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Picture of El Salvador

Travel Guide for
El Salvador

El Salvador

Tropical, wet and dry seasons

Introduction

El Salvador, nestled in Central America between Honduras and Guatemala, offers stunning Pacific coastlines and lush volcanic landscapes. The country boasts a rich history shaped by ancient Maya civilizations and vibrant colonial cities, visible in places like San Salvador and Suchitoto.

Visiting in early March, you'll enjoy warm, dry weather—perfect for group adventures like surfing at El Tunco, trekking volcanoes, or sampling pupusas in lively markets. El Salvador’s lively nightlife, friendly locals, and affordable accommodations make it great for friends traveling together on a budget.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleTravelling with friends

Dates03-15 March 2026

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHostel, homestay

Interests and Activities:

gastronomynightlife and entertainmentoutdoor adventuresfestivals and events

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Picture of El Salvador

Key Facts

Location

Central America

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Religion

Roman Catholicism, Protestantism

Population

6,520,675

Language

Spanish (official), Nahua

Electricity

120V, 60Hz, Type A/B

Time zone

UTCCST (UTC-6)

Country code

+503

Internet access

Widely available; moderate speed; affordable

Climate

Tropical, wet and dry seasons

See More El Salvador Facts

Language:

Spanish

  • hello

    hola (oh-lah)
  • goodbye

    adiós (ah-dee-ohs)
  • yes

    (see)
  • no

    no (noh)
  • how much

    ¿cuánto cuesta esto? (kwan-toh kwes-tah es-toh)
  • please

    por favor (por fah-bor)
  • thank you

    gracias (grah-see-as)
  • excuse me

    perdón (pair-dohn)

Map

Logistics

Most travelers reach El Salvador by air, landing at El Salvador International Airport (SAL) near San Salvador. Major airlines connect from U.S. cities (like Houston, Miami, and Los Angeles) and regional capitals. Flying is the most convenient choice for groups of friends on an average budget—you’ll find plenty of mid-range flight options.

Cross-border buses are popular for those exploring Central America. Reliable companies like Tica Bus link El Salvador to Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, offering comfortable and affordable travel. Trains aren't available, and boats are rare except for coastal hopping.

March is dry season, so travel from March 3–15 isn’t usually affected by weather. Always double-check entry requirements and ensure passports and visas are in order before embarking on your trip.

Weather

El Salvador has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, usually ranging between 25°C (77°F) and 32°C (89°F). There are two main seasons: the dry season (November to April) and the rainy season (May to October). Coastal areas can feel hotter, while mountainous regions are cooler and breezier.

From March 3 to March 15, visitors can expect hot and mostly dry weather, perfect for exploring outdoor sites and beaches. The risk of extreme weather is low during this period. The pleasant climate also supports lively nightlife, vibrant festivals, and outdoor adventures like hiking or surfing. Don’t miss local gastronomy—from pupusas to fresh seafood—enjoyed best in open-air settings.

Food & Drink

El Salvador’s cuisine centers on pupusas, thick corn tortillas filled with cheese, beans, or pork, often served with curtido (fermented cabbage slaw). Try yuca frita (fried cassava), panes con pollo (savory chicken sandwiches), and sip horchata or local coffee. Many dishes are naturally gluten-free, and vegetarian options are available in urban areas.

For a fun, budget-friendly outing with friends, visit pupuserías like Pupusería La Ceiba in San Salvador, or try El Zócalo for street eats. Café Fulanos is great for coffee, while La Ventana offers local craft beers. Tipping around 10% is standard if not included. Savor seafood on the coast, but be mindful of food safety with street vendors.

A picture of Pupusa

Pupusa

Pupusa is a traditional Salvadoran dish made of thick, hand-made corn tortillas that are filled with a variety...

A picture of Yuca Frita

Yuca Frita

Yuca Frita, or fried yuca, is a popular side dish in El Salvador. It consists of crispy, golden-brown...

A picture of Sopa de Pata

Sopa de Pata

Sopa de Pata is a flavorful Salvadoran soup made from cow's feet, vegetables, and spices. The broth is...

A picture of Tamales

Tamales

Tamales are a cherished tradition in El Salvador, made from corn masa dough and filled with a blend...

A picture of Enchiladas Salvadorenas

Enchiladas Salvadorenas

Enchiladas Salvadorenas are not like the Mexican version; they are a traditional Salvadoran dish made with crispy tortillas...

