tour guides el salvador

Tours El Salvador

Ventas El Salvador (503) 2263-6188

Best Itineries, qualified guides at affordable prices

Half day tours

Eco adventures

Full Day Tour

El salvador Circuits

Central America Circuits

Multi Day Tours

Explore El Salvador on the Safest Way With a Local Expert!

CONQUEST THE SUMMIT OF THE MIGHTY SANTA ANA VOLCANO

JOYA DE CERÉN, UNESCO SITE + SAN ANDRÉS

EXPLORE SAN SALVADOR

CHARMING SUCHITOTO

ONE EPIC HIKE: SANTA ANA VOLCANO (ILAMATEPEC)

IN EL SALVADOR LIFE’S A BEACH

Featured destinations.

Great destinations with a tons to offer for everyone: active volcanoes, black-sanded beaches, colorful mountain villages, world-class surfing, cultural heritage, history, local tastes and the warm smile of the Salvadorans.

At a glance Distance walked: ~22 Km / 14.3 Mi Actual walking time: ~6h30m Ascent:...

BREWPUBS & CRAFT BEER EXPERIENCE

Indulge in the vibrant beer scene of San Salvador, one delicious beer at a time!...

ADVENTURE PACK AT RUTA DE LAS FLORES

Get ready for the ultimate day of excitement and relaxation in the picturesque village of...

JUAYÚA: HIKE THE 7 WATERFALLS, EAT THE FOOD FEST

The 7 Waterfalls hike at a glance Distance walked: ~ 7 Km / 4.4 Mi...

These two archaeological sites are absolute must-sees and will transport you to a world filled...

Explore San Salvador, with a native of the city downtown. A vibrant and contrasting city...

WET AND WILD: TAMANIQUE WATERFALLS AND EL TUNCO BEACH

Welcome to an incredible adventure in the El Bálsamo Mountain Range, where a short hike...

No, it's not Japanese. In the ancient Nahua language Suchitoto stands for Place of Flowers...

HIKE A TRILOGY OF VOLCANOES IN ONE DAY

At a glance Total distance walked: 19 Km / 12Mi Actual walking time: ~ 6h...

RUTA DE LAS FLORES & COFFEE COUNTRY

Welcome to one of El Salvador's top destinations that should be on every visitor's list:...

At a glance Distance walked: ~8 Km / 5 Mi Actual walking time: ~ 3h30m...

Imagine yourself strolling along a tropical beach, basking in the warm embrace of the Pacific...

VOLCANIC HOT SPRINGS AND THERMAL POOLS

Indulge yourself in the ultimate relaxation and escape from your worries, with a day in...

TAZUMAL & CASA BLANCA ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARKS

Tazumal and Casa Blanca Archaeological Parks hold immense importance due to their evidence of one...

HIKE EL IMPOSIBLE NATIONAL PARK

Actual walking time: ~ 6hDistance: ~ 20 KmAscent – Descent: 779 – 756 m /...

WORLD CLASS SURFING AT LA LIBERTAD

Get ready to hang ten in El Salvador, a surfer's heaven! With its consistent swells, warm...

THE STEPS OF SAINT ÓSCAR ROMERO

Let's trace the footsteps of one of El Salvador's greatest historical figures, Saint Óscar Romero...

THE BEST MUSEUMS OF SAN SALVADOR

Dive into a world of art and history as you explore the vibrant museums of...

Active volcanoes, National Parks and Natural Areas

Hiking and trekking destinations.

With just 21000 Km² / 8100 Mi² and a rugged landscape, El Salvador is home of 26 volcanoes and peaks crowned by lush cloud forests and a breathtaking landscape. Day trips or multi-day circuits available.

Bosque de Cinquera

Once fertile farms turned into guerrilla's campsite and then into a Natural Protected Area, this walk mixes history and natural attractions.

Ecoparque El Espino

Set on the skirts of San Salvador volcano, on the rims of the city, Ecoparque el Espino is run by a cooperative of coffee farmers.

El Imposible National Park

With 5000 ha and elevations running from 820 to 4675 ft, El imposible is home of the largest diversity of wildlife in El Salvador.

El Pital and Cayaguanca

With almost 9000 feet of elevation and crowned by a dense and lush cloud forest, this is also the highest peak in El Salvador.

Select your Destination by Mood

Find the style that matches your interest, timing or mood.

