El Salvador Itineraries
Discover the gem of Central America with our perfectly curated itineraries for 8 & 16 days. From volcanoes to colonial towns, these itineraries are the absolute musts.
One thing we can assure you is you'll want more of this country...
El Salvador Road Trip Itinerary
El Salvador is one of the most underrated road trip destinations in Central America. The drives are stunning, taking you through lush coffee-covered mountains, along the dramatic Pacific coastline, and past charming colonial towns. Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to explore the country’s vibrant surf beaches, colorful markets, volcanic landscapes, and historic cities — all packed into the smallest country in the region, making every drive scenic and manageable.
El Salvador Road Trip Itinerary
El Salvador is one of the most underrated road trip destinations in Central America. The drives are stunning, taking you through lush coffee-covered mountains, along the dramatic Pacific coastline, and past charming colonial towns. Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to explore the country’s vibrant surf beaches, colorful markets, volcanic landscapes, and historic cities — all packed into the smallest country in the region, making every drive scenic and manageable.
Day 1-2 San Salvador
Begin your El Salvador journey in the lively capital city, San Salvador. Here, modern shopping districts meet historic plazas, and you’ll find museums, markets, and vibrant nightlife. Visit the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Museum of Art (MARTE) to get a taste of the country’s heritage.
The city sits in a valley surrounded by volcanoes — take a half-day trip to El Boquerón National Park on San Salvador Volcano for sweeping views over the capital. In the evenings, sample authentic pupusas at Planes de Renderos (this is the spot) or dine in the upscale Zona Rosa neighborhood.
Tip: San Salvador is well-connected to El Salvador’s international airport (about 40 minutes away) and makes a perfect base for day trips to nearby volcanoes, lakes, and towns. Uber is the perfect way to get from El Salvador's International Airport to San Salvador. Don't miss Puerta del Diablo nearby Planes de Renderos for stunning views over the Pacific coast and if you dare, try the zip line here.
Palacio Nacional, San Salvador Historic City C
Where to stay in San Salvador
From upscale stays to home-stays, San Salvador's accommodation offer is wide. Choose Zona Rosa/San Benito if you want upscale restaurants, cafes and bars around. Santa Elena is more quiet, with plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars, too. If you want a bit further in San Salvador's mountains go for El Boqueron or Planes de Renderos. See our full list of hotel recommendations here.
Tip: San Salvador's traffic may be chaotic. If you mind traffic, Zona Rosa/San Benito, Santa Elena and Colonia Escalon are your best bet for a central stay (this is not the historic city centre, though)
View from Planes de Renderos, San Salvador
Day 3 Suchitoto
Known as the cultural heart of El Salvador, Suchitoto charms visitors with cobblestone streets, whitewashed colonial buildings, and breathtaking views over Lake Suchitlán. Explore local art galleries, visit the Santa Lucía Church, and take a boat tour on the lake to spot migratory birds.
If you’re here in February, don’t miss the colorful Festival Internacional de Arte y Cultura, which fills the town with music, dance, and theater.
This town will charm you with its streets and old buildings, so bring your camera ready to snap the most instagrammable pictures. We also recommend waiting until the fountain in front of the church lights up, and indulging in a ''sorbete de carreton'' (cart sorbet) in the central plaza. The town has a wide offer of cafes and restaurants, so you won't be short of food here.
Tip: You can't miss Cascada los Tercios, located a short walk/drive away from Suchitoto. Remember to bring water and snacks as there may be no vendors nearby.
Suchitoto, El Salvador
Where to stay in Suchitoto
Book a colonial-style inn with a courtyard garden or a lakeside eco-lodge for a peaceful overnight stay. If you're looking for a central stay in Suchitoto, look for a place around ''Parque Central de Suchitoto'' as this is the very center. See our hotel recommendation for Suchitoto here.
Cascada los Tercios, Suchitoto, El Salvador
Day 4-5 Ruta de las Flores
Drive into the highlands to explore El Salvador’s most scenic route — the “Flower Route.” This winding road connects a string of charming mountain towns like Juayúa, Apaneca, and Ataco, each known for colorful murals, weekend food festivals, and artisan markets.
Juayúa is famous for its gastronomic festival every weekend (Saturdays & Sundays at the Parque Central), while Ataco’s cobblestone streets are lined with coffee shops and handcraft stores. Between towns, visit coffee plantations for tours and tastings, or hike to hidden waterfalls like Los Chorros de la Calera.
