El Salvador


A small country packed with incredible surf spots, ancient ruins, and natural beauty.

ABOUT:

El Salvador

El Salvador may be Central America’s smallest country, but it packs in plenty of excitement. Surf the legendary waves at El Tunco, hike the lush trails of El Boquerón National Park, or explore ancient Mayan ruins like Joya de Cerén. The Ruta de las Flores offers picturesque villages and waterfalls waiting to be discovered. The food here is a highlight—pupusas, tamales, and fresh tropical fruit are must-tries. With its welcoming people, stunning scenery, and off-the-beaten-path charm, El Salvador is a hidden treasure worth uncovering.


Capital

San Salvador

Language

Spanish

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Population

~6.3 million

Area

21,041 km²

El Salvador is a hidden gem in Central America, known for its world-class surfing beaches, lush coffee plantations, and Mayan archaeological sites. Despite its small size, it offers a wide variety of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.

The dry season from November to April is the best time to visit, offering sunny weather perfect for hiking and beach trips.

El Salvador is very affordable. Budget travellers can get by on $25–$40 per day, with street food costing around $1–$3 and budget accommodations starting at $10–$20 per night.

Despite its reputation, El Salvador is generally safe for tourists (especially since the new president). Some areas remain risky, so stick to popular tourist destinations, use reputable transportation, and try to avoid travelling at night.

Most travellers, including those from the USA, EU, and UK, can enter visa-free for up to 90 days, though a $12 tourist entry fee is required upon arrival.

Tap water in El Salvador is not safe to drink. Always stick to bottled or filtered water to stay healthy.

El Salvador uses Type A and Type B plugs (two flat pins or two flat pins with a grounding pin). The voltage is 120V at 60Hz.

The official language is Spanish, and English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas. Learn a few key phrases: Hola (Hello), Gracias (Thank you), ¿Cuánto cuesta? (How much?).