After discovering the beaches and colonial towns in the Central Region, head to the Occident – the country’s western realm. This region will take you through the forests of Apaneca, the colorful streets of Nahuizalco, and the ancient ruins of Tazumal. What I discovered in the west was a completely different side of El Salvador, one with coffee plantation mountains, diverse artisan shops, and rocky beaches.
This second guide in our El Salvador series will take you through the Occidental region. Whether you’re looking to sample some of Central America’s finest coffee, explore pre-Hispanic archaeological sites, or wander through coffee plantation mountain towns along the Ruta de Las Flores, the western region offers a rich tapestry of experiences that feel worlds away from the surf spots and city buzz of central El Salvador. Keep reading to discover the best Occidental El Salvador Travel Route.
Planning Your El Salvador Travel Route: Why Choose the Occident Region?
The Occidental region is great by itself or as an addition to your El Salvador itinerary. You can discover much of the Salvadoran culture in this region and it is a perfect destination for nature and history lovers. It’s here you will find:
- The popular Santa Ana Volano (Ilamatepec)
- A beautiful route through small towns: La Ruta de Las Flores
- The Tazumal Archaeological Site: Ancient Mayan ruins with pyramids and fascinating archaeological artifacts
- Lago Coatepeque: Scenic volcanic crater lake with turquoise waters
- The perfect spot for hiking trails and stunning views: El Imposible National Park
- Chorros de la Calera for beautiful natural waterfalls with clear pools
When to Plan Your Occident El Salvador Travel Route
Season Overview
Dry Season (November to April)
- Peak Tourist Season
- Best overall weather – clear skies and low humidity
- Clearest views of volcanoes
- Higher accommodation prices
- Better to book in advance
- Perfect for hiking and outdoor activities
- Best For:
- Volcano hikes
- Beach activities
- Ruta de las Flores
- Coffee plantation tours
- Archaeological sites
Rainy Season (May to October)
- Green Season Benefits
- Lush landscapes
- Lower tourist numbers
- Better prices
- Afternoon showers common
- Higher humidity
- Morning activities recommended (less chance of rain and overcast)
- Best For:
- Waterfall visits (check condition before going)
- Coffee plantation greenery
- Bird watching
- Photography
- Budget travel
Building Your El Salvador Travel Route: Cities, Towns, and Coastal Escape in the Occidental Region
Urban Centers
Santa Ana
The second-largest city in El Salvador offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. The city is surrounded by mountains and volcanoes giving beautiful views at every corner.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Santa Ana Cathedral: Neo-Gothic masterpiece with intricate architecture
- Insider tip: go to the top of the cathedral for beautiful views of the city
- Teatro de Santa Ana (Nacional Theater): This beautifully restored theater hosts cultural events and performances. You can also do a guided tour for $5.
- Parque Libertad: Central plaza surrounded by historic buildings and local street food vendors
Attractions:
- Parque Recreativo Sihuatehuacán: water park with natural and artificial pools
- Cerro Tecana: Mountain peak to get a view of the city
- Santa Ana Volcano
- Izalco Volcano
- Cerro Verde National Park
Festival Highlights:
- July: Fiestas Julias, the city’s biggest celebration
- December: Christmas season with special events in the central plaza
Ahuachapan
A charming city known for its geothermal activity and colonial architecture.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Parque Concordia: Beautiful central park with weekend food vendors
- Ausoles Geothermal Fields: These contain active volcanic vents and mud pots. Since they are from active volcanoes, keep a safe distance from the vents and mud.
