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Top 18 Best El Salvador Tourist Attractions you must Visit

Apart from history, this country has a lot of natural beauties . These are in the forms of the volcano, volcanic terrain, lakes, seacoast, and more. El Salvador is a bit behind from its famous neighbors, CostaRica, and Panama. But what visitors don’t realize is that El Salvador is a small country. It has a large collection of national parks and historical sites.

There are many reasons to visit El Salvador . It has fantastic beaches where you can spend your evening after a tiring day. Other than that, there are archeological sites filled with mysteries and historical stories. You can also perform many outdoor activities, including hiking and climbing stunning views. El Salvador offers travelers a huge variety of foods, which will make you want to travel to El Salvador.

Some Facts About El Salvador

You will find plenty of crafters and artists. They make jugs, bowls, and plates so you can decorate your home after a vacation to El Salvador. And when you arrive at

El Salvador is most famous for its warm welcome for tourists. There are many travel guides to guide you to visit every part of El Salvador without your time.

Despite retaining its dated reputation for being an unsafe country. But now El Salvador is one of Central America’s safest countries to visit. You should also keep in mind that crime happens anywhere. Even if you are visiting El Salvador, you have to stay alert. To know more about the tourist attraction in El Salvador, keep reading.

Top 18 Best El Salvador Tourist Attractions You must Visit:

1. san salvador.

The first place that comes in our list of the best El Salvador tourist attractions is San Salvador. San Salvador is one of the most famous El Salvador cities. It is the capital city of El Salvador and is in the central plateau region. It is also the second-largest city in Central America. Despite the colossal size, many visitors appreciate this place. This is because of its easy-going atmosphere.

San Salvador has some unique aspects, even if its country’s largest metropolis visitors are a few minutes away from the city’s inspiring natural beauty. From amazing volcanoes and stunning crater lakes to the best parks in the country.

Tazumal is also among the most popular El Salvador tourist attractions. It is the most famous Mayan ruin in El Salvador. And the estimation done by the archeologist suggests that this place dates back to 5000BC. But people left the place during AD 1200. The architectural complex faced expensive restoration and evacuation during the 1940s and 50s. But there are still many ruins that have not undergone evacuation yet.

Many believe that Tazumal is an important center of trade. And the language in the K’iche means pyramid, where they would burn the victims. You can explore this vast site and get to learn more about the history of the Maya civilization. This is possible through an onsite museum.

3. Suchitoto

The next place that comes in our list of the best El Salvador tourist attractions is Suchitoto. Suchitoto is 50km northeast of the capital city. This tourist destination is a formal colonial city and is a current cultural hub of the country. Food festivals and Arts occur all the time. The streets usually have a lot of visitors around the country and beyond. You can also enjoy a stroll on this city’s cobblestone streets to have a fantastic and amazing view. With well-preserved Spanish colonial buildings and hike around the area to find waterfalls and caves.

This city is in a bird migration zone. The country’s civil war that was from 1980-1992 caused damage to this city. But now it has turned into a great mountain getaway for all the tourists.

4. Ruta De Las Flores

Ruta de la Flores is among the most visited El Salvador tourist attractions. It is a trail that leads the visitors through the most beautiful villages of El Salvador. It is popular for the wildflowers that grow along the road, and it looks best when it’s winters. The travel route starts from Sonsonate through Juayua, Ataco, for around 40km. And along the trail, you will see a lot of the culture and history of the area. From all Spanish colonial buildings to all the famous local food options. Everything has something special. The area has stunning views and weekend markets. Here you can get souvenirs for your family or friends.

While traveling, the travelers will find an amazing waterfall, towering churches, landscapes. You can visit the place by driving a car. It will give you much more control over where you want to stop. You can also trial and can also travel by bus.

5. The Cerro El Pital

The Pital Hill comes with many nature and adventure destinations, making it one of the best El Salvador tourist attractions. This captures the tourist attraction in El Salvador. This is something you will not want to miss. This is the most mountainous and elevated place in El Salvador. The hills are one of the most important in the department of Chalatenango. They have more elevation of more than 2,700 meters above sea level. This is the best place to visit for tourists who are winter lovers. And that’s because the temperature reaches 10-degree Celsius at night.

Many tourists consider this place as one of the best places to go camping in El Salvador. It also has a huge variety of hotels. And the most amazing part of all is that they have a lot of camping areas. Most of them offer hikes to the surroundings such as the Zumpal river, vegetables, and fruit crops. If you are a lover of nature , photography, then this is the best place to visit in El Salvador.

6. El Tunco Beach

El Salvador is very famous for its beautiful beaches. Each year many tourists chose El Salvador as a destination for surfing because of the best waves. There are many beaches in the country. And they all are wonderful, but El Tunco Beach is the most visited beach . The name of this beach is “El Tunco” because of the rock formation on the shore of the place. It is quite like the shape of a pig in El Salvador.

Besides having these beautiful and a huge variety of beaches and strange rock formations. It also has a variety of hotels of all sorts of prices, restaurants, bars and also surf lessons here. El Salvador is an extraordinary country. It is full of amazing culture, adventure, surfing, and more. It assures you that you will have beautiful memories after visiting this famous place in El Salvador.

7. Montecristo National Park

Montecristo National Park is a national park that is full of high peaks and low valleys, and a dense canopy. This makes it one of the most visited El Salvador tourist attractions. The laurel trees and cloud forest of oaks can grow up to almost 30m tall. And mushrooms, mosses, and lichens grow all over the forest floor. You can also take a tour through the park to experience the beauty of a natural rainforest.

Most visitors will see rare animals like spiders, monkeys, pumas, coyotes, and agoutis. But the most common ones are squirrels, porcupines, black shrew mice, and white-tailed deer. There are 300 bird species, including green toucans, white-faced quails, and quetzals. All these are only in the Montecristo National park.

8. Puerto del Diablo

Puerto del Diablo is popular for having a dark past featuring death and horror. This makes the tourist keep visiting this place again and again. Puerto del Diablo is not only among the most visited El Salvador tourist attractions, but it is also one of the creepiest. The striking of this place is ‘Devil Door’. The rock formation comprises two tall boulders. This forms a window looking out at El Salvador’s lush landscape. A pathway leads you up to the viewpoint where you will see the indigenous town Panchimalco from there.

You can also view the lake IloPango on the left side and the twin-peaked San Vicente volcano straight ahead. There are almost more than 60 established rock climbing routes in these areas. They also have adventurous activities like Zip lining, caving, canopy tours, and rappelling.

9. Coatepeque Caldera

This volcanic caldera came into being tens of thousands of years ago. Lake Coatepeque is one of the largest lakes in the country. It has clean, blue water that reaches into a depth of 120m. Plus it also has very steep mountainous slopes in the surroundings. The amazing attractions in Coatepeque Caldera make it one of the best tourist attractions in El Salvador.

There’s also a highway which is on the ridge of the crater. It gives onlookers incredible panoramic views. The visitors can get up close and personal with the lake by taking a boat onto the water. The beach houses which are around the shore of the lake are popular weekend getaways.

10. Santa Ana

Santa Ana is a place for those looking for a bit of a mix between San Salvador’s modern city life ten Santa Ana is the best choice. It is one of the most popular El Salvador attractions so far. It is also the second-largest city in El Salvador. You can spend the days here in happiness as the streets are very peaceful. Also, this city has a lot of museums which attract the tourist’s attention.

There are also fantastic bars and restaurants in Santa Ana. So you can flavor all the famous food in this country. You can also find the Santa Ana Volcano, which is the highest volcano in El Salvador. Plus a lot of other lush green mountains.

There’s a zoo in Santa Ana located on 20 acres at Prentice park with plants and animals. This zoo includes fascinating rides and attractions. There are also many interesting animals for tourists to see including Howler monkeys, green iguanas, white-faced saki monkeys, giant anteaters, and birds.

11. The Ancient Ruins Of Joya de Ceren

Among so many places in El Salvador, Joya de Ceren is worth a visit. The ruins of Joya de Ceran are in the liberation department of El Salvador. They are also known as ‘Pompeii of America.’ This habitat is more than 3000 years old. The Mayan people were living here under threat from the local volcano. But in the end, they had to evacuate this place because of the rising fear of volcanoes. This makes Joya de Ceren one of the most historical El Salvador tourist attractions.

This city went under volcanic ash only to be safer much later. But now this has become a tourist spot for tourists who love the mysterious history of this place.

12. Cerro Verde National Park

It is a popular belief that this park was named after the volcano Cerro Verde. It contains three different volcanoes. The other two volcanoes are Santa Ana, Izalco. Verde is the most popular. And one of the main reasons for its popularity is its magnificent peaks and cloud forest. This gives an incredible view of the countryside. It’s a great tourist attraction for tourists who love discovering, making it one of the best El Salvador tourist attractions.

Cerro Verde has a beautiful park. And awesome viewpoints from which you view the majestic volcanoes and the park is an excellent place for bird watching, outdoor games, walking on the trails and due to the frequent rains, constant mist and high humidity the area is always greener so you enjoy the healthy air.

13. El Zonte Beach

The next place that comes in our list of the best El Salvador tourist attractions is the El Zonte Beach. The humble little hippie beach town in EL Zonte is in the south of San Salvador. The beach is massive boulders, and the waves on the beach are trashy. It is not ideal for swimming in the water, but it’s better for experienced surfers.

This is a perfect place for tourists to enjoy their day. And that’s because of the cheap and rustic hotels, cheap food, and beverages. All these attract tourists to have a visit.

14. Costo del Sol

This area is popular for a reason, which is that it’s gorgeous. And popular means it’s sparsely populated and has a very beautiful and amazing beach view. That’s why Costo del Sol is among the most popular El Salvador tourist attractions.

This area also has a theme park named Atlantis Water Park. It has some lush jungle and exotic wildlife in its surroundings. It’s definitely worth a visit. You can also ride many rides and coasters here, which is amazing if you are on vacation with your kids.

15. Pelourinho

Next up in our list of the best El Salvador tourist attractions comes Pelourinho. Pelourinho is a tourist spot that was the governmental and residential center. But that’s when the city was the capital of the colony of Brazil. This beautiful city is the finest ensemble of the 17 and 18 centrum buildings in Latin America.

It is best for tourists who want to have more knowledge of the historical matter of Pelourinho. You can see the colorful buildings which attract the tourists a lot.

16. Playa El Esternón beach

Playa El Esteron beach is a beautiful beach and is as popular as other beaches in El Salvador. The surf is gentle, and the beach is always quiet because the area is not filled with much crowd. If you want to have a peaceful and good day with your friends or alone you can visit this beach. The Playa El Esteron beach is among the most popular beaches when we talk about El Salvador tourist attractions.

The food at Playa El Esternon beach is quite amazing. Tourists love visiting this spot because of the food there. There are so many varieties including seafood such as calamari, shrimp, clam, crab, lobster, fried stuffed fish, shrimp cooked in butter, these are the most authentic food you will ever find in El Salvador.

17. Playa El Sunzal Beach

This beach is located around La Liberated, tranquil El Salvador Beach, which is quite striking, with beautiful black glittering sand. Tourists who love swimming or surfing this beach has shops, swimsuit stores and so much more. And it’s the best place for tourists who surf.

There are also many hotels available at Playa El Sunzal Beach. There is nothing like waking up to the sound of huge waves and the sea air floating into your bedroom. These are one of the best hotels in El Sunzal beach Casa de Mar Hotel And Villa, Kayu Hotel, Hotel, and Bar La Guitarra, Los Almendros El Sunzal. They provide you all the facilities with the best services.

18. Playa El Majahual

This is a busy village of El Majahual, which is a top El Salvador backpacker destination. This beach is one of the cleanest beaches because its sand is really smooth, and the water is also quite clear, which attracts the tourist to visit this spot.

This village is very famous for restaurants here because they have delightful and tasty varieties of food which will leave the tourists shocked. Here are the top 5 restaurants famous for their delicious food El Majahaul, Rancho pacifico Azul, Rancho Benitez, Rock, and Roe Fish Shop. Tourists can go here and enjoy all types of food they crave for.

El Majahaul beach is one of the most visited beaches. It’s an excellent tropical beach to visit and relax with your family and friends and this beach is mostly crowded. The shores are filled with stores made out of palm trees and woods selling hand made souvenirs.

So these are 18 of the best El Salvador tourist attractions. Exploring these things to do in El Salvador is a must when it comes to tourism. But most people do not know much about tourist attractions and famous places in El Salvador. Tourism in El Salvador is no doubt an interesting and enjoyable experience. All the tourist attractions that we mentioned above provide the best views, enjoyment, and more.

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• Central America
• El Salvador
• The 10 Most Beautiful Spots...

The 13 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in El Salvador

Tucked at the bottom of Central America on the way to nowhere, El Salvador often gets overlooked even by overlanding backpackers. Which is a shame – with Mayan ruins, avenues of smoking volcanoes, sleepy Spanish-colonial villages set in flower-filled valleys and long, broad stretches of surf-friendly Pacific coast, it’s as enchanting as its more celebrated neighbors. And at around the same size of New Jersey, you can see the most beautiful spots at your leisure in a few days.

Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark

Head northeast of the capital, San Salvador , and you’ll reach this former colonial city. It suffered structural damage in the Civil War (1980-1992), but now it’s a great mountain getaway, and a national magnet for culture, with arts and food festivals forever filling the streets. You might amble round the cobblestone streets gazing up at beautifully preserved Spanish-colonial buildings. Head beyond town for waterfalls and caves. Or take your binoculars to Lake Suchitlán, where migratory species include the country’s largest duck populations.

Playa El Tunco

Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark

Welcome to a funky two-street beach town, very popular with backpackers and surfers – waves on the pebbly black beaches are best early in the morning. Stroll the quaint streets or visit the beach caves when the tide is low. Playa El Tunco is popular with Salvadorans as well as travelers, and is always packed on weekends. Don’t miss the stunning sunsets every evening (top tip: there’s an amazing view from the hotel Monkey Lala). At night, the bars are fabulously upbeat – and the crowd can get quite rowdy.

