Plan your vacation
Add dates
Add travelers
person holding green leaf plant
person holding green leaf plant - Photo by Bryan Lopez

Experience the Natural Beauty of El Salvador—A Travel Blogger's Guide

About El Salvador

El Salvador is a small country in Central America with a lot to offer travelers. From stunning beaches to ancient ruins, there's something for everyone. Its rich culture, friendly people, and delicious food make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the region. Book your trip today and discover the beauty of El Salvador.

El Salvador is a small Central American country that is often overlooked by tourists. However, this hidden gem has much to offer visitors who are willing to explore its natural beauty and rich culture.

One of the main draws of El Salvador is its stunning beaches. The country has a long coastline along the Pacific Ocean, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Some of the most popular beaches include Playa El Tunco, Playa El Zonte, and Playa Los Cóbanos.

In addition to its beaches, El Salvador is known for its volcanoes. The country has over 20 volcanoes, many of which are still active. Visitors can hike to the top of some of these volcanoes, such as Santa Ana and Izalco, for incredible views of the surrounding landscape.

El Salvador is also home to several Mayan ruins, including the ancient city of Joya de Cerén. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was buried by a volcanic eruption in the 6th century and has been incredibly well-preserved. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the daily life of the ancient Mayans who lived there.

For those interested in Salvadoran culture, the country has a rich history and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore the streets of San Salvador, the capital city, to see colorful murals and street art. The city is also home to several museums, including the National Museum of Anthropology, which showcases the country's indigenous cultures.

Finally, no trip to El Salvador would be complete without trying some of the delicious local cuisine. Pupusas, a type of stuffed tortilla, are a national dish and can be found throughout the country. Visitors can also try other traditional dishes, such as yuca frita and sopa de res.

Overall, El Salvador is a destination that has something for everyone. Whether you're interested in beaches, volcanoes, history, or culture, this small but diverse country is sure to leave a lasting impression.

More Detail

Popular Stays in El Salvador

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in El Salvador

The Barceló San Salvador hotel was recently refurbished to offer an innovative stay in El Salvador. It enjoys an unbeatable location in the country's capital in front of the newest Bambu City Center and the Insigne business building. As well as the city's fabulous museum del Arte. Just 45 minutes from El Salvador International Airport, it is the best option for business travel, due to its location in the heart of the San Benito business and social district.  Barceló's first hotel in El Salvador has 205 luxurious rooms guaranteeing you the utmost relaxation, (64 rooms with double beds and 141 with a King Sized bed) and unique views of the beautiful city surroundings, with luscious greenery and the San Salvador volcano in the background.
General view
Business hotels