- Church of Our Lady of the Assumption: Historic church with beautiful architecture
- Local Market: Famous for traditional sweets and handicrafts
- Pasaje La Concordia: Historic arches with traditional architecture
- Insider tip: Grab a coffee and pastries while you are there
Nearby activities:
- El Salto de Malacatiupán
- Santa Teresa hot spring
- Plaza El Bosque : Food market
Festival Highlights:
- September 7: Dia de los Farolitos (Day of Lanterns)
- August: Fiestas Patronales with cultural events and food fairs
Sonsonate
A vibrant commercial center connecting the mountains to the Pacific.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Parque Rafael Campo: Central plaza with historic monuments
- Sonsonate Cathedral: Important religious landmark
- Central Market: One of the region’s largest traditional markets
- Boulevard Las Palmeras: restaurant, coffee and pastries shops
Attractions nearby:
- Museo del Ferrocarril: A museum of abandoned railroad and wagons
- Insider tip: During the weekend, there is also a train you can take around the town (friday, saturday and sunday evening)
- Entre Rios: Aquatic park with natural pools and other amenities
- El Pescadito de Oro: Free entrance – natural pool with cold clear water
Metapan
Metapán is nestled in the mountains. It is the perfect gateway from the city, with a more relaxed vibe and many outdoor activities nearby.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Church of San Pedro Apóstol: Stunning colonial-era church with unique architecture
- Metapán Central Park: Well-maintained central plaza with historic buildings
Activities Nearby:
- Montecristo National Park (30 minutes away)
- Lake Güija: Fishing and water activities
- Laguna de Metapán
- Coffee plantations tours
- Apuzunga Water Park
Colonial Towns
Nahuizalco
Famous for its night market and indigenous crafts.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Night Market: Unique shopping experience lit by oil lamps
- Cultural Museum: Exhibits on local Indigenous history
- Artisan Workshops: Watch craftsmen create furniture and woven goods
- Plaza Central: Food and craft stands
Nearby activities:
- Cascada La Golondrinera
Insider Tip:
- If you are in Nahuizalco during the weekend, you can try a pupusa made with Yuca in Plaza Central.
- Aim to visit after 6 pm: this is when this city truly comes alive
Juayua:
A culinary destination on the Ruta de las Flores.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Weekend Food Fair: International and local cuisine
- Cristo Negro Church: Famous black Christ statue
- Calera de Los Chorros Waterfall: Natural swimming spot with beautiful waterfall.
- Insider: Do the Seven Waterfall hike for the full experience
- Central Plaza: Historic architecture and cafes
Insider Tips:
- Every Weekend: Feria Gastronómica – a food fair at the central plaza
Ataco:
Highest coffee-growing town known for its murals.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Mural-covered Streets: Colorful artistic expressions
- Entre Nubes: a beautiful coffee and restaurant with gardens – Coffee tours are also available
- Artisan Shops: Traditional textiles and crafts
- Central Plaza: Historic church and weekend events
- El Mirador: Panoramic viewpoint over the region
Apaneca
El Salvador’s highest town surrounded by coffee plantations.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Laguna Verde: Crater lake with hiking trails
- Café Albania: a coffee and restaurant with many activities available (labyrinth, slides, zipline, etc.) – 5$ entrance fee that can be used as credit for food or activities
- Coffee Plantations: Guided tours available
- Canopy Tour: Zipline adventures
- Historic Center: Well-preserved colonial architecture
- Artisan Markets: Local crafts and coffee products
Coastal Escape
Playa Costa Azul
A pristine beach known for its consistent waves and golden sand.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Main Beach Break: Perfect for intermediate surfers
- Beginner’s Bay: Sheltered area for surf lessons
- Seafood Row: String of fresh seafood restaurants
- Sunset Point: Prime location for photography
- Beach Clubs: Various options for day use
- Bocana San Juan: where salt water meets fresh water
Activities:
- Surf lessons for all levels
- Board rental shops
- Beachfront yoga sessions
- Fishing trips
Los Cobanos
El Salvador’s premier diving destination with the country’s only coral reef.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Coral Reef: great place for snorkeling and scuba diving
- Rock Formation: enjoy natural “pools” at low tide
- Diving Center: PADI-certified courses and equipment rental
- Artisanal Fishermen’s Wharf: Fresh seafood and boat tours
Activities:
- Snorkeling tours to shallow reef areas
- Scuba diving for all experience levels
- Sport fishing excursions
- Sunset boat trips
- Beach volleyball courts
Barra de Santiago
A coastal wetland where mangrove forests meet the Pacific Ocean, offering an eco-tourism experience with turtle watching, bird spotting, and serene beach walks.
