvador’s charm with the help of knowledgeable guides and seamless logistics, and depart with priceless memories of an unforgettable adventure. Day One: Arrive in El Salvador. Day Two: Head to Jiquilisco Bay; boat trip with a local biologist to monitor hawksbill turtles Day Three: If you choose not to partake in the boat trip on Day Two, this next tour is for you. Enjoy an Optional kayaking tour or a visit to a local cacao farm. Day Four: Drive to Suchitoto via the Laguna de Alegria; evening pupusa-making class Day Five: Visit the ex-guerrilla community of La Cinquera; free afternoon in Suchitoto Day Six: Discover San Salvador on foot; visit the Joya de Ceren; drive to Cerro Verde via Lake Coatepeque Day Seven: Hike the Santa Ana volcano to the impressive Llamatepec crater lake; drive to Ataco via the Tazumal Archaeological Site Day Eight: Explore the small villages on the Ruta de las Flores; explore the street food markets Day Nine: Coffee farm visit; drive to the Los Cobanos protected marine area; continue to La Libertad Day Ten: Free Day to Explore!

Day Eleven: Departure Day. Explore will take you on a remarkable journey around El Salvador’s Top Attractions. Explore the ancient Mayan ruins at Joya de Cerén and take in the sun-kissed splendor of El Tunco’s beaches as you uncover the hidden gems of this alluring nation. Enjoy regional specialties and dance to folkloric beats as you feel Salvadoran culture’s warm embrace.

Explore verdant rainforests teeming with biodiversity and experience the excitement of surfing Pacific waves. This thoughtfully planned schedule guarantees an authentic, off-the-beaten-path journey that will leave you with priceless memories. A genuinely memorable journey awaits as Explore leads you through this colorful tapestry of landscapes and customs.

Highlights of El Salvador Explore! - best tour operators in El Salvador

Vibes Adventures

Welcome to the tour to El Salvador: Culture, History & Nature, a tour that will enrich you with fascinating encounters, incredible wildlife, friendly locals and more. Discover the heart of this Central American treasure, renowned for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and cultural heritage.

This meticulously planned itinerary promises an amazing journey, including viewing old archaeological sites and colonial villages, hiking through lush rainforests, and relaxing on lovely, pristine beaches. Discover the unique local culture that makes El Salvador a travel destination unlike any other, as well as the warm Salvadoran hospitality and delicious cuisine.

Prepare to forge cherished memories and a stronger bond with this remarkable nation. With all that in mind, here is a look at your full itinerary for this tour. Day One: Arrive in San Salvador. Day Two: Start your day with a walking tour of the historic center of El Salvador’s capital. Then you will enjoy a guided visit to the National Anthropology Museum. Then, move to the beautiful town of Suchitoto. Day Three: First , take a boat tour of Lake Suchitlán and Market Food Experience in the morning. After that, visit the impressive Mayan ruins of Joya de Ceren and San Andres in the afternoon. Day Four: In the morning, continue our “Tour to El Salvador: Culture, History & Nature” and take free time to enjoy the sun, swim, or jet ski on the lake. Then, go to explore the impressive Tazumal Archeological Site before finishing the day in Ahuachapán. Day Five: Spend your entire day exploring la Ruta de las Flores. Day Six: First, in the morning, take a 3-hour intermediate-level hike to enjoy the sunrise from the crater of Santa Ana Volcano. Then, go to discover El Zonte and El Tunco. Day Seven: Free program: rent a surfing board and enjoy the waves, relax on the beach sipping a refreshing cocktail, or go hiking in the nearby Walter Thilo Deininger National Park. Day Eight: Departure Day.

You bid farewell to this magnificent place as your enthralling Tour to El Salvador: Culture, History & Nature ends, your heart full of priceless memories. You have enjoyed the very best of El Salvador’s rich legacy and natural beauty, from discovering old archaeological sites to enjoying the vibrant local culture.

This journey has been spectacular, thanks to the skilled supervision and expertly designed tour. You leave with a richer understanding of this alluring nation and the immeasurable value of its cultural and historical treasures. Safe travels and happy memories of your time spent in El Salvador till we meet again on your next excursion!

Tour to El Salvador Culture, History & Nature by Vibes Adventures - best tour operators in El Salvador

Inter Tours

Take a culinary journey through Inter Tours’ “Taste of El Salvador 4 Days” and indulge your senses! Get ready to be mesmerized by the enticing tastes and beautiful marvels this gem of Central America offers. Each day is a voyage into the country’s rich cultural legacy, from enjoying pupusas, El Salvador’s delightful national dish, to sipping rich coffee straight from the plantations.

Let your knowledgeable tour guides take you to vibrant local markets and quaint towns where you can meet enthusiastic makers and discover the true EL Salvador. Discover El Salvador’s character through its delectable treats, views and friendly locals. Here is a look at your full itinerary for this tour. Day One: Arrive in El Salvador. Day Two: Your local guide will be happy to show you the capital of El Salvador. You will see the Center of San Salvador, including the National Palace, Monsenor Romero memorial site, El Rosario church, a relief map, a government district, and modern areas such as Santa Elena and Zona Rosa. Continue to Boqueron national park for the remainder of the day. Day Three: Your Choice, you can select one of the Two tours.

Archeological tour or Coffee tour. On the coffee tour, you can visit typical mountain villages of El Salvador. You will also visit Izalco, Nahuizalco, and Salcoatitan and then return to San Salvador at sunset.

On the Archaeological tour, you will see the Archaeological Site Joya de Ceren, San Andres archeological site, Tazumal, and overlooking Coatepeque Lake before returning to San Salvador.

Day Four: Departure Day.

Join Inter Tours on an incredible sensory journey through the “Taste of El Salvador”! Spend four wonderful days getting to know this fascinating country’s true character. Each experience promises to pique your interest and leave you spellbound, whether engaging in vivid cultural interactions in humming markets or exploring ancient ruins that hide stories of the past.

As you veer off the usual path, take in the stunning scenery, from imposing volcanoes to peaceful lakeshores. Allow your knowledgeable guides to design the ultimate adventure that invites you to embrace El Salvador’s genuine spirit. Prepare to experience the dynamic beat of this unique country through taste, touch, and sight.

Taste of El Salvador 4 Days by Inter Tours - best tour operators in El Salvador

Agate Trave

Your fantasy holiday can become a reality when you book the Best El Salvador Tailor-Made Tour with Daily Departure. This special trip allows you to design a journey that precisely fits your interests, preferences, and time constraints. The options are unlimited, whether you’re looking for cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, or tranquility on exquisite beaches.

You may start your personalized vacation whenever you like, thanks to daily departures and professional direction. Immerse yourself in El Salvador’s rich history, breathtaking scenery, and friendly people to have an amazing, personalized experience for you. Prepare yourself to experience this alluring nation in a way that will leave you with priceless memories and a genuine connection to its allure. Here is a look at your full itinerary for this tour. Day One: Arrive in El Salvador. Day Two: This morning, we will spend a half day exploring the capital city of El San Salvador. Then we will drive around 1 hour and a half to Suchitoto, the symbol of El Salvador’s cultural traditions. Upon arrival, you will visit the Iglesia Santa Lucia, known as the gem of Suchitoto. Afterward, you will have some time to stroll around the central plaza. Day Three: Today, we will first head to the Joya de Ceren Archaeological Park to discover the mysterious Maya civilization in this pre-Columbian Mayan farming village. Then pay a visit to the Sitio Arqueologico San Andres, an important ceremonial center with various structures and well-preserved indigo mills. We will visit the Tazumal archaeological sites at the end of the tour. Day Four: Today, we will have a full day to visit the Santa Ana Volcano. After breakfast, we will drive around 1 hour and a half to the National Park Cerro Verde. If you are interested, you could also row a boat at Lake Coatepeque or swim there. In the late afternoon, we will drive back to San Salvador. Day Five: After breakfast, we will drive around 40 minutes to the Playa El Tunco. Here, we will leave a free day for you to explore. Day Six: Departure Day.

Please note this is a sample itinerary. The full itinerary is 100% tailored to you and your interests. Your Best El Salvador Tailor-Made Tour with Daily Departure will provide priceless experiences in the hands of Agate Travel. As the journey comes to an end, you’ll think back on the special occasions that were created just for you.

That’s what makes this tour so unique. It is very customizable. Take advantage of the warm El Salvadorian welcome, savor the beauty of hidden treasures, and become engrossed in the country’s rich tapestry. Agate Travel’s dedication to quality assures a seamless trip, leaving you with a heart full of special memories and the desire to visit this magical country again.

Best El Salvador Tailor-Made Tour with Daily Departure by Agate Trave - best tour operators in El Salvador

Epic Tours El Salvador

Join Epic Tours El Salvador on a memorable 7-day vacation to explore El Salvador. As we reveal the hidden gems of this Central American treasure, enjoy access to good eats, outstanding hospitality and unique natural beauty. A well-planned itinerary promises a once-in-a-lifetime trip, taking in everything from historic Mayan ruins to pristine beaches and lush rainforests.