Lake Ilopango

Natural Feature

What used to be a volcano 1,500 years ago is now a blue expanse of freshwater in central El Salvador. At an altitude of 1,450ft (442m), edged by towering cliffs, it is much loved by divers and boating enthusiasts. An eruption, sometime between CE 410 and CE 535, shattered the cone, killing and displacing hundreds of thousands of people for miles around. The bowl-like caldera that remained filled to form the 28sqmi (72sqkm) Lake Ilopango. Travelers are bewitched by its serene beauty, and locals dive for fish in waters that fall away to 787ft (240m) or more.

Puerta del Diablo

The past is dark – filled with death and horror – but today the views are awesome and uplifting, ensuring a steady flow of tourists. Devil’s Door is a rock formation composed of two tall boulders, forming a window out over the lush El Salvadoran landscape. From the viewpoint, accessed along a winding pathway, you’ll see the indigenous town Panchimalco directly below, Lake Ilopango to the left, and the twin-peaked San Vicente volcano straight ahead with the Pacific beyond. Unsurprisingly, for the intrepid, there are more than 60 rock climbing routes in the area, with zip lining, canopy tours, caving and rappelling on the agenda, too.

Architectural Landmark

A drive of some 40mi (65km) from San Salvador brings you to Santa Ana, the second-largest city in the country. An idyll of tree-lined streets and vibrant buildings, it amassed its wealth from the coffee industry. It feels grand, and there’s a blossoming cultural scene, drawn by the all-round beauty. It’s a good place to base yourself if heading out to explore the Tazumal ruins or the Ruta de las Flores. While here, make sure you explore Santa Ana’s towering neo-Gothic cathedral, completed in 1913, with an exterior liberally covered in intricate carvings.

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Ruins, Historical Landmark

Tazumal is the most impressive Mayan ruin in El Salvador – first settled around 5,000 BCE, archaeologists estimate, and abandoned in the 13th century. The architectural complex was excavated and extensively restored in the 1940s and ’50s, but many of the ruins remain unexcavated. Tazumal is believed to have been an important center of trade, and its language in the K’iche’ language means “pyramid where the victims were burned.” Explore this vast site and learn about the history of the Maya civilization through the on-site museum.

Ruta de las Flores

Named for the wildflowers that grow roadside (at their best from November to February), this Flower Route leads you through some of the most beautiful villages in El Salvador. From Sonsonate you drive for some 25mi (40km), through Juayúa, Ataco, Apaneca and Ahuachapán. Along the way, you’ll pass Spanish-colonial buildings, towering churches, weekend markets and great little pit-stops for food, not to mention stunning views of waterfalls and coffee plantations. You’ll have more independence if you self-drive, but the trail can also be covered by bus.

Playa el Esteron

Here’s a charming stretch of coast that, for whatever reason, somehow isn’t as popular as many of the others in El Salvador. The surf is gentle, and the ambience is tranquil thanks to the absence of the usual shore crowd, heavy on rowdy backpackers. The sands stretch out endlessly in either direction, not quite as black as the kind you find further west. If you need a tranquil beach getaway in El Salvador, stop at Playa El Esteron for a lazy beach day in beautiful, if unremitting, sunshine. You’re bound to end up swigging cold beer and swinging in a rented hammock as you watch the sunset colors form.

Montecristo National Park

This national park is nature with the volume turned up to 11 – from the highest peak (El Trifino, at 7,933ft/2,418m) to the lowest valleys. It looks like a long-lost world, with dense canopy of oaks and laurel trees soaring up to 100ft (30m) above, and mushrooms, lichens and mosses running rampant across the forest floor. And yet you can visit easily as part of a tour. You might glimpse the rare likes of pumas and anteaters, spider monkeys and and coyotes. Even if you don’t, sightings of squirrels and porcupines, black shrew-mice and white-tailed deer are common. All that and 300 bird species, including quetzals, green toucans and white-faced quails. Keep your eyes peeled.

Coatepeque Caldera

Filling a volcanic caldera forged tens of thousands of years ago – much older than Ilopango – Lago de Coatepeque is one of the larger lakes in the country. Surrounded by steep slopes, the clean blue water descends 394ft (120m) – a miraculous view seen from the highway on the ridge of the crater as you approach. There’s plenty to do – perhaps taking a kayak or boat out over the rippled depths. As you paddle, notice the beach houses on the shores: weekend getaways for the very lucky.

When it comes to pre-Colombian ruins, neighboring Guatemala gets all the limelight. Which is good news, because while Tikal is tourist-teeming, El Salvador’s more modest Mayan cities are deserted. Even though they’re just 45 minutes north of San Salvador, you’ll have the pyramids and ancient ball courts at Cihuatán to yourself, if you come midweek. With no roads nearby, the air is meditatively still, except for the calls of toucans and tanagers in the surrounding forest.

Laguna de Alegria

Central El Salvador is rugged with forest-swathed volcanoes, cut with plunging valleys and dotted with crater lakes. Emerald green, iris-round and sitting in a bowl of rainforest at the summit of Tecapa volcano, the Laguna de Alegria in the Cerro Verde mountains, is one of the prettiest. It’s easy to reach by road from the nearby village of Alegria (aka “Happiness”), and trails run from the shore into the surrounding forest to hot springs and fumaroles.

Playa el Espino

Many of El Salvador’s beaches are sticky and muscavado-brown. Not Espino, a place of palm-tree shade and demerara sand stretching for more than 12mi (20km) between the waterfall-laced Periquera mountains and the wild, dolphin-populated bays of Jiquilisco. Things get busy around the village, where there are restaurants, hotels and surf shops. However, the sand is empty and wild at the beach’s eastern and western extremities, with more nesting turtles and cawing terns than tourists.

Alex Robinson contributed additional reporting to this article.

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The Top 15 Things to Do in El Salvador

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It may be Central America's smallest country, but El Salvador packs a lot into its 8,124 square miles — from black sand beaches to colonial villages brimming with new life after a destructive civil war. Here are 15 ways to thoroughly enjoy the vibrant culture, history, and beauty that the “Land of Volcanoes” offers. 

Dine Endlessly on Pupusas

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They're El Salvador's national dish: thick, handmade tortillas stuffed with ingredients like cheese, Salvadoran chicharron (crispy pork), and loroco (a local edible flower), grilled in oil and served alongside a bowl of curtido (cabbage salad) and a spicy red sauce. A common and affordable staple food that's been passed down through generations, pupusas are served everywhere throughout the country — at roadside stands, restaurants, and at dedicated pupuserias where pupusa-making is an artwork. In fact, the second Sunday in November is National Pupusa Day in El Salvador, with events such as pupusa-eating contests and street fairs held countrywide, though a large collection are held in San Salvador — El Salvador's capital city.

Hike an Active Volcano

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El Salvador is a literal hotbed of seismic activity, with at least 23 active volcanoes — many which are accessible by travelers. The tallest of these is Santa Ana, a 7,812-foot-tall stratovolcano located within the Parque Nacional Los Volcanes, also known as Cerro Verde National Park, which is also home to volcanoes Izalco and Cerro Verde. Hiking to Santa Ana's peak is a great workout and you're rewarded with stunning views, including view of the volcano's own highly acidic green crater lake with the stunning Lake Coatepeque in the distance, as well as verdant coffee plantations and Izalco's barren slopes. The round-trip journey takes a few hours, trekking from Santa Ana's main crater and across private land to the park's official entrance, then up through cloud forest and along an open, rocky stretch to the top. Both a guide and a couple of armed security officers are required for the scheduled hike, which is usually done in a large group.

Learn About Local Art and Create Some of Your Own

Artisans reign in El Salvador's many towns and villages, where handicrafts have a long local history. To truly experience this wealth of creative offerings, a drive along its Ruta Artesanal or “Artisan Route” is a must. Each town along the route showcases its own individual craft — San Sebastián is known as the city of “colorful textiles,” while Ilobasco boasts “surprise” miniatures: egg-size ceramics that open to reveal a scene such as a nativity or a woman making pupusas — with opportunities to purchase handmade works and try crafting something of your own. Swing by Suchitoto's Arte Añil Gallery to learn about traditional indigo dyeing and create your own souvenir scarf. After you're done, head over to La Palma — a mountain town just under 8 miles away from the Honduras border. border with Honduras — to see tiny copinol seeds painted with bright and colorful depictions of daily-life. Local artist Fernando Llort popularized this simplistic style of painting, known as Arte Naif, which can be seen on murals throughout town. 

Discover Suchitoto: El Salvador's Cultural Hub

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Suchitoto is a picturesque mountain town along the Ruta Artesanal lined with cobblestone streets and colonial architecture that are brimming with pupuserias, art galleries, and cafes — and it's El Salvador's cultural capital. Suchitoto was largely deserted during the country's Civil War from 1980 to 1992, but is today flourishing. The chalk white Santa Lucía church — with its impressive ionic columns — overlooks Suchitoto's central square, and nearby you'll find places like Teatro Alejandro Cotto (“Theater of Ruins”) and Centro Arte Para La Paz (“Art Center for Peace”), both bastions of creativity — especially during February, when the town's month-long International Festival of Arts and Culture occurs. 

Travel the Spectacular Ruta de las Flores

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During the months of October through February, El Salvador's Ruta de las Flores, or “Route of Flowers,” bursts to life with wildflowers in bright shades of pink, red and purple, though this 22-mile mountainous route has plenty to offer the rest of the year, too. Beginning 46 miles west of San Salvador in the town of Nahuizalco, the Ruta de las Flores winds its way along past coffee farms and through picturesque villages, providing spectacular views as it goes. Stops along the way include Nahuizalco, known for its indigenous heritage and wicker and tule handicrafts, and Juayúa, which hosts a popular food festival every weekend where you can taste grilled prawns, chorizo sausages and pupusas. The village's “Seven Waterfalls” trek also provides the perfect cooling-off excursion for El Salvador's sometimes stifling heat. 

Get Adventurous in Apaneca

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At the end of the Ruta de las Flores sits Apaneca, a 4,757-foot-high mountain village that's an ideal hub for thrill-seekers. Embark on a dune buggy adventure along Apaneca's cobbled streets and ascending through cloud forest to reach Laguna Verde, an often mist-shrouded lake at the end of a long mountain pathway. Later, soar through a stunning rainforest canopy on a zip-lining course that overlooks coffee farms and spectacular valleys, with an occasional toucan or two joining you in the trees. 

Drink Like the Locals

The closest thing to a national beer that you'll find in El Salvador is Pislener (yes, the extra “e” is intentional) and it's everywhere: popped open at al fresco beach bars, served up at street-side pupuserias, and on the menus at comedores (neighborhood restaurants) from Suchitoto to San Salvador. But no worries if alcohol isn't your thing. El Salvador is home to a wealth of interesting beverages, like horchata, a drink made of rice and ground nuts, flavored with cinnamon and sweetened with sugar; a sugarcane-flavored, almost bubble gum-tasting soft drink called Kolashampan; and Ensalada, a drinkable fruit salad filled with diced fruits like pineapple and mango.

Hit the Beach Backpacking Circuit

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El Salvador may be the only Mesoamerican country with no Caribbean coastline, but what it lacks in eastern seas it more than makes up for with laid-back Pacific beach towns and legendary right-hand point breaks. The bulk of U.S. tourists to El Salvador are surfers who head to coastal towns like La Libertad, El Tunco, and El Sunzal for the warm waters and long rides. However these beachfront properties are also some of El Salvador's hottest backpacker hubs, with plenty of hostels, loads of pupusa vendors, and tons of shops and bars. Strolls along El Tunco's black sands and La Libertad's Fisherman Pier — where fresh catches of tuna, snapper, and eel appear daily — are a must. It's worth splurging a little ceviche, too. 

Experience Concepción de Ataco, the Town of Murals

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There's something extra special about Concepción de Ataco, or “Ataco” for short, a mountain town along El Salvador's Ruta de la Flores that's covered in colorful artwork. The latter is the result of a 2004 government-sponsored competition to help beautify the country's towns and earned Ataco the nickname “Town of Murals.” The art adorns shops and colonial-era buildings all along its quiet cobblestone streets. With nearby hillsides covered in coffee fields and brimming with singing birds, as well Ataco's own Axul Artesania — a colorful arts and crafts shop that features brightly woven blankets, painted wall-hangings and pillows, and wind chimes — this scenic village is a little slice of charm. 

Explore San Salvador's Old Town

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San Salvador is El Salvador's capital city, and Old Town is its historic center — the heart of its political and religious happenings. The neighborhood's most notable buildings only date back to the 19th and early 20th centuries, since natural disasters such as earthquakes destroyed many of its original Spanish Colonial structures, though the architecture is still impressive. Old Town is home to El Salvador's National Palace, the French Renaissance style National Theater, and the Metropolitan Cathedral, where the remains of Monsignor Oscar Arnulfo Romero — El Salvador's first Catholic saint, recently canonized in October 2018 — currently reside. One of the neighborhood's most illuminating buildings (in the literal sense) is Iglesia El Rosario Catholic Church. Sculptor Ruben Martinez designed this stunning late-20th-century structure, and while its arched-roof concrete exterior seems more akin to an airplane hangar, once inside you're awash in a rainbow of light: resulting from a series of stained-glass windows completely unnoticeable from the outside. 

Savor a Traditional Salvadoran Breakfast

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It's part of the overall Salvadoran experience: a traditional breakfast made up of eggs, refried beans, fried plantains, and cream or cheese. A plate of thick tortillas is usually served on the side, and coffee is par for the course. If you can partake in this daily ritual from an outdoor courtyard or overlooking one of El Salvador's spectacular lakes or mountainsides — all the better.

Trek Alongside a Former Guerrilla

From 1980 to 1992, El Salvador's Civil War wreaked havoc on the country and turned many local communities into ghost towns. One that's recovered from the ashes of despair is Cinquera, where rebel soldiers once killed more than 60 soldiers in a day-long siege of the town. Today, Cinquera is a peaceful community that doesn't turn its back on its past, but instead embraces its history. In the neighboring Cinquera Rainforest Park you can hike among blue morpho butterflies and cascading waterfalls while learning local civil war history first-hand with a former guerrilla fighter as your guide. This tropical nature reserve still features many remnants from the war, including an L-shaped trench where snipers hid and the remains of Rattlesnake Camp, with its former kitchen and improvised hospital for the wounded still standing. 

