7 Days in El Salvador: The Most Underrated Central American Destination

You’ll likely arrive directly into El Salvador's capital, San Salvador. Although I spend my most time in Santa Tecla (the west side of San Salvador) I would not recommend it right away.

If you want to immerse yourself in the city's history, go to Centro Historico. Wander through the historic district. Visit the National Palace, the impressive Metropolitan Cathedral, and join a free walking tour for insightful local commentary.

Indulge in the quintessential Salvadoran experience by savoring delicious pupusas at Pupusería Doña Isabel. These savory corn cakes filled with cheese, beans or meat are a must-try.

We are home for four months now and we still talk about the delicious Pupusas. We ate them everyday.

Do you want to delve into the country's rich history and culture? Choose to visit the National Museum of Anthropology (MUNA), home to an extensive collection of pre-Columbian artifacts. Or opt for the Museo de Arte de El Salvador (MARTE), showcasing both contemporary and traditional art.

Or if you are more into the city's nightlife. Explore the lively Zona Rosa, known for its bars and restaurants, or seek a more local ambiance at San Benito.

If you are not a city person like me and you love nature, this is a must-visit if you are in El Salvador. How many chances does one have to get this close to an active volcano?

Time to embark on a challenging but rewarding hike up the Santa Ana Volcano. This active volcano offers breathtaking panoramic views from its summit. You have to travel to the Cerro Verde National Park, and I promise the views won’t disappoint you.

After your hike, you want to stick around and see the epic sunset over the mountains on the top of Cerro Verde National Park. There are little street food places for you to choose from or have a bite at the Los Volcanes Bistro Café (Views included).

This place is gorgeous and I do recommend you stay the night at the Casa 1800 Cerro Verde Boutique Hotel. You won’t be disappointed!

Only 1h30 from the top of Cerro Verde is Juayua, a small mountain town on the Ruta de las Flores.

Juayua is known for its lively weekend food market. Sample a variety of local dishes, from grilled meats to traditional pupusas.

From Juayua, you can embark on a scenic hike to the Seven Waterfalls, La Siete Cascadas. With a guide, you traverse lush rainforests, enjoy breathtaking views and cool off with a refreshing swim in the waterfalls.

Continue your exploration of the Ruta de las Flores in the colorful town of Ataco. Admire the vibrant murals that adorn its streets, and browse the local artisan shops for unique souvenirs like handwoven textiles and handcrafted crafts.

Visit other charming towns along the route. Visit Apaneca, known for its coffee plantations and adventure activities, and Nahuizalco, famous for its night market and indigenous heritage.

Try their typical drink Atol de elote is a must-try. It’s a warm corn drink with sweetener. I promise it tastes better than it sounds!

Are you a surfer? I wish I could say I was, but I’m not. I do enjoy beaches and watching surfers try their best on the waves. However, the waves of El Tunco are one of the best in all of central America! So you might want to try them out yourself, before they get too popular. They even host world championships here.

Stay at: Bocas Olas resort Villa’s and go directly to the beach or swim in the river after a delicious breakfast.

Can’t get enough of these highly underrated beaches in El Salvador? Me neither!

There are two areas to explore if you enjoy a more laid-back beach vibe with fewer tourists. El Cuco and El Zonte are ideal. Grab a cocktail and enjoy the beauty of these authentic seaside towns. This might also be the best time to try some seafood!

Are you here between September and November? I can recommend you to go see (and support!) the Mision Tortuga El Zonte, turtle hatching sanctuary to give those little turtles a hand in finding their way to the ocean.

Lake Ilopango is absolutely stunning and the perfect end to your trip as it’s only an hour away from the airport. I recommend staying at Hotel Tres Piedras, and the views from here are incredible. The lake is so vast and the water is a beautiful shade of blue.