Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Adventures in El Salvador

San Salvador

Historically, San Salvador hasn’t topped the list of Central America destinations, but the capital city is starting to emerge as a worthwhile stop for El Salvador backpackers and other travelers. Flights to San Salvador from the United States are some of the least expensive among Central America destinations. Furthermore, it’s central to many of El Salvador’s biggest attractions, like La Libertad and the San Salvador volcano. However, be mindful of the still-high crime rates, traffic, and crowds in many areas.

2. Suchitoto

Suchitoto, a small colonial village in the country’s center, is a favorite El Salvador backpacker destination. Known as “the Antigua of El Salvador,” the village’s cobblestone streets and pastel-colored colonial buildings are reminiscent of the larger Guatemalan city. Backpackers can opt for boat tours of the Lake Suchitlan and its islands and lakeshore villages or a tour of nearby waterfalls, La Cascada Los Tercios.

3. La Libertad

The most visited beaches in El Salvador are located in La Libertad, including El Tunco and El Sunzal. The La Libertad beaches boast some of the best surfing in Central America, attracting a constant pilgrimage of backpacker surfers to the region’s beach bungalows and ideal breaks. Even if you’re not a surfer, the scenic beaches and laid-back surf culture, along with delicious seafood, are worth a visit.

4. Santa Ana

Cradled by green hills, volcanoes, and an abundance of coffee plantations, Santa Ana is the second largest city in El Salvador. It lacks the extremes of city chaos and poverty that San Salvador experiences. Three popular attractions are close to Santa Ana: Lake Coatepeque, the Mayan ruins of Tazumal, and Cerro Verde, an active volcano offering great hiking opportunities. The Pan-American Highway crosses through Santa Ana, making the city easily accessible via bus, shuttle, or car.

5. La Palma

La Palma is located in El Salvador’s mountainous region near the Honduran border, offering a cool break from the soaring temperatures of the capital. The majority of La Palma’s residents engage in handicrafts and tourism, providing amenities for travelers without hindering the village’s charm. Nearby villages like Miramundo and Las Pilas are less frequented but equally charming; all offer budget accommodations for backpackers. Additionally, El Salvador’s highest mountain, Cerro El Pital Volcano, is nearby and is generally a reasonable hike, though it can be a bit risky during the rainy season.

6. Montecristo National Park

Located where Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador meet lies Montecristo National Park, an area rich in flora and fauna. The park is closed from April to September due to the El Salvador rainy season. However, camping is allowed when open, and it is the best way to glimpse the resplendent quetzal, one of the park’s most famous inhabitants.

7. El Imposible National Park

El Imposible, meaning “The Impossible,” was named for a hazardous gorge that killed several farmers and pack mules transporting coffee to the Pacific. Today, the park remains one of El Salvador’s most incredible natural attractions, home to the country’s richest biodiversity. Accommodation options are limited with establishments like Hostal Imposible or Hostal Mama y Papa catering to backpackers.

8. The Wild East

Popularized by intrepid surfers, El Salvador’s “Wild East” coastal region is renowned for some of the country’s best surf breaks and most basic infrastructure. However, the region is just a few hours from major cities and is definitely worth a trip for backpackers seeking unspoiled beaches, even if they’re not heavily into surfing.