Learn About Mayan History

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Joya de Ceren is known as “El Salvador's Pompeii.” It's a pre-Columbian Mayan farming community buried under volcanic ash around A.D. 500. Unlike Pompeii, Joya de Ceren's villagers were able to escape — though they left behind everything from furniture to food. A family happened upon the ruins in 1976, and today Joya de Ceren is the only place in the world where you can truly experience the way Mayans lived their daily lives. This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes the remains of adobe structures, obsidian jewelry, and structural recreations (such as that of the village's original sauna) that you can actually enter. Maybe of the buildings were built like mazes to keep spirits out, but the ongoing excavations don't deter El Salvador's national bird — the turquoise-browed motmot or Torogoz — from making use of the space. 

Nosh on Salvadoran Sweets at a Local Panaderia

You can order a quesadilla in El Salvador, but don't expect your typical corn or flour folded tortilla pan-fried and oozing with cheese. In this country, quesadillas are more of a sweet, spongy cheese bread—the kind that goes perfectly with a steaming cup of Salvadoran coffee. Quesadillas Salvadoreña, as they're known, are popular menu items at Salvadoran panaderias , or bakeries, alongside empanadas de leche, delicious custard-filled empanadas sprinkled with sugar and made with plantains. Absolutely divine! 

Help Save Sea Turtles

helovi / Getty Images 

El Salvador is home to 500 bird species, 1,000 butterfly species, and four of the world's seven species of sea turtles, which come to nest along the country's Pacific coasts. It turns out that about 40% of the world's Eastern Pacific Hawksbill sea turtle population spends time around Jiquilisco Bay, an enormous biosphere reserve and mangrove-lined estuary that's of prime importance to their conservation. You can actually assist in the release of sea turtle hatchlings and take place in tagging programs through organizations such as FUNZEL SV (the Zoological Foundation of El Salvador). 

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17 top things to do in el salvador in 2024.

Despite spending less than 2 weeks here, I really loved El Salvador!

So much so, it made the list of our favourite backpacking destinations around the world .

El Salvador is actually the smallest country in Central America wedged between Guatemala and Honduras.

It’s a country of volcanoes, beauty and a reputation for violence in the past.

But that shouldn't worry you.

A stop here should be on every Central America backpacking itinerary and we are going to inspire you with the top things to do in El Salvador !

Need somewhere to stay? Check out our guide on where to stay in El Salvador

Travellerspoint

Top Things To Do In El Salvador

Let's get down to business! This guide will cover all the best things to do in El Salvador as well as a few final travel tips .

1. Hiking the Santa Ana Volcano

This was probably my favorite thing to do in all of El Salvador. 

The Santa Ana volcano is one of many incredible volcanoes that you can hike in the country , and is known for its stunning blue/green crater lake that’s in the middle of the crater (which you can see once you reach the top). 

This is one of the top tourist attractions in El Salvador, so of course you can expect many other groups to be hiking here and also some crowds at the top (although the earlier you go, the less there will be).

Whilst you don’t need to be in excellent physical condition, it can be somewhat demanding and will take around 2 hours to walk up from the trailhead.

I’ve written about my experience climbing the Santa Ana Volcano and how you can visit without a guide.

However, booking an organized tour does have its benefits. With this full day tour you’ll have all transport and entrance permits included. You’ll also get to visit Lake Coatepeque along the way.

Those who want zero crowds can head on this private early-morning tour . Given it’s a faster-paced rhythm up (to get there before others), you’ll want to make sure you’re in decent physical condition for this tour.

The Santa Ana Volcano is located within the Cerro Verde National Park , and the trail is open from 8:00am until 4:00pm daily (which is the same for all other hikes in the Los Volcanes National Park region).

Book your Santa Ana Volcano Hike right here!

2. Take a coffee plantation tour

El Salvador is one of the best coffee regions that you can visit in Latin America, and they really do produce some amazing coffee.

I am a coffee fanatic, so I was actually very excited to come to Central America in general to taste all the amazing coffees.

The coffee of El Salvador is my second favorite in the region (Nicaragua has to be first!).

One of the best ways to get immersed in all things coffee is to take a tour around a plantation. We highly suggest heading on this full-day coffee plantation tour where you will learn about how the coffee is made and of course brew your own cup! You’ll also get to visit the stunning town of Ataco too.

Those who simply want to drink the good stuff without a tour can also find numerous coffee shops throughout Santa Ana.

Some of the very best are located around the Parque Libertad , such as Santein Café and Tostao Coffee Bar.

Book your awesome coffee tour right here

3. Visit The Mayan Ruins of Tazumal and Joya De Cerén

So everywhere in Central America has its own batch of Mayan Ruins, and El Salvador is no different.

Now, I’ll be upfront and say we personally didn’t visit the Mayan ruins. We planned too, but I’d already seen about 5 sets and the capital of the Mayan world: Tikal, and just didn’t feel like seeing any more.

However our writer George did, and has pitched in his thoughts here!

If you want to see Mayan ruins that are completely uncrowded (as in you could be the only ones there), then you will love the ruins in El Salvador.

Joya de Cerén is definitely the most popular of the two, however I found that actually Tazumal was pretty impressive.

Here you can see a well-preserved pyramid, along with all kinds of cacti and green plants around (which make for a great photo op). Tazumal Ruins are located within the town of Chalchuapa , and are open from 9:00am until 4:00pm, Tuesday through to Saturday.

Both sites are easy to reach from Santa Ana via chicken bus, which leave frequently near the Bus Terminal de Francisco Lara Pineda . You’ll want the 218 Bus, which leaves from around 10a Avenida Sur ( just ask a local for the exact bus stop since it can be tricky to find - you’ll find many speak good English here ).

So whilst you can see many pyramids throughout Central America, I think these are a great opportunity to experience the ancient Mayans' fine work without the crowds.

We highly suggest booking this full day tour , where you’ll visit both Joya de Cerén and Tazumal. As well as having a knowledgeable guide teach you about both sites as you walk around, you’ll also get to stop for a scenic lunch at Lake Coatepeque.

This fantastic tour takes you to ALL the Mayan ruins in El Salvador

4. Visit the Santa Ana cathedral

Santa Ana is a really underrated city , and is full of architectural delights and local gems.

It’s the second biggest city in El Salvador (after San Salvador ), and it’s actually quite cute.

There is a lovely square that’s got a great pizza restaurant, and is also home to the beautiful Santa Ana Cathedral !

Also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady Saint Anne, this neo-Gothic church is known for its incredible exterior and imposing twin towers.

It’s definitely worth a visit if you're in the area.

The Santa Ana Cathedral is located next to the Parque Libertad , and is open all days of the week from 6:00-11:45am, and then from 3:00-6:00pm.

5. Surf at El Tunco

El Salvador is home to some of the best surfing in the world , and it’s got something both for the beginners and pros out there.

Head to the beaches of El Tunco and El Sunzal for an amazing time surfing. It costs roughly $20 for a lesson and a days board rental.

El Tunco itself is also a backpacker hub, so it’s got lots of great restaurants and bars. 

The weekend is when this place really comes to life with fantastic parties and live music!

It’s worth heading to La Guitarra at least once, where you can watch live music whilst sipping on cocktails next to the Pacific Ocean.

We stayed in a place called the Casa De Mar hotel which was right on the beachfront and had the best surf break in the area literally in front of it!

The beaches are the most touristy part of El Salvador, so if for some reason, you are really concerned about safety, then this is one of the safest places to visit in El Salvador.

Ps, I suggest El Tunco because it’s where we went, but there are plenty of other beautiful beaches in El Salvador including La Libertad, Costa Del Sol and much more.

If you’re in San Salvador and don’t have much time (but want to visit the beach), then we highly suggest heading on this awesome day tour . Here you’ll have all transport sorted to and from El Tunco, where you’ll also get to visit the incredible waterfalls of El Tamanique.

Be sure to check out: The Best Hotels In El Tunco

6. Visit the waterfalls of El Salvador

There are a variety of waterfalls in El Salvador that are worth visiting, and I love waterfalls, so that’s why they’ve made it on my list of top things to do in El Salvador!

The Tamanique Waterfalls are one of these, which are easily visited from El Tunco with a day trip. 

You can head here with this organized tour , or you can rent a moped for the day and visit them yourself independently. It’s a 30 minute hike, however you can swim in the waterfalls which makes it worth the trip.

Alternatively, if you’re staying in San Salvador then you can also head on this day tour to the falls which includes all transport.

Then there is the Seven Waterfall hike which is for those who love chasing waterfalls and hiking!

One of them is located in the incredible town of Juayúa and the other one is in the Parque Nacional El Imposible.

Juayúa is the main base for visiting the waterfalls, and here you’ll literally visit seven waterfalls which are all stunning in their own right.

Some of them are more difficult to reach and you will need to use ropes, so be careful and remember to bring solid hiking shoes with you!

We didn’t visit waterfalls in El Salvador, because it kind of takes a lot to impress us waterfall-wise nowadays (we’ve seen A LOT), but actually I regret not visiting some of the waterfalls here.

This post from Champagne roads will fill you in on ALL the waterfalls in El Salvador, even the ones the guide books don’t mention.

She spent 3 months in El Salvador and had seen around 20, so I think it’s a great resource!

Oh, and you can fly a drone legally in this country, which means you’re going to catch some pretty awesome shots.

If you can, rent a car and you’ll get to see much more of the waterfalls and the unseen El Salvador.

Take this tour to visit some of the BEST waterfalls in El Salvador

7. Visit the Ruta De Flores

The Ruta de Las Flores is a winding route of about 20 miles that goes through coffee plantations, brightly colored colonial towns and colonial architecture. 

The five main towns on the Ruta de Las Flores include Salcoatitán, Nahuizalco,  Apaneca, Ataco and Juayúa.

You can get buses from each place to the next, and there are a variety of hotels and hostels along the way. It’s also easy to get here from San Salvador, and you can see the numerous options here on Moovit .

If you want to see the true natural beauty of El Salvador, then this is the place to be.

Now if you’ve only got time to visit one small town, then make it Juayúa! It’s definitely one of the best places to see along the Ruta de Flores, and one of those must-visit gems in El Salvador.

Whilst you can visit independently, sometimes taking an organized tour will make everything much more simple. We recommend this day tour from San Salvador , which includes private transport as well as extra time at the thermal hot springs of Santa Teresa.

You can also head on this alternative group tour , which includes visits to food markets, novel activities in each town as well as round-trip transport from the capital.

8. Go shopping in the capital

San Salvador is actually quite a commercialized city, and it’s home to the biggest shopping mall in all of Central America.

So, if you’ve got some spare cash or need some new clothes, then be sure to hit the Metrocentro and shop until you drop! 

They also have some cool arcade shops and cinemas, so you can also chill here and have a touristy day!

If you’re thinking of things to buy in El Salvador as a present or gift, then this is also a good alternative place to find them. Here you can find everything from coffee to novel domestic goods.

The Multicentro is open from 7:00am-9:00pm all days of the week.

Before or after the mall we recommend taking a city tour too (where you will see many of San Salvador’s top highlights). On this half-day tour , you'll have all logistics sorted as you visit impressive sites such as La Iglesia Rosario as well as the Catedral Metropolitana.

Take this half day tour to see the best sights in San Salvador

9. Visit the San Salvador Volcano

The San Salvador Volcano is another incredible peak which is located in the El Boquerón National Park. 

It’s located just outside of the capital, and you can visit the “peak” by heading to the park and then on a 15-20 minute hike upwards to the summit.

You’ll get to see a crater, which is fairly green and it’s probably not the type of crater you’re picturing in your mind (not like the Santa Ana crater).

But it’s easy to hop in an uber to the entrance and walk up! It’s got beautiful views of the city, and it’s definitely one of the top things to do in San Salvador !

You can also fly a drone over to get some cool shots.

It’s important to note that the volcano hiking path (as well as the El Boquerón National Park in general) is open from 8:00am until 5:00pm daily.

You can head on this day trip where you’ll hike to the summit, which also includes Pupusa Tastings and a city tour of the capital.

You can also go with a tour if you’d prefer!

10. Explore Lake Ilopango

This is another one of the great things to do in El Salvador. 

Actually, Lake Ilopango is more like a beach. I say that because it’s got little “beaches” around it and the locals all flock there like it’s the beach ( temperatures are pretty hot year-round which makes it perfect for sunbathing ).

There are lots of restaurants to dine by the lake, and you can rent a boat and have a romantic boat ride on the lake too!

Located east of San Salvador , it’s a really cool place to explore for the day. You can get there and back via Uber for around $8 which isn’t bad!

There is a random little waterpark by the lake too, which I think is mainly for kids, but if you’ve got children, then this is a pretty good place to take them.

You can also visit Lake Ilopango with this guided tour , where you’ll take kayaks out around the lake and enjoy the awesome volcanic landscapes and wildlife.

11. Explore the colonial town of Suchitoto

This is El Salvador's equivalent to the Antigua of Guatemala, except much smaller and much less touristy. 

There aren’t exactly many accommodation options up in Suchitoto, so most people opt to explore the colonial town on a day trip from the capital .

You’ll find that they’re pretty good value tours too, which include all transport and visit various attractions with your own local guide.

But, if you wish, you can go there yourself, either by Uber or by taking the local chicken buses from San Salvador . I would ask your hotel to guide you on what buses to get!

Suchitoto is full of cute churches, colorful buildings and a nice market too! 

It’s also close to another beautiful lake, so it’s definitely worth visiting for a day to see both attractions.

You can also head here on this half-day trip from San Salvador if you have less time free, where you’ll visit the main highlights such as the Saint Lucia Church and the House of Crafts.

Suchitoto is located roughly 50 km north of San Salvador , and can be reached in around an hour and a half using public transport.

Take this awesome valued tour to Suchitoto

12. Swim at Lake Coatepeque Caldera

So, when you hike the Santa Ana volcano, you’ll see this incredible lake from the views at the top. 

