Table of Contents
Introduction
Nestled between Guatemala and Honduras, the small Central American country of El Salvador often flies under the radar of mainstream tourism. However, beyond the capital city of San Salvador, you’ll find a landscape dotted with active volcanoes, lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and well-preserved colonial towns. For travelers seeking culture, adventure, and natural beauty off the beaten path, El Salvador has many hidden gem destinations worth discovering.
Natural Wonders
El Imposible National Park
Spanning over 50 square miles of tropical forests and rugged mountains, El Imposible National Park is one of El Salvador’s most impressive natural treasures. Along the hiking trails, you can spot sloths, anteaters, monkeys and over 200 species of orchids. The park is also home to El Salvador’s highest waterfall, Los Enganches, cascading 350 feet into a crystalline pool.
Los Volcanes National Park
This park protects the area surrounding Izalco and Santa Ana, two of El Salvador’s most active volcanoes. Hiking trails wind through lava fields, sulfuric springs, and dense forests filled with wildlife. Beyond the volcanic landscape, Los Volcanes is also home to Lake Coatepeque.
Lake Coatepeque
Nicknamed “El Salvador’s ocean,” this stunning crater lake is one of the country’s most photographed natural icons. The crystal clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and even scuba diving to explore ancient Maya ruins submerged below.
Archaeological Sites
Joya de Cerén
Known as the “Pompeii of the Americas,” Joya de Cerén was a Maya farming village buried under ash by the Laguna Caldera volcano around 600 AD. The incredibly well-preserved ruins provide a snapshot into everyday Mayan life. Visitors can tour excavated structures like residences, saunas, workshops and common areas.
San Andres
These ruins situated near Joya de Cerén showcase the architecture and artifacts left behind by pre-Columbian Maya civilization. Climb the main pyramid for panoramic views of the site and surrounding landscape. The on-site museum displays an array of sculptures, carved stones, pottery and jade jewelry.
Tazumal
One of the largest archaeological sites in El Salvador, Tazumal thrived as a political and ceremonial center between 500-1200 AD before being abandoned. Explore the acropolis lined with temples and pyramids, ball courts, petroglyphs, and craft workshops that give insight into Maya culture.
Colonial Towns
Suchitoto
This postcard-perfect pueblo oozes old world colonial charm along cobblestone streets and brightly painted colonial architecture. Soak up the town’s history and laid-back vibe while browsing artisan shops and galleries. Suchitoto comes alive on weekends with live music and cultural festivals.
Juayúa
Nestled beneath the impressive Santa Ana volcano, Juayúa captivates visitors with its colorful houses, giant stone church, and charming central plaza. On Saturdays, the plaza fills with vendors selling wares at a bustling farmer’s market. The surrounding hillsides are covered in coffee plantations.
Apaneca
Called “Little Switzerland,” Apaneca’s claim to fame is its archetypal colonial charm and cool mountain climate. The photogenic town center includes a unique white-washed church and cultural center housed in a beautifully restored mansion.
Surfing
El Zonte
Nicknamed “Surf City,” the laid-back beach town of El Zonte caters to surfers with plenty of surf shops, hostels, and nightlife options. Right point break waves consistently roll in, creating the ideal playground for surfers of all levels.
El Tunco
Just steps from Tamanique Bay, the bohemian surf town of El Tunco attracts wave riders with its world-class beach breaks like La Bocana and Sunzal. Stop by for surf lessons, or just soak up the lively bar scene after a day hitting the waves.
Punta Roca
Regarded as one of the best right point breaks in the world, Punta Roca only turns on a few times a year but rewards patient surfers with towering barreling waves. When conditions align, this intense break is not for the faint of heart!
Volcano Hiking
Santa Ana Volcano
The highest peak in El Salvador at 7,800 feet, Santa Ana Volcano is a breathtaking challenge to ascend. After climbing through farmland and cloud forest, you’re rewarded with views of the emerald crater lake and surrounding countryside.
Izalco Volcano
Known locally as the “Lighthouse of the Pacific” for its frequent eruptions, Izalco last saw lava flows in the 1960s. Today visitors can climb over old lava flows to the summit for views of nearby Lake Coatepeque.
Cerro Verde
The Cerro Verde trail traverses through lush vegetation and winds up the side of the Santa Ana Volcano complex to the Cerro Verde crater rim. Along the way, hikers enjoy panoramic vistas over surrounding volcanoes and as far as the Pacific Ocean.
Food
No trip to El Salvador is complete without tasting authentic local cuisine, from fresh seafood to staples like tamales and pupusas. Here are a few highlights:
Pupusas
The national dish – thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, pork, beans, squash or other fillings. A must try!
Yuca Frita
Crispy fried yucca root served with curtido, a pickled cabbage relish. An addictively tasty side dish.
Quesadilla de Loroco
Soft corn tortillas topped with salty cheese and loroco, a green vine flower bud unique to El Salvador. A local favorite!
Nightlife
After the sun goes down, experience El Salvador’s vibrant nightlife scene in these popular areas:
La Zona Rosa
By day a quiet residential district, at night La Zona Rosa morphs into a hopping zone of bars, clubs, karaoke joints and cafes. Salsa music spills into the streets.
Shu Shu Bar
Near El Tunco, this lively late-night beach bar hosts bonfires perfect for meeting fellow travelers while listening to laid-back beats.
Code Bar
One of the best nightlife spots in San Salvador, Code Bar fills up on weekends for dancing, drinks and socializing in an upscale atmosphere.
Conclusion
From surfing untouched breaks to hiking active volcanoes, El Salvador offers plenty of off-the-radar adventures beyond the classic Central American tourist trail. With friendly locals, incredible scenery, and attractions highlighting both natural splendor and cultural heritage, uncovering the country’s many hidden gems promises to be an unforgettable travel experience. The next time you’re seeking an authentic escape to Central America, consider venturing into the heart of El Salvador.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit El Salvador?
The dry season from November to April brings sunny skies ideal for activities like hiking and surfing. March and April are peak times with big surfing competitions and Holy Week celebrations.
Is El Salvador safe for tourists?
While El Salvador has a reputation for past conflicts, today most tourist areas are very safe. Use common sense precautions as in any country. Avoid flashing valuables, don’t go out alone at night, and stick to recommended guides/tours.
How do I get around El Salvador?
Tourist shuttles and buses connect major destinations affordably. Renting a car allows more flexibility for hard-to-reach areas. Taxis are inexpensive for shorter trips.
What is the currency used in El Salvador?
El Salvador uses the US dollar as its official currency. ATMs are available in most tourist destinations. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but carry cash for rural areas.
What kind of food can I expect in El Salvador?
Expect fresh seafood on the coast and typical Central American staples like corn tortillas, beans, rice, tamales, fried plantains. Don’t miss pupusas, yuca frita, loroco – all Salvadoran specialties!