Surf breaks, volcano hikes and villages of coffee and flowers.
El Salvador is Central America's smallest country and packs a lot into short distances. The Pacific coast around El Tunco and El Zonte has consistent surf, while inland the Santa Ana volcano has a turquoise crater lake and Lago de Coatepeque fills an older caldera. The Ruta de las Flores links mountain coffee towns, Suchitoto has cobbled streets, and Joya de Cerén preserves a buried Maya farming village.
Pupusas, stuffed corn tortillas with curtido, are the national dish and cost very little. Distances are short, so day trips from the capital or coast are easy. November to April is dry and sunny, while the rainy season brings afternoon storms, heaviest in September and October.
Best time to visit El Salvador
January, February, March, November, December.
Places to visit in El Salvador
San Salvador: El Salvador's capital, with a restored historic centre, a volcano crater on the edge of town and access to the whole small country.
El Tunco: A small surf town on El Salvador's Pacific coast, with consistent point breaks, black-sand beaches and lively bars.
Ruta de las Flores: A scenic route through the coffee-growing western highlands, linking colourful mountain towns, waterfalls and weekend food fairs.
Essentials
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Language: Spanish
Plugs: Type A / B, 120 V
Driving: Right side
Time zone: UTC−6
Tipping: 10% is often added in sit-down restaurants
Getting around: Shuttles and private drivers between regions; local buses are cheap but slow
Entry: Check the official rules for your passport before booking