It’s a vast lake and a beautiful place to visit, either after your hike or just on a day trip!

You can get there via chicken bus or taxi, and it’s only an hours drive from Santa Ana .

There are lots of lovely restaurants around the lake for a bite, and you can also swim or rent some kayaks and spend the day relaxing at the lake.

You can stay overnight (or for a few days) to enjoy the more relaxed setting. Captain Morgan Hostel is the perfect place to stay, offering both private rooms and dorm beds. They also have an on-site bar, garden and sun terrace right on the lake.

If you like to have everything sorted for you in advance, then you can head on this day tour from Santa Ana , where you’ll also hike the volcano and have all transport included.

Are you staying in San Salvador? Then you can join this convenient tour , where you’ll spend plenty of time at Lake Coatepeque (including both hotel pick-up and drop-off).

13. Eat Pupusa

Pupusas are one of the most common and popular foods you can find in El Salvador - and you’ll find people selling them on the streets everywhere!

It’s basically like a round bread type thing stuffed with either cheese and beans, or mince and cheese. I’ve had both and they’re delicious!

They typically cost around $1 for 2 although I’ve seen 3 or 4 for $1 too. If you want a quick lunch, or a quick snack, then you have to eat pupusas!

They’re also really good when you want food after a night of drinking. A little lady sells them on the streets of El Tunco at like 2-3am haha ( perfect for reducing those day-long hangovers! ).

You’ll also want to head to Pupuseria Tita at least once whilst in Santa Ana, who are highly-renowned for their tasty pupusas. They’re open from 5:00pm until 9:00pm, Tuesday until Sunday.

14. Visit the El Imposible National Park

Literally meaning “The Impossible Natural Park”, this region already has an awesome name, so it’s worth visiting!

It’s a great spot for hiking and camping, and if you’ve got a spare night or two, you should definitely get your hands on a tent and spend time here.

The surroundings of El Imposible National Park are beautiful, so be sure to bring your camera fully-charged with you!

It’s best to visit during the week as it’s less busy. The region is open for both hiking and camping all hours of the day, all days of the week (except when it’s closed on Sundays).

Btw, it’s steep walking, so it’s not for the faint hearted.

There are 3 main trails: Cerro Leon (8 km) , Los Enganches (11km) and Piedra Sellada (8 km).

You can opt to visit with a tour, or you can make a DIY trip on your own.

It’s free to camp and you can rent tents at the entrance (I think), and it’s $6 to enter the park.

Transport to and from will be via chicken buses and won’t cost more than $1.

You can also join an organized tour in order to save yourself the hassle. On this day trip you’ll spend time exploring various breathtaking waterfalls, which are perfect for a quick cool-off from the hot El Salvadorian sun.

The El Imposible National Park is located close to the Guatemalan border , with the closest city of Santa Ana roughly 2.5 hours away.

You can do an organised tour here to save hassle.

15. Visit San Andrés, El Salvador

San Andrés is a pre-columbian archaeological site that’s really worth the visit, and therefore easily makes our list of top things to do in El Salvador.

This is one of the largest pre-Hispanic archaeological sites in the country , and is only 45 minutes from San Salvador .

As a result it’s a worthwhile day trip to do from the capital, and you can use either  Uber or chicken buses to get there.

Or, you could rent a driver for the day to take you there amongst other sights in the area.

If you’re in San Salvador, then we recommend joining this day tour where you’ll visit San Andrés ruins, as well as the ruins of Tazumal and Joys de Cerén.

Those up for more adventure can instead head with this action-packed tour that also visits numerous volcanoes and Lake Coatepeque!

16. Camp at Conchagua

This is a great area of natural beauty and one Bradley and I missed out on. 

Actually most of the research is in Spanish on Google, so it’s hard to get exact information, but this is a wonderful place to camp.

It’s better to visit Conchagua via car and actually some people opt to sleep in their car rather than camp, but that’s up to you.

Conchagua Volcano is the only one that is located in the coastal plains of El Salvador, which offers a completely different setting compared to the rest further in-land.

There is a viewpoint here called Soul of the mountain, which is said to offer some of the most beautiful views in all of El Salvador!

The owner of the “viewpoint” organizes a tour that costs $10 for transport to and from and entrance to the viewpoint, which isn’t bad.

He is called Luis Diaz and his contact number is +503 7824 7766. You can gain more information via him!

Conchagua Volcano is located right in the extreme south-east of El Salvador , close to Honduras. The closest city to the region is San Miguel, which is around an hours drive away.

17. Chill at The Santa Teresa Hot Springs

When it comes to El Salvador attractions, this should easily make the list. 

However the Santa Teresa Hot Springs is actually quite an undiscovered hidden gem of El Salvador, and it doesn't make it on many of the backpacking itineraries or lists of things to do in El Salvador. But it should!

I love a good hot spring, and there is actually a “luxury” resort area here called the Santa Teresa Park which offers you the unique opportunity to appreciate the largest Ausol in Central America.

Here you can also see the magic pool, trail of the lagoons, the romantic pool as well as the blue lagoon, which all together make the hot springs of Santa Teresa the main tourist destination in the West of El Salvador.

These are beautiful hot springs, all well organized, and I REGRET NOT KNOWING ABOUT THEM!

I wish I had gone, but even when I did my initial research, this wasn’t on the list of things to do in El Salvador, so if you go to El Salvador, please go and tell me what you think!

You can head on this day tour from the capital , which includes pick-up and drop-off and gives you plenty of time to really relax at this underrated site.

The Santa Teresa Hot Springs are located close to the city of Ahuachapan , and are open from 8:00am until 10:00pm all days of the week.

So there you have it, my guide on the top things to do in El Salvador! I hope this guide has given you some inspiration to the many amazing and different things there are to do in El Salvador.

It’s truly an undiscovered country that’s slowly but surely rising in popularity, so if you can, visit before it becomes overly backpackery (not a word but I like it haha), and so you have it all to yourself (and whilst there are no drone laws!!)

On that note, be sure to check out our guide on the best travel drones .

Why visit El Salvador?

El Salvador is often overlooked by backpackers but it shouldn’t be.

It’s home to the stunning Santa Ana volcano, amazing waterfalls and natural beauty, and some of the best surf in the world, that’s consistent all year round!

Simply scratch the surface and you’ll soon discover a country with amazing places to visit, people to meet and beauty to discover.

Is El Salvador safe to visit?

Yes. I am well aware of the reputation that El Salvador has for having one of the highest homicide rates in the world. Which it does, or did.

But the people of El Salvador are actually very much aware of this reputation too. And whilst there is no denying there is violence in the country (just like there is in any country), it doesn’t target tourists.

I have to say, I didn’t feel uneasy for a single minute in El Salvador, and Bradley and I used chicken buses to get from place to place and it felt safe.

The people were friendly, and not once did we feel threatened.

So I can say that it’s safe, or it was for us. Just take normal precautions such as don’t walk around alone at night, don’t get drunk and put yourself in a vulnerable position (especially at night), and don’t flash the cash or expensive jewelry.

Also ,don’t get involved with drugs.

Follow those rules and you will have a fuss free and wonderful experience in El Salvador!

When is the best time to visit El Salvador?

The dry season or summer of El Salvador runs between November and April, so I would say this is the best time to visit.

The wet season runs from May and October.

Bradley and I visited in February and the weather was dry and super warm. El Salvador is a very warm country and the temperature sits at around 33-35 degrees Celsius every day.

Read Also: How To Plan A Trip

How to get to El Salvador?

As I mentioned before, El Salvador is actually quite a small country. You could get from one end to the other in around 4-5 hours.

This means there is only one airport in the country and that’s located in the capital: San Salvador.

You can get flights to San Salvador from a variety of locations, and if you’ve been visiting Mexico or Guatemala, you can get flights for around £60.

If you’re flying from England or the USA the chances are you will have a stopover somewhere before you land in San Salvador.

For those travelling by bus/on land, you can get to the beaches of El Salvador easily by shuttle bus from Guatemala. You can also get to the capital too.

If you want to go to Santa Ana, you will have to leave from Guatemala city, not Antigua as no direct shuttles go to Santa Ana from there.

If you’re coming from the other end (Honduras or Nicaragua), you can use Tica bus to get to San Salvador!

Visa Requirements for El Salvador

El Salvador is part of the C4-4 agreement (El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala and Nicaragua). This agreement gives tourists 90 days to travel in any of the 4 countries. NOT EACH COUNTRY ( a common mistake).

You can request a 30 day extension, which gives you 120 days in the 4 countries.

If you're from Australia, Belgium, Lavtia, or Croatia you are required to purchase a visa card on arrival which is $10 and lasts 30 days.

You can find more information here.

How long do I need to backpack El Salvador?

Since it’s such a small country, you don't need a lot of time to see everything. I would say 2 weeks is suffice, but you could take it slow and do 3, especially if you are surfing.

You could do it a lot quicker if you’re only making a few stops! I know people who spent less than a week here but I don’t think that’s enough time to get to know the country and truly appreciate its beauty and check off all the top things to do in El Salvador!

Where to after El Salvador?

El Salvador is usually part of a full Central America backpacking list, so depending on whether you’re going north or south, it would make sense to visit Guatemala afterwards, or Nicaragua !

Both countries are amazing, and if you have time, you should definitely visit both. To date, I haven’t visited Honduras as it wasn’t really safe at the time, but I will return and visit it in the future - don’t worry!

Hotels In El Salvador

The hotel industry in El Salvador is nowhere near as big as other countries, so for that reason, I’m going to list a hotel recommendation for each area I visited!

• El Tunco: Casa De Mar ‍
• Santa Ana: Pool House Hostel ‍
• San Salvador: Cinco hotel B&B ‍
• Ruta De Flores: Casa Degraciela Hotel Boutique

You can find the best accommodation in San Salvador here .

The equipment we use when travelling

In case you're wondering what cameras we used for these photos.

• ‍ Canon G7x Mark II : Brilliant little point and shoot, video recording for creating travel videos and vlogging camera. A great all-in-one when you don't want to carry lots of equipment. ‍
• Tripod:  We carry a travel tripod to take some pictures together or get unique shots.
• Memory cards: I use 64G sandisk, sometimes sandisk gold for my drone footage. ‍
• Mavic Pro Drone:  Our baby mavic is high quality, worth a lot of money and worth it for the beauty it captures. There are more new drones out, but this is honestly perfect.

If you’ve got anything else you think I should add to my list of the top things to do in El Salvador, then please comment below.

Happy travelling!

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19 Best Places To Visit in El Salvador in 2024

Planning a trip to El Salvador in 2024? This is your guide to visit the most beautiful places in the country. El Salvador may be a small nation but it is rich in both culture and geography. This stunning ‘must-visit’ country sits in the heart of Central America on the Pacific Ocean.

El Salvador has incredible national parks, long stretches of breathtaking untouched beaches, enchanting waterfalls, marvellous lakes, mountainous areas with picturesque villages, a plethora of inland attractions like the vast plains of coffee plantations and of course the incredible volcanos.

All the El Salvador tourist attractions listed are based on my own experiences traveling in El Salvador. Salva the owner of the tour agency, Tunco Life guided me around and showed the best his country had to offer. Have a look at the Tunco Life website for more inspiration about traveling to El Salvador.

Thanks to its majestic and diverse landscapes, El Salvador has become a melting pot for tourists from different parts of the globe who wish to get away and explore the unknown. For wanderlusters looking for the perfect escape away from all the noise and pollution, El Salvador would be a great unspoilt destination off the beaten path in Central America.

Here is a little recap video of some of my adventures in El Salvador.

Stay connected when traveling to El Salvador. This is my guide for  buying a sim card for El Salvador in 2024  with the best prepaid sim cards and e-sim cards.

Amongst a long list of possible tourist destinations to visit in El Salvador, here are 19 of the most beautiful and famous places for anyone interested in exploring this side of Central America.

Related: 24 Best Places to Visit in Honduras !

1. El Tunco - Surf Village

Undoubtedly one of the most famous places to visit in El Salvador and that for a little surf town. El Tunco is all about surfing and thousands of surf fanatics flock to the El Salvador coast to show off their skills.

El Tunco is always listed among the best things to do in El Salvador, but even if you are not into surfing you don’t want to miss this place when visiting El Salvador.

El Tunco is located just 45 minutes south of the capital San Salvador on the coast near to Libertat. It feels like a mix of the uncomplicated backpacker vibe of Southeast Asia mixed with a Latin vibe. The village itself is pretty small, but there are restaurants, bars, backpacker hotels and souvenir shops everywhere.

Try renting a scooter to go around the coast to discover hidden gems, restaurants with endless ocean views, fancy hotels, lovely restaurants, beach parties, waterfalls and more. Also visiting the boulevard and the fish market in Libertat are cool things to do in El Tunco. Another lovely little town on the coast of Libertat is El Zonte, similar to El Tunco, but much less crowded.

On my trip to El Salvador I made El Tunco and Libertat my base for a couple days from where I visited some of the most beautiful places to visit in El Salvador.

Where to stay in El Tunco

If you are traveling El Salvador on a budget I recommend Hotel Mopelia . It has affordable private rooms as well as dorm rooms, fast WiFi, a swimming pool and a lively bar with more than 50 different craft beers from around the world.

If you are looking for a great mid range hotel then head over to the town of El Zonte and stay at the Palo Verde Hotel . A lovely and quiet boutique hotel with Bali vibes.

If you looking to splurge I can recommend the Acantilados luxury hotel with an amazing infinity pool looking over the pacific ocean.

2. Mizata - Hidden Gem Coastal Town

We stay on the Pacific coast for our next El Salvador tourist attraction: Mizata. Just like El Tunco a sleepy coastal town catered towards surfers. But when you think El Tunco was too touristy then head to Mizata.

There is not much going on in Mizata, but this is where you find the ultimate El Salvador holiday feeling. Very laid-back, off the beaten path and the ultimate place to chill on the beach in El Salvador.

The surf breaks in Mizata is what most people come for, but there are also organized pool parties in weekends and there is a cool young crowd that gathers here. Mizata is located about 45 minutes East of El Tunco on the way to the Ruta de las Flores, another famous thing to do in El Salvador.