Must-Visit Spots:
- Mangrove Canals: Extensive network of waterways
- Bird Watching Towers: Prime spotting locations
- Local Fishing Village: Authentic coastal life
- Central Beach: Long stretch of dark sand
- Estuary: Where the river meets ocean
Activities & Tours:
- Mangrove Tours
- Kayaking
- Surfing – All levels welcome
- Fishing
- Walking: A long beach of golden sand
- Swimming
Essential Experiences for Your Occident El Salvador Travel Route
Nature
National Park El Imposible
El Salvador’s most challenging and rewarding hiking destination. Home to rare species and offering spectacular views, this park requires a guide but rewards you with pristine nature. It is El Salvador’s most biodiverse protected area. Home to 500+ species of butterflies, 285 species of birds, and rare wildlife like pumas and black hawk-eagles!
Essential Information:
- Entrance Fee: $6 for foreigners, $3 for locals
- Guide Requirement: Mandatory (get one once you arrive at the park entrance_)
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily
What to expect:
- Variety of hikes options from easy to hard – the guide will suggest a route based on your preference and time
- View points of the forest
- Rivers and waterfalls (depending on the trail you choose)
- Variety of flora and fauna
Volcano Hike (Santa Ana or Izalco)
Choose between Santa Ana Volcano’s turquoise crater lake or Izalco’s perfect cone. Both offer challenging hikes and unforgettable views. The starting point of the two options is at Cerro Verde Nacional Park.
Check out my article on the Volcano hikes in El Salvador to help you decide
Parque Nacional Montecristo
Located near Metapán, this biosphere reserve spans three countries (El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala) and offers a unique cloud forest ecosystem. You won’t even believe you are still in El Salvador among the oak, cypress and pine trees!
Essential Information:
- Entrance Fee: 6$
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – no entry after 11:00 AM
- Guide Requirement: Mandatory for certain trails
- Cooler Climate – Pack a jacket
- Punto Trifinio: Highest point in the park and the junction of the 3 countries
Activities:
- Camping
- Soccer fields
- Hiking
- Viewpoints
- River and waterfall
Cutural
Tazumal
El Salvador’s most impressive and well-preserved Maya ruins, Tazumal was a thriving trade center. The main pyramid rises an impressive 24 meters high!
Essential Visitor Information:
- Entrance Fee: $5 for foreigners, $3 for Central Americans and resident foreigners, and $1 for locals
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed Mondays)
- Average Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
- Location: Chalchuapa, Santa Ana Department
Ruta de las Flores
This scenic 36-kilometer route winds through western El Salvador’s coffee country, connecting five colonial towns renowned for their flowers, coffee, food, and cultural heritage. The name comes from the abundance of wildflowers blooming between November and February, painting the roadside in vibrant colors!
Route Overview:
- Total Length: 36 kilometers
- Duration: 1-2 days recommended
- Best Season: November-February (flower season)
- Starting Point: Sonsonate
- Ending Point: Ahuachapán
Along the route:
- Juayúa
- Apaneca
- Salcoatitán
- Ataco
- Nahuizalco
Practical tips:
- Based on the information of each town shared above, choose your favorite cities and create your itinerary
- Plan to stay at least 1 night in one of the cities to truly explore the region
- Choose your preferred transportation:
- Self-drive
- Bus – Route 249 connects all the towns
- Organized tour
Water Adventures
Chorros de la Calera (Las siete cascadas)
Located just outside Juayúa, these seven stunning waterfalls cascade through tropical forests, offering one of El Salvador’s most rewarding waterfall experiences!
Essential Information:
- Entrance Fee: $2 for foreigners, $1 for locals
- Guide Cost: $10-15 per person (mandatory)
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily
- Location: 1.5 km from Juayúa
Trail Details:
- Total Distance: 3 km round trip
- Duration: 2-3 hours total
- Difficulty: Moderate
Santa Teresa Hot Springs
Located near Ahuachapán, these natural thermal pools offer a perfect blend of relaxation and healing, with waters rich in minerals flowing directly from volcanic sources!
Essential Information:
- Entrance Fees:
- Day Pass: $10
- Package including a lunch and mud treatment: $25
- Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM daily
- Best Times: Early morning or after 4 PM
- Peak Days: Weekends and holidays
Pool Types & Temperatures:
- Thermal Pools
- Mixed Temperature Pools
- Cool Pools
Lago Coatepeque
One of El Salvador’s most stunning natural wonders, this volcanic crater lake is known for its mysterious color changes, shifting from deep blue to turquoise throughout the year!
