El Salvador 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Wonders of El Salvador

Visa Requirements: For most nationalities, a tourist visa is granted upon arrival in El Salvador for stays up to 90 days. Check with your local embassy for specific requirements based on your nationality.

Currency: US Dollar (USD)

Language: Spanish. Basic phrases will be helpful, but many people in tourist areas speak English.

Transportation:

  • Public Buses: Affordable and readily available, connecting most cities and towns.
  • Taxis: Easy to find in urban areas. Negotiate the price before starting your journey.
  • “Chicken Buses”: Colorful, refurbished school buses offering a unique and budget-friendly transportation experience.
  • Rental Cars: Available but roads can be challenging.

Things To Know:

  • El Salvador is generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution as you would in any unfamiliar destination.
  • The tap water is not always safe to drink. Stick to bottled water.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases – it will enhance your experience and interactions with locals.

Day 1: San Salvador Immersion

  • Morning: Arrive at El Salvador International Airport (SAL). Take a taxi or Uber to your accommodation in San Salvador.
  • Afternoon: Explore the historic center of San Salvador, visiting landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace, and the National Theatre.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Salvadoran restaurant and savor pupusas, the national dish.

Day 2: Mayan Ruins and Volcano Views

  • Morning: Take a bus to Joya de Cerén, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing remarkably preserved Mayan ruins.
  • Afternoon: Hike up the slopes of Cerro Verde volcano for breathtaking panoramic views of San Salvador and surrounding landscapes.
  • Evening: Relax at your accommodation or enjoy a lively night out in the Zona Rosa district.

Day 3: Surfing Paradise at El Tunco

  • Morning: Take a bus to El Tunco, a vibrant beach town famous for its world-class surfing waves. Rent a surfboard and hit the waves!
  • Afternoon: Soak up the sun on the black sand beach or explore the charming cafes and restaurants lining the shore.
  • Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood with stunning ocean views at one of El Tunco’s beachfront eateries.

Day 4: Coffee Plantation Adventure

  • Morning: Take a guided tour of a coffee plantation in the Apaneca mountain range, learning about the cultivation process from bean to cup. Enjoy a tasting session and purchase some locally roasted beans.
  • Afternoon: Visit the charming town of Ataco, known for its colorful colonial architecture and artisan workshops.
  • Evening: Relax at your accommodation or enjoy a traditional Salvadoran dinner in Ataco.

Day 5: Lake Coatepeque Serenity and Departure

  • Morning: Take a bus to Lake Coatepeque, a stunning crater lake surrounded by lush vegetation. Go for a swim, kayak across the tranquil waters, or simply soak up the breathtaking views.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at a lakeside restaurant before heading back to San Salvador.
  • Evening: Depart from El Salvador International Airport (SAL).

Optional Activities:

  • Visit the Ruta de las Flores, a picturesque scenic route dotted with charming towns and artisan workshops.

  • Explore the Montecristo National Park, a cloud forest sanctuary teeming with biodiversity.

  • Go white-water rafting on the Lempa River.

  • Take a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Salvadoran dishes like pupusas, tamales, and sopa de pata (tripe soup).