Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site
Region: La Libertad Department
Cultural Heritage
Pre-Classic farming village buried in volcanic ash, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tourism in El Salvador
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Santa Ana Volcano (Ilamatepec)
Region: Santa Ana Department
Nature
Active volcano at 2,381m with a beautiful turquoise crater lake, popular climbing spot.
Lake Coatepeque
Region: Santa Ana Department
Nature
Caldera lake popular for boat cruises and lakeside resorts.
Ruta de las Flores
Region: Ahuachapán to Sonsonate Departments
Scenic Route
Tourism route through mountains with wildflowers, colonial towns, and cafes.
Suchitoto Old Town
Region: Cuscatlán Department
Culture
17th-century town with cobblestone streets and whitewashed walls, famous for weekend art markets.
El Tunco Beach
Region: La Libertad Department
Nature
Surfing mecca with rock and black sand, known for stunning sunsets.
El Boquerón National Park
Region: San Salvador Department
Nature
Features San Salvador Volcano crater rim hiking trails and observation deck.
San Andrés Archaeological Site
Region: La Libertad Department
Culture
Classic Maya administrative center ruins with museum displaying excavated artifacts.
Puerto La Libertad
Region: La Libertad Department
Modern Architecture
Seaside leisure facility with a modern pier and seafood market.
Izalco Volcano
Region: Sonsonate Department
Nature
Young volcano called "Lighthouse of the Pacific," featuring a beautiful conical silhouette.
Suggested itineraries
Volcanoes and Colonial 5 Days
Duration (days): 5
Highlights: Santa Ana Volcano Summit, Lake Coatepeque Cruise, Suchitoto Old Town Walk, Joya de Cerén Site
Based in San Salvador, tour western volcanic belt and World Heritage Sites, relaxing at lakeside lodges.
Surf & Coffee Route 3 Days
Duration (days): 3
Highlights: El Tunco Beach, Ruta de las Flores, Coffee Plantation Tour
Enjoy surfing on the Pacific, then experience fragrant specialty coffee in the mountainous Flowers Route.
Travel tips
- Rainy season (May-October) brings afternoon squalls; start early in the day.
- Public buses show only route numbers and endpoints; carry wallet in front to prevent pickpocketing.
- U.S. dollar bills under $20 in new condition circulate easily; torn bills are often rejected.
- Credit cards are common in cities; cash is essential in rural areas.
- Tipping is 10% at restaurants if service charge is not included.
- Highlands and volcanoes can be cold in the morning and evening; bring a light jacket.
- Strong sunlight requires SPF 30+ sunscreen and a hat.
- Bitcoin payment acceptance is growing but depends on communication conditions.
- Negotiate taxi fares before boarding; ride-hailing apps are convenient.
- National park guides are available at official entrances; register for volcano climbs.
- Avoid tap water; use bottled water.
- Prepare long sleeves and insect repellent spray for dengue fever prevention.