Kind Words from Fellow Travelers

Alfredo’s passion for his country shines through his extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling. He possesses a warm demeanor and impeccable English, making him a joy to converse with. His genuine care for our well-being was evident.

Review posted on Google , May 2024

Alfredo is an incredible guide and an honest, hardworking, and dedicated person. What a conversationalist and storyteller! He worked with me to create a custom tour that allowed me to see the country in the way I wanted to see things. I would recommend Alfredo without exception. 

Review posted on Google , April 2024

Why Taking a Local Tour Guide Is Good For You

A licensed tour guide offers you safety, customization, best timing and value. Skip the company, call the guide!

You Get More Than a Guide

Since the moment we meet, you have a friend in El Salvador. One to orient and recommend you the best places to eat, where's the coldest beer or the freshest coffee. To share the stories and facts you hardly find in the travel guides.

Your Money Well Spent

You have my commitment in supporting local communities, small producers and family-run businesses as much as possible. My services and tours will never support any case of child labour nor animal abuse. With every tour you book, you're supporting rescued animal shelters and rescuers.

Your Local Expert

The perspective of locals is essential to understand El Salvador. Born and raised in San Salvador downtown gave me the rare opportunity to witness some of the most important events in El Salvador recent history. I, not only read history, I was there!

Itineraries that Fit You

You want to combine surfing and hiking or maybe some off the beaten track spots? Or maybe you want to sleep till late because you're on vacation after all! No problemo! You ask and I made it fit for you. Just mix and match to make your experience more memorable.

You Set the Pace

Either you like to stare at a piece of art in a museum or you're a fast hiker, you set the pace of your tour. I know flexibility is key as well being open to expect the unexpected. Take your time to find the best angle for your photo or to eat your pupusas. Enjoy the moment!

You Can Ask as Much as You Want

With a private guide you can ask as much or about anything you want. The best way to learn is exchanging experiences and points of views. I'm pretty open minded. You can ask even those controversial topics people on large groups never dare.

© 2008 - 2024 - Explore El Salvador is a Trade Mark. All Rights Reserved.

El Salvador Tours & Vacations

Good things come in small packages and nowhere more so than El Salvador.

The volcanoes, cloud forests and quaint, quiet towns will capture your imagination, while the surf coast will unleash your inner grommet.

Our El Salvador trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

El Salvador tour reviews

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Nicaragua & Beyond

Articles of El Salvador

6 unique experiences you can have in El Salvador

4 reasons you should take a road trip through Central America

3 great countries in Central America for solo travel

5 reasons why visiting Central America on a group tour was the right choice for me

30 photos that will inspire you to visit Central America with Intrepid Travel

How to have a perfect day in Suchitoto, the cultural capital of El Salvador

Why I love El Salvador, a country with a story to tell

I’ve been to every country in Central America; here’s why El Salvador is my favourite

El Salvador at a glance

Capital city.

San Salvador (population 2.4 million)

6.4 million

(GMT-06:00) Central America

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about El Salvador

Best time to visit el salvador.

The coast can be hot all year round making it a haven for sun lovers. To cool down, head inland to higher altitudes where the climate is milder, but rarely cold. The dry season (November to April) is an ideal time to explore. For spectacular afternoon storms, come during the wet season (May to October).

Geography and environment

The home of the point break, El Salvador’s biggest natural attraction is its beaches. Drag yourself away from the waves of the Pacific and you’ll find volcanoes, lakes and cloud forest aplenty. El Salvador is bordered by Honduras and Guatemala .

Top 5 places in El Salvador

1. cerro verde national park.

This is volcano country. Take a hike through the cloud forest for incredible views of volcanic peaks.

2. Suchitoto

This sweet colonial town boasts colorful houses, cobbled streets and a relaxed old-world charm.

3. Lago Suchitlan

Not far from Suchitoto, this lake is a haven for thousands of migrating birds.

4. El Imposible National Park

Hike, camp and spot pumas in one of Central America’s most remote national parks.

5. Pacific Ocean

Even from the misty peaks of the north you can see the impressive breaks of the Pacific Ocean. Jump on a board or just enjoy the view from the beach.

Festivals and events

Public holidays that may impact travel include:.

• Feast of San Salvador
• Fiestas Agostinas
• Independence Day
• All Souls' Day

Please note dates of El Salvador's public holidays may vary.

Further reading

El salvador travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to El Salvador?