This tour offers just that. Experience the vibrant tapestry of Salvadoran culture while dining on regional specialties and interacting with welcoming residents. With the help of our knowledgeable tour guides, you’ll learn more about this fascinating country and make lifelong memories. Prepare yourself for the most amazing way to experience El Salvador at its best. Here is a look at your full itinerary for this tour. Day One: Arrive in El Salvador. Day Two: Breakfast at the hotel. The driver will take you to the Ruta de Las Flores mountains. Afternoon at Leisure with the opportunity to join an Optional Coffee Tour of Finca El Carmen Day Three: In the morning, you will visit the archeological site of Joya de Ceren. After this, we will travel to the San Andres May a site. Transfer to Suchitoto. Day Four: You will spend the entire day exploring Suchitoto. Visit the cultural treasures of the Church of Santa Lucia on the main plaza, panoramic streets, old houses, and the “theater of the ruins”. Day Five: Transfer from Suchitoto to the east coast of El Salvador with beautiful remote beaches surrounded by tropic lush. An afternoon of leisure enjoying the sound of the Pacific Ocean. Day Six: Spend the day at leisure on the beach. Day Seven: Departure Day. Don’t pass up the opportunity to see all that El Salvador has to offer in just seven days with Epic Tours El Salvador. Thanks to such a carefully crafted itinerary, you will embark on an extraordinary journey through ancient history, stunning landscapes, and colorful culture.

Whether you’re an adventurer or a culture vulture, we have a customized experience. Get lost in El Salvador’s charm, from the famous Mayan ruins to the sandy beaches. Discovering the heart and spirit of this magical nation with Epic Tours will leave you with a sense of adventure or perhaps a longing to return.

7 days Discover El Salvador by Epic Tours El Salvador - best tour operators in El Salvador

Surf and Trips El Salvado

Welcome to El Salvador’s amazing 3-Day Surf & Stay Adventure, where you may enjoy the sun, sea, and adrenaline surf. Experience the ultimate surfing adventure in El Salvador’s unspoiled coastlines, which are recognized for their top-notch breakers and surfable conditions.

This expertly planned experience mixes heart-pounding surf sessions with cozy beachside lodging, guaranteeing the ideal harmony of thrill and relaxation. This expedition promises an exciting tour into the center of El Salvador’s surf culture, regardless of whether you are an experienced surfer looking for new challenges or a beginner ready to ride your first wave. Prepare to catch waves, create memories, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this surfing haven. Day One: Arrival in El Salvador. Day Two: Depending on your surfing ability, we’ll choose the right surf break for you — enough to be challenged but still have a good time. Expect 2 surf sessions a day, so start layering on that sunscreen! Day Three: Depending on your departure time, you may get a morning surf in before departing. The tour ends here. Surf and Trips El Salvador offers the ultimate 3-day Surf & Stay Adventure in El Salvador, where you may catch the ideal wave. Experience the exhilaration of surfing while being coached by seasoned professionals along the magnificent Pacific coastline.

After seeing huge waves, relax in plush lodging with stunning ocean views. Enjoy delicious regional cuisine while taking in the vibrant surf culture. Your customized journey guarantees to leave you with priceless memories, whether you’re an experienced surfer or a beginner seeking an adrenaline rush. This is one of the best tours of El Salvador.

3 Day Surf & Stay Adventure in El Salvador by Surf and Trips El Salvado - best tour operators in El Salvador

In Conclusion, Travel to El Salvador for a unique experience as you discover this hidden jewel of Central America. Wander through historic colonial towns and ancient Mayan ruins to learn more about this country’s rich cultural legacy. Enjoy the warm friendliness of the locals while indulging in delectable cuisine that combines a variety of influences.

Admire the stunning scenery, which includes spectacular volcanoes, luscious jungles, and immaculate beaches along the Pacific coast. El Salvador satisfies every traveler’s needs, whether seeking exhilarating experiences like surfing world-class waves or peacefulness in natural reserves.

El Salvador is an amazing place that provides many activities for tourists seeking adventure, culture, and stunning natural scenery. The best way to experience the Nation and get the most out of your trip is to go on a multi-day tour. A multi-day vacation in El Salvador ensures a memorable and enlightening experience through a nation that frequently astounds and thrills its tourists. A multi-day tour guarantees that you will leave El Salvador with a profound appreciation for its natural beauty, cultural legacy, and warm hospitality, thanks to skilled direction, seamless logistics, and access to unique activities.

Overall, El Salvador is a country that has done a lot to change its image on the world stage. Because of this, El Salvador is becoming the travel hotspot it always should have been and travel to El Salvador is easier now than ever. Accept El Salvador’s many charms and everything there is to offer here. I can guarantee you; you will completely enjoy yourself. Visit El Salvador.

If none of these tours work for you in El Salvador, please do not worry. There is a wide variety of tour options in the country, and we are confident that there will be something that fits your needs and interests.

Take a look at all the group tours in El Salvador now , which you can sort by private or group, maximum sizing, budget, dates and much (much more). The team at TourRadar is also always more than happy to answer any questions, provide further information or assist in any way in finding the perfect tour for you.

El Salvador 5 Day Itinerary: The Best Highlights

Got a few days of vacation or an extended long weekend coming up? Looking for a short trip abroad without breaking the bank? Torn between choices whether to go on a beach getaway or a mountain holiday or a city break? Answers to all your questions lie in one itinerary, 5 Days in El Salvador .

In this El Salvador 5 day itinerary, we will share with you the day wise break down of the best things to do, recommendations on tours you can take, and tips on where to stay and how to get around.

As Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Thanks for supporting Paradise Catchers.

View of Izalco Volcano from Santa Ana Volcano Hike trail in El Salvador.

Table of Contents

How to Plan 5 Days in El Salvador

The best part about this El Salvador 5 day itinerary is that you base yourself in one location, San Salvador.

Not too far from El Salvador International Airport , San Salvador is a big city with all amenities and conveniences of booking tours and transports. So, it becomes your perfect launchpad to explore mountains, beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes and heritage towns of El Salvador, all in just five days.

The itinerary assumes your arrival in El Salvador on the night of Day 0 or on Day 1 morning.

Do not forget to purchase travel insurance for your trip. We recommend:

✈️ Heymondo for short trips or long term travel (no deductibles, 24/7 worldwide support for any kind of medical assistance)

💻 SafetyWing for digital nomads (add-on options: adventure sports, electronics theft)

Exclusive for Paradise Catchers Readers: Get 5% off on Heymondo (discount automatically applied, not applicable for US residents)

Day 1: San Salvador City Tour and El Boqueron National Park

From ancient Mayan civilization to Spanish colonial rule, to civil war until almost the end of the 20th century to dangerous gang mafia to now, one of the model countries on the global map for growth and development, El Salvador has been through a lot over the centuries.

Of course, there is a lot to process for putting everything into perspective over the next 5 days. So, what better place to start than the historic center in the capital city itself.

We recommend starting your Day 1 in El Salvador with a city tour of San Salvado r. Your guide not only shows you the local attractions but also shares historical contexts and the socio-economic constructs of El Salvador.

The city tours usually take half a day and have two slots, one in the morning and the other in the afternoon. But if you have the full day available, book an extended tour where you combine history and nature.

On the full-day combo tours, you get the San Salvador city tour part as well as visit El Boqueron National Park. Situated on the outskirts of the capital, the national park has short and nice trails that take you to various viewpoints of San Salvador volcano, a double crater volcano. Some tours even include a stop at the Picnic Steak House where you get to ride the instagrammable rainbow slide.

Recommended Tours

If you arrived the morning of Day 1, sign up for a half-day city tour option. It is a good way to get introduced to the city and the history of El Salvador.

However, if you arrived the night before on Day 0, go for a full-day tour. On such full day tours, you will get a combination of city, history, culture and nature.

San Salvador City Tour + El Boqueron National Park + Pupusas Tasting (Full Day | Private Tour)
El Boqueron + Rainbow Slide + Historic Center (Full Day | Group Tour)
San Salvador City Tour + Pupusas Tasting (Half Day | Group Tour)
Related video: 2 Days in San Salvador

Left: Us at the historic center of San Salvador. Right: Us with the double crater volcano behind us at El Boqueron National Park.

Selfie of a couple at the historic center of San Salvador in El Salvador.

Day 2: Cerro Verde National Park

Prepare for a long but rewarding day for Day 2 in El Salvador .

A little over an hour’s drive away, Cerro Verde National Park is going to be the highlight of the day. The national park is home to three crown jewels of El Salvador, three volcanoes – Izalco Volcano, Cerro Verde Volcano and Ilamatepec Volcano (also popularly known as Santa Ana Volcano).

For the adventurous among you, the best activity to pick is the Santa Ana Volcano hike .

On your way to summit the highest volcano of El Salvador, you get treated to enchanting views of Izalco Volcano, valleys and mountains.

At the top, an emerald crater lake and panoramic views of Lake Coatepeque await you. You can seal the joy of finishing the hike by visiting Lake Coatepeque on your way back.

If you are not up for a somewhat strenuous hike, alternatively you can choose a more relaxing tour.

On such tours, you get to viewpoints of the volcanoes of Cerro Verde National Park. This requires some easy hiking. You also go to see Coatepeque Lake and visit some of the important Mayan ruins sites like Joya de Cerren and San Andres.