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Where to stay in Mizata

One of my favorite places to go in El Salvador is Nawi Beach House . This hotel is located directly on the beach and has an incredible laid-back vibe. Some rooms face the ocean and have porches. Highlight of the hotel is the big infinity pool with attached beach bar. Nawi Beach House organizes pool parties every month.

3. Suchitoto - Colonial town

Consider starting your trip to El Salvador  by exploring this cool area and if possible spend a day or two there and combine it with another amazing places to visit in El Salvador: Lake Suchitlan.

Suchitoto is a historical sleepy yet colorful town with picturesque views of the mountainous area around Lago Suchitlán. The little municipality has great colonial architecture and marvellous historic landmarks, but it is also a great place to go for outdoor activities.

This colonial town still has arty-crafty cobblestone streets and adobe homes. If you’re looking to learn some history you should visit the 18th century Santa Lucia Church. If art is what you’re after, make a point of visiting the Centro Arte para la Paz which is a museum and convent.

This little charming town has very friendly and welcoming locals. Aside from its old town vibe and laid-back ambiance, you should try to do a Indigo Art (Arte Añil) workshop. You will learn how to use natural colors and create your own colorful t-shirt. You can find the Arte Añil workshop right on the corner of the main square opposite the Tourist Office.

Where to stay in Suchitoto

I can recommend you Casa 1800 Suchitoto with the most amazing views over Lake Suchitlan.

The attached restaurant serves delicious food. This colonial boutique hotel is one of my secret El Salvador travel tips. Great place for lunch.

4. Lake Suchitlán - the largest lake in El Salvador

Only a stone’s throw away from Suchitoto you can find the largest (man-made) lake in El Salvador. The lake was created after the construction of the Cerron Grande dam in 1976.

The most popular thing to do in Lake Suchitlan is of course a boat ride across the lake. Visitors can also see wildlife in the surrounding areas like sloths, monkeys, iguanas. Bird watching is also very popular when visiting Lake Suchitlan. If you are looking for more active tours in Lake Suchitlan then try kayaking.

You can arrange a boat ride yourself by walking down from Suchitoto to Puerto Touristico San Juan and ask one of the local fishermen to take you around. Bring some food, cold beers and I am sure you have a great day out on the lake.

Not far away from Lake Suchitlan is the 13 meter (39 ft) Los Tercios Waterfall for anyone seeking a dose of the outdoors. About 2.5 miles down the road from the waterfall are the hot springs of Agua Calienter that are rich in natural beauty.

If you still have some time left, venture a little further away and explore the iconic Guazapa volcano. Here you can also learn much more about El Salvador’s civil war history. When visiting Lake Suchitlan I recommend you booking a hotel in Suchitoto.

4. San Salvador Historic Center

San Salvador is not only the capital but also the economic, cultural and political center of El Salvador.

The infrastructure is still haphazard even though it’s been under repairs. This may be attributed to scars from earthquakes and previous wars. Definitely not all of the areas in San Salvador are worth visiting, but the historic center surely is a tourist attraction worth adding to your El Salvador things to do list.

There’s an easy-going atmosphere in this densely populated city and tourists are often shocked to find laid-back locals and a relatively slow pace to the city. The historic center has a captivating appearance in one magisterial metropolis – a blend of colonial structures and 21st-century modern architecture.

Some of the best places to visit in San Salvador are: the iconic National Palace, National Theater, National Cathedral, Monumento al Divino Salvador del Mundo, El Calvario Church.

The Iglesia El Rosario is one of the most remarkable places to go. Ugly from the outside, impressive from the inside.

Additionally, the historic district has amazing plazas like the Gerardo Barrios Plaza, Liberty Plaza, and Plaza Francisco Morazan.

Is it safe to visit San Salvador? Well let me tell you that I launched my drone right in front of the cathedral on the main square. I found it completely safe and locals were super friendly.

Despite being a majestic metropolis, you will only be a few hours away from dignified natural beauty this country has to offer. This makes San Salvador also a great base when exploring any tourist destination around the country. There are gorgeous volcanoes, stunning crater lakes, and parks just around the corner.

Where to stay in San Salvador

Hotels in San Salvador are not really cheap, but you can find some good ones for about $50 per night and up. Best area to stay is in and around San Benito where the nightlife, restaurants, etc. are located.

I can recommend you Hotel Villa Serena San Benito . Very simple, but affordable compared to other hotels and in a good location.

Are you ready to splurge then look at these 5 star hotels in San Salvador: Barceló , Real Intercontinental or the Sheraton Presidente .

5. Santa Ana Volcano - Popular El Salvador Activity

Are you looking for outdoor activities on your El Salvador trip? If the answer is yes then you need to visit Cerro Verde National Park and hike up to the rim of the highest volcano in El Salvador: Santa Ana.

Undoubtedly one of the best places to see in El Salvador is the green crater lakes of the Santa Ana Volcano and to get there you will need to hike up for about 1,5 hour from the Parque Nacional Cerro Verde entrance.

Santa Ana is the highest volcano in El Salvador at 2,381 metres (7,812 ft) above sea level, but don’t worry everyone can do this. It does not matter if you do it in 45 minutes or 2 hours. The hike first goes uphill through the forest and then follows a steeper rocky part. The last bit is a little more flat until you reach the crater rim.

You can do the Santa Ana volcano hike by yourself but you must be accompanied by a guide. The entrance fee is $6 and the hike starts at around 1,850 meters (6.070 ft). Hike can be appointed at the entrance gate. I had to wait a little for the group to depart, but after 10 minutes everyone chooses their own pace and never saw my group anymore.

There is a parking spot if you drive up to the Cerro Verde National Park. There is also a bus stop if you like to use public transport. You can visit the Santa Ana volcano easily from San Salvador (1 hour) El Tunco, Libertat (1 hour 15 minutes) or from the nearby city called Santa Ana.

6. Cerro Verde National Park - Hikes with breathtaking views

The above mentioned Santa Ana Volcano is located in the Cerro Verde National Park, but there is more to Cerro Verde National Park than the spectacular Santa Ana volcano.

In fact there are 2 more volcanoes: Izalco and Cerro Verde. This amazing place to visit in El Salvador is also called Los Volcanos National Park.

These volcanoes in the Cerro Verde National Park are home to some brilliant flora and fauna and tourists also enjoy various activities such as guided bird-watching, horseback riding, numerous walking trails and viewing platforms with views over the Santa Ana and the Izalco volcanos. But also over the beautiful Lake Coatepeque and Ruta de las Flores.

The Cerro Verde volcano is generally considered to be the most popular and this is why the park is named after it. It’s more of a mountain that boasts of one of the country’s few cloud forests as it’s covered with dense vegetation.

The volcanoes have a long history of eruptions. Izalco was once known as the “Lighthouse of the Pacific” due to its 200-straight years of eruptions until the 1960s. Santa Ana is the most active of them all, with steam constantly rising from one of its craters - sulfurous lagoons. 

7. City of Santa Ana - Historical city vibes

This is the second-largest city and a top tourist destination in El Salvador. It offers tourists an urban appeal with a tranquil environment.

Santa Ana’s early 20th-century neo-Gothic cathedral, elaborately decorated theatre, and picturesque main square get lots of tourists. The aforementioned theatre is called Teatro de Santa Ana and the main square is known as Parque Libertad. Sometimes visitors can enjoy a live performance at the theatre – this would be a great experience for art lovers.

Lastly, the City of Santa Ana is an ideal location to stay in and take day trips to explore various tourist spots around the country. Some great locations that you can venture to outside the city include scenic Lake Coatepeque, Ruta de las Flores, Chalchuapa archeological site and of course the Cerro Verde National Park.

Any coffee lovers in the house? Santa Ana, being home to the biggest coffee industry has so much to offer you. While here, don’t forget to visit downtown Santa Ana and enjoy the gastronomy and sample local brews as you do some shopping. Visiting a coffee plantation is one of the best things to do in El Salvador.

8. Joya de Ceren - UNESCO World Heritage Site

Joya de Ceren is an extraordinarily well preserved Mayan village. The village was abandoned in a rush in 640 AD as the people who once lived there were fleeing from an eruption of Laguna de Caldera.

Joya de Ceren boasts of a rich cultural heritage and has stunning landmarks. It is the only UNESCO World Heritage site in El Salvador.

This paradise of breathtaking natural wonders was buried in volcanic ash. As a result, the city was left hidden but intact. The town was discovered much later – in the year 1976.

9. La Palma - Backpackers favorite

Your trip to El Salvador wouldn’t be complete without visiting this quaint mountain village. La Palma is located in the Chalatenango department of the country. It boasts a gorgeous and natural landscape as well as a vibrant art scene. As you walk through the city you’ll take note of the fascinating graffiti and murals on the walls.

La Palma is famous for being the town where the celebrated artist – Fernando Llort – taught. He used bright colors, childish images, and religious themes to capture the hearts of the El Salvadorans.

There are numerous galleries and art workshops where tourists can pass their time as they soak in the town’s beautiful artistic heritage. Today, many of the town’s residents make a living by practicing his artistic style.

Thanks to its mountainous topography, visitors can enjoy picturesque views on the scenic hiking routes around La Palma that are safe for tourists.

This town is pretty close to the Honduran border so many visitors choose to stay here for convenience when on a trip around Central America. La Palma is a great place to visit in El Salvador for backpackers.

From the wall paintings and town murals to workshops, old-fashioned Llort-inspired souvenirs, and the mosaic Central Park, a stop at La Palma is definitely worth it, especially for art lovers.

10. Tazumal - Archeological site

Tazumal is a cluster of unusual step pyramids that was established around 400 AD. The highest of these pyramids (and the largest in the country) reaches up to a height of 23 meters (75 ft). Its self-governing status lasted until Spanish forces moved into El Salvador in the 1520s, after which the local people were defeated and exploited.

The Stanley H. Boggs Museum displays artefacts that were uncovered during the excavation and is a fascinating place to go. Visiting this on-site museum gives you a glimpse of Tazumal’s past. 

Some of the artefacts displayed here include pottery, statues, and incense burners.

One of the most notable items in the museum is the Stone of Victories statue. This artefact provides rare evidence of a connection between modern-day El Salvador and what is now Veracruz, Mexico.

11. Juayua - Ruta de las Flores

This town is located on the western side of the country in the hilly countryside. It’s perched in and between the hills of the country and tourists can expect to enjoy picturesque views and a cool breeze.

Juayua offers a plethora of natural attractions. The small town of Juayua is part of the astonishing La Ruta de Las Flores (Flower route), a very famous tourist attraction in El Salvador. I promise this route is going to captivate your heart.

From Juayua you can hop on the route of the Seven Waterfalls as well and visit several beautiful waterfalls. One of the best places to visit in Juayua is the Los Chorros de La Calera waterfall.

Thanks to its gastronomy which you can taste daily, this town is a paradise for foodies. You shouldn’t miss the weekend food festival – the Gastronomica Fair – where tourists go on a palatable culinary adventure.

Additionally, the area produces some of the best coffee beans in the country. Sample this in Juayua.

Lastly, Juayua is also well-known for the magnificent murals painted by local artists that can be found all over the town.

Where to stay in Ruta de las Flores

If you decide to explore the Ruta de las Flores and its many cool things to do and places to visit I recommend you finding a base for 2 or 3 nights. There are many hidden gems around these mountains villages and accommodation is affordable.

A highly recommended Ruta de las Flores hotel is Hotel Juayua . Get yourself a room with a view and enjoy absolutely breathtaking views over the volcanos of El Salvador all the way to the ocean.

Hotel Juayua has a swimming pool as well and we are talking about $50 per night only. Hotel Juayua also offers Temazcal ceremonies in their own sweat iglo.

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!

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The 15 Best Places to Visit in El Salvador in 2024

Written by: Author Andrew Helling  |  Reviewed by: Sandy Mitchell

Andrew Helling is a licensed pilot, travel enthusiast, and the founder of Travellers Worldwide whose travel expertise has been quoted in countless publications across the web. Armed with a laptop and a Wi-Fi connection, he loves exploring the world with his wife and son and is always on the hunt for cheap flights and new adventures... Learn More

Sandy Mitchell is a travel expert and the content reviewer/fact checker at Travellers Worldwide. Using the experience she gained working in the travel industry for more than 20 years, as a travel agent, travel marketing executive, and cruise school administrator, Sandy fact-checks and reviews each of our guides to ensure they're as accurate and helpful as possible... Learn More

Posted on Last updated: April 1, 2024 - Travellers Worldwide is reader-supported. If you buy a product we link to, we may earn a commission. Learn more

If you’re an avid world traveler looking for your next inspiring vacation destination off the beaten path, why not plan your next adventure in El Salvador? It’s not visited as often as neighboring Belize or Guatemala, making it a hidden gem destination with much to see and explore.

This tropical paradise boasts Mayan ruins, sleepy beach towns, volcanic landscapes, and vast parks teeming with wildlife and plants. From rugged hiking trails to pristine beaches, you’ll find a multitude of experiences that make it well worth the visit. We’ll show you why below.

The 15 Best Places to Visit in El Salvador

El Salvador (“the Savior”) is rich in adventure, with sandy beaches and surfing swells in coastal La Libertad, ancient Mayan ruins near Chalchuapa, volcanoes by the hundreds, and cacao and coffee plantations nestled in the fertile hills and highlands.

The best places to visit in El Salvador will take you through these varied landscapes and into historic cities and villages for a close-up look at what makes this Central American country so fascinating.

From architecture and markets in the capital to cultural expression in small towns and natural beauty in between, El Salvador has become a favorite destination for world travelers.

You’ll make the most of your visit with a list of the best places to visit in El Salvador, laid out for you below with travel tips, adventurous things to do, and sightseeing opportunities you won’t want to miss! 

1. San Salvador

San Salvador, El Salvador, Central America, Februar 06, 2014: El Centro historico de San Salvador, San Salvador Cathedral and national Theater, Street Scene/Ohne Titel/Shutterstock

What’s better for your first foray into El Salvador than visiting its capital, San Salvador? This bustling city near the southern coast is the country’s cultural hub, packed with historic architecture, excellent food and nightlife, and colorful markets — all with incredible views of the San Salvador volcano. 