Accommodation

For a friends’ trip on an average budget, El Salvador offers great hostel and homestay options, especially in lively neighborhoods like San Salvador's Zona Rosa, or in beach towns such as El Tunco and El Zonte. Top-rated hostels—like Tunco Lodge or La Zona Hostel—provide social vibes, pools, and easy access to nightlife, with bookings easily made through Hotels.com.

Homestays in smaller villages, like Suchitoto or Ataco, offer a more local experience and often include home-cooked meals. Hotels.com also lists guesthouses and affordable hotels in Santa Ana for exploring volcanoes and Mayan ruins. From March 3-15, book early due to increased travel during local festivals and spring break season.

Itinerary

Settle in and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of San Salvador, preparing for an exciting journey with friends through culture, flavors, and fun.

Stroll and Coffee at Plaza Futura

Ease into your trip by exploring the lively Plaza Futura with your friends. Enjoy local Salvadoran coffee or snacks while people-watching on the outdoor terraces and soaking up city vibes. Perfect way to unwind after your journey!

Pupusa Tasting at Calle Concepción

Delight your tastebuds with El Salvador's most beloved dish—pupusas! Visit a street stall or local eatery at Calle Concepción for authentic flavors. It's a fun, social meal that introduces you to Salvadoran culture and cuisine.

Sunset Walk in Parque Cuscatlán

Take a relaxing sunset walk among sculptures and modern gardens at Parque Cuscatlán. It's a great way to recover from travel, stretch your legs, and spot local families and artists enjoying the space.

San Salvador City Tour and El Boquerón National Park including Pupusa Tasting

San Salvador City Tour and El Boquerón National Park including Pupusa Tasting

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Walking around downtown San Salvador with one of our tour guides, is the best way to explore the area, as we stop at the most important buildings in downtown we also get to show you the day by day of salvadorans, talking about history and the nowadays El Salvador. Main Cathedral, National Palace, National Teather, El Rosario church are some of the most popular places to visit. Then we will stop at a local retaurante for you to have a taste Pupusas, our most popular national dish. After this we take you to visit El Boqueron national park located at the crater of the San Salvador volcano, awesome views, great weather and nature are the top things to enjoy in this place .

4.9 (83 reviews)

From $99 USD

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Attractions

4.8 (24 reviews)
Mayan Tour: Joya de Cerén UNESCO Site +Tazumal Ceremonial Center

Mayan Tour: Joya de Cerén UNESCO Site +Tazumal Ceremonial Center

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The Mayan Civilization remains a vital part of Central America's heritage. To truly understand our identity, it is essential to explore its culture, daily life, sacred sites, traditions, and customs. At Joya de Cerén, you will discover the authentic life of Mayan commoners and farmers, gaining insight into their everyday world. Next, we visit Tazumal, a grand temple complex once used for important ceremonies. To conclude our day, we will enjoy a delicious lunch at a recommended spot either overlooking the stunning panoramic lake or in the charming city of Santa Ana. Join us and let the stories of our ancient cultures come alive!

From $125 USD

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4.9 (83 reviews)
Ruta de Las Flores Adventure, Relax at Hotsprings + 1930's farm Coffee Tour

Ruta de Las Flores Adventure, Relax at Hotsprings + 1930's farm Coffee Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

In this tour you will have the opportunity to meet and visit the most picturesque colonial towns with greater cultural tradition of the western part of El Salvador. Begining in Nahuizalco, town with indigenous custom, recognized for its fine crafts in wicker and tule. We continue our tour toApaneca, the highest village of all El Salvador, known for its coffee plantations. Here you can do some optional activities like the Zip Line on a Bike, or the largest maze in Central America. Finishing with the colorful town of Ataco, famous for its handicrafts, its restaurants, and its beautiful cobbled streets. After Ataco, we will do a wonderful Coffe tour in El Carme Estate and Finishing in a relaxing stop at Termales de Santa Teresa to enjoy the Hotsprings

From $116 USD

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5.0 (10 reviews)
Coffee Country and Ruta de las Flores. A day full of fun!

Coffee Country and Ruta de las Flores. A day full of fun!