Santa Ana Volcano Hiking + Panoramic View Lake Coatepeque
Volcanoes, Lakes and Mayan Sites
Related reading: The Complete Guide to Santa Ana Volcano Hike
Related video: Hiking Santa Ana Volcano

Left to Right: Us, (1) at the Santa Ana volcano summit, (2) at a cafe with Lake Coatepeque view.

A couple in front of the emerald colored crater lake of Santa Ana volcano.

Day 3: Day Trip to Suchitoto

After an intense day of visiting the volcanoes, you may be looking for something simple for your Day 3 in El Salvador .

Located about 51 km (32 miles) from the bustling capital city of San Salvador, lies the quaint little town of Suchitoto . Make a day trip to arrive at this place so close on the map, yet so distant in character.

Walk on the cobblestone streets, wander about town and explore the colorful neighborhoods.

See the picturesque Santa Lucia church, hang out at the central park of Suchitoto and learn about the history of this important colonial town.

Visit museums and art galleries, enjoy views of Suchitlan Lake, eat pupusas and drop in at cute cafes.

Do not miss the photo ops at almost every nook of Suchitoto.

Soak in the old world charm of Suchitoto that will delight your mood and soothe your soul.

Charming Colonial Suchitoto Tour Experience
Related reading: 15 Things to Do in Suchitoto
Related video: Exploring Suchitoto

Cobblestone street and colorful buildings of Suchitoto.

Day 4: Ruta de las Flores/ The Flower Route

Stretching between Ahuachapán and Sonsonate , El Salvador has a scenic mountain route called Ruta de las Flores. Spanish for the phrase “The Flower Route”, the road gets its name from the little wildflowers that bloom on the sides between the months of November and February.

Wildflowers or not, Ruta de las Flores deserves a place on any El Salvador itinerary, any time of the year.

Beautiful little towns, crisp mountain air, waterfalls and hot springs, coffee farms and adventure rides, colonial architectures and food festivals are some of the highlights of this part of El Salvador.

Nahuizalco , Salcoatitán , Juayúa , Apaneca and Concepción de Ataco are the towns that dot Ruta de las Flores.

Of course, it is not possible to see and do everything in all of these towns when you have only 5 days in El Salvador. In fact, some of these towns deserve a few days on their own. But that does not mean you have to entirely discard Ruta de las Flores from your El Salvador 5 day itinerary.

On a day tour from San Salvador, you can experience some of the highlights of Ruta de las Flores.

Different tours include different points to visit and offer different kinds of experiences. We suggest you to browse the tours and book the one that piques your interest.

Secret information: We spent one week only in Ruta de las Flores, and visited all the towns. Our favorite is Concepción de Ataco .

Cafe Albania + Ataco Town + Hot Springs + Lunch
Ruta de las Flores: Adventure, Hot Springs, Coffee Tour
Full Day Ruta de las Flores Visit
Ruta de las Flores – Ataco to Nahuizalco
Juayua – 7 Waterfalls Hike & Food Festival

Left: Us, in front of the mural wall of Ataco. Right: Us, enjoying a meal at Juayua Food Festival.

Mural wall at Concepcion de Ataco in Ruta de las Flores.

Day 5: Tamanique Waterfalls and El Tunco Beach

We have saved the beach R&R for your ultimate day on the El Salvador 5 day itinerary. But to mix things up, include a waterfall hike preceding your time enjoying sun, sea and sand.

So, on Day 5 in El Salvador , start early and head to the Tamanique Waterfalls . A beautiful hike through the jungle will lead you to not one but four different waterfalls.

You can swim at the fresh water pools, jump from rock edge into the waterfall or slide down one of the waterfalls.

Of course, all the jumping, sliding and swimming are optional activities. But visiting Tamanique waterfalls an fun-filled activity where you decide on the degree of adventure you want. But the hike does require some walking in the heat, holding on to ropes, climbing stairs and scrambling on rocks.

After Tamanique waterfalls hike, visit El Tunco beach. It is the most popular beach in the famed Surf City zone of El Salvador.

Eat some fresh seafood for lunch, enjoy time by the beach and end the day by watching a spectacular sunset at El Tunco.

Tip: El Salvador International Airport is equidistant from San Salvador and El Tunco. So, on Day 5, you can actually check out of your hotel in San Salvador to go to Tamanique waterfalls and El Tunco beach.

Later in the evening, you head directly to the airport from El Tunco to catch a night flight back home.

Tamanique Waterfalls Complex + El Tunco Beach
Related reading: The Complete Guide to Tamanique Waterfalls Hike
Related video: Hiking Tamanique Waterfalls

Left: Indranil, taking a swim at Tamanique Waterfalls. Right: Pubali & Indranil, during sunset hour at El Tunco beach.

Man with curly hair, enjoying his swim at Tamanique waterfalls in El Salvador.

Where to Stay: Hotels in San Salvador

If the same place is going to be your base for 5 days in El Salvador, find yourself a comfortable stay.

All your days are going to be packed with activities. So imagine starting with a hearty breakfast in the morning and returning to a nice hotel at the end of the day.

Here are some of our San Salvador hotel recommendations and their highlights:

Barcelo San Salvador : A high-end hotel where all rooms come with views of city or volcano, comfortable beds, large private bathroom, TV and air-conditioning. The hotel has onsite restaurants and bars, an outdoor pool, a spa center, a fitness center and free vehicle parking. Guest love the buffet breakfast spread at Barcelo. Click here to to book your stay.
Hotel Citlalli : Featuring a garden and a terrace, the hotel scores high on location and cleanliness. They have a 24-hour front desk for guests and offer free private parking. The rooms are aesthetically designed and have private attached bathroom, air-conditioning and television. Breakfast is included in room tariff of Citlalli. Click here to book your stay.
Cinco Hotel B&B : A nice and affordable hotel, with pretty corners everywhere, from patio and garden to nicely appointed rooms. The rooms have wood and white look, have comfortable beds and dedicated work desks, and come with television, air conditioning, attached bathroom. The personal touch of Cinco Hotel hospitality is valued for by guests. Click here to book your stay.

You can use this Map Search Box below to browse more hotels in San Salvador and book your stay.

What to Pack 5 Days in El Salvador

El Salvador has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons, dry (November-April) and rainy (May-October).

So, for anytime of the year, pack light comfortable clothing .

For footwear, put on comfortable walking shoes . Do not forget the flip-fl ops for dipping your toes in the sand at the beach.

Also bring hiking boots and a light jacket if you are going for the volcano hike.

Apart from clothing and footwear, here are some other must-have items on your El Salvador packing list:

swimwear for waterfalls, beaches and hot springs
insect repellant for days in the jungle
sunscreen – use a reef-safe sunscreen like this to protect marine life.

If visiting El Salvador during the rainy season, also pack a rain poncho .

How to Get Around for 5 Days in El Salvador

The key to optimizing El Salvador 5 day itinerary is to minimize your time on transfers and transportation.

We have already unlocked the first part of the puzzle by basing your stay in San Salvador only.

So, you will be spending zero time on transfers between destinations, apart from airport transfers only, upon arrival and at the time of the departure.

For the second part, that is transportation, there are two ways to go about it:

Option 1: Book tours – All the tours we have recommended on this El Salvador itinerary include round trip transportation from San Salvador, often with pick up and drop off directly at the hotel. This way, you will not need to bother about ground transportation at all. For transfers between airport and your hotel in San Salvador, you can just book Uber.
Option 2: Rent A Car – If you do not wish to book tours and instead visit all the places independently, your best bet is to rent a car. Check Discover Cars to find and compare car rental deals across different car rental companies in El Salvador. For this 5 day itinerary, you can pick up and return the rental car at the international airport.

I do need to call our that the public transport network in El Salvador is quite good and also economical. It consists of mainly buses, nothing fancy, but reliable. However, we recommend this option, not for this 5 day itinerary, but for longer trips in El Salvador .

Final Thoughts on El Salvador 5 Day Itinerary

Five days is a good enough duration to explore some of the best highlights of El Salvador. It is a compact itinerary packed with action and adventure, but without the hassle of transferring between destinations.

However, if you have more time, you can take it slow and spend more days in each place instead of making multiple day trips. Or may be after this 5 day trip to El Salvador, you will long to return for another balmy vacation and a few more pupusas amongst the warmth of Salvadoran people. So, bookmark these for then:

El Salvador 2 Week Itinerary
Salto de Malacatiupan Hot Springs Waterfalls
Tazumal Mayan Ruins Visit Guide

Selfie of a couple with big smiles at a hot spring waterfall in El Salvador.

Travel Planning Logistics

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

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

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

Paradise Catchers

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

Should You Rent A Car in Costa Rica? + Car Rental Discount

Catarata la leona: an exciting waterfall hike in costa rica [+ discount code], leave a comment cancel reply.

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.

Explore related stories

Lexi Cross skateboarding in El Salvador © Lexi Cross

Best in Travel - 2023

Nov 15, 2022 • 3 min read

Who better to show you how to have the perfect day in El Salvador than Lexi Cross and Roman Martinez, who run a surf/work program.

Aug 1, 2024 • 7 min read

Jul 31, 2024 • 5 min read

Jul 31, 2024 • 4 min read

Jul 30, 2024 • 8 min read

Built around 700 AD, the 57 metre high pyramid of Temple V in Tikal was one of the tallest and most voluminous buildings in the Maya world.

