12 Best Things To Do in El Salvador

Hiking the Santa Ana Volcano (Ilamatepec) is possibly the most famous adventure in the country. As El Salvadors highest volcano at 2,381 meters, it offers an unforgettable experience.

The hike up takes about 3-4 hours round trip through rugged terrain and cloud forests. Once you reach the top of the crater, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking view of a bright turquoise crater lake steaming inside the massive caldera. Out in the distance, you can also spot the dramatic peak of the Izalco volcano.

Start your hike as early in the morning as possible to beat the heat and the crowds, and to get the clearest views before the clouds roll in.

Santa Ana city is the perfect place to soak in El Salvador’s colonial charm. Its historic downtown is centered around the stunning Neo-Gothic Cathedral, which contrasts beautifully with the colorful, vibrant streets.

Walking around the main square (Parque Libertad), you will find street performers, food vendors, and locals catching up. It is a great spot to grab an ice cream and just watch the gentle pace of daily Salvadoran life. It’s also a great hub for day trips!

The Ruta de las Flores is a scenic road through the coffee-growing highlands, passing through five incredibly charming mountain towns: Nahuizalco, Salcoatitán, Juayúa, Apaneca, and Concepción de Ataco.

Each town has its own personality, filled with colorful street art, cobblestone streets, vibrant weekend food festivals, and artisanal markets. It is the cultural heart of the country and an absolute must for anyone wanting to experience authentic rural El Salvador.

The towns really come alive on the weekends when local artisans and food vendors set up bustling outdoor markets, especially in Juayúa, home to La Feria Gastronómica, a popular food festival, and in Ataco.

Nestled in the heart of El Salvador, it is a haven for nature enthusiasts and the perfect base for exploring the region’s volcanic landscapes. Cerro Verde National Park is a lush sanctuary set high in the mountains, offering beautiful views of the surrounding volcanoes and countryside.

Its easy trails lead through dense cloud forests rich in wildlife and colorful flowers, creating a peaceful atmosphere that feels wonderfully cool and refreshing.

Don’t forget to visit Lago Coatepeque. This stunning crater lake is known for its striking blue waters and scenic surroundings. Relax along the shoreline, enjoy a meal at a lakeside restaurant, take a boat out on the water, or rent a jet ski for an exciting ride across the lake.

The capital city of San Salvador has undergone a massive transformation in recent years and its historic heart is beating stronger than ever. Taking a guided tour through the downtown core is the best way to understand the country’s complex history. You will walk past Parque Cuscatlán, Morazán Square, the National Palace, and bustling plazas that show just how proud and resilient Salvadorians truly are.

Taking a free guided walking tour is highly recommended to get the deep historical context behind the monuments and the country’s recent rebirth. Dave, the guide, is truly the best! (Don’t forget to tip!)

El Tunco is the undeniable hub of surf and backpacker culture in El Salvador. Recognizable by the iconic pig-shaped rock sitting just off the coast, this small beach town is packed with lively bars, surfboard rentals, and fantastic places to eat. The energy is infectious, the days are spent in the water, and the nights are all about grabbing a cold drink and watching the incredibly vibrant Pacific sunsets.

Often referred to as “Bitcoin Beach,” El Zonte is a much quieter, more laid-back alternative to El Tunco. It is a place where you can surf fantastic waves, relax in a hammock beneath the palms, and seamlessly pay for everything from your morning coffee to your coconut water using cryptocurrency. The community vibe here is very relaxed, making it the perfect spot to disconnect while keeping a foot in the future.

El Salvador boasts some of the most consistent, world-class right-hand point breaks on the planet, making it an absolute paradise for surfers. Whether you’re an experienced rider looking for the famous hollow sections at Punta Roca or a complete beginner taking your first lesson on the gentler waves at El Sunzal, El Salvador offers waves for every level.

You don’t need to bring a wetsuit. The water is very warm, and wetsuits are available when renting a board. For beginners, El Sunzal and El Tunco offer some of the friendliest waves to learn on.

You simply cannot visit El Salvador without indulging in its national dish. A pupusa is a thick, handmade corn tortilla stuffed with delicious fillings like melted cheese, refried beans, and savory pork (chicharrón). They are cooked fresh on a hot griddle and always served with curtido (a tangy cabbage slaw) and mild tomato salsa. They’re super cheap and available everywhere.

Tucked away in the hills above the coastal surf towns, the Tamanique waterfalls offer a refreshing escape into the jungle. The hike down is steep and sweaty, but the reward is a series of beautiful cascading falls and deep natural pools. Thrill-seekers can jump from the rocks into the cool waters below, while others can simply float and enjoy the sounds of the surrounding forest.

It’s mandatory to visit Tamanique Waterfalls with a local guide. To get here, there is a steep 40-minute hike down, and the hike back up takes about one hour.

When you need a day of pure relaxation, head up to NAWI Beach House in Mizata. It is an upscale, incredibly aesthetic beach club with an infinity pool. The vibe here is exclusive and welcoming. Sipping a cocktail while lounging on a daybed and listening to the crashing waves is the ultimate way to unwind on the Salvadoran coast.

This is one of the most unique natural wonders in the country. Imagine a beautiful waterfall where the cascading water is actually naturally heated by volcanic geothermal activity. You can dip into the warm, turquoise pools for a literal hot spring bath in the middle of the jungle. It feels like nature’s very own jacuzzi.

Unfortunately, on the day we visited, the water was a bit dirty. However, if you walk toward the end of the pool, away from the waterfall, it gets cleaner. The rocks around the falls can be very slippery and hot, so be careful.