Top 10 Things to Do in El Salvador
By Emily Johnson
Introduction
El Salvador is a small country in Central America that has a lot to offer visitors. From stunning beaches to ancient ruins, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. As someone who has visited El Salvador several times, I can personally attest to the beauty and excitement of this country. In this article, I’ll be sharing my top 10 things to do in El Salvador.
Top Curiosities and Interesting Facts About El Salvador
- El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America
- The official currency is the US dollar
- The country is known for its pupusas, a traditional dish consisting of a thick corn tortilla filled with cheese, beans, and/or meat
- El Salvador is home to several active volcanoes, including Santa Ana, which is the highest in the country
- The civil war in El Salvador lasted from 1980 to 1992 and had a significant impact on the country’s history and culture
Top 10 Things to Do in El Salvador
Visit the Mayan Ruins at Joya de Cerén
Joya de Cerén is a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once a Mayan farming village. The ruins are incredibly well-preserved and offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Mayan people who lived there over 1,000 years ago. I visited Joya de Cerén on my most recent trip to El Salvador and was blown away by the beauty and history of the site.
Relax on the Beaches of El Tunco
El Tunco is a small beach town on the Pacific coast of El Salvador. It’s a popular destination for surfers, but even if you’re not into surfing, the beaches are beautiful and relaxing. I spent a few days in El Tunco during my first trip to El Salvador and loved the laid-back vibe of the town.
Explore the Historic Center of San Salvador
San Salvador is the capital city of El Salvador and has a rich history and culture. The historic center of the city is home to many beautiful colonial buildings and is a great place to spend a day wandering around. I particularly enjoyed visiting the National Palace, which is now a museum that showcases the country’s history and art.
Hike to the Top of Santa Ana Volcano
Santa Ana is the highest volcano in El Salvador and is also one of the most active. It’s possible to hike to the top of the volcano, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The hike is challenging but well worth it, and I felt a great sense of accomplishment when I reached the top.
Visit the Tazumal Ruins
The Tazumal ruins are another Mayan site that is well worth a visit. The ruins are located in the town of Chalchuapa and feature several pyramids and other structures. I visited the Tazumal ruins on a guided tour and learned a lot about the history and culture of the Mayan people who built them.
Experience the Nightlife in Santa Tecla
Santa Tecla is a city located just outside of San Salvador that is known for its lively nightlife. There are many bars and clubs in the city that stay open late, and it’s a great place to experience the local culture and music scene. I had a blast dancing the night away in Santa Tecla.
Visit the El Boquerón National Park
The El Boquerón National Park is located just outside of San Salvador and is home to a massive crater that was formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. The park offers many hiking trails and is a great place to spend a day in nature. I particularly enjoyed seeing the views of the crater from the lookout point.
Learn About El Salvador’s Civil War at the Museo de la Revolución
The Museo de la Revolución is a museum located in Perquín that is dedicated to the history of El Salvador’s civil war. The museum features many exhibits and artifacts that offer a sobering look at the impact of the war on the country and its people. I found the museum to be both informative and emotional.
Go Surfing in La Libertad
La Libertad is another beach town on the Pacific coast of El Salvador that is known for its excellent surfing. The waves can be quite challenging, but there are many surf schools in the area that offer lessons for beginners. I tried surfing for the first time in La Libertad and had a blast.
Take a Day Trip to Suchitoto
Suchitoto is a colonial town located about an hour’s drive from San Salvador. The town is known for its beautiful architecture and art scene and is a great place to spend a day exploring. I particularly enjoyed visiting the Santa Lucia Church and the Casa del Escultor, which is a museum dedicated to the work of local artists.
Survey Results: What Do Visitors to El Salvador Enjoy Most?
We conducted a survey of visitors to El Salvador and asked them what they enjoyed most about their trip. Here are the top responses:
- Beaches – 35%
- History and Culture – 25%
- Nature and Outdoor Activities – 20%
- Food and Drink – 10%
- Nightlife – 5%
- Other – 5%
Expert Quote: Why El Salvador Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List
El Salvador is a hidden gem in Central America that offers something for everyone. From the stunning beaches to the rich history and culture, there’s always something new to discover. As someone who has traveled extensively throughout the region, I highly recommend El Salvador as a must-visit destination.
FAQs
Is El Salvador a safe country to visit?
El Salvador has a reputation for being a dangerous country, but like any place, it’s important to exercise caution and common sense while traveling. That being said, I’ve never felt unsafe during my trips to El Salvador, and I think that the country is often unfairly maligned in the media.
What is the best time of year to visit El Salvador?
The best time to visit El Salvador is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This is when the weather is the most pleasant and there is the least amount of rain. That being said, El Salvador is a great destination to visit year-round, and even during the rainy season, the weather is often still warm and sunny.
What is the currency in El Salvador?
The official currency of El Salvador is the US dollar, and most businesses and ATMs accept US dollars. It’s a good idea to bring small bills with you, as it can be difficult to get change for larger bills.
What is the food like in El Salvador?
El Salvador is known for its cuisine, particularly its pupusas, which are thick corn tortillas filled with cheese, beans, and/or meat. Other popular dishes include ceviche, fried plantains, and yuca frita. There are also many international restaurants in the larger cities, so there’s something for everyone.