This post will give you an overview of what to expect when you travel to El Salvador, from its vibrant culture to breathtaking landscapes. Learn all about traveling to El Salvador and what this beautiful country has to offer.
Welcome to El Salvador: Central America’s Hidden Gem
My first trip to El Salvador was in December 2023. As my spouse’s homeland, our vacation was a perfect blend of family reunions and dinner parties. But this trip was also full of adventures, guided by insider tips from the true experts: the locals!
Let me tell you, Salvadorans are very warm and welcoming! Their infectious laughter and open arms make you feel like you’ve known them for years, even if you’ve just met. They’re always happy to share their vibrant culture, from teaching you to make the perfect pupusa to showing off their favorite hidden waterfalls.
And my favorite part? the landscapes! Imagine standing atop a volcano, feeling like you’re on top of the world, then resting on a black sand beach that looks straight out of a postcard. El Salvador is packed with national parks and infinite coastlines.
Besides nature, El Salvador also has vibrant cities full of culture, history, and modernity. From the bustling capital of San Salvador with its mix of colonial architecture and contemporary buildings, to the charming cobblestone streets of Ataco, each city offers its own unique flavor.
And let’s not forget the food! Pupusa, the national dish, is a must-try – these corn or rice tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, or meat will have your taste buds doing a happy dance (and don’t forget to add the salsa and curtido to make it extra tasty). Whether you’re an adventure seeker, or just looking to relax on beautiful beaches, a travel to El Salvador will offer a little something for everyone.
Best time to visit El Salvador: A Year-Round Paradise
Now let’s talk about El Salvador’s weather (hint: there’s something for everyone all year round)! This little Central American country has a tropical climate that’ll make you want to extend your stay indefinitely.
Dry season
From November to April, you’ve got the dry season. The skies are clear, the temperatures are high, and the beaches are calling your name. It’s ideal for outdoor adventures – kayaking, hiking, swimming, you name it! Traveling to El Salvador in the season is your best chance of getting hot and sunny days.
However, there are a few things to note during this season. December is full of magic with the holidays coming up, but it also means it’s traffic-prime time since everyone is on vacation. I would recommend planning your accommodation in advance and allowing more time for your travels (out and around the cities). Also, April can get really hot (the average daily temperature is above 35°C). If you are not comfortable in the heat, I think it would be best to avoid this period.
Rainy season
May to October brings the rainy season, but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go! On many days, after one intense shower, you’re good for the rest of the day. And on the bright side? that’s when the vegetation truly comes alive! This is the best season to travel to El Salvador for exploring the national parks, surfing, and avoiding crowds. You can also enjoy the beach when the sun is back.
Side note for this period: El Salvador is not known for frequent hurricanes; however, the rainy season does bring the risk of tropical storms. Checking the weather channels and warnings is definitely a good idea. Also, the roads can get flooded and muddy, which might impact your travel plan. For this season, it is best to be flexible to make the most of your time. I would also consider refundable options when making reservations in case Mother Nature comes in the way of your travel plans.
As for the best time to visit, here’s the inside scoop: it really depends on your preference. Beach bums and sun-seekers; aim for the dry season. Nature lovers and off-peak travelers; the rainy season might be your perfect time. As for me, my favorite times to travel to El Salvador are November or February when the crowds are fewer and the weather is not too hot and not too wet.
El Salvador Highlights: Thrilling Activities for Every Type of Traveler
Beaches and lakes
Water lovers, you’ll be served if you travel to El Salvador! With over 300km of coastlines, there are more than enough beaches for everyone. And my favorite part of Salvadorian beaches? The water is WARM! Like hangout-past-sunset-sitting-in-the-water kind of warm. You literally have to drag me out of the water every time! If you are into surfing, the best places to go are: El Zonte, El Tunco, El Sunzal, Punta Roca and Mizata. If you prefer swimming and hanging out in the water, I suggest: San Blas, Los Cobanos, Costa Del Sol, El Cuco, El Espino.
El Salvador also has many gorgeous lakes and natural pools. The most famous ones are: Lago Coatapeque – a volcanic caldera with crystal-clear water surrounded by lush green forests – and Lago Ilopango – another volcanic caldera with blue water and impressive cliffs. Other than lakes, you can also go for a swim in natural pools and hot springs. These water parks have natural pools with fresh turquoise water or natural hot springs and added installations for comfort and fun! My favourites are: Los Chorros, Thermos del Rio, and Termales Santa Teresa.