Sheraton Presidente

With a stay at Sheraton Presidente San Salvador Hotel in San Salvador (Zona Rosa), you'll be within a 5-minute walk of Museo de Arte de El Salvador and President Theater. This luxury hotel is 1. 8 mi (3 km) from Monumento al Salvador del Mundo and 2 mi (3. 2 km) from La Gran Via Shopping Center. . Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages. You can take advantage of recreational amenities such as an outdoor pool, a sauna, and a 24-hour fitness center. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops/newsstands. Getting to nearby attractions is a breeze with the area shuttle (surcharge). . Make yourself at home in one of the 225 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars and LCD televisions. Complimentary wired and wireless internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming provides entertainment. Private bathrooms have deep soaking bathtubs and complimentary toiletries. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks. . Enjoy international cuisine at La Terraza, one of the hotel's 2 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the 24-hour room service. Snacks are also available at the coffee shop/cafe. Wrap up your day with a drink at the bar/lounge. Buffet breakfasts are available daily from 6 AM to 10:30 AM for a fee. . Featured amenities include complimentary wired internet access, a business center, and express check-out. Planning an event in San Salvador? This hotel has 13132 square feet (1220 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and meeting rooms. A roundtrip airport shuttle is provided for a surcharge (available 24 hours), and free self parking is available onsite. . Distances are displayed to the nearest 0. 1 mile and kilometer. Museo de Arte de El Salvador - 0. 2 km / 0. 1 mi- President Theater - 0. 3 km / 0. 2 mi- Bambu City Center - 0. 5 km / 0. 3 mi- National Museum of Anthropology Dr. David J. Guzman - 0. 7 km / 0. 4 mi- Olivos Plaza - 0. 7 km / 0.
San Salvador Hotel with Extensive Meeting Space Whether you're in the area for business or leisure, the Holiday Inn® San Salvador Hotel is your ideal choice, with high-quality amenities, great service and an unparalleled location in the city. We are situated in Santa Elena, a great area for business and commerce, with easy access to the airport and Puerto La Libertad. Nearby major corporations include Holcim, Xerox, Nestle, Teleperformance. Also, Avianca Airlines main offices and the US Embassy are less than a mile away. Guests can go shopping at La Gran Vía and Multiplaza Malls, located just five minutes away, or enjoy a show at the Teatro Presidente. While in San Salvador, you can also visit the Museo Nacional de Antropología and the Parque Nacional El Boquerón, which offer great entertainment for the entire family. Also, Plaza Madero and Plaza Santa Elena, where you will find a great variety of restaurants, cafés, stores, pharmacies and banks, are right across the street. We provide amenities such as free high-speed wireless Internet access delicious meals in our restaurant El Bálsamo, a variety of drinks at the Tónico bar, a modern terrace, a Fitness Center and an outdoor pool where you can unwind. Our facilities also include nine meeting rooms for up to 900 guests, with a total space of 9, 600 sq ft.
Nestled amidst lush tropical gardens, this Maya-themed hotel sits right on the beach of Los Cobanos. Not only does it offer direct access to 1 km of private sandy beach, but it also boasts five pools of varying sizes, including a saltwater pool, and the perfect conditions for water sports. Guests can enjoy kayaking, paddleboats and introductory scuba diving. Those who prefer more ground-based fun will have access to two tennis courts and a beach volleyball field. For relaxing, one can opt for either the sun-loungers and chilled drink or a procedure in the spa and wellness centre. When the time for dinning comes, the venue can offer a wide choice of restaurants specializing in Italian, Jamaican, Thai or Mediterranean dishes, each offering a distinct cuisine. For a drink, guests can head to the bars or enjoy the lively atmosphere of the disco club for some late-night fun. All in one vibrant location.
The Quality Hotel® Real Airport has excellent location in a safe place near the Comalapa International Airport. Less than 30 minutes away is the city of San Salvador and all the charm that surrounds it. The beautiful beaches of Costa del Sol are 30 minutes, and the business district is five minutes away. There are a variety of shops, entertainment, bars and cafes nearby. Visit the Restaurant Los Balcones serving free American breakfast buffet every morning and a great variety of regional and international meals for lunch and dinner. The Hangar Bar serves drinks in a relaxed atmosphere, while the poolside bar serves light snacks. Guests can enjoy volleyball, basketball and tennis courts, surrounded by beautiful gardens, perfect for weddings and outdoor events. The hotel features meeting space for up to 100 people, center well equipped business center. To ensure that your stay relaxing and memorable, all our rooms have been decorated with the best taste, are equipped with modern amenities.
This luxury hotel is located in the city´s business center and next to Metrocentro Mall, one of Central America's largest shopping malls with more than 500 venues. All guestrooms are designed to ensure your best rest equipped with soundproof windows, custom mattresses, high streaming speed Internet and more. Enjoy our wide selection of restaurants such as Faisca do Brasil, Nau Sushi Lounge or Picasso Stone Flame Oven. Guests can exercise at the fitness center or relax at our Spa.

Things to do in El Salvador

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in El Salvador

Taking this tour you will experience the greatnes of the mayan civilization being at the most important archeological sites in El Salvador, San Andres and Tazumal. At the same time you will have a conection with nature getting into Cerro Verde National Park. On Saturdays and Sundays we have the option to visit the UNESCO world heritage Joya de Ceren, kwon as the Pompeii of America
During this El Salvador Combo Day Tour you will visit the main highlights of El Salvador including Cerro Verde National Park at the Lake and Volcano Complex, Coatepeque Lake as well as the Mayan Sites of Joya de Cerén and San Andrés. What are you waiting for?
City Tour San Salvador and Volcano. It is a fusion of experiences. Discover the nature, history and culture of El Salvador, accompanied by expert guides. If you love outdoor activities and enjoy the culture, history and nature. This is your best option. In this tour you can do one of the most interesting experiences in El Salvador, the famous Rainbow Slide. Enjoy this experience full of emotions. Without forgetting that we will enter the hidden spaces of the center of San Salvador to get to know the city from the inside
See some of the most interesting areas in the capital including new residential areas from the west part in town, with the beautiful viewpoint where you will get the best photo of the valley, see the Salvador del Mundo plaza where families and friends get together during evenings, on route see Parque cuscatlan and the interesting Flor Blanca castle, you will walk in the city center enjoy an inside visit of Famous El Rosario Church, main plazas in city center. Optional visit to the national palace is available from Tue to sat. Return to your hotel.
Experience El Salvador in 7 - Days. This fantastic adventure, cover El Salvador from East to West , includes the best highlights. Also in this adventure you will explore as a local and learning its gastronomy, history and having contact with nature as volcanoes, forests, animals , pacific coast. Let us show you the positive side of the smallest country of Central America.
Be one of the only ones to know our culture, traveling to the past through these emblematic and unique places of our country, discover and experience why it was named as a World Heritage Site, know how our ancestors lived, their beliefs and customs.
Explore the highlights of the city with a native guide of San Salvador. Visit major historical spots, main avenues, commercial and residential districts, sightseeing landmarks and monuments that commemorate relevant historical figures and events. Many public buildings in El Centro were made during years of splendor of coffee exports, with a mix of architectural styles. Since the recent renovation Downtown is nicer and safer than ever to walk. Many businesses are boosting up and it has become "the place to be". Walk the streets learning details of events that occurred on this very place over almost 500 years of history and the people that took part in it. From colony to Independence. From the Federation to the Coffee Republic. From military regimes to democracy. From repressions to big celebrations and presidential inaugurations. On the afternoon visit a local market (you can have lunch here) followed by a walk in the cloud forest at El Boquerón Nat. Park, on San Salvador volcano.
A perfect Half Day Tour in San Salvador City, well known as the New Capital of Central America, its amazing and Funny Historical Center will give you a different perception of El Salvador, here we will visit the main atracttions as Palace, Cathedral , Monuments , Moseñor Romero Memorial , etc. After we visit the renovated Natural Park Boqueron, at the summit of San Salvador dormant volcano, here we have a walking of 30 minutes in the middle of tropical garden. to finish ( optional ) we visit Picnic Steak House for rainbow slide.

