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🇸🇻 El Salvador travel guide

Central America's smallest country — surf beaches, coffee highlands, and ancient Maya ruins.

Explore El Salvador on the 3D globe
Capital
San Salvador
Continent
North America
Population
6.3M
Languages
Spanish
Currency
US Dollar $
Time zone
UTC-6 (CST)
Area
21,041 km²

Top places to visit in El Salvador

5-day El Salvador itinerary

  1. Day 1: San Salvador arrival

    Metropolitan Cathedral, National Palace, Mercado Central.

  2. Day 2: Santa Ana Volcano

    Crater lake hike, volcanic views, Coatepeque Lake swim.

  3. Day 3: Joya de Cerén

    Pompeii of the Americas, Maya village under volcanic ash.

  4. Day 4: El Tunco

    Pacific surf beach, beach bars, black sand, seafood.

  5. Day 5: Departure

    Last pupusas, indigo dye souvenir, farewell.

How much does it cost to travel in El Salvador?

Travel styleEstimated cost
Budget$30/day
Mid-range$70/day
Luxury$180/day
Round-trip flight$500

Rough estimates in US dollars. Prices vary by season and departure city.

Useful phrases for El Salvador

EnglishLocalPronunciation
HelloHola
Thank youGracias
GoodbyeAdiós
How much?¿Cuánto cuesta?

What El Salvador is known for

Pupusas (national dish) · Surfing · Coffee · Joya de Cerén · Bitcoin legal tender

A strong choice if you enjoy food, nature, history and water activities.

El Salvador travel FAQ

How much does a trip to El Salvador cost per day?

Our estimate is around $30/day on a budget, $70/day mid-range and $180/day for luxury travel, not including international flights.

How many days do you need in El Salvador?

This guide's route covers 5 days: San Salvador arrival, Santa Ana Volcano, Joya de Cerén, El Tunco and Departure.

What are the top things to see in El Salvador?

Highlights include Santa Ana Volcano, El Tunco Beach, Joya de Cerén and Coatepeque Crater Lake.

What language and currency are used in El Salvador?

Languages: Spanish. Currency: US Dollar $.

Check your government's travel advice and entry requirements before you book.

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