INSTANT_THEN_MANUAL
Free Cancellation

Ruta de las Flores is a series of colorful villages sitting across the Apaneca mountain range, a belt formed by 14 volcanoes and the heart of COFFEE COUNTRY in El Salvador. This was the first tourist circuit developed here after the Peace Agreements of 1992. Nowadays is one of the top tourist destinations and must-go in our country. The perfect mix of volcanic minerals, elevation and climate makes this mountain range the most important coffee growing region in El Salvador. Around this crop many traditions, stories and history had been loomed over the years to offer a very special and interesting destination. Dare to talk with the locals, eat what they eat. You'll explore, taste, learn and discover... El Salvador is so diverse that will make your day. There's plenty of optional activities (upon request): - Zipline - ATVs rides - Coffee Cupping (plus a supplement to your Coffee Experience) - Hot springs and thermal pools - Reptile House NOTE: some attractions may run on weekends only.

From $125 USD

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4.8 (30 reviews)
The best of Ruta de Las Flores: Bike Zipline + Ataco + Hotsprings

The best of Ruta de Las Flores: Bike Zipline + Ataco + Hotsprings

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

We will visit the most picturesque town on the flower route, Concepcion de Ataco. Town surrounded by murals and cobbled streets. We will go to Cafe Albania, here we will carry out one of the most recognized activities in El Salvador, zip line by bicycle. We will complete our tour with a relaxing visit to Termales de Santa Teresa. Don't forget your bathing suit and relax in these volcanic waters.

From $135 USD

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5.0 (4 reviews)
El Salvador Express in 5 Days

El Salvador Express in 5 Days

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Experience El Salvador in 5 - Days. This fantastic adventure, cover the best highlights of El Salvador. Also in this adventure you will explore as a local and learning its gastronomy, history and having contact with nature as volcanoes, forests, animals , pacific coast. Let us show you the positive side of the smallest country of Central America.

From $925 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
7 Cascadas Waterfall Adventure and Gastronomic Festival in Juayúa

7 Cascadas Waterfall Adventure and Gastronomic Festival in Juayúa

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Discover the stunning beauty of El Salvador's Juayúa region on a family-friendly adventure exploring the legendary 7 Cascadas and the serene Chorros de la Calera waterfalls. With the guidance of a bilingual expert, you'll traverse lush forests, natural springs, and volcanic formations while learning about the area's rich history and culture. Enjoy a refreshing swim in crystal-clear pools and indulge in a delicious lunch in town. If you visit on a weekend, experience the vibrant Gastronomic Festival featuring local culinary delights. - Explore seven iconic waterfalls with safety gear and expert guides - Swim and relax at the tranquil Chorros de la Calera waterfalls - Savor a delicious lunch in Juayúa, with an option to attend the Gastronomic Festival on weekends - Perfect for families and adventure seekers looking for a cultural experience

From $135 USD

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5.0 (9 reviews)
Explore San Salvador: Historic Center, local market and volcano

Explore San Salvador: Historic Center, local market and volcano

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Explore the highlights of the city with a native guide of San Salvador. Visit major historical spots, main avenues, commercial and residential districts, sightseeing landmarks and monuments that commemorate relevant historical figures and events. Many public buildings in El Centro were made during years of splendor of coffee exports, with a mix of architectural styles. Since the recent renovation Downtown is nicer and safer than ever to walk. Many businesses are boosting up and it has become "the place to be". Walk the streets learning details of events that occurred on this very place over almost 500 years of history and the people that took part in it. From colony to Independence. From the Federation to the Coffee Republic. From military regimes to democracy. From repressions to big celebrations and presidential inaugurations. On the afternoon visit a local market (you can have lunch here) followed by a walk in the cloud forest at El Boquerón Nat. Park, on San Salvador volcano.

From $115 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)
Flower and Coffee Route: Private Tour of Living Peoples

Flower and Coffee Route: Private Tour of Living Peoples

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Escape the heat of the city and immerse yourself in the freshness of the mountains of western El Salvador. This private tour combines the best of three worlds: the natural beauty of Lake Coatepeque (a volcanic wonder), the living culture of colonial peoples and a world-class coffee experience. We will visit the historic Beneficio El Carmen to understand how the golden grain reaches its cup, explore the famous colorful murals of Ataco and connect with the indigenous roots in the Nahuizalco market. All at your own pace, with private transportation and expert guide. Premium Coffee Experience: Guided tour and tasting at the historic Finca El Carmen. Impact Views : Panoramic stop at Lake Coatepeque. Living Peoples: Walk through the streets of Concepción de Ataco, famous for its artistic murals. Local Culture: Visit the Nahuizalco Night Market and its wicker crafts. Gastronomy : Enjoy the gastronomic festival or local restaurants.

From $175 USD

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