Experience the Natural Beauty of El Salvador—A Travel Blogger's Guide
- Home
- ,
- El Salvador
About 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.
Popular Stays in El Salvador
Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in El Salvador
Things to do in El Salvador
Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in El Salvador
Why People Love El Salvador
See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in El Salvador
JKJerry K5Jul 2023Michelle was the best tour guide. She was very patient and took her time explaining and showing us around. We had lots of fun and an amazing experience
JJessica_H2Oct 2023Not a great tour. My guide Alex tried skipping one of the 3 stops altogether. While I booked this quite a time in advance, Alex spoke little English and the student that was with him: it was her 2nd day on the job and explained a little. During our short hike at Cerro Verde, we had to stop a...
MMatthew_M5Sep 2023The very well explained tour gave us the history and local perspective that we would miss if we had not booked a tour. Melissa was amazing! Funny, knowledgeable and super personable. Our only complaint is that what we booked was described to us as a private tour, yet we were picked up One hour an...
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.