El Salvador

For years, El Salvador remained the best-kept secret in Central America. Today, it is emerging as a premier destination for those who seek raw beauty without the crowds. From the majestic “Land of Volcanoes” in the west to the world-class point breaks of “Surf City” on the Pacific coast, El Salvador is a country of dramatic landscapes, profound history, and an incredibly warm, welcoming spirit.

Compact yet diverse, it is one of the few places on earth where you can hike a volcano in the morning and be sipping a cocktail on a black-sand beach by sunset.

Why we love El Salvador

We love El Salvador for its authenticity. It feels like Central America used to be—unpretentious, vibrant, and thrillingly wild. It is a land where the coffee is rich, the pupusas are legendary, and the sun sets over the Pacific with a brilliance that stops you in your tracks. Whether you are exploring the “Pompeii of the Americas” or relaxing in a boutique cliffside lodge, El Salvador offers a sense of discovery that is rare in the modern world.

The Most Beautiful Places in El Salvador

Explore the contrast between colonial elegance and volcanic power:

1. Santa Ana & Cerro Verde National Park

Dominated by the stunning Santa Ana (Ilamatepec) Volcano, this region is a hiker’s paradise. A trek to the summit rewards you with a view of a glowing turquoise sulfur lake inside the crater. Nearby, the shimmering Coatepeque Lake—a massive volcanic caldera—offers crystal-clear waters perfect for a luxury lakeside retreat.

2. Ruta de las Flores

This winding route through the western highlands is named for the wildflowers that line the road. It connects a string of charming colonial towns like Juayúa, Ataco, and Apaneca. Expect cobblestone streets, vibrant murals, artisanal markets, and some of the finest coffee estates in the world.

3. El Zonte & El Tunco (Surf City)

The heart of El Salvador’s coastal revival. El Tunco is famous for its lively vibe and iconic sea rock, while El Zonte (nicknamed “Bitcoin Beach”) offers a more refined, laid-back atmosphere. Both serve as gateways to some of the most consistent and celebrated surf breaks in the Western Hemisphere.

4. Suchitoto

Commonly referred to as the cultural capital, Suchitoto is a beautifully preserved colonial town overlooking Lake Suchitlán. With its white-washed buildings and quiet plazas, it’s the perfect place to explore art galleries, learn the ancient art of indigo dyeing, or take a peaceful boat ride to spot migratory birds.

5. Joya de Cerén & Tazumal

Step back in time at these extraordinary archaeological sites. Joya de Cerén, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a unique glimpse into the daily lives of the Maya, preserved under layers of volcanic ash. Meanwhile, the towering pyramids of Tazumal showcase the architectural brilliance of a civilization that once ruled these lands.

Highlights of a Tour Through El Salvador

  • Volcano Hiking: Conquer the heights of the Izalco Volcano, once known as the “Lighthouse of the Pacific” because its constant eruptions guided sailors for centuries.
  • Coffee Tastings: Visit a high-altitude finca (farm) in the Apaneca-Ilamatepec mountain range to learn the “bean-to-cup” process and taste world-prize-winning varietals.
  • Hot Spring Relaxation: After a day of adventure, soak in the natural thermal waters of Santa Teresa or the Salto de Malacatiupan—a unique hot spring waterfall.

Essential Travel Tips

  • When to go: The dry season (November to April) is ideal for hiking and exploring the highlands. For surfers, the largest swells arrive between May and October during the “green season.”
  • Getting around: El Salvador is wonderfully compact; most major sights are within a two-hour drive of the capital, San Salvador. Private drivers or car rentals are the most comfortable way to navigate.
  • Currency: El Salvador uses the US Dollar (USD) and Bitcoin as legal tender. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and upscale restaurants, but keep cash for small towns.
  • The Food: You cannot leave without trying a pupusa—a thick, handmade corn tortilla stuffed with cheese, beans, or pork. It is the national dish and a true culinary delight.