Things To Do
in El Salvador
El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America, yet it offers dramatic volcanic landscapes, vibrant colonial towns, and a rugged Pacific coastline. From snow-capped peaks in the highlands to sun-drenched beaches along the coast, the scenery is incredibly varied. Colorful markets, warm hospitality, and a cuisine built on corn, beans, and seafood invite easy day trips and memorable meals.
Whether you surf, hike, or wander historic streets, El Salvador rewards curious travelers with authentic experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon your arrival in San Salvador, take some time to check into your hotel and freshen up after your travels. Once settled, enjoy a delicious breakfast of pupusas, a traditional Salvadoran dish, at a local café. Afterward, stroll through the historic downtown area to soak in the vibrant culture.
Explore the impressive Metropolitan Cathedral and visit the nearby National Palace, where you'll learn about the country's rich history. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, sampling more local cuisine. Spend the afternoon at the beautiful Parque Nacional El Boquerón, where you can walk along the trails and enjoy stunning views of the city below.
As evening falls, head to the lively Zona Rosa district known for its restaurants and nightlife. Enjoy a relaxing dinner at one of the many upscale eateries, sampling fresh seafood or traditional dishes. Conclude your day with a drink at a rooftop bar, taking in the panoramic views of San Salvador illuminated at night.
Travel to Suchitoto, a charming colonial town known for its cobbled streets and artistic vibe. Begin your day with exploring local art galleries and shops in this picturesque setting. Don't forget to enjoy breakfast at a café overlooking the tranquil Lake Suchitlán.
After lunch at a cozy local restaurant, take a guided tour of the archaeological site of Casa Blanca, where you can delve into the area's indigenous history. Spend your afternoon walking along the shores of Lake Suchitlán, enjoying the serene environment and maybe even spotting some local wildlife. You might also engage in a cultural workshop, such as weaving or pottery.
As the sun sets, bask in the golden glow reflected on the lake and enjoy an alfresco dinner at one of Suchitoto's charming restaurants. Engage with locals sharing stories about the town's culture and traditions over a delightful meal. After dinner, take a tranquil stroll through the town's quiet streets, soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $50-120 |
| 🚍Public transportation (bus) | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact size makes it easy to explore in a short visit
- Good value for money and warm, friendly people
- Dramatic landscapes within reach of major cities
- Delicious street food and approachable culture
- Some areas have safety concerns; exercise caution at night
- Limited public transport outside main cities; travel can be time-consuming
- Developing infrastructure in rural areas may slow logistics
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Me gustaría..." - I would like...
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers!
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen lugar para comer pupusas?" - Can you recommend a good place to eat pupusas?
Places to Visit in El Salvador
Visit one of these nice places.
Gothic-inspired cathedral with grand arches and morning light ideal for architectural photography.
Dramatic crater views and sweeping skies offer striking landscape shots.
A stunning volcanic lake near Santa Ana, perfect for sunrise and reflections.
Cobblestone lanes, colorful houses, and colonial charm ideal for street photography.
Crater rim walks above San Salvador with panoramic city and valley views.
Food in El Salvador
El Salvador Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thick corn tortillas filled with cheese, refried beans, or chicharrón; widely available at pupuserías and street stalls.
Must-Try!
Boiled cassava root served with fried pork and salsa. A staple street-food pairing.
Tamales wrapped in plantain leaves, often with pork or chicken and a savory salsa.
A hearty soup made with beef feet and vegetables; a traditional comfort dish.
Sweet corn porridge or drink for a light, comforting treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market stalls offering pupusas, fried plantains, fresh fruit, and grilled meats.
A neighborhood market with produce, snacks, and affordable local meals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or brief kiss on the cheek with close acquaintances; maintain polite eye contact.
Speak politely about local topics; avoid sensitive political discussions with strangers; dress modestly in religious sites.
Be punctual for meetings; show patience in service interactions; personal space is valued.
Safety
Tipping in El Salvador
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants a 10-15% tip is customary if service charge is not included; rounding up taxis is common.
US dollars are widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in cities; ATMs are available, especially in San Salvador; cash is useful for street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days with low humidity near the coast; ideal for beach trips and outdoor city tours; evenings can be cool in the highlands.
Afternoon downpours are common; landscapes are lush and green; plan for occasional trail closures after heavy rains and higher humidity.
El Salvador at Night
Hiking in El Salvador
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep, rewarding hike with volcanic scenery and sweeping views.
Popular crater hike with a turquoise crater lake and city views.
Crater rim walks close to San Salvador with dramatic panoramas.
Ridge hikes with views of three volcanoes and the lake district.
Airports
How to reach El Salvador by plane.
The main international gateway to El Salvador, located near San Salvador with connections to the Americas and beyond.
A smaller airport near San Salvador primarily used for domestic and private aviation; international flights are limited.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of Salvadorans identify as mixed Indigenous and European ancestry.
Historically Pipil and other Indigenous communities exist in smaller but significant numbers, mostly in rural areas.
A sizable US-born Salvadoran community in major cities and a growing number of visitors and long-term travelers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and street games are common throughout the country.
Another widely followed sport, with regional leagues and youth programs.
Coastal towns like La Libertad draw surfers; a growing scene with schools and beach culture.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Pupusas with cheese or beans are a natural option; ask for no lard or meat; many restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests in larger cities.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Salvador.