Check out the National Palace to learn about the country’s history, the 1970’s-designed Iglesia El Rosario, where the altar reflects a rainbow prism of light from glass arranged in an arched roof, and the Art Museum of El Salvador, which houses paintings and sculptural works by local artists. 

Nearby, El Boqueron National Park sits atop the San Salvador volcano with a huge crater (nearly 600 feet deep) hikers can explore with a cinder cone at its center. Restaurants, a Boqueron crater slide, and shaded hiking trails make it one of our favorite spots to visit in San Salvador. 

San Salvador’s markets are one of the best ways to really get to know the city, so pick up some souvenirs and handcrafted goods while you’re here! The National Craft Market and Central Market are both excellent for first-time visitors. 

Don’t forget to grab a cup of El Salvadoran coffee grown right in the nearby highlands, stop at a bar (like La Dalia, the oldest in the country) for drinks, and explore the flavorful cuisine at locally-owned restaurants and street carts in the heart of the city. 

Sitting under an hour away from the coast, San Salvador makes a great stop on your way to check out El Salvador’s best beaches for surfing or interesting port cities along the coast. 

2. Santa Ana

Henryk Sadura/Shutterstock

Known as the Heroic City, Santa Ana sits in the coffee region of El Salvador, nestled in a basin between mountains with gorgeous peak views surrounding the city. Gothic architecture and manicured parks make it feel like a taste of Europe here in Central America. 

In the western region of El Salvador, Santa Ana is cosmopolitan in some ways and deeply El Salvadoran in others. The Neo-Gothic Santa Ana Cathedral is the main landmark in the city with twin spires that give it an imposing, hauntingly beautiful appearance. 

The cathedral is in the main square, Parque Libertad, along with other stunning architectural examples like the Santa Ana National Theater (you can see shows like symphonies, plays, and operas here) and the Neoclassical city hall. It’s the perfect spot to walk around and sightsee for a couple of hours. 

A mile from the main square, check out Mercado Central de Santa Ana for handcrafted goods made and sold by locals in a bustling setting filled with aromas from freshly made foods and baked goods.

Looking to explore even more? Take a tour of the La Ruta de Las Flores (the Flowers Route) to nearby towns, like Apaneca and Ataco, near Santa Ana for awesome regional food and craft markets.

Just 50 minutes away, you can visit Los Volcanes National Park to see the Santa Ana Volcano and 2 smaller volcanoes. Hike up to the crater (1.5 hour moderate to hard hike) for stunning, panoramic views of the forests, mountains, and cities nearby. Visit the crater lake, Lago de Coatepeque, nearby!

3. Suchitoto

SUCHITOTO, EL SALVADOR – APRIL 9, 2016: Cobbled street in Suchitoto, El Salvador/Matyas Rehak/Shutterstock

A remarkably preserved Colonial town in the mountains, Suchitoto is one of the most-visited small towns in El Salvador with its historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and scenic setting among the El Salvadoran highlands. 

You’ll wander the cobbled streets with Colonial-era architecture on either side in the center of town, bringing you into a lost chapter of time and giving you the feeling that you’re far away from the outside, modern world. 

Take a half-day tour of Old Town Suchitoto in Parque Central, the main square, to see the sights: the 19th-century Santa Lucia Church, and the Theater of Alejandro Cotto with gardens, courtyards, antiques, and memorabilia from Latin film stars. 

The town’s mountain location also brings sweeping, beautiful views over the entire region. Suchitoto overlooks Lago de Suchitlán to the north, a gorgeous reservoir created by a dam. You’ll find cafes and eateries set up around this area where you can access some of the best lake views. 

The Peace Arts Center in Suchitoto is where you’ll find a museum, an art gallery, and lush gardens blooming in front of the former convent-turned-art haven. 

Check out the House of Crafts, where local vendors sell colorful hand-dyed textiles and artwork, and the curious A Thousand Plates And More Museum, where a local’s collection of unique plates offers an interesting spot to spend an hour wandering right in the town’s center. 

The eating is good around Suchitoto, so be sure to try the traditional Gallo en chicha at Los Almendros De San Lorenzo and piled-high pupusas at Donde Charlie for authentic treats!

JUAYUA, EL SALVADOR – APRIL 3, 2016: People bathing in Chorros de la Calera, set of waterfalls near Juayua village, El Salvador/Matyas Rehak/Shutterstock

Nestled in the mountains near San Salvador, Juayua is on the La Ruta de Las Flores in one of the most scenic parts of El Salvador. Founded in the mid-15th century, this small town packs a lot of history and architecture into its idyllic mountainside setting. 

Tourists flock to Juayua because it offers the perfect mix of authentic El Salvador and attractions that make it interesting to visit. Surrounded by natural beauty with Pre-Columbian roots, this town is firmly in coffee country and some of El Salvador’s best beans are grown in the mountains here. 

Tidy little cafes and restaurants serve up traditional cuisine, as well as twists on American and European dishes, for you to fuel up for a day of adventures, tours, and sightseeing. In the center of town, Templo del Senor Juayua is famous for its black Christ statue and colorful red crucifix accents. 

Head to one of the nearby coffee plantations, like Cafe Juayua , to get a behind-the-scenes look at how the beans are grown in the rich, volcanic soils, then roasted and brewed to perfection. 

There are 4 waterfalls close by (Los Chorros de La Calera), with 3 others you can see if you decide to do the full Route of the Seven Waterfalls. Water thunders off the mountainsides from varying heights surrounded by dense forest and incredible hiking trails. 

Weekends mean it’s time for the Juayua Food Festival in the Parque Central (town square), when dozens of vendors set up carts along the streets and sell traditional grilled meats, seafood, sweets, drinks, and snacks. It’s a must if you’re here on the weekend! 

5. Gulf of Fonseca

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The Gulf of Fonseca touches El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua, offering a serene little shelter from the wider Pacific Ocean. Volcanic islands rise from the gulf and you can take a boat cruise around or to the islands to extend your getaway off the mainland! 

There are over a dozen small islands visible from the coastline, including Isla Zacatillo (excellent fishing with local guides), Meanguera (small-town vibes with a cute park and beaches), and Conchaguita (Conchaguita volcano, hiking trails, and beaches). 

The history surrounding the Gulf of Fonseca is astounding, spanning back to pre-Hispanic periods with important sites like shell mounds, church ruins, and fishing communities that are still surviving today with the abundance of shellfish in the gulf. 

Take a boat from Familia Park in La Unión, where operators wait near the food court with endless pupuserías to whisk you away to the islands and out on the waters of the warm gulf.

You’ll be able to swim, snorkel, surf, and try local food and drinks once you arrive at a tranquil private beach. The islands range from unspoiled natural beauty to more developed areas with restaurants, hotels, and small communities that thrive in the middle of the gulf. 

Not up for a trip to the islands? Las Tunas (black sand beach), Playa El Chiquirin, Playa Largarto, and Playitas beaches are all on the El Salvadoran coast bordering the gulf, each one offering a different vibe and scenic views of the offshore islands with roomy stretches of coffee-colored sand. 

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Another town on the scenic La Ruta de Las Flores is Apaneca, a small village that’s ringed with green coffee plantations and mountain views. Coffee country is one of our favorite parts of El Salvador for its lush appearance and chances to immerse yourself in traditional culture. 

Here in the western side of El Salvador, you’re high up in the mountains with so many options if you’d like to do some outdoor activities like hiking to waterfalls, visiting scenic overlooks, and touring the beautiful plantations, like Lachuza Cafe, that cling to the mountainsides in the balmy, cool air. 

Within the town, the houses are small and brightly colored with the center of town featuring cobblestone streets laid long ago. There’s an old white-washed Colonial church you can stroll past and the Plaza Turistica is packed with local shops and spots to eat.

The gastronomy scene is surprisingly great here, with local restaurants serving specials like sopa de gallina india (free-range hen soup), sweet Salvadoran quesadillas (similar to pound cake), and pupusas. Visit El Jardín de Celeste for the house-made Xóchitl soup.

An interesting stop is the Albania Labyrinth , the largest maze in Central America with massive rows of cypress trees creating a dense maze that makes for a fun afternoon. Close to Juayua and the many waterfalls surrounding it, there are several miradors offering stunning views around Apaneca.

Check out Laguna Las Ninfas and Laguna Verde — two large lakes tucked into the mountains — and the hiking trails that lead around them. As far as accommodations, you’ll find small hotels, cabins, and hostels that offer great views of volcanoes and green-blanketed mountains. 

7. El Imposible National Park

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Nestled in the mountains of El Salvador, you’ll find the wildlife and forest oasis of El Imposible National Park. This area is so lush and scenic that hiking its many trails and swimming in its rivers it might be your favorite part of your trip to El Salvador. 

Jump into the river from high cliffs, see cascading waterfalls, venture deep into canyons, and hike steep trails that lead to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and volcanoes in this beautiful park. 

You’ll want a guide — they’re easy to find in nearby towns like Tacuba (arrange through Mamas y Papas Hostel) with affordable rates and can show you the wonders of the park, from the most impressive to hidden gem sights.

An experienced guide will be able to lead you to wildlife in the park, like sloths, monkeys, macaws, and toucans — all surprisingly easy to miss if you don’t know where to look! The ecologically diverse park is home to hundreds of animal, insect, and plant species.

Arrange hiking, canyoning, swimming, river rafting, waterfall tours, and more with your guide. The rivers that run through the park supply its flora and fauna with life and make for awesome adventures on rafts and kayaks through the beautiful natural setting. 

Nature aside, this park can offer points of interest for those who enjoy learning about historic civilizations and archaeology. Within the park, there are 8 pre-Hispanic sites with carvings, ruins, and more — check out Piedra Sellada to see ancient carvings up close. 

8. El Tunco

El Tunco and Playa El Tunco (the beach) are one of the more tourist-centric areas of El Salvador. If you’re looking for scenic sunsets, beachfront restaurants and clubs, and a small beach town with welcoming vibes that’s popular with backpackers, this is the place! 

The black sand beaches studded with small rocks feel otherworldly here. Wear water shoes to stroll the beach due to the rocks and areas that are slippery.

Huge waves crash along the shore and anytime of day, you’ll be able to see surfers skillfully maneuvering their boards through the water. Surfing lessons are offered along the beach if you decide to join in. 

Walk along the boardwalk to get a sense of the different waterfront establishments in El Tunco, from open-air clubs playing local music with drinks flowing or upscale restaurants offering a more serene way to experience the beautiful shore views in concert with delicious flavors. 

Sunsets on the shore are incredible, turning the sky into saturated shades of pink, orange, and red as the sun slips below the horizon. After the sun goes down, nightlife kicks into high gear with music, dancing, and drinks.

If you fall in love with the area, you’ll find plenty of local hostels and inns in the heart of the small El Tunco town. Painted murals and the tiny footprint (maybe 3 streets with a few shops, eateries, and hostels) make it so charming. 

9. Tamanique Waterfalls

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Near El Tunco (about 10 miles away), the hike to Tamanique Waterfalls is a thrilling option if you love the idea of venturing deep in the jungle to reach thundering falls that flood into rivers and pools far from the modern world.

The Tamanique Waterfalls are within walking distance of the Tamanique town center (seriously, just steps away) and there are 6 gorgeous cascades you can check out on a single scenic hike. It’s mandatory to hire a guide to explore the trails that lead to the falls. 

Begin on the waterfalls trailhead to amble downhill over cobblestone sections to the first falls (though called Waterfalls #3 and #4). You’ll pass though dense, leafy canopies and past the most rugged parts of the forest to reach the falls.

Water rages over the cliff sides, billowing over the rock to cascade into pools below that look emerald-green in their serene forest surroundings. To reach some of the falls, you’ll hang onto ropes and clamber over boulders, behind waterfalls, and up and down steep trails. 

The falls here have swimming holes that are perfect for cooling down on a warm, sunny day. At Waterfalls #1 and #2, there’s a wooden platform you can jump from to launch yourself into the pool for a little adrenaline rush! 

Getting your guide lined up is easy at the office in Tamanique (very small town) where the guild of guides operates. After a quick spiel about the falls and hiking conditions, you’ll register, pay your guide fees, and receive your guide assignment to do the hike. 

10. Planes De Renderos

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Planes de Renderos (Renderos Plains) is a small town on the outskirts of San Salvador with a famous overlook, or mirador , point by the same name. If you’re in El Salvador, locals are sure to ask you if you’ve visited Planes de Renderos yet! 

People come to this high-up lookout point year-round, day and night, to see great views of the nearby capital city of San Salvador, the volcano, and Lake Ilopango.

The scenic overlook point has become a go-to spot for great local food and shopping due to the markets, restaurants, and street food stalls that set up here.  Pupusódromos are everywhere here, so you’ll be able to try local varieties like cheese, squash, bean, or shrimp pupusas piled high with fresh ingredients and spices. 

If you’re lucky enough to arrive on a day with no fog, you’ll enjoy almost endless views over the volcanic mountain landscape below you and the cityscape of San Salvador — even more impressive when it’s all illuminated at night. 

Handicraft and souvenir markets, great spots for photos, viewing points, hiking trails, and tables to enjoy your food are all here at this famed mirador in Planes de Renderos. It’s generally nice and cool at this elevation, even if you’re visiting during the hottest months (like March and April). 

Not far away, the Devil’s Gate Lookout (Puerta del Diablo) offers similar views combined with a strenuous hike up a forested rock formation. 

11. Cerro Verde National Park

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Translating to Green Hill National Park, El Salvador’s Cerro Verde National Park offers some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country with 3 volcanoes spanning the huge protected area with trails through pine and cloud forests, grassy plains, rushing rivers, and rolling hills. 

Most people come to Cerro Verde to see the volcanoes. Izalco, Santa Ana, and Cerro Verde are all within the park and trails lead you to the craters and around the sloped sides of each one. At their summits, views of Lake Coatepeque and nearby towns are amazing. 

