Eastern El Salvador Travel Guide

Discover the top places to visit, best things to do, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations for a perfect trip to Eastern El Salvador.


Introduction to Eastern El Salvador

Eastern El Salvador is located in the eastern part of El Salvador, in the Central American region of North America. This region is known for its beautiful natural attractions, rich culture and history, and friendly locals.

List of Places to Visit in Eastern El Salvador

Here are some of the top places to visit in Eastern El Salvador:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site - A UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases an ancient Maya farming village that was buried by ash from a volcanic eruption.
  • Tazumal - A Mayan archaeological site that exhibits 13 pyramids built between 100 and 1200 AD.
  • Casa Blanca - A historic house museum that belonged to the first president of El Salvador, General Manuel Araujo.

Natural Attractions of Eastern El Salvador: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • El Imposible National Park - A stunning natural reserve with cascading waterfalls, dense forests, and a diverse range of wildlife.
  • Lake Ilopango - A beautiful crater lake surrounded by mountains and a perfect spot for water sports such as kayaking and jetskiing.
  • Montecristo Cloud Forest - A biodiverse Cloud Forest known for its endemic birdlife and remarkable views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern El Salvador

For hiking and biking enthusiasts, there are several routes to explore in Eastern El Salvador including:

  • El Boquerón National Park - A well-maintained hiking trail that leads to a breathtaking crater at the volcano summit.
  • Ruta de las Flores - A popular scenic route that spans several charming towns and offers exciting outdoor activities such as cycling and hiking.
  • Puerta del Diablo - A challenging hike that leads to a stunning panorama of the Ilopango lake and the Pacific Ocean.

Best Things to Do in Eastern El Salvador: Activities and Tours

  • Surfing at El Sunzal or Las Flores Beach - Both offer quality waves and surf programs for all levels.
  • Coffee tours - El Salvador is known for its coffee production, and several farms in the region offer tours and tastings.
  • Whale watching tours - The Pacific Ocean coast of Eastern El Salvador offers a unique opportunity to spot humpback whales during their migration season.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern El Salvador

Day Activities
1 Visit Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site and Tazumal
2 Go hiking in El Boquerón National Park.
3 Visit Casa Blanca and take a coffee tour.
4 Surfing or beach day in El Sunzal or Las Flores.
5 Visit Lake Ilopango and go kayaking or jetskiing.
6 Explore Ruta de las Flores and go cycling or hiking.
7 Go whale watching and explore Montecristo Cloud Forest.

Food and Drink Scene of Eastern El Salvador

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pupusas - A traditional Salvadoran dish made of thick corn tortillas filled with cheese, beans, and meat.
  • Yuca Frita - Fried cassava dish served as a side or snack.
  • Panes Con Pavo - A sandwich filled with turkey, stuffing, and special sauces served around Christmas.

Local Beverages

  • Horchata - A refreshing drink made with rice and milk and commonly served with pupusas.
  • Tamarindo - A sweet and sour fruit drink made with tamarind pulp.
  • Licuado de Papaya - A smoothie-like drink made with papaya, milk, and sugar.

Where to Stay in Eastern El Salvador: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Santa Elena Hostel - A charming hostel with private and shared rooms that boasts an incredible view of Ruta de las Flores.
  • Barceló San Salvador - A modern and luxurious hotel with a spa, fitness center, and swimming pool.
  • Suchitoto Hotel Casa de Campo - A boutique hotel surrounded by nature and avocado farms, ideal for a relaxed getaway.

What to Buy in Eastern El Salvador: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Artisanal crafts such as hand-woven hammocks and pottery.
  • Coffee beans from local producers.
  • Indigo-dyed textiles and clothing.

Local Culture and Customs of Eastern El Salvador

Traditional Salvadoran culture is a mix of indigenous and Spanish influences, and Easter El Salvador is a great place to explore it. Some customs to keep in mind include:

  • Dress appropriately when visiting churches and religious sites.
  • Respectful behavior in homestays and rural communities.
  • Learn a few Spanish phrases to enhance your interaction with the friendly locals.

Best Time to Visit Eastern El Salvador

The best time to visit Eastern El Salvador is during the dry season, which runs from November to March. The temperature is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities. However, to avoid high season rates and crowds, plan your visit during the shoulder season in April and May or September and October.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern El Salvador

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded markets and public transportation.
  • Try the local food and drink, including pupusas and horchata.

Don’t:

  • Show public displays of affection.
  • Wear expensive jewelry or carry large sums of cash.
  • Take photos without seeking permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eastern El Salvador

El Salvador has a reputation for being dangerous. However, if you take standard safety precautions, you should be perfectly safe in Eastern El Salvador.

  • Always be aware of your surroundings, particularly in the larger cities like San Salvador.
  • Book accommodation with secure parking or in safe areas.
  • Avoid carrying large sums of cash with you.

Health in Eastern El Salvador

Make sure you have the necessary vaccinations and travel insurance to protect against common illnesses such as Typhoid, Hepatitis A and B, and Dengue fever.

Getting to Eastern El Salvador: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Eastern El Salvador

The main airport serving Eastern El Salvador is El Salvador International Airport, located in San Salvador. From there, you can take a taxi to your final destination, or rent a car to explore the area.

Bus Stations Near Eastern El Salvador

If you’re traveling from other parts of El Salvador, you can take a bus from San Salvador’s Terminal de Occidente to several destinations in Eastern El Salvador.

Other Options

For a more convenient and faster way to travel, consider hiring a private car with a driver.

How to Get Around in Eastern El Salvador

Public transportation like buses and shared taxis are common, affordable, but usually run on unpredictable schedules. Alternatively, renting a car or motorbike gives you more flexibility and the freedom to explore the area at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Eastern El Salvador: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Guatemala - The stunning Mayan ruins of Tikal and the charming colonial town of Antigua are within driving distance of Eastern El Salvador.
  • Nicaragua - A beautiful country that offers volcanoes, colonial architecture, white-sand beaches, and great surfing.

Conclusion

Eastern El Salvador offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and historical landmarks that will make your trip to Central America memorable. Taking the necessary safety precautions, exploring local customs, and trying local food and drink will make your experience even more unique and exciting.

Map of El Salvador with Eastern region in blue Map of El Salvador with Eastern region in blue


    Alegría
    La Unión
    Morazán
    San Francisco Gotera