Adventures
For nature lovers, this destination offers many experiences. You can hike through the stunning El Imposible National Park or camp at El Espíritu de la Montaña, both have beautiful forests waiting to be explored. Adventurous souls will find several volcanoes to hike, each with varying difficulty levels to suit all skill levels (check out our volcano guide here to choose the best option for you). A highlight is Cerro Verde National Park, where you can hike to the summit of Santa Ana Volcano or Izalco Volcano and be rewarded with breathtaking views. These parks are teeming with diverse flora and fauna, making them a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Another great outdoor adventure while traveling to El Salvador is seeking waterfalls. All the volcanoes and mountains in El Salvador have beautiful waterfalls. Many hikes bring you to breathtaking waterfalls. One of my favorites is The Seven Waterfalls; a 4 to 6-hour hike that ends at the Chorros de la Calera. Other great options are Tamanique Casacadas and Los Tercios.
Landscape
El Salvador offers stunning different landscapes. With over 20 volcanoes, the country boasts dramatic topography. The picturesque Santa Ana region features Cerro Verde National Park, providing breathtaking views and rich biodiversity. Inland, the fertile soil offers vast coffee plantations, making El Salvador a top coffee producer. On the coast, beautiful beaches for surfing or sunbathing are waiting for you. There are golden sand beaches like Costa Del Sol as well as black sand beaches like San Blas. Additionally, Lake Coatepeque offers a serene setting for relaxation, surrounded by lush hills. National parks like Montecristo and El Imposible protect diverse ecosystems, making them perfect for eco-tourism and hiking enthusiasts. A travel to El Salvador will show all the nature has to offer.
Culture
When it comes to cultural experiences, El Salvador has a wealth of activities to offer. To truly embrace the Salvadoran spirit, you can’t miss La Ruta de las Flores. This route winds through charming towns and lush coffee fields, where you’ll find delicious restaurants, locally brewed coffee, artisanal shops, and stunning waterfalls and hot springs. For a glimpse into the country’s rich history, be sure to visit the ancient Mayan ruins at the archaeological sites of Tazumal and San Andrés. If you want to immerse yourself in Salvadoran traditions, plan your visit during Semana Santa. While the streets will be bustling with vacationers, you’ll be treated to beautifully crafted “street carpets” and a variety of vibrant ceremonies that showcase the heart of Salvadoran culture and religion.
Food
The Salvadoran national dish is Pupusas; a tortilla stuffed with meat, cheese, and/or beans. This dish is usually served with a red sauce and a type of coleslaw. You can find them everywhere and a pupusa will cost anywhere from 0.75$ to 1.50$. These are truly delicious and pretty cheap! I am usually full with 2 pupusas but can easily eat 3 or 4 just for the taste. My favorite is : Queso con Loroco. But don’t eat only pupusas! there are many other foods to try in Salvador. Here is a list of my favorites:
- Mariscada: a tasty seafood soup (shrimp, squid, lobster, crab, clams you name it!) – I personally like mine “Con crema” (with cream) and lime.
- Tamales: Masa (a dough made from corn) filled with meat, cheese, and/or vegetables and cooked in a banana leaf. You can have some for breakfast or lunch (or dinner really).
- Atol: A sweet, and thick beverage. Most common are from corn (Atol de Elote) but my favorite is Atol de Maranon (Cashew nuts).
- Pescado Frito: fried fish. Try one at a restaurant on the beach; they usually get fresh fish every day from the fishermen nearby.
- Elote Loco: a grilled corncob top with mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and cheese.
- Jocote: a small orange/red/green fruit with a mostly sweet taste with a bit of citrus. The best season for this fruit is from October to <december (can be found at markets or on the side of the road)
- Jicama: a root vegetable that is fresh, crisp, and slightly sweet. I love it with lime juice and alguashte. This vegetable is available almost year-round but the best season is September to January.
- Mango ciruela: A delicious small mango. This fruit is best from March to May. If you are lucky, you might have one in the backyard of your Airbnb.
- Annona Rosada: A large sweet pink fruit.
- Alguashte: a seasoning powder made from ground pumpkin seeds and usually eaten with fresh fruits or vegetables. My personal favorite is to eat it with green mangoes, cucumber, and jicama.
