San Salvador Travel Guide

Plan your trip to San Salvador with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture and customs.


Introduction to San Salvador

San Salvador is the capital city of El Salvador and the largest city in the country. It is situated in the western part of the country and is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, natural beauty, and vibrant food and drink scene.

List of Places to Visit in San Salvador

San Salvador has a lot to offer, from ancient Mayan ruins and colonial architecture to beautiful beaches and stunning national parks. Here is a list of must-visit attractions in San Salvador:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • El Salvador National Museum of Anthropology: This museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits on the country’s history and culture.

  • San Salvador Cathedral: This impressive cathedral is a prominent landmark in the city and boasts a stunning neoclassical architecture.

  • Museo de Arte de El Salvador: The museum showcases the works of some of the most renowned Salvadoran artists, including Fernando Llort.

  • Monumento al Salvador del Mundo: This towering monument is a tribute to Jesus Christ and is a must-visit for its panoramic views of the city.

Natural Attractions of San Salvador: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parque Nacional El Boquerón: This national park is located just outside the city and offers hiking trails, beautiful flora, and fauna, and breathtaking views of the Boquerón volcano.

  • Playa El Tunco: This laid-back beach town is a popular destination for surfers and backpackers and features a lively nightlife scene.

  • Lake Coatepeque: This stunning crater lake is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and other water activities.

  • Cerro Verde National Park: This park is another popular destination for nature enthusiasts and offers hiking trails, birdwatching, and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Salvador

San Salvador and the surrounding areas are perfect for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • El Boquerón: The hiking trail to the top of the Boquerón volcano is a must-do for adventure seekers and provides stunning views of the city.

  • La Puerta del Diablo: This challenging hike to the “Devil’s Gate” offers breathtaking views of the landscapes surrounding San Salvador.

  • Biking the Ruta de Las Flores: This scenic route through the mountains offers an opportunity to explore small towns, beautiful scenery, and coffee plantations.

Best Things to Do in San Salvador: Activities and Tours

San Salvador has a lot to offer in terms of activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Visit the Joya de Cerén: This ancient Mayan village was buried under ash during the eruption of the volcano in 600 AD and provides a unique glimpse into pre-Columbian life.

  • Take a Coffee Tour: El Salvador is famous for its coffee, and a visit to a coffee plantation is an excellent way to learn about the process of coffee growing and production.

  • Explore Santa Tecla: This charming town features colonial architecture and a vibrant food and drink scene with many restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Week-Long Itinerary for San Salvador

If you’re planning to spend a week in San Salvador, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in San Salvador; visit the National Museum of Anthropology
Day 2 Hike the Boquerón or Santa Ana volcano; visit the Joya de Cerén
Day 3 Explore the city center and visit the San Salvador Cathedral and surrounding museums
Day 4 Head to Santa Tecla for a day trip and explore the town’s food and drink scene
Day 5 Take a coffee plantation tour; explore the town of Suchitoto
Day 6 Relax on Playa El Tunco or visit Lake Coatepeque
Day 7 Depart San Salvador

Food and Drink Scene of San Salvador

El Salvador’s food scene is heavily influenced by Spanish and indigenous cultures, making for a unique culinary experience. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pupusas: This national dish consists of a thick corn tortilla filled with cheese, beans, and/or meat.

  • Sopa de Pata: A hearty soup made from cow’s feet, vegetables, and spices.

  • Yuca Frita: Deep-fried yucca served with a variety of dipping sauces.

Local Beverages

  • Tamarindo: A refreshing drink made from tamarind fruit.

  • Horchata: A sweet milk-based drink spiced with cinnamon and vanilla.

  • Pilsener: El Salvador’s most popular beer.

Where to Stay in San Salvador: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

San Salvador has a range of accommodation options to fit every budget. Here are some recommended places to stay:

  • Hotel Boutique Valverde: A luxurious boutique hotel with a central location and unique design.

  • Hostal Cumbres del Volcán: A budget-friendly hostel located close to the Boquerón volcano.

  • Hotel Plaza Antigua: A cozy guesthouse located in the heart of the city’s historic center.

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

Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring back from San Salvador:

  • Salvadoran handicrafts: Buy handicrafts made from local materials like pottery, textiles, and wood crafts.

  • Indigo: El Salvador is known for its natural indigo dye and produces a wide variety of indigo products including clothing, bags, and accessories.