Why People Love El Salvador

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in El Salvador

1
119marielac
5
Jun 2022
This was great adventure for my sisters and I. Carlos was fantastic. He provided us with much information, engaged in conversations and very attentive to our needs and wants. We enjoyed so much we schedule a second one the next day for Ruta de las Flores and coffee tasting. Weather wasn’t on our ...
C
cinnym13
5
Jun 2022
We visited Cerro Verde and two archeological sites, Tazumal and San Andres. And it was truly an incredible experience. Our tour guide Yesenia was so knowledgeable and passionate which made the experience much more memorable. She was funny and so charismatic that we had such a fun time while we we...
N
nomaler
5
May 2022
Excellent service! My amazing guide was Miguel he is very friendly and really helpful I would highly recommend this company to anyone looking for a private tour or group tour

Explore all stays in El Salvador

Explore all things to do in El Salvador

Explore other popular holiday destinations

Frequently Asked Questions about El Salvador

What are the must-visit attractions in El Salvador?

El Salvador has many must-visit attractions, including the Mayan ruins at Tazumal, the historical town of Suchitoto, and the stunning Ruta de las Flores, which boasts picturesque towns, stunning vistas, and artisanal crafts. Other must-visit attractions include the Joya de Cern archaeological site, the Santa Ana Volcano, and the San Salvador Cathedral.

What are some popular outdoor activities in El Salvador?

El Salvador is known for its beautiful beaches, and surfing is a popular activity. Some of the best surfing spots are El Tunco, El Sunzal, and La Libertad. Hiking is also a popular activity, and there are many trails in El Boquern National Park and the Cerro Verde National Park. Other outdoor activities include birdwatching, zip-lining, and white-water rafting.

What are some good places to stay in El Salvador?

El Salvador has a range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Some popular places to stay include the Puro Surf Hotel in Playa El Zonte, the Hotel Los Farallones in La Libertad, and the Sheraton Presidente San Salvador Hotel. For a more immersive experience, you can also stay in a homestay with a local family.

What is the best time of year to visit El Salvador?

The best time to visit El Salvador is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so you may encounter crowds and higher prices. The rainy season, which runs from May to October, can be a good time to visit if you don't mind a little rain.

What is the food like in El Salvador?

El Salvador is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes pupusas (thick corn tortillas filled with cheese, beans, or meat), yuca frita (fried cassava), and sopa de pata (cow foot soup). Other popular dishes include ceviche, seafood soup, and fried plantains. El Salvador also has a strong coffee culture, and you can find delicious coffee at cafes throughout the country.

What are some cultural experiences to have in El Salvador?

El Salvador has a rich cultural history, and there are many experiences you can have to learn more about the country's culture. Some cultural experiences include visiting the National Museum of Anthropology in San Salvador, watching a performance by the Ballet Folklrico Nacional de El Salvador, and visiting the Casa Blanca Museum in Santa Tecla. You can also learn about the country's indigenous past by visiting the Joya de Cern archaeological site.

What are some safety tips for traveling to El Salvador?

El Salvador has a reputation for being a dangerous country, but if you take the right precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip. Some safety tips include avoiding walking alone at night, staying in well-lit areas, and keeping your valuables hidden. It's also a good idea to use a taxi or ride-sharing service rather than public transportation, and to avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

What are some hidden gems in El Salvador?

El Salvador is full of hidden gems, including the town of Juaya, which has a colorful weekend food festival, and the El Imposible National Park, which boasts stunning waterfalls and hiking trails. Other hidden gems include the small town of Concepcin de Ataco, which has beautiful murals and handicrafts, and the Perqun area, which is home to the Museum of the Revolution and has beautiful mountain views.

What are some tips for getting around El Salvador?

Getting around El Salvador is relatively easy, and there are several options available. Buses are the most common mode of transportation, and they are inexpensive and frequent. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, and they can be a good option for shorter distances. If you want more flexibility, you can rent a car, but be aware that driving in El Salvador can be challenging due to heavy traffic and poor road conditions.

What are some etiquette tips for traveling to El Salvador?

El Salvador has a friendly and welcoming culture, and there are a few etiquette tips you should keep in mind to show respect. It's customary to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, and it's polite to address people by their title and last name. When dining, it's common for everyone to share food from a central plate, and you should always wait for the host to begin eating. It's also polite to bring a small gift, such as flowers or sweets, if you are invited to someone's home.