Tip: If you can extend your stay in Ruta de las Flores, add an extra day to the itinerary here. You will be met with majestic views of volcanoes, coffee plantations, exquisite foods and more. There are many waterfalls in the western part of El Salvador, but our favorite one is 7 Cascadas and Chorros de la Calera. We booked our tour through Los Naranjos Town Houses. More information here.
Volcan de Santa Ana (left) & Volcan de Izalco (center), El Salvador
Where to stay in Ruta de las Flores
Whether you choose Ataco, Juayua, Apaneca or Nahuizalco, Ruta de las Flores offers accommodation for all types of travelers. Accommodations here are all very unique and charming. See our recommendations on where to stay in Ruta de las Flores here.
Los Naranjos Town Houses, Ruta de las Flores, El Salvador
Day 6-7 Santa Ana
El Salvador’s second-largest city blends colonial charm with natural wonders. Explore the neo-Gothic Santa Ana Cathedral, the ornate Teatro de Santa Ana, and the nearby Mayan ruins of Tazumal.
For adventurers, the highlight is hiking the Santa Ana Volcano (Ilamatepec). The challenging climb rewards you with views of a turquoise crater lake and the surrounding volcanic landscape.
Tip: Santa Ana volcano is the easy one, but if you're looking for a hike that not many do, try Izalco volcano (Sonsonate) which is right in front of Santa Ana volcano. Here's the official contact of the guide for Santa Ana volcano & Izalco volcano: +503 7245-5184. Volcan de Santa Ana departures at 9:00 AM, return at 1:30 PM, Izalco volcano departure at 10:00 AM and return 2:00 PM (minimum of 10 people to do the Izalco volcano walk so ask the guide). The walks may be cancelled any time due to strong winds specially in the dry season, so consult the guide for this.
Inside the Santa Ana volcano crater, El Salvador
Where to stay in Santa Ana
Opt for a centrally located boutique hotel (nearby the Santa Ana cathedral) or eco-lodge near the volcano for easy morning starts. See our hotel recommendations for Santa Ana here.
View from the Santa Ana volcano in to the Coatepeque lake, El Salvador
Day 8 Coatepeque lake
Spend a day relaxing at Coatepeque Lake, a stunning crater lake with deep blue waters. You can kayak, swim, take a restaurant boat or simply lounge at one of the lakeside restaurants with fresh fish on the menu.
Stay until evening — the sunsets here are unforgettable, with the lake shifting to shades of turquoise and gold.
Teopan island in Coatepeque lake, El Salvador
Day 9-10 La Libertad
Time to hit the beach! La Libertad is El Salvador’s surf capital, with spots for both beginners and pros. Head to El Tunco or El Zonte for relaxed surf-town vibes, oceanfront cafes, and golden sunsets. If you want somewhere more with locals, we love San Blas beach and el Palmarcito.
Between surf sessions, visit the fish market in La Libertad to watch fishermen unload their catch, or take a yoga class overlooking the waves.
Tip: La Libertad coast is full of restaurants, but our favorite one is Betos Restaurant. Come here for sunset time (5:00 PM) and enjoy the gorgeous views. Keep in mind this place is truly busy all the time, so you might need to wait for a table.
La Libertad Coast, El Salvador
Where to stay in La Libertad
Choose a boutique surf lodge or beachfront villa with a pool to enjoy ocean views right from your room. See our hotel recommendations for La Libertad here.
La Libertad Coast, El Salvador
Day 11 El Imposible National Park
Venture west to explore El Salvador’s largest national park, El Imposible. This biodiverse haven is perfect for hikers, with trails leading through lush forests, waterfalls, and scenic lookouts. The park is home to rare bird species, making it a hotspot for birdwatchers. Entrance for Salvadorans is 3 USD and for foreigners 6 USD, camping for Salvadorans 3 USD and for foreigners 6 USD.
Tip: You may choose to camp here surrounded by the incredible nature of this place. In such case, make sure you have warm clothes as temperatures may drop drastically, specially during night time and early morning.
El Imposible National Park, El Salvador
Where to stay in El Imposible National Park
Eco-lodges and rustic cabins near Tacuba make a great base for exploring the park. See our list of hotels for El Imposible National Park here.
Day 12-13 Gulf of Fonseca, La Union
Discover El Salvador’s peaceful east coast, where the Gulf of Fonseca meets volcanic islands. From the port town of La Unión, take a boat trip to Meanguera or Zacatillo Island for quiet beaches, fishing villages, and fresh seafood. This might be the most underrated place in Central America. This lesser-visited area offers a slower pace and is perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds.
