Rejuvenated and forward-looking, this stunningly beautiful Central American country has momentum building that landed it a spot in our travel category.
El Salvador’s idyllic beaches are catching the attention of professional surfers from around the world as it works hard to establish itself as Surf City. The country is quietly becoming the place where those in the know come to catch waves and hone their surfing skills.
There’s so much to learn about this country. iBestTravel guidebook author Paige R. Penland plans out your four-day getaway to its coastal waters, quaint towns, and volcanoes.
Why You Should Visit El Salvador
El Salvador offers almost everything travelers to Latin America are looking for, just three hours by plane from Miami: sunny beaches, quaint colonial towns, stunning volcanoes, colorful handicrafts, low prices, and arguably the finest cuisine in Central America.
It is compact, with dramatic topography and excellent roads. You could literally surf La Libertad all morning, relax over lunch in Spanish Colonial Suchitoto, and watch the sunset from a chilly 8000ft (2400m) at your chosen destination — and only spend about four hours total in the car.
All of this makes El Salvador an easy escape for North Americans on a long weekend. If time is no object, however, two to four weeks would be ideal.
Budget travelers can enjoy El Salvador on $40 per day, and much less if you plan carefully. Mid-range travelers will be comfortable on $100 per day. Luxury lovers will find a small selection of excellent resorts and restaurants for about half what they’d pay in more-popular Latin American destinations.
Travelers may read the international criticism of El Salvador’s current government and worry about the impact of their visit. On balance, however, supporting local businesses in El Salvador remains a vital component of travel.
El Salvador’s official currency has been the US dollar since 2001, providing convenience for US travelers. In 2021, the introduction of Bitcoin as an additional currency sparked interest, and tourism has since grown an astonishing 30%.
I appreciate that most conversations about El Salvador no longer begin with the term “war-torn.” This small country has big dreams and continues to believe in a brighter future.
A Perfect Day in the Capital
This itinerary assumes travelers have rented a car. If you use public transportation, travel times should be adjusted accordingly.
Our journey begins at Romero International Airport — or, if you’ve been relaxing along El Salvador’s 186mi (307km) coastline, just 20 minutes away in La Libertad. We’re headed up to the capital, San Salvador.
10am – Pupusas for Breakfast
Pull off the highway in Olocuilta, where a tidy strip of pupuserías serves up stacks of the city’s signature rice pupusas. For a more elegant brunch, enjoy gourmet tamales or avocado toast at Tu Jardín Secreto in Planes de Renderos, which also offers a 20-minute hike up Puerta del Diablo.
11am – Arrive in Colonia Escalón
Our base in the capital is posh Colonia Escalón, with upscale shopping and dining options. After coffee, take a cab to the Museum of Anthropology for an overview of El Salvador’s history, including pre-Columbian relics and contemporary issues.
From there, a short walk leads to the National Craft Market, where artisans sell quality handicrafts, including hammocks and ceramic pieces.
2pm – Head to Centro Historico
Take a taxi to the Centro Historico, home to the National Palace, National Theater, and Metropolitan Cathedral, final resting place of St Oscar Romero. As you explore the city’s parks, don’t miss the Monument of Memory and Truth in Parque Cuscatlán.
4:30pm – Check out Volcán San Salvador
Grab a cab to the top of Volcán San Salvador for stunning sunset views over grilled meats and seafood served at Las Brumas.
9pm – Enjoy San Salvador’s Nightlife
After a brief rest, explore the nightlife scene with a variety of clubs and bars. Look forward to laid-back city views and live music at several venues.
A Perfect Day in the Central Highlands
10am – Arrive at Suchitoto’s Puerto San Juan, where souvenir stores and restaurants overlook Lake Suchitlán. Boats offer tours around the islands, including Isla de Los Pájaros, a haven for migratory birds.
Noon – Lunch at Villa Balanza
After lunch at Villa Balanza, we visit Los Almendros de San Lorenzo, one of El Salvador’s most luxurious properties, featuring beautiful gardens and a sparkling pool.
1:30pm – Stroll Through the City
Strolling the cobbled streets of this beautiful Spanish Colonial city, be sure to visit Arte Añil for classes in traditional indigo dyeing.
4pm – Mayan-influenced Art in La Palma
Just an hour north of Suchitoto is La Palma, birthplace of vibrant, Mayan-influenced naive art. Visit workshops to watch artists create stunning pieces from various materials.
9pm – Back to Los Almendros for Dinner
Although Suchitoto has several excellent restaurants, we’ll return to Los Almendros for an exquisite dinner featuring local ingredients.
Pyramids and Volcanoes
After breakfast, head to Joya de Cerén, preserved beneath volcanic ash since 600CE. Explore authentic Mayan life in a place often referred to as Central America’s Pompeii.
1pm – Volcanoes in Cerro Verde National Park
Continue to Cerro Verde National Park, where scenic hiking opportunities abound, including views from Izalco Volcano’s steaming cinder cone.
4pm – Stay Overnight at Lago Coatepeque
We head to Lago Coatepeque, where lodging options suit various budgets, and dinner at La Octava Maravilla is a must-try culinary experience.
Stop and Smell the Flowers in El Salvador
After breakfast on the lake, relax at Entre Ríos Ecopark with natural hot and cold pools and water slides. Order brunch right to your hammock.
Visit Ruta las Flores
Located in the coffee-growing highlands, Ruta las Flores features charming towns and nature attractions. If it’s Saturday, enjoy Juayúa’s Gastronomic Festival with a vibrant selection of food and entertainment.
Handicrafts Shop at Axul Artesanía
Explore Ataco and visit Axul Artesanía for unique handicrafts and a chance to learn more about local artistry.
Drinks at Casa Degraciela
Finish the day at Casa Degraciela for drinks in a beautiful courtyard setting.
Enjoying the Private Hot Spring
Savor your stay in the luxurious Japon suite with a private hot spring while planning your return to El Salvador.