EL SALVADOR: Australia: Not required Belgium: Not required Canada: Not required Germany: Not required Ireland: Not required Netherlands: Not required New Zealand: Not required South Africa: Yes - in advance Switzerland: Not required United Kingdom: Not required USA: Not required

Whilst for most nationalities a visa is not required, you may be required to purchase a tourist card on arrival, costing approximately US$10. If you do require a visa, please obtain this in advance from your local embassy or consulate.

Is tipping customary in El Salvador?

A service charge will be included in restaurant bills. A small tip for hotel staff may be expected.

What is the internet access like in El Salvador?

Internet cafes are available in most places but wi-fi is only just becoming available.

Can I use my cell phone while in El Salvador?

Reception is good in most urban areas. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your carrier if you wish to use your phone.

What are the toilets like in El Salvador?

It's likely that you’ll encounter different types of toilets while traveling in El Salvador. Western-style flushable toilets are commonly found in high-end resorts, hotels and restaurants, while squat toilets are common in rural areas and homes. Be prepared by carrying your own supply of toilet paper and soap, as these aren't always provided.

Can I drink the water in El Salvador?

Drinking tap water in El Salvador isn’t recommended. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in El Salvador?

Credit cards are widely accepted.

What is ATM access like in El Salvador?

There’s good access to ATMs in nearly all towns and cities.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

EL SALVADOR

EL SALVADOR TRAVEL AND TOURS

Our agency provides authentic and unique tours all over El Salvador. From city tours in San Salvador and Suchitoto to archeological trips; Maya Ruins; eco camping trips in our national parks and cooking workshop; our agency covers it all. Have a look at our wide selection of tours and activities!

Our team is a colorful bunch of young enthusiasts as well as veterans with decades of experience of organizing tours and expeditions all over El Salvador as well in the neighboring countries. Besides our travel programmes, we also organize helicopter and plane charters, security and have also set up conferences and international events. We also happily welcome cruise ship passengers for shorex activities and love to help you with a customized tour in Central America. Contact us to know more!

El Salvador might be small, but packs a big punch when it comes to travel destinations. From breathtaking beaches to lush jungles, there’s something for every type of traveler to enjoy.

One of the main draws of El Salvador is the surf. The country boasts some of the best waves in the region, making it a mecca for surfers from around the world. The beaches of El Salvador are also perfect for swimming, sunbathing and relaxing.

In addition to its beautiful beaches, El Salvador also offers a rich cultural experience. The country is home to numerous ancient ruins, including the Joya de Cerén, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is considered one of the most important archaeological finds in the Americas. The Joya de Cerén is an ancient Mayan village that was preserved by volcanic ash and offers a glimpse into the daily life of the Mayans.

El Salvador is also known for its delicious traditional cuisine, which is heavily influenced by indigenous, Spanish, and Salvadoran cultures. From pupusas (a traditional Salvadoran dish made from corn dough) to curtido (a traditional Salvadoran side dish made from pickled cabbage and carrots), visitors will be delighted by the country’s tasty and diverse food options.

El Salvador is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and authentic travel experience. With its picturesque beaches, rich cultural history, and delicious cuisine, El Salvador is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit. So pack your bags and head to El Salvador for an unforgettable trip!

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North America

Central america & caribbean, south america, north africa & middle east.

Few travellers make it to this icy continent, but the lucky ones who do get to explore a frozen Eden ruled by the elements and teeming with wildlife.

G Adventures Land

G adventures sailing & cruises, g adventures private travel.

Whether it’s a family retreat or a girls trip, you can surround yourself with a hand-picked crew and customize a tour that fits you all perfectly.

The Geluxe Collection

Our new line of premium active adventures is officially here. With perfectly paced itineraries, one-of-a-kind accommodations and elevated dining, this is adventure at its finest.

National Geographic Journeys

Go deeper into the cultures and habitats of the places we explore. More is included and you’ll enjoy greater hands-on exploration, interactions with local experts, and freedom to roam.

National Geographic Family Journeys

Are you an adventure-loving family in search of meaningful ways to discover the world together? These tours are specially designed for travellers seven and up and their inquisitive families.

Jane Goodall Collection

Step deeper into the animal kingdom while respecting all of its inhabitants. Our incredible collection of wildlife-focused tours is endorsed by the world-renowned ethologist.