Tip: The drive from El Imposible National Park to Gulf of Fonseca takes around 6 hours (this is a cross country journey). We recommend you take El Litoral highway for the best views of the coast and avoiding San Salvador where traffic may build up heavy.
Conchagua Volcano, La Union, El Salvador
Where to stay in La Union
Stay at a waterfront hotel or island eco-lodge to fully enjoy the Gulf of Fonseca’s views and seafood culture. Popular options include comfortable mid-range hotels in La Unión town with easy boat access to the islands. Island eco-retreats on Meanguera or Zacatillo for complete seclusion and nature immersion. See our hotel recommendations here.
Gulf of Fonseca, La Union, El Salvador
Day 14-15 Usulutan and Jiquilisco Bay
End your trip in Jiquilisco Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve filled with mangrove forests, remote beaches, and turtle nesting sites. You can kayak through winding waterways, spot wildlife, or join a guided turtle release program (seasonal).
Nearby, the Usulután coast offers pristine stretches of sand and authentic fishing communities, making for a relaxing end to your journey.
Tip: This is one of the richest, most diverse areas of El Salvador for nature. If you visit during turtle nesting season (typically April to October), you can often join guided night walks or turtle hatchling release programs. You will also see plenty of birds, raccoons, Geoffroy spider monkeys and crocodiles.
Geoffroy Spider Monkey, Bahia de Jiquilisco, El Salvador
Where to stay in Usulutan
This area is known for its mangrove lodges and sustainable stays that connect you with nature. Options include eco-lodges tucked among mangroves, offering kayaking and wildlife tours from your doorstep. Beachfront bungalows on nearby Usulután’s coast for a more laid-back, ocean-focused experience. See our selection of hotels for Usulutan here.
How to visit El Salvador
El Salvador is compact, so you can cover a lot in just two weeks — from volcano hikes to surf towns to cultural gems. A rental car offers the most flexibility, but guided tours and private shuttles are also available for travelers who prefer not to drive.
Where to stay in El Salvador
San Salvador:
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Budget friendly: La Zona Hostel , Hotel Citlalli
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Mid-scale: Cardedeu Suites , Hotel Villa Florencia Zona Rosa
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Upscale: InterContinental San Salvador , Sheraton Presidente
Suchitoto:
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Budget: The Mayan Grouper
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Upscale: Casa 1800 Suchitoto
Ruta de las Flores:
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Budget: Samay Hostel Juayua
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Mid-scale: Hotel & Restaurante Fleur de Lis Ataco
Santa Ana:
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Budget: Hostal Casa Verde Santa Ana
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Mid-scale: Hotel Villa Napoli Bed & Breakfast Santa Ana
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Upscale: -
Coatepeque Lake (Santa Ana):
La Libertad:
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Budget: Hotel Olas Permanentes El Zonte
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Mid-scale: Coco Surf Tropical Villas
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Upscale: Hotel Los Farallones , Mizata by Antiresort
La Union:
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Upscale: Casa del Golfo La Union
Usulutan:
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Upscale: Puerto Barillas Marina & Lodge
Getting around El Salvador
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By Car: The best way to reach remote beaches, national parks, and mountain towns. Roads are generally in good condition, though mountain routes can be winding.
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By Shuttle: Many hotels and tour operators offer shared or private shuttles between popular destinations.
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By Bus: Affordable “chicken buses” connect most towns, but travel time is longer and comfort levels vary.
Travel tips for El Salvador
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Tap water is not recommended for drinking — opt for filtered or bottled water.
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Temperatures are warm year-round; bring light clothing but pack a layer for cool mountain evenings.
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Always carry cash, especially in rural areas.
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Public holidays and local festivals can be lively but may also mean closures — check ahead.
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Sunscreen, insect repellent, and sturdy shoes are essential for outdoor adventures.
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Security has significantly improved, however, exercise normal caution in markets and crowded places as pickpockets, although uncommon, still exist.
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El Salvador's emergency contact is 911.
Travel costs for El Salvador
El Salvador is one of the most affordable destinations in Central America. Budget travelers can spend $35–$50 USD per day, while mid-range trips range $70–$150 USD, and luxury stays from $200 USD upwards.
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Food: Street food like pupusas costs around $0.50–$1 each, and a full local meal can be $3–$6. Even mid-range restaurants often stay under $15 per person.
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Transport: Buses are extremely cheap ($0.25–$1 per ride), and intercity travel is low-cost compared to neighboring countries.
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Accommodation: Decent hotels and guesthouses start at $20–$40/night, and even boutique stays are often under $100.
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Attractions: Many hikes, beaches, and cultural sites are free or have minimal entrance fees ($1–$5).