The Santa Ana volcano stands 7,811 feet, the highest in the park. Cerro Verde, an extinct volcano, stands 6,660 feet above sea level. Izalco volcano is over 6,496 feet high! The park boasts excellent viewpoints and facilities that make it just right for all-day stay. 

Some of the most popular trails in the park are the Old Mountain Hotel and A Window to Nature, leading through shaded forests and grasslands to destinations and overlooks throughout the park. You’ll need a guide to hike to the volcanoes.

There’s an orchid garden that plant enthusiasts will appreciate on the park’s Mysterious Flowers trail, surrounded by low, leafy ferns and covered by the green canopy overhead.

Animals thrive in this unspoiled park, and birding is particularly good here (nearly 130 species of birds live here). If you get here and decide you want to explore more the next day, book one of the cabins within the park — these have phenomenal views.

12. Chalchuapa Archaeological Site

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Chalchuapa is a site with pre-Columbian Mayan ruins in El Salvador, just west of the historic city of Santa Ana in the dense forests that once were home to people of the Mayan civilization. Temples, pyramids, and dwellings ruins dot the site and make it truly fascinating to visit. 

While Mexico gets most of the fame for Mayan ruins, the Tazumal Archeaological Park and Casa Blanca Archaeological Site ruins you’ll find at Chalchuapa are nicely preserved and only discovered by archaeologists around the start of the 20th century.

It was once a center of daily life and ceremony for the Highland Mayan people. There are 5 separate areas with ruins here in around 2.3 square miles: Tazumal, Trapiche (where the clear, fresh El Trapiche pool is), Pampe, Casa Blanca, and Las Victorias. 

The Tazumal ruins are the most incredible, with a 75-foot tall pyramid and smaller, still-buried structures around it with twin pyramids flanking it to the west. Ladders, ceremonial grounds, and more structures can be seen to the north. 

Deeply obscured by old-growth forest, the ruins here have since become a popular destination for tourists. Monuments, adobe and earthen mounds, and piles of broken pottery can still be seen around the ruins of Chalchuapa. 

Artifacts recovered here have helped archaeologists understand the Mayan culture and daily life better, with finds like ceremonial incense burners, carved stelae (stone slabs with carvings), mounds, pottery vessels, and more. 

13. Lake Ilopango

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Lake Ilopango is a volcanic crater lake, filling up the San Salvador volcano caldera and making it one of the most beautiful — and the largest — lakes in all of El Salvador. It’s a popular place to swim, dive, and boat with its extensive underwater rock features and formations. 

Rent jet skis to zip across the water’s surface, visit one of the waterfront huts to enjoy a picnic lunch, or book a boat tour around the lake and the small islands (Isla Quemadas) in its center to make the most of a day on Lake Ilopango. 

Deep under the surface, the structure of the volcanic caldera can be seen in the 755′ deep, 18,000-acre lake. Hot water vents, underwater caves, steep ridges, volcanic rock formations — it’s all here and visible if you opt to go scuba diving in Lake Ilopango. 

Isla Quemadas are home to nice little beaches and viewpoints in the center of this elevated, forested area on the waters of Lake Ilopango . Head out on a boat tour or rent a boat of your own to make your way to these secluded beaches and forests. 

Fishing and boating are fun pastimes on the water. You’ll find ample tiger bass and small fish biting in the shallows. Boat and excursion operators are located around the shore.

Most people do their swimming around the shores of Apulo on the southwestern side of the lake, where public beaches provide amenities for an all-day hangout. Rent kayaks, jet skies, pontoon rafts, or speedboats to enjoy your lake day even more! 

Situated just east of San Salvador, Lake Ilopango is a popular choice for a day trip from the capital city if you’re looking to get deeper into nature and explore more of El Salvador’s most rugged and beautiful wilderness. 

14. Los Cobanos

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Coarse, honey-colored sand, dark volcanic rocks dotting the shoreline, and the laid-back vibes that only a secluded ocean fishing village can bolster are all reasons Los Cobanos is one of the best places to visit in El Salvador.

Calm waters that sharply contrast with the major swells that draw surfers to the country’s rougher waters elsewhere. Here, Playa Los Cobanos and Playa El Flor are tranquil beach spots that are perfect for lounging in the sand, swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying life at a slower pace. 

The quiet and serene atmosphere of the beach and its small town make it a relaxing place to visit, worlds away from the noise and buzz of San Salvador.

Marine life is abundant in the ocean with a surrounding Outer Reef that makes for excellent diving and snorkeling (especially between November and February, the dry season). People take to the waters around the reef to paddle board in the waters sheltered from the mighty Pacific’s waves and breaks.

Hire a guide to bring you to the Outer Reef and surrounding rock formations that are only visible on certain days due to the tides. Deep sea fishing charters can take you further out to reel in trophy catches like sailfish, tuna, and marlin when you’re ready for a little adventure after a few days of lazing on the shore. 

15. San Andrés Archaeological Park

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If ancient ruins get you excited, El Salvador’s San Andrés  Archaeological Park is one spot you’ve got to see on your trip. This site is one of the largest in the country, housing ruins of ceremonial, political, and residential structures like pyramids, homes, and a town “square.” 

Between 600–900 AD, the Mayan people lived and thrived here near the La Libertad coast. Archaeologists have uncovered evidence that they were in touch with the Teotihuacan and Copan people, even trading with people in Belize and Guatemala. 

This was the 200-hectare home and workplace for artists, priests, sellers, and leaders who ran the broader civilization in the valley. 

Special places in the complex include the Acropolis, a raised main plaza where pyramids and adobe homes clustered together in the daily center of life in the ancient city, and pyramids on the northern side of the complex (one is a unique bell-shaped pyramid that hasn’t been seen in any other location).

There are 2 volcanic tuff block structures that stand apart from the mass of adobe blocks in the rest of the ancient site. Farmers’ huts show us that agricultural products, like corn and beans, were abundantly produced in the fertile soils of the valley.

A visit to the site today is one that’s still filled with mystery — compared to other Mayan sites, not much is known about this one and it’s definitely not as touristy as sites like Chichen Itza in Mexico. If you want to explore unspoiled ruins without big crowds, San Andrés is perfect. 

Things to Consider

Visiting El Salvador is becoming more and more popular as people seek out the volcanic and beach landscapes this beautiful Central American country boasts. It’s always a good idea to arrive informed, so look through these travel tips and considerations before you go! 

• Prioritize your safety. The U.S. State Department advises travelers to reconsider visiting El Salvador at this time due to increased crime around the country, including homicide and suspended constitutional rights as authorities crack down on crime and detain suspected criminals. Keep your safety a top priority and wait to travel or stick to tourist areas with solid police presence. 
• Figure out how to get around. Part of the allure of El Salvador is making your way to the best places around the country, not staying put the entire time. Buses and taxis are the most common ways to get around. The Directo, called “chicken buses,” are cheap (think $0.25 or so) and plentiful around cities and towns. Especial buses, which are faster, cost slightly more. Shuttles may run between tourist areas if you need a quick connect to a nearby spot. 
• Don’t worry about currency exchange. In El Salvador, the U.S. dollar and Bitcoin are the two accepted currencies. No need for currency exchange or mentally calculating exchange rates before you buy something! Bitcoin was named an official currency in 2021, while the dollar was made official currency back in 2001. 
• Know when to visit. El Salvador experiences a balmy, pleasant dry season from November to April and a rainy season from May to October. The inland valleys tend to see the most rain during the wet season, while the coast and nationwide averages are slightly lower. If you have to travel between May and October, avoid inland valleys and stick to the coast and mountain regions. 

Frequently Asked Questions

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Stringing together some of the best places to visit in El Salvador to create the ultimate itinerary? Read through some of the most common traveler questions below to learn more and help plan your visit. 

What is the best part of San Salvador?

The historical center of San Salvador, Centro HIstorico de San Salvador, is the best part of the city with cobblestone streets, the famous National Palace museum, Iglesia El Rosario church, the National Theater, and the Art Museum of El Salvador filled with works from Salvadoran artists.

Is El Salvador good for tourists?

El Salvador can be good for tourists who stick to tourist-centric areas and stay out of rough districts far from sightseeing destinations. El Salvador does experience higher crime rates and the U.S. State Department warns travelers to reconsider visiting the country while crime rates are elevated.

Where do people vacation in El Salvador?

People usually vacation around the El Salvador coastline, either on the Pacific Ocean (like Los Cobanos or El Tunco) or on the Gulf of Fonseca (like Playa Las Tunas or Playa El Chiquirin). Adventure trips are typically to the volcanoes and trails in Cerro Verde National Park or to La Rutes de Las Flores towns for waterfalls, charming villages, and outdoor recreation.

What is El Salvador most famous for?

El Salvador is most famous for its small size, being the smallest Central American country, and for its many volcanoes, which have earned it the nickname the “Land of Many Volcanoes.” There are around 20 volcanoes, including some extinct, dormant, and active, in this tiny country. You’ll find unique landscapes like volcanic crater lakes to explore as well.

Why is El Salvador crime so high?

Crime in El Salvador was historically elevated with higher gang activity, but government crackdowns have reduced violent crime nationwide, but higher homicide rates in some areas and a lack of resources to respond to crime have left some parts of the country less safe to visit than others.

So, Where Should You Visit in El Salvador?

From Spanish Colonial architecture and beauty in colorful Suchitoto to the nonstop bustle and delicious aromas of the historic capital, San Salvadore, El Salvador is packed with interesting destinations that will broaden your travel horizons and expose you to a totally new way of life. 

From hiking to volcanic craters and thundering waterfalls in the forest to oceanside escapes in backpacker-frequented beach towns, this country has something for every type of traveler during short or longer stays.

While we can give you an idea of where you should visit in El Salvador, it’s up to you to decide which spots are a good fit for your trip. It’s hard to go wrong with so many incredible sights and activities in this Central American gem! 

When to Go: The Best & Worst Times to Visit El Salvador in 2024 (Our Take) Is El Salvador Safe to Visit in 2024? | Safety Concerns

• Photo Gallery

The Complete List of the Best Things to Do in El Salvador

Best things to do in el salvador.

• Cities & Towns

Unique Experiences

• Check Out the Beaches

El Salvador Mayan Ruins

• National Parks of El Salvador
• El Salvador Lakes
• Sample the Food of El Slavador

Cities and Towns

San salvador, el salvador’s capital city.

Though the capital of this amazing country has a tarnished past, you can’t travel to El Salvador without visiting. San Salvador has changed dramatically over the last few years and continues to emerge as one of Central America’s most exciting capital cities.

Epic cathedrals, sprawling parks, exciting food markets and a rejuvenated city centre make San Salvador a must.

For More, check out our

San Salvador City Guide

Read More | Check out our San Salvador City Guide.

With access to many activities on this list, Santa Ana is a perfect city to base yourself in for a few days. Grab a delicious street snack and kick back in the bustling main square while gawking at the surrounding architecture. Check out the old colonial theatre, visit the oddly beautiful ruins of an old school, and marvel at the gothic cathedral — an oddity in this part of the world. 

Santa Ana City Guide

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To use a mountain of tired, yet appropriate, clichés: Suchitoto is a charming colonial village surrounded by lush and vibrant jungles overlooking a vast blue lake. Some compare Suchitoto to Antigua, Guatemala. But that’s inaccurate. Suchi, as locals call it, is small and quiet. Less polished.

People tend to love or hate Suchitoto. They find there’s not  enough  to do or that it’s inexplicably one of their favourite places in El Salvador.

I’m in camp #2. See our complete guide to Suchitoto.

Learn Tragic History at El Mozote

In December of 1981, during the Salvadoran Civil War, the military massacred over 800 civilians in the town of El Mozote. The town is now the site of a heart-wrenching and moving memorial to those killed.

A sobering experience, visiting El Mozote is important for anyone visiting El Salvador. To appreciate how far the country has come since those times.

Relax in the Highland Village of Alegria, El Salvador

Take a break from El Salvador’s typical high temperatures in the highland village of Alegria. This high-altitude colonial village is a picturesque break from the typical tourist trail. The quiet village, surrounded by jungle and occasionally blanketed in clouds, is famous for two things: coffee and the Alegria Lagoon.

Climate, altitude and volcanic soil make this region perfect for growing excellent coffee. And the brilliant blue crater lake on the outskirts of town is a beautiful place to relax.

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Surfing El Salvador

Arguably the best surfing in Central America, this is the reason many come to El Salvador. With varying breaks along the entire coastline, it’s no surprise the country regularly hosts international competitions.

El Salvador surf beaches are found everywhere, like the world-famous Punta Roca El Salvador. Head to the La Libertad region — the aptly-named Surf City — for a good sampling. Here you’ll find something for every skill level, beginners and professional athletes alike.

Check out El Tunco, El Zonte or El Sunzal for a bunch of really great surf schools.

Relax in El Salvador Hot Springs

Given the scope of volcanic activity in El Salvador, it’s no surprise to find hot springs. Two of the most convenient and relaxing spots to soak in the thermal pools are Alicante and Santa Teresa , near Ajuachapan.

Here you’ll find a selection of pools of varying sizes and temperatures to suit your comfort level. It’s the perfect way to relax and restore your body after a long day of hiking or a few too many cervezas.

The Ruta de las Flores

El Salvador’s “Route of Flowers” is a stunning display of colour during the months of November through February, when the entire landscape is in bloom. But the flowers are a mere bonus.

The Ruta de las Flores is a stretch of road dotted with wonderful villages each with their own unique activities and vibes. Hike waterfalls, relax in hot springs, shop at artisan markets, celebrate unique festivals and wander the cobbled streets of El Salvador’s coffee country.

Read More | Explore the Ruta de las Flores

Take an Indigo Course

At the Casa Blanca complex near Santa Ana, you can take a multi-week course in indigo production and fabric work. Learn the process of producing the natural dye and the fascinating methods of dying fabrics and art pieces.

Short, crash courses are available for a day visit. But for the full experience, you can sign up for the intensive workshop.

Get Lost in the Labyrinth at Cafe Albania

On the outskirts of Apaneca , you’ll find Cafe Albania, home to the great El Salvador labyrinth. Lose yourself through the maze of cypress trees, planted and grown over many years for this very purpose. Reach the tower in the centre if you can, then try to find your way back out — it’s trickier than you might think.