Roamies by Hostelworld

The thrill of adventure. The awesomeness of hostels. Get ‘em both on these immersive small group trips for 18 to 35-year-old travellers.

Why choose us

As the leader in small group travel for 30 years, we know how to do it right: flexible itineraries, freedom to roam, safety, peace of mind, and locally based guides.

Change the world just by having the time of your life. When you travel with us, you become a force for good by acting responsibly and creating positive impact.

Together with our non-profit partner, Planeterra, we ensure local communities touched by our tours benefit from our visits in as many ways possible.

Trees for Days

Leave your destination even greener than you found it! For every day on tour, we’ll plant a tree in your honour and ensure that our forests get to live their best lives.

Travel resources

Last minute deals.

Looking to have the time of your life in the next 90 days or so? You can save big if you’re ready to book now.

Loyalty discount

Back home from a G Adventures tour? Submit a quick trip evaluation to save 5% on your next tour with us.

Student discount

Got proof that you’re pursuing higher learning? Then we’ve got a travel voucher with your name on it.

All travel deals

New ways to save pop up all the time. Here’s where you’ll find every hot deal in one easy place.

El Salvador Tours

Land of buried treasures

Chances are if you don't surf, the idea of exploring El Salvador may never have crossed your mind. But the hardy surfers – a step ahead of the game and looking for the next uncrowded wave – know something the rest of us don't. The smallest and most densely populated Central American nation, El Salvador suffered badly during its civil war in the 1980s. Today, the country's volcanoes and coastline are again drawing visitors, and San Salvador's nightlife, legendary among its Latin neighbours, pulses on. The biggest draw may be the Salvadorans themselves, unjaded and always quick to make conversation over a coffee or one of their famed pupusas .

What our travellers are saying about El Salvador tours

Recommended tours.

The best day tours, experiences & things to do

Featured destinations, ruta de las flores, santa ana volcano, nature seekers, el imposible national park, san salvador, city breaks, suchitoto colonial town, travel tips, discover the 7 thrilling adventure activities in el salvador, rainbow slide adventure in el salvador – your complete guide for travel, discover el salvador: a guide for solo travelers, exploring el salvador in style: discover our tourist and executive transportation, “exploring el salvador’s educational gems: a fascinating destination for university trips”, exploring el salvador with bitcoin: a traveler’s guide, el salvador covid travel requirements | what you need to know before traveling, el salvador family vacation destination.

• Alianza Hotel Real Intercontinental
• Cafe Entre Nubes
• Suchitoto Adventure
• La Casa de Mamapan
• Golfo Travel
• Cancelation Policy
• FREE WALKING TOUR
• City Tour & Volcano
• Ruta de Las Flores
• Santa Ana Volcano Hike / Cerro Verde
• Mayan Archeological Sites Tour
• Volcanoes Park & Mayan Sites
• Suchitoto and Ilopango Lake
• NAWI Beach Mizata Experience
• Ruta de Los Panchos
• Conchagua Volcano and Fonseca Gulf
• Barra de Santiago Tour
• Acajutla Port
• Food & Beer City Tour
• ANTIGUA GUATEMALA
• LAKE ATITLAN/ANTIGUA
• TIKAL FLORES PETEN
• COPAN HONDURAS
• LEON NICARAGUA
• GRANADA NICARAGUA
• MASAYA NICARAGUA
• City Tour & El Boqueron
• Rainbow Slide & Pupusa Tasting
• Joya de Ceren & Volcano
• City Tour & Pupusas Tasting
• Nature and Culture 3D/2N
• Learn and Have Fun 4D/3N
• 4 DAYS 3 NIGHTS VIP
• Central America Tours
• DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
• TOURS FROM SANTA ANA
• Volcano & Museum
• Cadejo Brewing Tour
• ONLINE EXPERIENCE
• LayOver Tour #1
• LayOver Tour #2
• Last Minute Booking
• MESSAGE TO OUR FRIENDS AND CUSTOMERS
• MEET OUR TEAM
• NEW EXPERIENCE
• FULL PACKAGES
• Mariscos a Domicilio
• TOMA DE TEMPERATURA
• TEMPERATURA PERSONA
• TEMPERATURA CLIENTES
• After Your Payment
• Adopting Bitcoin Tours

WE ARE CERTIFIED BY : Registro Nacional del Turismo de El Salvador - MITUR

 Our Full Time Team

WE ARE MEMBER OF:

USO EXCLUSIVAMENTE PERSONAL EC TOURS EL SALVADOR

Central America

 THE BEST TOURS AROUND EL SALVADOR AND CENTRAL AMERICA SPECIALIZED ON FREE TRAVEL  ADVICE

FULL DAY TOURS - HALF DAYS TOURS - LAYOVER TOURS

Our Welcome Video

(Ministry of Tourism El Salvador)

Phone# & WhatsApp +503 7842-4708

HALF DAY TOURS & FULL DAY TOURS

TripAdvisor Reviews

More in Our Blog

Registration # 0614088607

Mandatory Bio-Safety Requirements to take a tour with EC Tours El Salvador

Cancelation Policy 

Requisitos de Bio-Seguridad para poder tomar un Tour con EC Tours El Salvador

Politicas de Cancelacion

[email protected]  

+503 7842-4708

Our Best Tours

                                         Live The Local  Experiace !!!                       #1 El Salvador Free Travel Advice  

 EL SALVADOR DMC 

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  O U R    F R I E N D S  

Half Day Tours From $65

• Free cancelation
• Bilingual Tour Guides
• Localy own company
• Free hotel pick up/drop off
• FREE HOTEL PICK UP/DROP OFF
• FREE CANCELATION

NOTICE: Due to the weather conditions all tours scheduled from June 14 – 18 are suspended.ONLY airport transfers are available 24/7

Trusted by +3,100 happy travelers 

Discover El Salvador

Not sure where to start? Only got a few days to soak it all in? No worries, you’ve come to the right place

Discover El Salvador Stress-Free With Local Guides

• Small groups size
• Free Cancellation

The #1 Most Popula Day Tours in El Salvador

Kick back and let the pros handle your trip, so you can dive into the wonders of El Salvador stress-free.

Enjoy every moment while we take care of the rest!

Santa Ana volcano hike tour

• Duration: Full day
• Santa Ana city

From $75.00 Per person

Ruta de las Flores tour highlights

• Ataco, Apaneca...

From $90.00 Per person

Tamanique waterfalls

• Duration: Half day

From $50.00 Per person

• San Salvador City Tour
• San Salvador city

From $60.00 Per person

Explore Surf City El Salvador ($45.00 Daypass Included)

• La Libertad

From $120.00 Per person

Suchitoto Colonial Town

Trusted by +5,000 travelers 

Airport transfers

Your Best Ride from Touchdown to Doorstep: Safe, Affordable, 24/7 Airport Transfers with Friendly Local Drivers!”

Tunco Beach - Sunzal Beach Airport transfer

From $22.50 Per person

• Instant Booking
• Meet & Great

Zonte (Bitcoin Beach), Atami, Palmarcito Beach Airport transfer

From $25.00 Per person

San Salvador City Airport transfer

El salvador tours and activities, every journey with us actively contributes to creating a positive impact with the local community through travel..

El Salvador is a hidden gem when it comes to tourism, a bad online reputation kept the country in the shadows of the travel industry. However, a new era of tourism is happening. World-class surf spots, warm water, vibrant volcanoes, pleasant weather, magical sunsets, friendly people and unexplored locations make El Salvador such a popular destination nowadays. Almost 2.5 million visitors a year enjoy our country.

Multi Day Tour Packages

Travel stress free with our multi day tour packages: transfers, accommodations, tours and activities included.

Learn Spanish

Learn Spanish in a relaxed way at the beach while enjoying a coconut.

Authentic Pupusas cooking class

Learn how to make pupusas with a local expert

Community Projects

Help us improve the lives of the local communities through tourism.

Not sure which package is right for your holiday? Ask us.

Reviews from our previous guests.

Booked a tour guide, to only make a friend.

Hands down… the sweetest, most knowledgeable, outgoing and most professional tour guide you will ever find in El Salvador. Salva is awesome. 

Took us everywhere on time, made time to show and explain things when we had questions, made time for snacks when traffic was bad… incredibly courteous. We had an absolute blast with Tunco Life.

We will only be using TuncoLife for our yearly visits to El Salvador moving forward.

Our trip to El Salvador was unparalleled

Our trip to El Salvador was unparalleled and it was all thanks to Tunco Life 🤘🏼

We reached out to Salva after we saw him on some traveling YouTube channels. Immediately he was responsive through WhatsApp.

After exchanging a few conversations via text and a few phone calls Salva began to tailor our trip!

