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Top Things to Do in El Salvador in 2024
Adventure El Salvador with the top things to do like hiking Santa Ana Volcano, diving the Tamanique Waterfalls and going to the Marte Museum.
January 18, 2024
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Welcome to the Land of Volcanos, located in the heart of Central America, where adventure, history, and culture fuse into one. This country is definitely a destination to have on your bucket list. Today, we’ll be exploring the top things to do in El Salvador, like hiking, surfing, visiting historic sites, and much more! We’ll throw in a few tips and tricks to make sure that this trip is one to remember. Let’s jump in!
What is the best time to visit El Salvador?
Before we dive into the must-see attractions, let’s briefly touch on the ideal time to explore El Salvador. The country’s tropical climate makes it a year-round destination, but the dry season from November to April is particularly favored. It’ll be more comfortable for you to enjoy festivals, outdoor activities and much more.
Fun things to do in El Salvador for tourists
Surfing in El Tunco
El Tunco is a perfect getaway where you’re not going to learn about history or museums, but just relax and enjoy the waves and town. You can arrive there on a bus or A/C van from major cities around like San Salvador, La Libertad, and Sonsonate, for as little as $1.25.
Once there, you’ll be captivated by the peaceful ambiance and friendly locals. At the tiny hidden gem, you’ll find surfing schools, local cafés, and delicious cuisine. Get around on the bus that only costs around $0.50 and find accommodation for just around $20 per night in a dorm and $50 for a private room.
Cliff Jumping at the Tamanique Waterfalls
Experience an adrenaline rush by cliff jumping at the stunning Tamanique waterfalls. Tours are available for around $30, which generally includes the guide fee, transportation, and activity admission fees. You can also go on your own and take a bus or a shared ride for just $1.
Take enough water, swimwear, and sunscreen, and you’ll have a blast!
Enjoy the Carnaval de San Miguel
Immerse yourself in the vibrant Carnaval de San Miguel, a celebration of culture, music, and color. Every last Saturday of November, the streets of San Salvador are packed with parades, music, and fireworks. You can enjoy the festivity from 10 pm up to the next morning.
Take advantage and try the local cuisine and get those fantastic pictures for Instagram! Remember to stay connected to the internet while you’re at it so you won’t have any issues. Try some of the following delicacies:
- Pupusas
- Panes con Pavo
- Yuca Frita
- Sopa de Pata
- Plátanos Fritos
- Enchiladas Salvadoreñas
- Pastelitos
- Tamales
- Atol de Elote
- Mariscada
Visit Museo Marte
Discover the art and culture of El Salvador at the Marte Museum. Located at Avenida de la Revolución you can arrive by bus, routes, 30B and 34, and taxi. You’ll find seven art halls with exhibitions from artists native to El Salvador and even from other parts of the world.
Admission costs are $1 for the locals, and $5 for tourists and foreigners. See the Museums’ schedule in the chart below:
| Date Range | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| January 12 to February 29 | Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. |
| Starting March 1 | Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. |
| March to October | Open on Mondays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. |
The must-see places for tourists in El Salvador
Tazumal Archaeological Site
Step back in time at the Tazumal archaeological site, evidence of El Salvador’s ancient Mayan history. You can go on a day tour that includes transportation, professional guide, and entrance fees for just $160. You’ll learn about the pyramids of Tazumal and the Mayan Route and visit one of the most beautiful lakes in El Salvador.
Furthermore, you’ll be doing a lot of walking, so bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and your camera for amazing memories.
Coatepeque Lake
Take a boat trip for only $10 and enjoy the tranquility at Coatepeque Lake. You can arrive there from Santa Ana on a chicken bus, and it takes just around 15–20 minutes. There are cheap hostels in the area for you to settle down for a while for as little as $40 a night.
Santa Ana Volcano Hike
Stay healthy and fit while you travel and hike up the Santa Ana volcano. At the finish line, your prize is the breathtaking views from the summit, showcasing the country’s diverse landscapes. Entry to the volcano costs $6, and the tour guide has a cost of $3. To get to the volcano from Santa Ana city, just follow these steps:
- Take bus 248 from La Vencedora Bus Station at 7:30 am
- Get off at the final stop and pay the tour guide $3
- Start the hike at 10 am
How much does it cost to visit El Salvador
Certainly! Here’s a simplified chart outlining the rough estimates for travel costs to El Salvador from the US:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Round-trip Flights | Economy Class: $300 – $800 |
| Business Class: $1,200 – $2,500 | |
| Accommodation | Budget Hotels/Hostels: $20 – $50 per night |
| Mid-Range Hotels: $60 – $120 per night | |
| Luxury Hotels/Resorts: $150 and above | |
| Transportation | Local Transportation: $5 – $20 per day |
| Car Rental: $30 – $60 per day | |
| Meals | Street Food/Local Eateries: $5 – $15 per meal |
| Mid-Range Restaurants: $15 – $30 per meal | |
| Fine Dining: $40 and above per meal | |
| Activities/Entrance Fees | Cultural/Heritage Sites: $5 – $20 per site |
| Adventure Activities: $20 – $50 per activity | |
| Festivals/Events: Varies | |
| Travel Insurance | Basic Coverage: $20 – $50 for the entire trip |
| Miscellaneous | Digital SIM Card for Internet: $19 – $99 |
| Souvenirs and Shopping: Varies |
General Tips for Tourists in El Salvador
Before taking off on your El Salvador adventure, keep these handy tips in mind:
- Explore the convenience of local transportation options.
- Take sunscreen, repellent, and adequate clothing.
- Adapt to the warmth of Salvadoran hospitality.
- Experience the local cuisine for a true taste of El Salvador.
- Stay attentive to your surroundings, especially when traveling alone.
- Stay connected easily with international providers like Holafly. Explore the benefits of their digital SIM:
- Unlimited Data
- Connect as soon as you connect
- 24/7 customer service
- Get it from anywhere, anytime
- User-friendly app
- Compatible with most recent phone models
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Frequently Asked Questions
El Salvador is renowned for its volcanoes, vibrant festivals, rich Mayan history, and welcoming locals.
Tourists can navigate El Salvador through a mix of affordable local buses, taxis, and ride-share services.
El Salvador offers a unique blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and thrilling adventures, making it a hidden gem in Central America.
Like any destination, caution is advised. El Salvador is generally safe for tourists who adhere to basic safety guidelines and exercise vigilance.
There are several options to connect in this small paradise. You can get a local SIM card, roaming, and eve pocket WiFi. But these options are generally inconvenient or too expensive.
