The smallest country in Central America is also one of its most mysterious and enigmatic—just like the misty cloud forests, smoky volcanoes, and black-sand surf beaches that it has become known for. If you’re looking for slow-paced things to do in El Salvador, dig into the country’s colorful cultural heritage by exploring its historical cities, mural-covered towns, and ash-preserved Mayan ruins. Don’t leave without trying the coffee, which is some of the best in the world.
Spring is undoubtedly the best time to visit El Salvador—especially if you are heading to the Ruta de las Flores (Route of Flowers) region and want to see it in all its floral glory. The most popular time of year to visit is the summer, while the warm and dry winter season tends to be better suited to enjoying El Salvador’s abundance of outdoor activities, including surfing and hiking volcanoes.
There are a few different ways to explore El Salvador, most of which depend on your budget and how much time you have. Private drivers are the best way to get around, but taxis, ride-sharing services, and tourist shuttles are also great options. Local buses tend to be slower than traveling by private car or shuttle, but they can be worth it for the fun factor alone.
Most visitors to El Salvador skip the capital, San Salvador, and head straight to El Tunco on the western coastline or up to Santa Ana and spend their time around the northwest. If time allows, the city of Suchitoto is well worth a visit, as is the southeastern coastline, where you’ll find wide, empty beaches along the Pacific Ocean. Nature lovers also won’t want to miss Montecristo National Park, where the monkeys and wildlife give Costa Rica a run for its money.