We traveled to El Salvador in the month of August, with my wife and our two year old daughter. (Still during the pandemic 2021). 

A full week exploring all El Savador has to offer!

This company took us all around the country experiencing everything from surfing to climbing a volcano.

Although I cannot think of a bad part of the week long trip, my favorite parts were learning about the history in San Salvador, the beautiful landscapes seen in hikes and connecting with local people with various activities like Indigo dying.

I will definitely use this competent company again!

• About Tunco Life

We’re Tunco Life, award-winning Salvadoran entrepreneurs, we’ve been leading engaging, fun and informative tours from El Tunco beach and San Salvador to all over El Salvador. We’re on a mission to get more people to learn and discover El Salvador. 

Our private tours will make you want to stay longer and keep discovering new places, new flavours and of course new amig@s. We’re a team of local Salvadorans specialized in all kind of tours in El Salvador, surf lessons,  airport transfers, shuttle services and much more. Join us!

Covid update: Due to the pandemic we were forced to close our physical shop, we are now creating your dream holiday in El Salvador 100% online. 

Sun-soaked Paradise: Unveiling the Ultimate Oasis at Tunco Beach - The Best Hotels in the area

Unlock the Secrets of El Salvador: Your Ultimate Guide to Everything You Need to Know Before You Go!

El salvador travel blog.

Learn more about El Salvador’s top destinations, culture, history and more in our blog section.

TOP EL SALVADOR TOURS

Tour to santa ana's volcano, tours to coatepeque lake, tours to ruta de las flores - the flower's route, tours to juayua's waterfalls, tours to apaneca's capony - zipline, tours to san salvador volcano, tours to mayan archaeological sites, city tour san salvador, city night tour san salvador, tours to suchitoto, eco tours el salvador, learn to surf el tunco, el salvador, tours to el tunco beach, tours to ruta de la paz - perquin, morazan, learn spanish & surf in el tunco, proud member of.

• Privacy Policy
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• [email protected]
• +503 6985 8984
• Carretera Litoral, K 42 1/2. Playa El Tunco, Tamanique. La Libertad, El Salvador.

Best day tours

• Santa Ana Volcano Hike Tour
• Ruta de Flores Tour
• Tamanique Waterfalls tour
• Suchitoto town - indigo tour
• Tunco Beach - Airport transfer
• Zonte Beach - Airport transfer
• Bitcoin Beach - Airport transfer
• Mizata - Airport transfer
• San Salvador city - Airport transfer

Sun-soaked Paradise: Unveiling the Ultimate Oasis at Tunco Beach – The Best Hotels in the area

Salvadoran government’s alliance with iberia: a boon for travellers, coatepeque lake: a guide to explore el salvador’s most beautiful lake, never go here if you fear adrenaline: rainbow slide at albania cafe in apaneca town..

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Made with love from El Tunco, El Salvador

The 6 Best El Salvador Tours For Unforgettable Adventures That Are Achievable & Affordable!

Posted on Last updated: October 13, 2023

Categories Tours , El Salvador

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

Welcome to El Salvador, a nation that offers a mesmerizing mix of natural marvels, extensive history, and kind hospitality. El Salvador is a jewel in Central America tucked away between the Pacific Ocean and thick jungles.

With breathtaking scenery, volcanic peaks, and immaculate beaches, Exploring El Salvador is an experience unlike any other, and the best way to experience this rich and exciting country is, without a doubt, on a multi-day tour.

Beyond the stereotypes and preconceived notions is a nation with a rich history, kind people, and an unmatched sense of genuineness. El Salvador’s soul-stirring scenery, which includes imposing volcanoes, gorgeous beaches, and attractive lakes, provides the perfect setting for extraordinary excursions. El Salvador’s resolve to improve its reputation is a shining example of its tenacity and aspiration. The country is emerging from the shadows of its past to embrace a new narrative of progress and positivity. It has a rich cultural heritage and stunning scenery.

El Salvador is exhibiting its undiscovered gems to the globe through creative tourism promotions, eco-friendly initiatives, and infrastructural investment. By overcoming prejudices and embracing a spirit of progress, the nation is luring visitors to experience its genuine attractiveness. El Salvador stands tall as the world looks past preconceived notions and is eager to welcome others into sharing its transformational tale.

But El Salvador’s modest and unassuming charm distinguishes it from its surrounding nations. Since there aren’t any busy crowds or mass tourism here, you may immerse yourself in real cultural interactions and create relationships that will last a lifetime. 

