Lively and incredibly friendly; packed with volcanoes, rich forests and craggy mountains; fringed by golden beaches and first-class waves which would satisfy the most adventurous surfers and sun-worshippers – El Salvador is a perfect one-stop destination. Most people have a love-hate relationship with the capital, San Salvador, but recent rejuvenation projects are drawing more visitors in. And beyond the city there are many compelling reasons for a visit.
The northern hills around El Poy and Perquín are a haven for trekkers; Cerro Verde National Park offers dramatic, horizon-filling landscapes filled with hot springs and countless waterfalls; a challenging scramble across the smoking cinder cone of Izalco volcano is rewarded by beautiful views over Lago de Coatepeque; and who could resist the draw of a national park called El Imposible? Oft overlooked Mayan ruins abound. Among the most spectacular is Joya de Cerén. Dubbed the "Pompeii of the Americas", the site boasts a Mayan village once buried under layers of volcanic ash from a nearby eruption. The perfectly preserved wattle and daub houses, complete with a Mayan steam room, or temazcal, and the ceremonial headquarters of a shaman, secure Joya de Cerén a place among the continent's most intriguing archaeological sites.
To the south, long, sandy beaches prized by surfers for decades stretch along the Costa del Sol to the Gulf of Fonseca, dotted with islets and bays to explore. In the west, wander through coffee plantations, soak up the beauty of the Ruta de las Flores or simply laze around, watching the daily display of Pacific sunsets.
El Salvador’s temperature is a consistent and comfortable 28°C throughout the year. The rainy season lasts from May to October, although light rain is possible year round. The coast and lowland areas can feel hot and humid, especially between March and May.
Comalapa International Airport (SAL), 50 km from San Salvador.
‘Chicken’ buses are cheap, reasonably efficient and a great way to get around this small country. Comfier coaches ply the route between San Miguel, Santa Rosa de Lima and La Unión. You can rent a car in San Salvador; local garages charge considerably less than the main rental companies. Cycling in El Salvador is recommended but you’ll need to bring your own bike and safety equipment.
Accommodation options in El Salvador are increasing but there are still only a limited number of hostels. Budget travellers will need to rely on cheap hotels. The majority of budget hotels are located in popular surf spots along the coast. Campsites are available at most lakes, parks and beaches. Book well ahead for Easter, Christmas and during local festivals.
What El Salvador lacks in refined dining it makes up for in the quality of quantity of its fresh ingredients. Look for lunch deals in local restaurants. Try pupusas (small tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans or shredded pork), mariscada (seafood served in a creamy soup) or sopa de frijoles (bean soup). Oysters (ostras) in El Salvador are very special indeed, as is the fresh coffee. Vegetarians won’t starve.
El Salvador isn’t nearly as dangerous as its reputation suggests. However, street crime does occur so avoid carrying valuables and do your best to blend in. At night, take taxis rather than walk, especially in the larger cities and be wary of taking out large amounts of
cash from ATMs. Speak to your doctor or travel clinic about vaccinations and protection against malaria. Drink bottled water.
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