Jul 11, 2024 • 9 min read

Jul 2, 2024 • 5 min read

Jun 27, 2024 • 9 min read

Tour packages

Multi day tours in El Salvador

El Salvador tour packages! Spend your Holidays in El Salvador , better known as El Pulgarcito de América !

The name Pulgarcito comes from the popular Tom Thumb because of the size in territorial extension: due the country is the smallest in continental America. Despite this attribute, El Salvador has a lot of natural sceneries, national protected area, volcanoes and lakes that offer a great experience and easy displacement .

El Salvador offers a wealthy mix of culture and archaeology including the Human Heritage World Joya de Cerén on the Mayan Route . It also offers stunning natural sceneries in natural parks as the famous active Santa Volcano or the beautiful beaches in La Libertad ; amazing gastronomy, specially the famous typical dish “ Las Pupusas “; or the delightful authentic colonial style small towns along the Flower’s Route or the charming and famous Suchitoto colonial style town. Not to forget the major highlight of the country: its friendly people !

These are the best tour packages in El Salvador for you to enjoy with friends, family or by yourself

Best vacation packages in El Salvador

Important things to consider if you are planning to buy a tour package in el salvador.

El Salvador is a very new destination for tourism. This makes the country a one of the best kept secrets in Central America and allows you to rely discover an authentic destination away from the big crowd. This allows you to explore our country in you own unique way!

This uniqueness may also be a disadvantage for solo travelers or indepent travelers. In fact, if you are looking to move on your own, you will find out with dead ends or just with cheap options that do not worth your time spending.

If this is so, we recommend you to contact us and try to figure out especial non guided options or transportation only options for you to enjoy El Salvador in your own Budget friendly way.

El Salvador private vacation packages

Of course if you are looking for a private hiring in El Salvador we Will be happy to créate a tailor made itinerary for you Only. Just contact us, tell us what you need and we will be happy to help

Central America Travel Packages

Central America region is well known for its magical charming. Every country has on the same time wonderful places and destinations which make the greatest experience of the life time. If you are looking to discover Central America, visit our best tours packages in Central America section that includes some of the region highlights such as Antigua Guatemala, Tikal and Panajachel in Guatemala or Copán and Roatan in Honduras.

Tour El Salvador: Unveil a Wonderful Mosaic of Culture, History, and Nature (8 Days)

El Salvador Tours Tour El Salvador: Unveil a Wonderful Mosaic of Culture, History, and Nature (8 Days)

– Tour El Salvador – is an experience to discover the culture, history, and nature of this captivating and diverse country. Begin amidst nature in San Salvador , with its towering volcanoes. Let the suburbs’ charm and galleries’ allure captivate you, or simply unwind. Step into history as you explore the capital’s heart and the stories within the National Anthropology Museum. Allow your heart to dance through Suchitoto’s timeless beauty, and let the vibrant hues of Ruta de las Flores enchant your soul. Stand humbled before ancient Mayan ruins, and feel the ocean’s embrace in El Zonte and El Tunco .

Explore galleries and museums and dive into the teeming markets of San Salvador.
Visit the captivating UNESCO-listed ruins of Joya de Ceren known as the “Pompeii of the Americas”.
Explore la Ruta de las Flores, a 36 km-long serene and verdant route perfect for hiking, village-hopping, and food experimentation.
Relax your soul and body in Ahuachapan’s hot springs.
Do surfing on El Salvador’s Pacific coast known for its vibrant party scene and beautiful black-sandy beaches.

How is this tour different?

Authentic how this tour provides an actual image of the destination, life, and practices of the host community..

We do our best to make our trips educative and fulfilling, in which travelers can interact with local populations, learn about their traditions, and culture, and connect with their core values.

A tour with impact ? How this tour positively affects the destination and local communities on economic, socio-cultural, and environmental dimensions.

We support the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Our tours are aligned with SDG 8 and 12, focusing on empowering local communities and promoting sustainable consumption and production practices. We take tourists to underdeveloped regions, creating opportunities for economic growth while respecting local traditions and educating communities on sustainable approaches.

Other ? Other advantages this tour offers to travelers.

Small groups of up to 12 travelers: thus closer communication, easier coordination, more adventures, and fun!
Off-the-beaten-track tours with maximum immersion in local nature, culture, and traditions.
Easy-going atmosphere of tours, perfect for informal travel and making new friends among co-travelers and locals.

Day 1: San Salvador

Tour El Salvador starts in San Salvador – a handsome Central American capital surrounded by green-tipped volcanoes, pleasant leafy suburbs, and filled with outstanding galleries and museums. Arrive at any time and take a taxi/shuttle bus to your accommodation. Once there, take your time to rest or explore the city. In the evening, meet your Tour Leader and the rest of the group for a welcome meeting followed by an optional dinner in a restaurant.

Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in San Salvador
Meals Included: n/a
Activities Included: welcome meeting

Day 2: San Salvador – Suchitoto

Start your day with a walking tour of the historic center of El Salvador’s capital and visit the National Anthropology Museum with your guide. Then, move to the beautiful town of Suchitoto. Architecture buffs will surely love its colonial buildings, while outdoor types can choose between numerous hikes to waterfalls, caves, and beautiful Suchitlán Lake. Suchitoto is also a bird migration zone with over 200 species. Thousands of hawks and falcons fill the skies as the seasons change and birds of all sorts nest in the relative safety of the lake islands. After arrival and seeing impressive basaltic prisms of nearby Cascada Los Tercios, visit a charming Alejandro Coto House Museum and take an orientation walk around the downtown. In the evening, join an optional dinner.

Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Suchitoto
Meals Included: breakfast.
Activities Included: orientation walks in San Salvador and Suchitoto; visits to the National Anthropology Museum, Cascada Los Tercios, and Alejandro Coto House Museum.

Day 3: Suchitoto – Joya de Cerén Archeological Site – San Andrés Archeological Site – Lake Coatepeque

Firstly, take a boat tour of Lake Suchitlán and Market Food Experience in the morning. Thereafter, visit the impressive Mayan ruins of Joya de Ceren (UNESCO-listed) and San Andres in the afternoon. In the evening, arrive at your accommodation on the shore of Lake Coatepeque to enjoy the beautiful sunset and impressive views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Later, join an optional dinner and get-together with your group.

Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B on the shore of Lake Coatepeque
Activities Included: boat tour and Market Food Experience in Suchitoto; Joya de Ceren and San Andres Archeological Sites

Day 4: Lake Coatepeque – Tazumal Archeological Site – Ahuachapan

In the morning, continue the Tour El Salvador and take free time to enjoy the sun, swim, or jet ski on the lake. Then, go to explore the impressive Tazumal Archeological Site before finishing in Ahuachapán. Situated at the beginning of the Ruta de las Flores, it’s a prosperous, small provincial capital that supplies 15% of the country’s electrical power thanks to the wonders of geothermal energy. Finally, relax in one of Ahuachapan’s thermal springs and explore its vibrant streets before an optional dinner and get-together with your group in the evening.

Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Ahuachapán
Meals Included: breakfast
Activities Included: orientation walk to Tazumal Archaeological Site; access to Ahuachapán thermal springs; walking tour in Ahuachapan

Day 5: Ahuachapán – La Ruta de las Flores – Cerro Verde National Park

Spend your day exploring la Ruta de las Flores, a 36 km-long serene and verdant route perfect for hiking, village-hopping, and food experimentation. Traveling by private vehicle, visit its brightly colored colonial towns, hike to impressive waterfalls, and see one of the country’s first coffee plantations. Finally, after a full day of exploration and discoveries, rest at your accommodation in Cerro Verde National Park and enjoy imposing views of the nearby Santa Ana Volcano.

Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Cerro Verde National Park
Activities Included: entrances to Cascadas de Don Juan and Laberinto de Café

Day 6: Cerro Verde National Park – El Zonte – El Tunco – La Libertad

First, in the morning, take a 3-hour intermediate-level hike to enjoy the sunrise from the crater of Santa Ana Volcano. Then, go to discover El Zonte and El Tunco – small villages on the Pacific whose beautiful black-sand beaches are considered one of the best in the world for surfing. Once hidden gems are known only amongst Salvadorans, now they are some of the most popular surfing destinations in El Salvador and especially appeal to international visitors. Afterward, move to our final destination, La Libertad, a quieter beach town with windswept sandy beaches and a more authentic Central American experience.

Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guesthouse in La Libertad
Activities Included: guide hike to Santa Ana Volcano; orientation walks of El Zonte, El Tunco, and La Libertad

Day 7: La Libertad

Free program: rent a surfing board and enjoy the waves, relax on the beach sipping a refreshing cocktail, or go hiking in the nearby Walter Thilo Deininger National Park. Alternatively, walk down the Malecon to enjoy delicious local seafood and awesome views of the Pacific, people watch, and visit the pier where fisherman bring in their daily catches. In the evening, opt to experience local party vibes or join locals down from El Salvador at one of the local bars. Finally, finish the day with an optional dinner and get-together with your group in the evening.

Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in La Libertad
Activities Included: n/a

Day 8: La Libertad

Last day of the Tour El Salvador . Depart at any time or extend your vacations and stay longer!

This tour is private : only your group will participate.
The price per person is variable and depends on the size of your group (please choose the number of participants in the booking calendar ➡️ to see the final price).

