El Salvador 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day El Salvador Itinerary: Volcanoes, Beaches & Mayan Ruins

This itinerary focuses on the highlights of El Salvador, combining its stunning natural beauty with its rich cultural heritage.

Things to know:

  • Currency: The official currency is the US dollar.

  • Language: Spanish is the official language. While English is spoken in some tourist areas, knowing basic Spanish phrases will be helpful.

  • Safety: El Salvador has a high crime rate. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution, especially in urban areas. Research safe travel practices for the region before you go.

  • Transportation: Public transportation is affordable and accessible in El Salvador, but consider hiring private drivers or using ride-sharing services for safer and more convenient travel, especially outside major cities.

Day 1: Arrival & San Salvador Exploration

  • Arrive in San Salvador: Check visa requirements before your trip (see below).
  • Explore the city: Visit the historic Plaza Libertad, climb the Cerro San Jacinto for panoramic views, see the vibrant murals at the “El Paseo” and the National Museum of Anthropology “David J. Guzmán”.
  • Enjoy local cuisine: Sample traditional pupusas and other Salvadoran delicacies at a nearby restaurant.

Day 2-3: Volcanoes & Adventure

  • Cerro Verde National Park: Hike up the volcano for breathtaking views and a chance to see the active crater of “El Hoyo del Diablo” (The Devil’s Pit) and explore the dormant volcanic craters and lava fields.
  • Santa Ana Volcano Hike: For experienced hikers, trek to the summit of the highest volcano in El Salvador for stunning panoramic views of the country.

Day 4: Relaxing on the Beach

  • El Tunco: This small town is a popular surf destination with a vibrant nightlife and plenty of restaurants along the beach.
  • Enjoy the Pacific Ocean: Spend the day surfing, swimming, or sunbathing on the beautiful black sand beaches.

Day 5-6: Dive into History & Culture

  • Ruta de las Flores: This scenic route connects charming colonial towns and offers a glimpse into El Salvador’s rich past.
  • Explore Mayan Ruins: Visit Joya de Cerén, an archaeological site known as the “Pompeii of the Americas” for a unique experience.

Day 7: Farewell & Reflection

  • Enjoy a final sunrise: Reflect on your adventures while watching the sun rise over the Pacific Ocean.
  • Explore San Salvador’s Culture: Visit the Mercado de Artesanías for souvenirs and traditional crafts, or explore the vibrant culture of El Salvador by visiting a local market.

Things to consider:

  • Visa Requirements: Many nationalities can enter El Salvador visa-free for tourism purposes. Check the U.S. Department of State website for specific requirements based on your nationality.

  • Transportation:

    • Within cities: Use Uber, licensed taxis, or ride-sharing services from airports and hotels.
    • Between cities: Consider a private driver for safety and convenience.

  • Currency: The U.S. dollar is the official currency of El Salvador.

Optional Activities:

  • Coffee Plantation Tour: El Salvador is renowned for its coffee. A plantation tour offers insight into the bean-to-cup process.
  • Salvadoran Market Cooking Class: Learn to make traditional dishes like tamales and empanadas, and enjoy the fruits (and flavors!) of your labor.
  • Volcano Hiking & Boarding: Experienced hikers can explore the trails around volcanoes and for those who want a taste of local adventure, try volcano boarding in Cerro Verde!

Accommodation:

  • Choose from a variety of accommodation options along the Ruta de las Flores or near the beach to suit your budget, such as charming hostels, boutique hotels, or luxurious beachfront villas.

Food & Drink:

  • Pupusas: Try these delicious thick corn tortillas filled with cheese, beans, pork (loroco), or meat and filled with a variety of fillings.
  • Horchata: This traditional Salvadoran drink is made from rice and is perfect for cooling down on a hot day.

Food & Drink:

  • Coffee: El Salvador is known for its coffee, so be sure to try some while you’re there!

Tips:

  • Safety:

    • Stay in well-populated areas and avoid traveling alone at night.

  • Language: While the official language is Spanish, many people in the tourism industry speak English, particularly in the El Salvador region and tourist destinations. Learning basic phrases like “hola” (hello), “gracias” (thank you), and “por favor” (please) can go a long way.

  • Transportation: Consider booking a tour guide for transportation to and from the volcano.

  • Accommodation:

    • Safety: Stay in hotels with good security, or consider an Airbnb for a more local experience.

  • Getting around:

    • Public transport: Buses are the main mode of transportation. While generally safe, it’s best to stick to “buses de turismo” (tourist buses) or “chicken buses” (colorful, converted school buses) that travel between major cities and towns.

Food & Drink:

  • Safety First: Always carry bottled water with you and be careful about the food you eat. Stick to fresh fruits and vegetables that have been washed thoroughly.
  • Money:
    • The U.S. dollar is the official currency of El Salvador.

Things to do:

  • Hiking:

    • Hiking is a popular activity, but remember to be prepared with proper footwear and hydration.

Getting Around:

  • Transportation: Consider hiring a local guide for transportation and safety as they are familiar with the best routes and transportation options in El Salvador.
  • Things to do: Enjoy traditional coffee and tea tours along the Ruta de las Turismo, hike through the lush volcanic landscapes of Santa Ana Volcano (it’s the highest volcano in El Salvador), or explore the historical ruins at Tazumal.

Enjoy your trip!