El Salvador-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: San Salvador and the Volcanoes

  • Morning: Start your day at the National Museum (Museo Nacional de Antropología Dr. David J. Guzmán) in San Salvador, which provides a comprehensive overview of El Salvador’s history and culture.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Joya de Cerén archaeological site, known as the “Pompeii of the Americas”. This ancient Mayan village was preserved under volcanic ash for centuries and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Evening: Head to San Salvador’s vibrant city center, with its many restaurants, bars, and shops. Try some traditional Salvadorian cuisine like pupusas or sopaipillas.

Things to know:

  • El Salvador uses the US dollar as its official currency.
  • Spanish is the primary language spoken in El Salvador, but English is widely understood in tourist areas.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings and keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.

Day 2: Pacific Coast Beaches

  • Morning: Drive along the scenic coastal highway (Ruta del Sol) to El Tunco, a popular beach town with stunning ocean views. Surfing and fishing are popular activities here.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby beach of El Zancudo, known for its strong waves and lively atmosphere.
  • Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants in El Tunco or neighboring towns like El Cuco.

Things to know:

  • Be prepared for strong sun and heat; bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting Mayan archaeological sites.
  • Don’t forget to try some fresh coconut water or tropical fruits like mangoes or papayas!

Day 3: Ruta de las Flores and Lake Coatepeque

  • Morning: Drive along the scenic Flower Route (Ruta de las Flores) to the charming town of Ataco, famous for its coffee plantations and stunning views.
  • Afternoon: Visit the picturesque town of Ahuachapan, with its colorful houses and lively market. Stop by Lake Coatepeque, a beautiful lake surrounded by lush vegetation and scenic hiking trails.

Things to know:

  • Be prepared for winding roads and occasional traffic delays along the Flower Route.
  • Don’t miss the opportunity to try some local coffee or chocolate in Ataco!
  • Respect local wildlife and environment; keep an eye out for monkeys, birds, and other animals.

Visa Requirements:

US citizens don’t need a visa to enter El Salvador as tourists. If you’re not a US citizen, check with your government’s travel advisory website for specific requirements.

Transportation:

Renting a car is the best way to explore El Salvador, especially along the Pacific coast and Flower Route. You can also hire a driver or join guided tours for convenience. Public transportation options like buses are available, but may not be as frequent or reliable.

Other Tips:

  • Be prepared for occasional power outages in remote areas.
  • Don’t drink alcohol while driving or operate heavy machinery.
  • Respect local holidays and celebrations; many businesses close during these times.

This itinerary should give you a good starting point for planning your trip to El Salvador. Enjoy your travels!