Local Expert Guides

English/Spanish Tour Leader service

Accommodation

7x nights in conveniently located, locally-owned hotels/B&Bs

Transportation

private vehicle

7x breakfasts

Guided visits to Joya de Ceren, San Andres, and Tazumal Archeological Zones; Lake Suchitlan boat tour; entrance to hot springs in Ahuachapan; guided hike to Santa Ana Volcano; entrances to Cascada Los Tercios, Cascadas de Don Juan and Laberinto de Café.

Personal expenses

Flights are not included: check our partner deals .

Travel insurance is not included: find insurance tailored for you.

Cancellations

Most of our 1-day tours can be canceled up to 48 hours prior to the departure.

Please see our Cancellation Policy for more info.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How to book.

To reserve the tour, please choose the date and complete the booking form. Once finished, you will receive a booking confirmation in your email.

How can I contact the tour organizer?

You can find the contact phone number and email of the tour organizer in the confirmation email.

Can I talk to someone?

Except for the information on this page, you can see full terms & conditions from each tour organizer before completing your booking.

About Vibe Adventures

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the tour and activity providers (“Organizers”) listed on vibeadventures.com are independent third parties and are not agents or affiliates of Vibe Adventures. Therefore, Vibe Adventures shall not be held liable for any injuries, sickness, accidents, delays, neglect, fraud, poor weather conditions, negative consequences, or expenses arising from or associated with the Organizers, their tours and activities, or those of their affiliates. If the tour does not include insurance, the travelers are responsible for obtaining travel insurance, as well as passports, appropriate visas, and necessary vaccinations.

Cancellations & Modifications

To cancel or modify your booking, please contact the Organizer directly using the email or phone number provided in the booking confirmation. Cancellations and modifications are subject to availability and the approval of the Organizer in accordance with their booking terms and conditions, which are made available to you during the booking process.

If you have any other questions please contact us .

Related tours

See all El Salvador Tours tours

Get 5% off this tour with "Back2Travel" promo code or check similar tours 🌎 Keep safe & travel soon!

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.

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.

Booking.com

12. Sonsonate - Ruta de las Flores

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

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

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

13. Laguna Verde - Mountain Lake

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

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

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

14. Cafe Albania - Adrenaline Park

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

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

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

15. Nahuizalco and Cascada la Golondrinera - Indigenous heritage

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

16. San Miguel - 3th biggest city

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. El Mozote - Dark history

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

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

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

18. Ruta de Paz - Civil War History

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

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

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

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

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

19. Conchagua Volcano - Ultimate adventure

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

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

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

Is it safe to travel to El Salvador?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Things to know when traveling to El Salvador?

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

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

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

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

My experiences traveling to El Salvador

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy your trip to El Salvador!

el salvador
san salvador
central america

El Salvador Tours & Vacations

Sunset along the coastline with waves crashing and a pink sky in El Salvador near El Zonter

Good things come in small packages and nowhere more so than El Salvador.

The volcanoes, cloud forests and quaint, quiet towns will capture your imagination, while the surf coast will unleash your inner grommet.

Our El Salvador trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

El Salvador tour reviews

Filter by rating

Nicaragua & Beyond

Articles of El Salvador

6 unique experiences you can have in El Salvador

The best way to see Central America? A road trip.

3 great countries in Central America for solo travel

5 reasons why visiting Central America on a group tour was the right choice for me

30 photos that will inspire you to visit Central America with Intrepid Travel

How to have a perfect day in Suchitoto, the cultural capital of El Salvador

Why I love El Salvador, a country with a story to tell

I’ve been to every country in Central America; here’s why El Salvador is my favourite

El Salvador at a glance

Capital city.

San Salvador (population 2.4 million)

6.4 million

(GMT-06:00) Central America

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about El Salvador

Best time to visit el salvador.

The coast can be hot all year round making it a haven for sun lovers. To cool down, head inland to higher altitudes where the climate is milder, but rarely cold. The dry season (November to April) is an ideal time to explore. For spectacular afternoon storms, come during the wet season (May to October).

Geography and environment

The home of the point break, El Salvador’s biggest natural attraction is its beaches. Drag yourself away from the waves of the Pacific and you’ll find volcanoes, lakes and cloud forest aplenty. El Salvador is bordered by Honduras and Guatemala .

Top 5 places in El Salvador

1. cerro verde national park.

This is volcano country. Take a hike through the cloud forest for incredible views of volcanic peaks.

2. Suchitoto

This sweet colonial town boasts colorful houses, cobbled streets and a relaxed old-world charm.

3. Lago Suchitlan

Not far from Suchitoto, this lake is a haven for thousands of migrating birds.

4. El Imposible National Park

Hike, camp and spot pumas in one of Central America’s most remote national parks.

5. Pacific Ocean

Even from the misty peaks of the north you can see the impressive breaks of the Pacific Ocean. Jump on a board or just enjoy the view from the beach.

Festivals and events

Public holidays that may impact travel include:.

Feast of San Salvador
Fiestas Agostinas
Independence Day
All Souls' Day

Please note dates of El Salvador's public holidays may vary.

Is tipping customary in El Salvador?

A service charge will be included in restaurant bills. A small tip for hotel staff may be expected.

What is the internet access like in El Salvador?

Internet cafes are available in most places but wi-fi is only just becoming available.

Can I use my cell phone while in El Salvador?

Reception is good in most urban areas. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your carrier if you wish to use your phone.

What are the toilets like in El Salvador?

It's likely that you’ll encounter different types of toilets while traveling in El Salvador. Western-style flushable toilets are commonly found in high-end resorts, hotels and restaurants, while squat toilets are common in rural areas and homes. Be prepared by carrying your own supply of toilet paper and soap, as these aren't always provided.

Can I drink the water in El Salvador?

Drinking tap water in El Salvador isn’t recommended. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in El Salvador?

Credit cards are widely accepted.

What is ATM access like in El Salvador?

There’s good access to ATMs in nearly all towns and cities.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to: Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to: UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to: Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to: US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Explore El Salvador on the Safest Way With a Local Expert!

CONQUEST THE SUMMIT OF THE MIGHTY SANTA ANA VOLCANO

JOYA DE CERÉN, UNESCO SITE + SAN ANDRÉS

EXPLORE SAN SALVADOR

CHARMING SUCHITOTO

ONE EPIC HIKE: SANTA ANA VOLCANO (ILAMATEPEC)

IN EL SALVADOR LIFE’S A BEACH

Featured destinations.

Great destinations with a tons to offer for everyone: active volcanoes, black-sanded beaches, colorful mountain villages, world-class surfing, cultural heritage, history, local tastes and the warm smile of the Salvadorans.

At a glance Distance walked: ~22 Km / 14.3 Mi Actual walking time: ~6h30m Ascent:...

BREWPUBS & CRAFT BEER EXPERIENCE

Indulge in the vibrant beer scene of San Salvador, one delicious beer at a time!...

ADVENTURE PACK AT RUTA DE LAS FLORES

Get ready for the ultimate day of excitement and relaxation in the picturesque village of...

JUAYÚA: HIKE THE 7 WATERFALLS, EAT THE FOOD FEST

The 7 Waterfalls hike at a glance Distance walked: ~ 7 Km / 4.4 Mi...

These two archaeological sites are absolute must-sees and will transport you to a world filled...

Explore San Salvador, with a native of the city downtown. A vibrant and contrasting city...

WET AND WILD: TAMANIQUE WATERFALLS AND EL TUNCO BEACH

Welcome to an incredible adventure in the El Bálsamo Mountain Range, where a short hike...

No, it's not Japanese. In the ancient Nahua language Suchitoto stands for Place of Flowers...

HIKE A TRILOGY OF VOLCANOES IN ONE DAY

At a glance Total distance walked: 19 Km / 12Mi Actual walking time: ~ 6h...

RUTA DE LAS FLORES & COFFEE COUNTRY

Welcome to one of El Salvador's top destinations that should be on every visitor's list:...

At a glance Distance walked: ~8 Km / 5 Mi Actual walking time: ~ 3h30m...

Imagine yourself strolling along a tropical beach, basking in the warm embrace of the Pacific...

VOLCANIC HOT SPRINGS AND THERMAL POOLS

Indulge yourself in the ultimate relaxation and escape from your worries, with a day in...

TAZUMAL & CASA BLANCA ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARKS

Tazumal and Casa Blanca Archaeological Parks hold immense importance due to their evidence of one...

HIKE EL IMPOSIBLE NATIONAL PARK

Actual walking time: ~ 6hDistance: ~ 20 KmAscent – Descent: 779 – 756 m /...

WORLD CLASS SURFING AT LA LIBERTAD

Get ready to hang ten in El Salvador, a surfer's heaven! With its consistent swells, warm...

THE STEPS OF SAINT ÓSCAR ROMERO

Let's trace the footsteps of one of El Salvador's greatest historical figures, Saint Óscar Romero...

THE BEST MUSEUMS OF SAN SALVADOR

Dive into a world of art and history as you explore the vibrant museums of...

Active volcanoes, National Parks and Natural Areas

Hiking and trekking destinations.

With just 21000 Km² / 8100 Mi² and a rugged landscape, El Salvador is home of 26 volcanoes and peaks crowned by lush cloud forests and a breathtaking landscape. Day trips or multi-day circuits available.

