El Salvador 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning

  • 6:00 AM: Arrive at Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (SAL) in San Salvador
  • 7:00 AM: Pick up rental car and drive to Los Volcanes National Park
  • 8:00 AM: Visit the park’s headquarters and register for a guided hike to the summit of Cerro El Pital, an active volcano (Note: hiking permits can be obtained at the park’s headquarters)

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant in the nearby town of San Antonio
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the ruins of Joyas de Cerén, a Mayan village that was buried by volcanic ash around 600 AD
  • 4:00 PM: Drive to your accommodation in San Salvador and rest

Evening

  • 7:00 PM: Have dinner at a local restaurant in the trendy neighborhood of Zona Rosa
  • 9:00 PM: Visit the nearby Plaza El Salvador del Mundo, a vibrant public square with shops and street performers

Day 2:

Morning

  • 7:00 AM: Drive to the Pacific coast and visit El Tunco Beach
  • 9:00 AM: Go surfing or take a lesson from one of the local surf schools
  • 12:00 PM: Have lunch at a beachside restaurant and try some fresh seafood

Afternoon

  • 1:30 PM: Visit the nearby Tamanique Hot Springs, a natural hot spring that is said to have healing properties
  • 3:00 PM: Drive back to San Salvador and visit the National Palace, which offers stunning views of the city

Evening

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: US citizens do not need a visa to enter El Salvador, but they must have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity.
  • Safety: Take normal precautions to ensure your safety, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
  • Language: Spanish is the official language of El Salvador, but many locals speak some English, especially in tourist areas.
  • Money: The local currency is the US dollar, which is widely accepted. Credit cards are also widely accepted.

Transportation

  • Rent a car for at least two days to explore the country.
  • Take taxis or buses when necessary, but be aware that traffic in San Salvador can be chaotic.
  • Consider hiring a driver or taking a tour group if you prefer not to drive yourself.

Other Tips

  • Try local cuisine, such as pupusas and empanadas.
  • Visit local markets and shops to support small businesses.
  • Be respectful of the country’s history and culture, especially when visiting ancient ruins or historical sites.