Other activities on-site include zip-lining and even cycling on the cable high above the labyrinth.

Carnaval de San Miguel

The city of San Miguel , while the third-largest in the country, is often little more than a transit hub for most visitors. And while we would suggest giving it a chance there’s one time of year that’s better than any other.

In the final week of November, San Miguel hosts Carnaval, a massive celebration of colour and food and music and dancing in the streets.

Go Cliff Jumping at the Tamanique, El Salvador Waterfalls

A short bus ride from Playa El Tunco you can go cliff jumping at the Tamanique waterfalls.

Make the long hike down the jungle hillside to the mountain stream flowing in the valley. Relax and soak in the cool water shaded by the high cliffs, grab that perfect Insta shot under the falls, or leap from one of the cliffs into the plunge pools below.

Any activity like this must be undertaken with a local guide or tour, as cliff jumping can be incredibly dangerous. Especially if you don’t know what’s below.

Hike the Santa Ana Volcano

Aside from surfing, this is arguably the most popular draw for adventurers visiting El Salvador.

Hike along gorgeous jungle trails through Cerro Verde national park along the base of the volcano. When the tree line breaks, continue along the craggy mountainside to the edge of the gaping crater. And marvel at the sulphurous steam rising from the almost artificially-coloured lake below.

Read More | How to Hike Santa Ana Volcano

Release Baby Sea Turtles

One of the most unique and incredible things to do in El Salvador is helping to release baby sea turtles . In El Zonte , from September to November, head to La Mision Hatchery in the late afternoon to join in the releasing of the tiny flappy-legged reptiles. Watch them flop desperately through the wet sand as they battle the incoming surf, finally making their way to begin their new life in the sea.

Use Bitcoin in El Salvador

“Spending money” isn’t something you’d typically see on a travel guide, but it is in El Salvador. In the summer of 2021, President Nayib Bukele announced that the country would be officially adopting Bitcoin as legal tender.

The cryptocurrency had been used for some time already, specifically in El Zonte — dubbed “Bitcoin Beach.” Now, businesses across the country accept both US dollars (the other official currency) and Bitcoin. So load up your wallet with Satoshi’s and spend away. Welcome to the future!

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Ride El Salvador’s Famous Chicken Buses

No trip to El Salvador is complete without riding the famous chicken buses. These old school buses from the USA are repurposed for regular local transport. They’re outfitted with loud, pumping sound systems, flashy paint jobs, chrome accessories and all kinds of unique and almost tacky decorations.

You won’t have to look hard to experience these unique rides, as they’re the most common form of cheap transport around El Salvador.

Bolas de Fuego – The Fireball Festival

This is as incredible and absurd as it sounds.  Bolas de Fuego   is an annual event where people run through the streets at night, throwing fireballs at one another. Held in August, in the town of Nejapa, it’s one of the most unique experiences you can have in El Salvador.

People take tightly-wrapped balls of fabric, soaked in kerosene, lit on fire and have a literal fireball fight in the streets. It’s epic chaos and simply fascinating to observe.

Salto de Malacatiupan – The Hot Waterfall

Hot springs are nice and all. But a hot spring waterfall? Next level.

Not far from Santa Ana , you’ll find Salto de Malacatiupan . This small river is fed from hot springs and crashes dramatically over a series of rocks and small cliffs. It’s a brilliant spot to spend some time and take a dip in the wild. Cliff jumping is optional, of course, but leaping into a river of hot water is a sensation hard to beat!

Always check with locals before doing any cliff jumping, just to be safe.

The Cristo Negro Festival

Experience an exciting festival with an interesting element. Each January, in Juayua, the festival celebrates Cristo Negro , a “Black Jesus” statue from the cathedral in town.

With a full belly from the weekly food festival, sit back for the colourful pageant parade and get ready for the chaos. As the night unfolds, men run through the streets with fireworks blasting from their makeshift bull costumes. People scatter and run in a mix of laughter and mild concern.

When the bulls run out of Roman candles, a proper — and very impressive — fireworks display closes the night.

Check Out the El Salvador Beaches

“bitcoin beach” el zonte.

El Zonte is easily one of the best beach towns in El Salvador . Just a few years back Zonte was all but unknown to visitors. These days it’s arguably one of the most popular. With the early adoption of Bitcoin, this once sleepy town helped pave the way for the national adoption of the cryptocurrency. As a result, ‘Bitcoin Beach’ has become one of the most popular spots in the entire country.

Read More | The Complete Guide to El Zonte

El Tunco – Backpacker Beach Vibes

If you’re backpacking El Salvador in any capacity, there’s little doubt you’ll visit the backpacker playground of El Tunco . Known for its phenomenal breaks, ’Tunco draws in surf aficionados from across the globe.

Even if you aren’t a surfer, there are plenty of activities in and around town that will keep you thrilled for days. Yet somehow, El Tunco has managed to keep a comfortable balance of having a little of everything while retaining the small-town beach charm.

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Disconnect at Isla de Tasajera

Located across the bay from the tip of Costa del Sol, Isla Tasajera is effectively cut off from the rest of the country. Minimal services, limited electricity and almost non-existent wifi make Tasajera the perfect spot to take a break from everything else. The only traffic here is the occasional pick-up truck taxiing people along the sand roads between communities.

The apparent endless stretch of untouched beach doesn’t hurt much either.

Casa Blanca, El Salvador

Perhaps not as epic as others in the region, El Salvador has some significant Mayan ruins of its own. That is, what we can see. Casa Blanca is a museum of Mayan history in El Salvador on the site of some excavations. Here you’ll find an informative display of ancient local history as well as a few interesting dig sites.

Not far from Casa Blanca (above) is Tazumel. This is a much larger and distinctly Mayan complex with some fascinating artifacts on display. What’s truly incredible is that, from many studies, the entire area beneath the region — now covered with roads and buildings, was once a sprawling Mayan city.

Joya de Ceren

Joya de Ceren is unique from many other Mayan ruins in the sense that isn’t a larger city. That is, rather than large pyramids, this was once a small farming village.

Known as the Pompeii of the Americas due to the town’s destruction by a volcanic eruption, this site is a fascinating glimpse into the day-to-day lives of pre-Columbian villagers.

Mayan Ruins of San Andres

Halfway between San Salvador and Santa Ana are the Mayan ruins of San Andres. Often overlooked by foreign visitors, this archeological site is one of the most significant in El Salvador.

Covered by volcanic ash during the eruption of Ilopango, these ruins are still being excavated from beneath their grassy tombs.

El Salvador Parks

The volcanoes of cerro verde el salvador.

Like volcanos? Cerro Verde National Park, not far from Santa Ana, has three of them. The park is made up of a dense jungle plopped between three towering volcanoes: Izalco, Santa Ana, and Cerro Verde, the park’s namesake. This conservation area is full of twisting hiking trails, beautiful scenery and stunning viewpoints — from Lake Coatapeque on one side, all the way to the Pacific on the other.

Ecotourism at El Impossible National Park

El Impossible National Park is a sprawling expanse of tropical jungle on the western edge of El Salvador. Nearly untouched by the modern world, this park is the perfect place to get a breath of fresh, clean air and experience the tranquility of the rain forest.

Hike the rugged terrain to clear rivers, stunning waterfalls and hidden swimming holes. Keep an eye out for the unique wildlife and plant species as you explore the landscapes. Then spend the night and fall asleep to the sounds of the jungle.

Camp on the Side of Conchagua Volcano

Want to camp on the side of a volcano overlooking the ocean? Who wouldn’t? Conchagua Volcano is on the far Southwest side of El Salvador, overlooking the Gulf of Fonseca.

Conchagua recently made headlines when President Nayib Bukele announced plans to build Bitcoin City at the volcano’s base. It’s a bold move that could be huge for the region. Though it’s still a long way off.

For now, visitors will have to settle for the nearby beaches, incredible hiking, and arguably the best views in El Salvador.

Kick Back at a Relaxing Lake

Lago de coatapeque.

This stunning lake in an old volcanic caldera is one of the highlights of a trip to El Salvador. The almost-fake looking colour of the water shifts throughout the year. Yet nobody seems to fully understand why. Due to the lake’s thermal springs, the water at Coatapeque is significantly warmer than an average lake. This makes swimming a much more enjoyable experience.

Take a boat trip to one of the tiny islands, ride jet skis, go paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply sit back at one of the over-water patios and enjoy a cold drink.

Lago Ilopango

Located on the outskirts of San Salvador , Lake Ilopango is the largest lake in the country. Its proximity to the capital makes it a convenient place to spend the day. Things to do at Lake Ilopango include relaxing at the lakeside park, swimming in the warm water, scuba diving, fishing and boating.

Unlike Coatapeque, Ilopango doesn’t have the mysterious blue hue, though Ilopango has some interesting features of its own. In the centre of the lake is the peak of a lava dome. Formed from an underwater eruption in the 1800s, Islas Quemadas — the Burnt Islands — are a reminder of what lies beneath.

Salvadoran Food

Sample delicious el salvador coffee.

With its tropical climate and rich, volcanic soil El Salvador produces some of the world’s best-tasting coffee . And while you can sample some of their incredible bean juice at some hip cafe in San Salvador, why not go straight to the source?

There are several spots to do a coffee tasting in El Salvador, but the greatest concentration is in the western side of the country. The region south of Santa Ana and along the Ruta de las Flores has a ton of coffee plantations with fantastic tours.

Eat Pupusas

You can’t skip a visit to El Salvador without experiencing pupusas. The quintessential Salvadoran snack is not only dirt cheap but incredibly tasty and filling. A corn flour dough is stuffed with a filling, typically a combination of cheese, beans and meat, and cooked on a griddle.

Crisp on the outside and gooey on the inside, they’re served piping hot with a fresh tomato sauce and a delicious cabbage slaw called curtido .

Visit the town of Olocuilta, which has over a dozen pupeserias in one condensed area along the highway.

The Juayua Food Festival

A food festival  every weekend .  Need I say more? Sure, why not.

Every single weekend Salvadorans flock to the village of Juayua for an incredible culinary experience. Food stalls line the streets selling everything from massive grilled prawns and delicious roast rabbit to custom cocktails that will knock you sideways.

Read More | Experience the Juayua Food Festival

And So Much More…

Check back often as we’ll be updating this post whenever we discover more amazing things to do in El Salvador!

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30 Fascinating Must-See Places in El Salvador

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1. devil’s door (puerta del diablo), 2. el boquerón national park.

House1090 , CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

3. Joya de Cerén

ARamirez69 , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

5. Cerro Verde National Park

6. lake coatepeque.

JMRAFFi , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

7. Ruta de las Flores

8. suchitoto.

PABLO NUÑEZ , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

9. Santa Ana

10. el tunco.

Hermann Luyken , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

11. Parque Nacional El Imposible

12. san miguel.

Ll1324 , CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

13. Ruta de Paz

14. la palma.

15. Conchagua

16. lake ilopango.

randreu , CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

17. San Salvador Volcano

Gump Stump , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

18. Catedral Metropolitana

19. monumento al divino salvador del mundo.

Erickssonr , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

20. Teatro Nacional de San Salvador

21. museo nacional de antropología.

Zarateman , CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

22. Parque Cuscatlán

23. mercado central, 24. playa el cuco.

26. Santa Tecla

G.M. Kowalewska , CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

27. Santa Teresa Hot Springs

28. tamanique waterfalls, 29. iglesia el rosario.

Rodet7 , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

30. Torre Futura

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Ruth has been an avid traveller and restaurant enthusiast since her early days, exploring the world and hopping from one restaurant to another. Her passion for fashion, travel, and writing converged, leading her to share her insights on style at justruthy.wordpress.com. Through her writings at Discover Walks, Ruth invites you to embark on a virtual journey to various global destinations, immersing yourself in their diverse restaurant scenes and savouring the flavours of different cultures. She also enjoys writing about the success stories of Black People and Rich people. Get a glimpse into Ruth's world by exploring her articles and travel experiences.

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Must-see attractions in San Salvador

Iglesia El Rosario

San Salvador

Designed by sculptor Ruben Martinez and completed in 1971, Iglesia El Rosario is radically beautiful. Arguably the finest church in Central America, its…

Catedral Metropolitana

Facing the revamped Plaza Barrios, the cathedral is the most significant landmark in the city and the resting place of Archbishop Óscar A Romero. In the…

Jardín Botánico La Laguna

Moss-covered bridges, pebbled paths, small waterfalls and ponds home to croaking frogs, turtles and feeding fish provide the perfect antidote to city…

Centro Monseñor Romero

At Universidad Centroamericana José Simeón Cañas (La UCA), the Centro Monseñor Romero pays homage to the martyred Archbishop Oscar Romero. Highly…

El Arbol de Dios

'God's Tree' is an institute dedicated to the work of world-famous painter Fernando Llort, with a gallery displaying sophisticated pieces that differ from…

Museo de la Palabra y La Imagen

This innovative museum examines the history of El Salvador's civil war (1981–1992), beginning with the long-term context of the 1920s struggle for…

Museo Nacional de Antropología David J Guzmán

This worthwhile museum has an excellent range of Maya and Olmec (pre-Maya) statues and relics from ancient Cuscatlan, as well as Lenca artifacts from…

Museo de Arte de El Salvador

An impressive collection of sketches, paintings and installations track the development of prominent local artists including Fernando Llort, Rosa Mena…

Palacio Nacional

Built in the early 20th century of Italian marble, the Palacio Nacional was the government headquarters until 1974. A few of the rooms now preserve…

Teatro Nacional

This aging beauty still hosts major productions in the capital. Inaugurated in 1917, the theater was renovated in French classical style in the mid-20th…

Hospital La Divina Providencia

Monseñor Romero was assassinated by government agents while giving Mass in the chapel here on March 24, 1980. You can tour his modest quarters, where his…

Iglesia El Calvario

Surrounded by street vendors, the Gothic towers of the Iglesia El Calvario are worth a peek. Walk inside to experience its real beauty.