Bosque de Cinquera

Once fertile farms turned into guerrilla's campsite and then into a Natural Protected Area, this walk mixes history and natural attractions.

Ecoparque El Espino

Set on the skirts of San Salvador volcano, on the rims of the city, Ecoparque el Espino is run by a cooperative of coffee farmers.

El Imposible National Park

With 5000 ha and elevations running from 820 to 4675 ft, El imposible is home of the largest diversity of wildlife in El Salvador.

El Pital and Cayaguanca

With almost 9000 feet of elevation and crowned by a dense and lush cloud forest, this is also the highest peak in El Salvador.

Select your Destination by Mood

Find the style that matches your interest, timing or mood.

Kind Words from Fellow Travelers

Alfredo’s passion for his country shines through his extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling. He possesses a warm demeanor and impeccable English, making him a joy to converse with. His genuine care for our well-being was evident.

Review posted on Google , May 2024

Alfredo is an incredible guide and an honest, hardworking, and dedicated person. What a conversationalist and storyteller! He worked with me to create a custom tour that allowed me to see the country in the way I wanted to see things. I would recommend Alfredo without exception.

Review posted on Google , April 2024

Why Taking a Local Tour Guide Is Good For You

A licensed tour guide offers you safety, customization, best timing and value. Skip the company, call the guide!

You Get More Than a Guide

Since the moment we meet, you have a friend in El Salvador. One to orient and recommend you the best places to eat, where's the coldest beer or the freshest coffee. To share the stories and facts you hardly find in the travel guides.

Your Money Well Spent

You have my commitment in supporting local communities, small producers and family-run businesses as much as possible. My services and tours will never support any case of child labour nor animal abuse. With every tour you book, you're supporting rescued animal shelters and rescuers.

Your Local Expert

The perspective of locals is essential to understand El Salvador. Born and raised in San Salvador downtown gave me the rare opportunity to witness some of the most important events in El Salvador recent history. I, not only read history, I was there!

Itineraries that Fit You

You want to combine surfing and hiking or maybe some off the beaten track spots? Or maybe you want to sleep till late because you're on vacation after all! No problemo! You ask and I made it fit for you. Just mix and match to make your experience more memorable.

You Set the Pace

Either you like to stare at a piece of art in a museum or you're a fast hiker, you set the pace of your tour. I know flexibility is key as well being open to expect the unexpected. Take your time to find the best angle for your photo or to eat your pupusas. Enjoy the moment!

You Can Ask as Much as You Want

With a private guide you can ask as much or about anything you want. The best way to learn is exchanging experiences and points of views. I'm pretty open minded. You can ask even those controversial topics people on large groups never dare.

Hrmm. Looks like you're using an older browser, which means some site features may not work they way they should. For the full gadventures.com experience, we recommend upgrading to the most recent version of your browser . It's worth it! Honest!

View all tours

North America

Central america & caribbean, south america, north africa & middle east.

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

G Adventures Land

G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

Travel resources

Last minute deals.

Looking to have the time of your life in the next 90 days or so? You can save big if you’re ready to book now.

Loyalty discount

Back home from a G Adventures tour? Submit a quick trip evaluation to save 5% on your next tour with us.

Student discount

Got proof that you’re pursuing higher learning? Then we’ve got a travel voucher with your name on it.

All travel deals

New ways to save pop up all the time. Here’s where you’ll find every hot deal in one easy place.

El Salvador Tours in 2024 & 2025

The Seven Waterfalls at Los Chorros De La Calera, Juayua, El Salvador

Land of buried treasures

Chances are if you don't surf, the idea of exploring El Salvador may never have crossed your mind. But the hardy surfers – a step ahead of the game and looking for the next uncrowded wave – know something the rest of us don't. The smallest and most densely populated Central American nation, El Salvador suffered badly during its civil war in the 1980s. Today, the country's volcanoes and coastline are again drawing visitors, and San Salvador's nightlife, legendary among its Latin neighbours, pulses on. The biggest draw may be the Salvadorans themselves, unjaded and always quick to make conversation over a coffee or one of their famed pupusas .

What our travellers are saying about El Salvador tours

Recommended tours.

El Salvador Small Group Tours

Choose from 8 El Salvador tours
16 verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
24/7 customer support

8 best El Salvador small group tours

Compiled by

Melissa El Salvador travel expert at TourRadar

Around El Salvador 6 Days

Tailor-made el salvador adventure with daily departure, tailor-made best el salvador tour with daily departure, tour el salvador: unveil a wonderful mosaic of culture, history, and nature, taste of el salvador 4 days, el salvador adventure program, el salvador complete 10 days, guatemala and el salvador : between volcanoes, lakes and ancient culture 8 days.

Sightseeing
Christmas & New Year

“The tour was a good mixture of history, nature, & culture.”

Tailor-Made El Salvador Adventure with Daily Departure

In-depth Cultural

Tailor-Made Best El Salvador Tour with Daily Departure

“Prebooking information from Alex was clear, responsive and thorough. We booked with confidence.”

“Everything was perfect! Transportation, Accommodation and most of all the tour.”

Hiking & Trekking

“An interesting overview of Mayan life. The experience overall worthwhile.”

Discover TourRadar

Internacional
Gente y Empresa
Espectáculos
Arte y Cultura
Otros Deportes
Selecciones
Caricaturas
Cartas de Paolo
Editoriales
Nota del Día
Observadores
Fotogalerías
Suscribirme
El Diario de Hoy

Las preguntas sin responder en el acuerdo por los puertos

Nayib Bukele anunció la decisión en un breve video en su cuenta de X, en el que omitió aspectos relevantes para conocer la conveniencia del acuerdo para el Estado salvadoreño.

Por Moisés Alvarado | Ago 12, 2024- 20:01

El primer mandatario Nayib Bukele anunció que la empresa turca Yilport conformará una empresa de economía mixta junto a la Comisión Ejecutiva Portuaria Autónoma (CEPA) para operar los puertos de Acajutla y La Unión durante los próximos 50 años.

"Este tipo de operaciones no son, esencialmente, algo malo. Lo importante es poder sopesar el costo beneficio para el país, cuánto recibe respecto a lo que entrega. Y, por tanto, que se haga un análisis técnico", comenta el economista Rafael Lemus.

LEA MÁS: Medidas de Gobierno para economía son "amargas, pero no medicina", según expertos

Sin embargo, en el breve video que usó para socializar el acuerdo, no incluyó detalles cruciales para saber cuán conveniente es para el país la operación. En primer lugar, ¿por qué se le adjudicó la oportunidad de forma directa a la empresa turca y no se optó por hacer un proceso de licitación pública?

El Gobierno entregará un negocio de manera directa a una empresa, sin que esta se tenga que someter a un proceso de elección como el que enfrentaría en un concurso público internacional, en el que varias sociedades pueden brindar sus ofertas, por lo que el Estado tendría la oportunidad de escoger la mejor. Yilport, por ejemplo, solo cuenta con dos de sus terminales (Gemlik en Turquía y Marsaxlokk en Malta) entre los 100 primeros puestos del Índice de Desempeño de los Puertos de Contenedores (CPPI), del Banco Mundial.

Para el costarricense Guillermo Matamoros, exsecretario técnico del Consejo Nacional de Concesiones de Costa Rica, lo habitual es que este tipo de cesiones se hagan a través de un concurso. Sobre todo porque la empresa que empezará a manejar el puerto no solo se encargará de eso, sino que hará las alianzas estratégicas con las navieras y demás actores de la industria.

"En Costa Rica somos reacios a este tipo de contrataciones, porque hay desconfianza. Por eso, allá pensamos que entre más transparente sea, mejor se maneja, no solo de cara a la ciudadanía, sino para el sector empresarial, que es el que usa el proyecto", comentó Matamoros en una entrevista dada a El Diario de Hoy en marzo de este año.

¿Qué fue lo ofrecido por la empresa como para que no se pensara en una competencia? Se trata de la entrega por medio siglo de bienes del Estado a una entidad privada, que compartirá la propiedad con CEPA, pero no se ha respondido en qué porcentaje. Lo habitual, como lo menciona el costarricense Matamoros, es que esto se haga vía concurso público porque, así, es posible conocer todos estos detalles. ¿CEPA será dueña del 50 % de la compañía de economía mixta o de un porcentaje menor? ¿Cómo se entregarán las utilidades al Estado y a Yilport?

En El Salvador, han existido malos precedentes con compañías de economía mixta, donde la parte pública es la última en recibir su parte de las ganancias o nunca las percibe. El ejemplo más claro es el de Alba Petróleos de El Salvador, en la que las alcaldías que poseían el 40 % de sus acciones nunca tuvieron voz ni voto en las decisiones tomadas con los millones de dólares provenientes de Venezuela. Los balances financieros muestran que los gobiernos municipales nunca recibieron utilidades por su participación accionaria.

Las empresas de economía mixta tampoco han tenido los mejores resultados en el campo de la recolección de desechos sólidos. Así lo sostiene Cayetano Cruz, concejal de San Salvador Este, quien propuso (durante su campaña electoral) su eliminación como una de las maneras para que los municipios hicieran un uso más eficiente de los recursos.