  • Coffee: El Salvador is famous for its high-quality coffee, and you can purchase beans or packaged grounds to take home with you.

Local Culture and Customs of San Salvador

Salvadorans are known for their warmth and hospitality. Some cultural and customs to keep in mind when visiting San Salvador are:

  • Greeting Etiquette: When meeting someone for the first time, it’s customary to shake hands and use formal titles like “Señor” or “Señora”.

  • Tipping: Tipping is not required, but it’s customary to leave a small tip for good service in restaurants and cafes.

  • Family Values: Family is an important part of Salvadoran culture, so it’s common to get invited to family gatherings, especially during holidays.

Best Time to Visit San Salvador

The best time to visit San Salvador is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather is mild, and there is very little rainfall during this time. However, be aware that this is also the peak tourist season, so prices may be higher, and attractions may be crowded.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Salvador

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting San Salvador:

Do:

  • Speak Spanish: While some Salvadorans speak English, it’s a good idea to learn some Spanish phrases to communicate with the locals.

  • Dress Appropriately: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

  • Be Respectful: Salvadorans are friendly and hospitable, and it’s important to reciprocate and show respect in return.

Don’t:

  • Carry Large Amounts of Cash: To avoid theft, only carry what you need and use ATMs in safe areas.

  • Drink Tap Water: Stick to bottled water and avoid drinking tap water to prevent illnesses.

  • Take Photos Without Permission: It’s polite to ask before taking photos of people or religious sites.

Safety and Health

Salvador is a relatively safe country, but like any large city, it’s important to take precautions. Here are some safety and health issues to be aware of when visiting San Salvador:

Safety in San Salvador

  • Avoid High-Crime Areas: Be cautious when visiting certain areas of the city like the historic center, especially at night.

  • Use Public Transportation Wisely: Take official taxis or Uber rides instead of using public transportation.

  • Be Aware of Scams: Be cautious of scams like pickpocketing, fake tours, and other tourist traps.

Health in San Salvador

  • Get Vaccinations: Consult your doctor and get vaccinated before traveling to El Salvador to prevent illnesses like hepatitis A and typhoid fever.

  • Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, and avoid street food to prevent illnesses.

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during the hot season.

Getting to San Salvador: Transportation Options and Logistics

San Salvador is well connected to other parts of the country and the world. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near San Salvador

  • Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport: The primary airport serving San Salvador, with flights to and from major destinations in North and South America.

Bus Stations Near San Salvador

  • Terminal de Transporte de Oriente: Connects San Salvador to other destinations in El Salvador and neighboring countries.

  • Terminal de Transporte San Carlos: Serves the northwestern part of the country, including towns near the Guatemala border.

Other Options

  • Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services, like Uber, are readily available in San Salvador.

  • Renting a Car: If you plan to travel outside the city or explore the surrounding areas, renting a car is a good option.

How to Get Around in San Salvador

Transportation options in San Salvador include buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services. Buses are the cheapest option, and there are several bus routes that run throughout the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available, but be aware that taxi fares are not metered, so it’s best to agree on a price before getting in. Walking is also a great way to explore the city center.

Where to Go Next from San Salvador: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time, here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring:

  • Santa Ana: This colonial city is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the Santa Ana volcano.

  • La Ruta de Las Flores: This scenic drive through the mountains takes you through some of the country’s most picturesque towns, including Juayúa and Ataco.

  • El Cuco Beach: This beautiful beach is located on the eastern part of the country and is a popular destination for sunbathing and surfing.

Conclusion

San Salvador is a vibrant city with plenty to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip and explore all that San Salvador has to offer.

The new National Cathedral, facing Plaza Barrios in the city centre The new National Cathedral, facing Plaza Barrios in the city centre Monumento al Divino Salvador del Mundo, also called Plaza Las Americas Monumento al Divino Salvador del Mundo, also called Plaza Las Americas A statue of the Aztec god Xipe Totec in the David J Guzman Museum A statue of the Aztec god Xipe Totec in the David J Guzman Museum The David J Guzman Museum of Anthropology The David J Guzman Museum of Anthropology The National Theatre (Teatro National) in downtown built in the early 1900s. The National Theatre (Teatro National) in downtown built in the early 1900s. Multiplaza, one of the new malls in the country, San Salvador volcano is in the background Multiplaza, one of the new malls in the country, San Salvador volcano is in the background Inside Multiplaza Mall Inside Multiplaza Mall