Towns
El Salvador is rich in culture and history, with vibrant towns that showcase the country’s charm. The Capital is San Salvador. It is a vibrant city with a blend of rich history and modernity. You will find many activities from bustling markets to national parks and vibrant nightlife. Check out my San Salvador city guide to discover everything the city has to offer.
One of the must-visit towns is Santa Ana, known for its stunning architecture and the impressive Santa Ana Cathedral. The surrounding area offers breathtaking views from the nearby Cerro Verde National Park, making it a perfect blend of culture and nature.
Another gem is Suchitoto, a colonial town that transports you back in time. Its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and art galleries create a picturesque atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to visit Lake Suchitlán, where you can enjoy boat rides and stunning sunsets.
La Palma, located in the mountainous Chalatenango region, is famous for its handicrafts and vibrant murals. This artistic town is a hub for local artisans and offers a glimpse into Salvadoran creativity. The surrounding landscapes are perfect for hiking and exploring nature.
Lastly, Juayúa, part of the Ruta de las Flores, is renowned for its weekend food festival, where you can savor delicious local dishes. The town is also a gateway to stunning waterfalls (the beautiful Chorros de la Calera) and coffee plantations, making it an ideal spot for both food lovers and adventure seekers.
Essential travel tips for your El Salvador adventure
Before you travel to El Salvador, there are a few insider tips you’ll want to pack along.
Safety
First up, let’s address the elephant in the room – safety. Now, I know El Salvador has had a bit of a rough rep, but don’t let outdated notions scare you off! The country has made huge strides in recent years. The country was even part of Lonely Planet’s best travel in 2023! In general, the country is now safe pretty much everywhere. On my last trips, I hung out in the Historical Center past midnight with no issues (not alone, of course, and staying in the main square). Still, it pays to be street-smart. Stick to tourist areas, avoid flashing valuables, keep your belongings near, and skip those late-night solo walks. Also, avoid driving at night since many roads are poorly lit and wandering around neighborhoods further out of the main cities
Transportation
Let’s talk about getting around. My favorite option is renting a car. It is the easiest and fastest way to get where you want to go and when you want to go. However, the traffic can get pretty intense. Early mornings are your best bet to avoid morning traffic. If you’re not comfortable driving, Uber is available in the cities and is not very expensive. For further destinations, you can hire a driver. As for buses, I’ve also heard that they are cheap and frequent but I personally never tried them.
Internet
Most hotels and cafes offer free WiFi and some cities even have wifi in their main square. However, for those times when you need to check where you’re going in the middle of the road, consider getting a local SIM card. They’re cheap, widely available, and will save you from roaming charges. You can also consider esim cards like with Nomad or Airalo (and many other companies). From my experience, they are generally a lot more expensive than local SIM cards (30$ vs 5$) but you’re ready to go right off the airplane! Also, you eliminate the risk of loosing you’re own SIM card (true story).
Language
While you can get by with English in tourist hotspots, knowing a bit of Spanish will take you far. “Por favor” (please) and “gracias” (thank you) are your magic words. “¿Dónde está el baño?” (Where’s the bathroom?) might just save your life. And “La cuenta, por favor” (The bill, please) is also a good one to know. In general, locals do not know a lot of english and they will truly appreciate the effort! And if you have a more complicated question, Google Translate will be your best friend.
Budget/Currency
El Salvador uses US dollars. Another option is paying with Bitcoin. Since it became a national currency in 2021, many shops have been given the option to pay with Bitcoin. There are many Bitcoin ATMs throughout the country. However, carrying cash and small bills is always a good idea for local shops and markets. Most places accept cards/bitcoin, but smaller places might only accept “en effectivo” (in cash) or charge a premium to pay with a card.
As for budget, it really depends on what kind of trip you are looking for. Accommodation can go anywhere from 30$ a night to 400$ a night or more. The same goes for restaurants. You can find 30-per-meal restaurants as well as 3.50$.
Visa
Most Americans and Europeans do not require a Visa when visiting El Salvador for less than 90 days.
Check here if you need a Visa
If you ever need a visa, you can find information on the El Salvador government website about how to apply.
Get more information here
There is also a 12 USD entrance fee for foreigners paid at the airport when you arrive.
So there you have it – your travel to El Salvador crash course. Armed with this knowledge, you’re all set for an unforgettable Central American adventure. ¡Buen viaje!
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