Hasta el momento, desde el oficialismo se ha dicho que la turca Yilport invertirá $1,615 millones y que este monto se erogará por etapas. ¿Cuáles son esas etapas? ¿Qué infraestructura estará obligada a construir? ¿Qué tipo de equipos deberá adquirir? ¿Cuál será la entidad contralora de que se cumpla el acuerdo de la inversión? ¿Cuántos años le tomará a la empresa recuperarla?

El papel de la Asamblea Legislativa

Ruth López, jefa jurídica de Anticorrupción y Justicia de Cristosal, lanzó a través de su cuenta en X otra pregunta pertinente: ¿Concesionaron los puertos sin la autorización de la Asamblea Legislativa? Según el economista Rafael Lemus, toda concesión de un bien público por parte del Estado a un privado requiere de dos autorizaciones del primer órgano del Estado. La primera, en la que se da el visto bueno al inicio del proyecto y pasa, entonces, a un proceso de revisión.

En un mundo ideal, el equipo jurídico de la Asamblea Legislativa revisaría con lupa cada aspecto de la concesión de este bien público, con el único objetivo de asegurar que se trata de un trato justo para el Estado. En el pliego se incluirían, por ejemplo, aspectos tan específicos como las tarifas a cobrar o cuál es la previsión de las utilidades por año en todo lo que durará el acuerdo.

Esto, por tanto, es un proceso destinado a durar meses, en los que también tienen que haber discusiones. Pero la realidad de El Salvador es que la Asamblea Legislativa se ha convertido en una entidad subalterna del Ejecutivo. Es esperable, por tanto, que ambas aprobaciones se hagan con dispensa de trámite.

A pesar de que se ha dicho que esta concesión forma parte de un plan integral para impulsar la economía, lo cierto es que ha dejado claro, para expertos, que el gobierno no ha tenido claro cuál será su estrategia respecto a los puertos del país. Hay un préstamo con el Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo (BID) por $84 millones para "aumentar la eficiencia portuaria", que El Salvador ya adquirió y que, por tanto, deberá pagar. Y existieron gestiones para obtener un crédito por $350 millones con el Eximbank de Corea.

"Estos préstamos no tienen sentido si el plan es el de concesionar el puerto, pues se da el control de ese bien, precisamente, para atraer la inversión para mejorarlo. No hay una estrategia", dice el economista Rafael Lemus.

VOLVER A LA PORTADA

MÁS SOBRE ESTE TEMA

Empresa turca operará puertos Acajutla y La Unión por 50 años con inversión de $1,615 millones
El aumento en la deuda no se tradujo en obras o mejora de servicios en alcaldías de Nuevas Ideas
Amenaza de Bukele a comerciantes es chantaje a la inversión, señalan expertos

Patrocinado por Taboola

Te puede interesar, suscríbete a nuestro newsletter.

Recibe las noticias que a ti te interesan

¿Qué tipo de contenido quisieras recibir?

Bienvenido(a) .

Te has registrado correctamente a nuestro newsletter, y cada mañana empezarás a recibir en tu correo electrónico, las principales noticias de los temas que has seleccionado.

Inicio de sesión

Inicia sesión con tus redes sociales o ingresa tu correo electrónico.

Olvidé mi contraseña
¿No tienes cuenta? Suscríbete aquí .
Si eres suscriptor de nuestra edición impresa, activa tus accesos digitales aquí .

Bienvenido a elsalvador.com , nos alegra que estés de nuevo vistándonos

Cerrar sesión

Utilizamos cookies para asegurarte la mejor experiencia Cookies y política de privacidad

Compra una suscripción usando tu cuenta

¿olvidé mi contraseña?

Suscríbete para seguir leyendo. ¿Ya eres suscriptor? Inicia sesión aquí

Cancela cuando quieras.

$1.6B port investment could revive El Salvador’s Bitcoin City plans

T urkish port and terminal operator Yilport Holdings has committed $1.6 billion to two port projects in El Salvador. This is the largest private investment in El Salvador’s history and could finally bring the Central American country’s ambitious Bitcoin City into being.

Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele announced the deal in a video on his X account. Yilport and El Salvador’s Comisión Ejecutiva Portuaria Autónoma (Autonomous Port Executive Commission, CEPA) will operate the Acajutla and La Unión ports in a joint venture for 50 years.

The Port of Bitcoin City

Construction of La Unión port was started in 2005 but the port was never launched, according to the video on Bukele’s X account. La Unión is the site of the proposed Bitcoin City. Bukele announced the development of the Bitcoin City in 2021, just months after making the cryptocurrency legal tender in the country. The new city would run completely on Bitcoin and be exempt from all taxation except value-added tax.

The country’s National Bitcoin Commission Office was eager to make the connection between the revival of the port and the Bitcoin City project. “Big money is ATTRACTED to BITCOIN COUNTRY,” Max Keiser, senior Bitcoin adviser to Bukele, tweeted . Bitcoin Office director Stacy Herbert also noted :

“President Bukele has rescued so much that had [been] abandoned in El Salvador.”

Related: Bitfinex to refund investors of its failed El Salvador Hilton hotel project

Bitcoin City financing has to come from somewhere

Bitcoin City was originally intended to be financed by a $1-billion Bitcoin bond. That bond was also known as the Volcano Bond due to plans to generate the energy to mine the Bitcoin to back it using geothermal power from extinct volcanoes. Blockstream and Tether-linked iFinex were slated to provide technical support for it. Blockstream chief strategy officer Samson Mow left that company and formed JAN3, which pledged to help create El Salvador’s Bitcoin City.

The Volcano Bond made it through the legislative and regulatory hurdles in December but missed its expected first-quarter launch. Now, the Yilport-CEPA project should see dredging and the purchase of heavy equipment at La Unión by the end of the year.

Magazine: BlackRock revises BTC ETF filing, El Salvador’s crypto citizenship trending, and more: Hodler’s Digest, Dec. 10-16

$1.6B port investment could revive El Salvador’s Bitcoin City plans

Nayib Bukele's 'Bitcoin City' Project In El Salvador Attracts $1.6B Investment From Turkey-Based Company

El Salvador is set to receive $1.6 billion in private investment, intended to accelerate the development of its ambitious “ Bitcoin City” project.

What Happened : According to a video shared by President Nayib Bukele Monday, Turkish company Yilport Holding would channel the funds into two of El Salvador’s seaports, marking it the largest private investment in the Central American nation’s history.

Nayib Bukele @nayibbukele Ülkemizin tarihindeki en büyük özel yatırım 🇸🇻🇹🇷 pic.twitter.com/2cmn8T3g5p Aug 12, 2024

The Acajutla Seaport, which is the country’s biggest and handles the majority of exports, and the currently dormant La Union Seaport, where ‘Bitcoin City’ is slated to be built, are the two ports involved in this deal.

The mega deal kicked off the third phase of El Salvador’s economic plan, which aimed to improve the country’s logistics.

See Also: Crypto Analyst Says Bitcoin Could Hit $100,000, An 86% Surge

Why It Matters : The ‘Bitcoin City’ project is a part of El Salvador’s broader strategy to put the apex cryptocurrency at the center of its nation-building activity.

The city, located near a volcano, is expected to be powered by geothermal energy, thus exempting all of its activities, including BItcoin mining, from all taxes except for the value-added tax. It is planned to be a full-fledged metropolis, complete with residential and commercial areas, restaurants, an airport, and a port and rail service.

El Salvador has doubled down on Bitcoin ever since adopting the world’s largest digital currency as a legal tender in 2021. The country has adopted a plan to buy one Bitcoin every day , until it becomes unaffordable with fiat currencies.

At the time of writing, the country had 5,840.76 Bitcoins in its reserves, worth more than $345 million.

Price Action: At the time of writing, Bitcoin was trading just below $59,176.16, up 1.59% in the last 24 hours, according to data from Benzinga Pro.

Photo Courtesy: Shutterstock.com

A Donald Trump Win Could Be Seen As Bullish, Harris Victory As Bearish For Crypto: Bernstein

Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of Benzinga Neuro and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Your cart is empty

Hot Wheels Legends Tour 2024

2024 Hot Wheels Legends Tour

THE GLOBAL SEARCH FOR THE NEXT HOT WHEELS

Join the legends challenge , 2024 hot wheels legends tour dates.

May 11 – Miami, Florida 8651 NW 13th Terrace, Doral, FL 33126

June 1 – Atlanta, Georgia 3250 Sardis Church Rd, Buford, GA 30519

June 15 – Charlotte, North Carolina 2406 W Roosevelt Blvd, Monroe, NC 28110

June 29 – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 299 Valley Gate Drive, Warrington, PA 18976

July 13 – Detroit, Michigan 5851 Mercury Dr, Dearborn, MI 48126

July 27 – Chicago, Illinois 333 E US Route 6, Morris, IL 60450

August 10 – Indianapolis, Indiana 1133 No. Emerson Road, Greenwood, IN 46343

September 7 – Dallas, Texas 2225 W Interstate 20, Grand Prarie, TX 75052

September 14 – Houston, Texas 25800 Kuyendahl Rd, Tomball, TX 77375

September 28 – Phoenix, Arizona 2501 S Market St, Gilbert, AZ 85295

October 5 – El Segundo, California 2031 E Mariposa Ave, El Segundo, CA 90245

*Dates Subject to Change

What Makes a Hot WHeels Legend?