El Salvador offers options for hiking, surfing, and touring national parks, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The good news? Many of these excursions can be planned as part of a multi-day trip to ensure you get the most out of the country’s natural splendor and feed your inner adventurer.

In conclusion, El Salvador is a gem waiting to be discovered, full of natural beauty and cultural richness. A multi-day tour provides a thorough and seamless experience, allowing you to explore this intriguing country’s interior and giving you priceless memories of an enlightening adventure. Here is a look at the top six best tours in El Salvador.

Page Contents

Highlights of El Salvador

Tour to el salvador: culture, history & nature, taste of el salvador 4 days, best el salvador tailor-made tour with daily departure, 7 days discover el salvador, 3 day surf & stay adventure in el salvador.

Welcome to Explore Tours’ Highlights of El Salvador, a fascinating trip through the best of this undiscovered jewel in Central America. Learn about the stunning natural beauty, fascinating past, and dynamic culture that make El Salvador a truly unique travel destination.

This expertly planned tour guarantees an amazing experience, including visiting ancient Mayan ruins, unwinding on stunning beaches, and exploring lush rainforests and charming local villages. Prepare to uncover El Salvador’s charm with the help of knowledgeable guides and seamless logistics, and depart with priceless memories of an unforgettable adventure. Day One: Arrive in El Salvador. Day Two: Head to Jiquilisco Bay; boat trip with a local biologist to monitor hawksbill turtles Day Three: If you choose not to partake in the boat trip on Day Two, this next tour is for you. Enjoy an Optional kayaking tour or a visit to a local cacao farm. Day Four:  Drive to Suchitoto via the Laguna de Alegria; evening pupusa-making class Day Five: Visit the ex-guerrilla community of La Cinquera; free afternoon in Suchitoto Day Six: Discover San Salvador on foot; visit the Joya de Ceren; drive to Cerro Verde via Lake Coatepeque Day Seven: Hike the Santa Ana volcano to the impressive Llamatepec crater lake; drive to Ataco via the Tazumal Archaeological Site Day Eight: Explore the small villages on the Ruta de las Flores; explore the street food markets Day Nine: Coffee farm visit; drive to the Los Cobanos protected marine area; continue to La Libertad Day Ten: Free Day to Explore!

Day Eleven: Departure Day. Explore will take you on a remarkable journey around El Salvador’s Top Attractions. Explore the ancient Mayan ruins at Joya de Cerén and take in the sun-kissed splendor of El Tunco’s beaches as you uncover the hidden gems of this alluring nation. Enjoy regional specialties and dance to folkloric beats as you feel Salvadoran culture’s warm embrace.

Explore verdant rainforests teeming with biodiversity and experience the excitement of surfing Pacific waves. This thoughtfully planned schedule guarantees an authentic, off-the-beaten-path journey that will leave you with priceless memories. A genuinely memorable journey awaits as Explore leads you through this colorful tapestry of landscapes and customs.

Vibes Adventures

Welcome to the tour to El Salvador: Culture, History & Nature, a tour that will enrich you with fascinating encounters, incredible wildlife, friendly locals and more. Discover the heart of this Central American treasure, renowned for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and cultural heritage.

This meticulously planned itinerary promises an amazing journey, including viewing old archaeological sites and colonial villages, hiking through lush rainforests, and relaxing on lovely, pristine beaches. Discover the unique local culture that makes El Salvador a travel destination unlike any other, as well as the warm Salvadoran hospitality and delicious cuisine.

Prepare to forge cherished memories and a stronger bond with this remarkable nation. With all that in mind, here is a look at your full itinerary for this tour. Day One: Arrive in San Salvador. Day Two: Start your day with a walking tour of the historic center of El Salvador’s capital. Then you will enjoy a guided visit to the National Anthropology Museum. Then, move to the beautiful town of Suchitoto. Day Three: First , take a boat tour of Lake Suchitlán and Market Food Experience in the morning. After that, visit the impressive Mayan ruins of Joya de Ceren and San Andres in the afternoon. Day Four: In the morning, continue our “Tour to El Salvador: Culture, History & Nature” and take free time to enjoy the sun, swim, or jet ski on the lake. Then, go to explore the impressive Tazumal Archeological Site before finishing the day in Ahuachapán. Day Five: Spend your entire day exploring la Ruta de las Flores. Day Six: First, in the morning, take a 3-hour intermediate-level hike to enjoy the sunrise from the crater of Santa Ana Volcano. Then, go to discover El Zonte and El Tunco. Day Seven: Free program: rent a surfing board and enjoy the waves, relax on the beach sipping a refreshing cocktail, or go hiking in the nearby Walter Thilo Deininger National Park. Day Eight: Departure Day.