Essential Information:
- Access Fee: Free for public areas
- Best Viewing Times: Early morning for calm waters
- Peak Season: December-April
- Famous Color Changes: Usually August-October
Water Activities:
Most of the restaurants around the lake will rent equipment and boats for you to enjoy the water. Here is a list of the main activities that can be done at Lago Coatepeque:
- Water Sports:
- Jet Skiing
- Kayaking
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding
- Boat Tours:
- Standard Lake Tour
- Private Boat Rental
- Fishing Trips
El Salto de Malacatiupán
A unique natural phenomenon where hot springs meet a waterfall, creating a therapeutic natural shower with water temperatures reaching 34°C (93°F). Located near Ahuachapan, these falls offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation!
Essential Information:
- Entrance Fee: $1.50
- Time Needed: 1-2 hours
- Water Temperature: warm
- Lookout for the warning signs to see where you can swim
Features:
- Natural hot waterfall shower
- Small pools for soaking
- River swimming areas
- Restaurant and restrooms
- Basic changing facilities
Tips:
- Wear water shoes (rocks can be slippery)
- Accessible by car or tuk-tuk
- Limited public transportation
- Parking available ($1)
- Best to visit during dry season – rainy season brings more debris and the water can be brown
Cascadas de Don Juan
A series of small but beautiful waterfalls forming natural pools, perfect for swimming and cliff jumping. Located between Ataco and Apaneca, these falls offer a more adventurous experience away from the typical tourist spots.
Essential Information:
- Entrance Fee: $3
- Guide Required: Yes
- Water Temperature: cool
- Parking available
- A short walk to the waterfall
Sample Week-Long Occident El Salvador Travel Route
This 7-day itinerary covers culture, nature, and the beach. It’s designed to give you a glimpse of El Salvador while staying in the same region to minimize travel time.
| Day | Time | Activities |
| 1 | Morning | Head to Santa Ana |
| Explore the historical center | ||
| Cathedral, Theater, Parque La Libertad | ||
| Afternoon | Eat lunch in town | |
| Visit Tazumal and/or Casa Blanca | ||
| Evening | Head back to Santa Ana | |
| Overnight in Santa Ana | ||
| 2 | Morning | Early departure for a volcano hike (Santa Ana or Izalco) |
| Pack a lunch | ||
| Afternoon | Lago Coatepeque | |
| Evening | Dinner at Lago Coatepeque | |
| Overnight in Santa Ana | ||
| 3 | Morning | Departure for Ahuachapan (1h drive) |
| Afternoon | Santa Teresa Hot Spring – take package with lunch included | |
| Evening | Explore Ahuachapan | |
| Overnight Ahuachapan | ||
| 4 | Morning | Choose between: Coffee tour at Entre Nubes or Café Albania with activities |
| Lunch at either places | ||
| Afternoon | Visit Apance or Ataco or both (central plaza, shops, local market) | |
| Evening | Head to Juayua | |
| Dinner and overnight in Juayua | ||
| 5 | Morning | Hike Las Siete Cascadas (plan for 2-3 hours) |
| Pack a lunch | ||
| Afternoon | Visit Nahuizalco | |
| Evening | Night market and dinner in Nahuizalco | |
| Head to Los Cobanos (45 min drive) | ||
| Overnight in Los Cobanos | ||
| 6 | Morning | Playa Los Almendros |
| Lunch at the beach – find a restaurant with fresh fish | ||
| Afternoon | Playa Los Cobanos – natural pool at low tide | |
| Tips: bring a snorkeling mask to watch the small fish around the rocks | ||
| Evening | Enjoy the sunset at the beach | |
| Overnight at Los Cobanos | ||
| 7 | Morning | Drive to the airport (2-3 hours drive) |
Alternative options
Here are some suggestions to adjust your Occident El Salvador Travel Route according to your travel style:
- Replace the nights in Los Cobanos with nights in El Imposible National Park
- Skip one night in Santa Ana to add a night in one of the Ruta de Las Flores town
- Switch the night in Juayua to any other town on the Ruta de Las Flores
- Instead of Ahuachapan, stay in Metapan – plan for at least 2 nights in that region
- Replace Los Cobanos with another beach town (Barra Santiago or Playa Costa Azul)
So here you have it, a travel itinerary for Occidental El Salvador. Use the information shared in the first part to craft your perfect itinerary.