Authenticity, garage spirit, 2023 hot wheels legends tour recap, setting the standard, past legends.

2022 Legends Winner

1992 Mazda Autozam

2021 Legends Winner

Volvo P1800 Gasser

2020 Legends Winner

1970 Pontiac® Firebird™

2019 Legends Winner

I want to receive marketing emails from Mattel Brands. Read Mattel’s Privacy Statement .

Get the news that’s right for you! Tell us your favorite brands, and we’ll send emails about offers and products that fit your interests.

Email Address

Watch your inbox for the latest!

Customer Service
Virtual Collectibles FAQs
Virtual Marketplace FAQs
Order Status
Shipping Rates & Policy
Return Policy
Membership Agreements & FAQs
Become a Member
Terms of Sale
Privacy Statement
Cookies & Technology
Terms & Conditions
Accessibility Statement
About Mattel Creations
Past Drops Archive
American Express

All crowdfund/special items must be purchased individually. Please purchase or remove the item(s) currently in your cart before adding anything else.

IMAGES

Lake and Volcano Complex Day Tour
EL SALVADOR/ Tour por las calles de Santa Ana 2019 🤩
EL SALVADOR TOURS ONLINE EXPERIENCE
Rainbow Slide El Salvador: A must if you are in El Salvador
19 Best Places To Visit in El Salvador in 2022 (2022)
San Salvador City Tour half day

COMMENTS

San Salvador, El Salvador Travel Guide: Best Things To Do in San
In this San Salvador, El Salvador travel guide we explore the city center, do some hiking and then head down to Surf City and the beaches near San Salvador. ...
El Salvador Travel Guide 2024
Join us as we break down our 4-day El Salvador itinerary including Nawi Beach House, Cafe Albania, and Tamanique Waterfall. We're giving details on prices, a...
El Salvador, San Salvador Driving Tour 2024
Take a tour of El Salvador' beautiful capital, San Salvador,in this video drive! includes stunning views of The city andsurrounds, and is perfect for anyone ...
The Ultimate 1 Week El Salvador Adventure Itinerary
It was single-handedly the most interesting thing we did on our 1-week El Salvador trip. The next day, we took a tiny TukTuk to the ex-guerrilla headquarters of Cinquera, a town fraught with death, destruction, and violence. We took a tour into the forested highlands where guerrillas hid, lived, and fought to the death.
THE TOP 10 El Salvador Tours & Excursions
Discover the must-see volcanoes of El Salvador on this guided hiking tour. Head out to Los Volcanes Complex National Park, which is a little over an hour from San Salvador, and journey up the highest volcano in El Salvador, the Santa Ana Volcano or Ilamatepec, with a 7,822-foot (2,384-meter) summit. The 4-hour round trip hike is suitable for ...
22 things to know before going to El Salvador
The only vaccine required to enter El Salvador is yellow fever, and that's only if you're six months or older and from a high-risk country (countries in South America and Africa, or Panama). 15. Just say no to tap water. Stick to bottled water and ice made from purified H2O only; water from the tap can be contaminated.
7 Waterfalls Tour, El Salvador
7 Waterfalls Tour. 7 Waterfalls Tour in Juayua, El Salvador. Our guide, Mario, met us at Hotel Anáhuac at eight in the morning. He led us through the empty Spanish streets of town towards its outskirts where we would begin to find our way into the thick forest. Before the hike began we stopped at Mario's house which was at the foot of our hike.
El Salvador Travel Guide (Updated 2024)
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).
The 6 Best El Salvador Tours For Unforgettable Adventures That Are
Day Two: Start your day with a walking tour of the historic center of El Salvador's capital. Then you will enjoy a guided visit to the National Anthropology Museum. Then, move to the beautiful town of Suchitoto. Day Three: First, take a boat tour of Lake Suchitlán and Market Food Experience in the morning.
El Salvador 5 Day Itinerary: The Best Highlights
How to Plan 5 Days in El Salvador. Day 1: San Salvador City Tour and El Boqueron National Park. Day 2: Cerro Verde National Park. Day 3: Day Trip to Suchitoto. Day 4: Ruta de las Flores/ The Flower Route. Day 5: Tamanique Waterfalls and El Tunco Beach. Where to Stay: Hotels in San Salvador.
The BEST El Salvador Tours and Things to Do in 2024
San Salvador: Historical Center walking tour. Visit the most emblematic buildings such as the metropolitan cathedral, El Rosario church, the national palace and theater. (Some of them subject to availability). Learn about the culture and history visiting the main plazas on this very interesting experience. See more.
4 days in El Salvador
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).
Best tour packages in El Salvador
If you are looking to discover Central America, visit our best tours packages in Central America section that includes some of the region highlights such as Antigua Guatemala, Tikal and Panajachel in Guatemala or Copán and Roatan in Honduras. Tour Packages in El Salvador, hidden and unique destinations.
Tour El Salvador: Unveil a Wonderful Mosaic of Culture, History, and
Overview - Tour El Salvador- is an experience to discover the culture, history, and nature of this captivating and diverse country.Begin amidst nature in San Salvador, with its towering volcanoes.Let the suburbs' charm and galleries' allure captivate you, or simply unwind. Step into history as you explore the capital's heart and the stories within the National Anthropology Museum.
19 Best Places To Visit in El Salvador in 2024
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.
Best El Salvador Tours & Vacations 2024/2025
Nicaragua & Beyond. Sarah · Traveled May 2024. This tour gives an incredible opportunity to explore Central America in such an authentic way. The itinerary gives a wide cultural experience through four counties with activities run by local residents that enhance the knowledge gained throughout the trip.
El Salvador
Learn More ️http://VirtualWorldTravels.comMap It ️https://bit.ly/VWTSM1Get Travel Ready ️https://bit.ly/Health-Wealth-TravelTake a virtual vacation with a...
9 Best El Salvador Tours & Trips 2024/2025
Tailor-Made El Salvador Adventure with Daily Departure. Highlights of El Salvador. Tour El Salvador: Unveil a Wonderful Mosaic of Culture, History, and Nature. El salvador Adventure Program. Taste of El Salvador 4 Days. El Salvador Complete 10 days. Guatemala and El Salvador : Between volcanoes, lakes and ancient culture 8 days.
Explore El Salvador
With just 21000 Km² / 8100 Mi² and a rugged landscape, El Salvador is home of 26 volcanoes and peaks crowned by lush cloud forests and a breathtaking landscape. Day trips or multi-day circuits available. ... With every tour you book, you're supporting rescued animal shelters and rescuers. Your Local Expert.
El Salvador Tours & Guided Itineraries in 2024/25
El Salvador Tours & Guided Itineraries in 2024/25 - G Adventures. Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife. Whether it's a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits ...
El Salvador Small Group Tours
8 days. Price per day. $150. From. US$1,201. View tour. Download Brochure. Discover El Salvador with the best small group tours powered by top tour operators & travel companies. Explore new destinations at your pace accompanied by like-minded travelers.
Detained Children Tortured in El Salvador
The bedroom of Lucrecia Pérez (pseudonym), then-17, at her aunt's house on December 16, 2023, in a rural town in Sonsonate, El Salvador. Lucrecia was detained for a year and charged with ...
Empresa turca administrará puertos y no se conocen más detalles del
Nayib Bukele anunció la decisión en un breve video en su cuenta de X, en el que omitió aspectos relevantes para conocer la conveniencia del acuerdo por los puertos para el Estado salvadoreño.
El Salvador Archives
El Salvador's President Unveils Golden 'Bitcoin City' Amid Brutal Crash. 05.10.22. By Edward Ongweso Jr. News ... Still from "Lifetimes" music video. Music
El Salvador
Un tour por las calles de el centro de EL salvador , vemos como nuestra gente se gana la vida como puede, lucha por sobrevivir, nuestra gente nuestro pueblo!...
$1.6B port investment could revive El Salvador's Bitcoin City plans
Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele announced the deal in a video on his X account. Yilport and El Salvador's Comisión Ejecutiva Portuaria Autónoma (Autonomous Port Executive Commission, CEPA ...
Nayib Bukele's 'Bitcoin City' Project In El Salvador Attracts $1.6B
El Salvador is set to receive $1.6 billion in private investment, intended to accelerate the development of its ambitious "Bitcoin City" project. What Happened: According to a video shared by President Nayib Bukele Monday, Turkish company Yilport Holding would channel the funds into two of El Salvador's seaports, marking it the largest private investment in the Central American nation ...
Hot Wheels Legends Tour 2024
The Hot Wheels Legends Tour crosses the globe this year with dozens of events, including an epic worldwide livestream finale. Find a tour stop near you and plan for a pulse-pounding day. (Dates and locations are subject to change.) May 11 - Miami, Florida 8651 NW 13th Terrace, Doral, FL 33126 June 1 - Atlanta, Georgia
Detained Children Tortured in El Salvador, Daily Brief August 14, 2024
Instead, the crackdown has overwhelmed El Salvador's already fragile judicial system. Currently, around 76,000 people - 1% of the entire population - are detained , and children are paying ...
10 Best Places to Visit in El Salvador
10 Best Places to Visit in El Salvador | Travel Video | SKY TravelEl SalvadorCountry in Central AmericaEl Salvador, officially the Republic of El Salvador, i...