You bid farewell to this magnificent place as your enthralling Tour to El Salvador: Culture, History & Nature ends, your heart full of priceless memories. You have enjoyed the very best of El Salvador’s rich legacy and natural beauty, from discovering old archaeological sites to enjoying the vibrant local culture.

This journey has been spectacular, thanks to the skilled supervision and expertly designed tour. You leave with a richer understanding of this alluring nation and the immeasurable value of its cultural and historical treasures. Safe travels and happy memories of your time spent in El Salvador till we meet again on your next excursion!

Inter Tours

Take a culinary journey through Inter Tours’ “Taste of El Salvador 4 Days” and indulge your senses! Get ready to be mesmerized by the enticing tastes and beautiful marvels this gem of Central America offers. Each day is a voyage into the country’s rich cultural legacy, from enjoying pupusas, El Salvador’s delightful national dish, to sipping rich coffee straight from the plantations.

Let your knowledgeable tour guides take you to vibrant local markets and quaint towns where you can meet enthusiastic makers and discover the true EL Salvador. Discover El Salvador’s character through its delectable treats, views and friendly locals. Here is a look at your full itinerary for this tour. Day One: Arrive in El Salvador. Day Two: Your local guide will be happy to show you the capital of El Salvador. You will see the Center of San Salvador,  including the National Palace, Monsenor Romero memorial site, El Rosario church, a relief map, a government district,  and modern areas such as Santa Elena and Zona Rosa. Continue to Boqueron national park for the remainder of the day. Day Three: Your Choice, you can select one of the Two tours.

Archeological tour or Coffee tour. On the coffee tour, you can visit typical mountain villages of El Salvador. You will also visit Izalco, Nahuizalco, and Salcoatitan and then return to San Salvador at sunset.

On the Archaeological tour, you will see the Archaeological Site Joya de Ceren, San Andres archeological site, Tazumal, and overlooking Coatepeque Lake before returning to San Salvador.

Day Four: Departure Day.

Join Inter Tours on an incredible sensory journey through the “Taste of El Salvador”! Spend four wonderful days getting to know this fascinating country’s true character. Each experience promises to pique your interest and leave you spellbound, whether engaging in vivid cultural interactions in humming markets or exploring ancient ruins that hide stories of the past.

As you veer off the usual path, take in the stunning scenery, from imposing volcanoes to peaceful lakeshores. Allow your knowledgeable guides to design the ultimate adventure that invites you to embrace El Salvador’s genuine spirit. Prepare to experience the dynamic beat of this unique country through taste, touch, and sight.

Agate Trave

Your fantasy holiday can become a reality when you book the Best El Salvador Tailor-Made Tour with Daily Departure. This special trip allows you to design a journey that precisely fits your interests, preferences, and time constraints. The options are unlimited, whether you’re looking for cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, or tranquility on exquisite beaches.

You may start your personalized vacation whenever you like, thanks to daily departures and professional direction. Immerse yourself in El Salvador’s rich history, breathtaking scenery, and friendly people to have an amazing, personalized experience for you. Prepare yourself to experience this alluring nation in a way that will leave you with priceless memories and a genuine connection to its allure. Here is a look at your full itinerary for this tour. Day One: Arrive in El Salvador. Day Two: This morning, we will spend a half day exploring the capital city of El San Salvador. Then we will drive around 1 hour and a half to Suchitoto, the symbol of El Salvador’s cultural traditions. Upon arrival, you will visit the Iglesia Santa Lucia, known as the gem of Suchitoto. Afterward, you will have some time to stroll around the central plaza. Day Three: Today, we will first head to the Joya de Ceren Archaeological Park to discover the mysterious Maya civilization in this pre-Columbian Mayan farming village. Then pay a visit to the Sitio Arqueologico San Andres, an important ceremonial center with various structures and well-preserved indigo mills. We will visit the Tazumal archaeological sites at the end of the tour. Day Four: Today, we will have a full day to visit the Santa Ana Volcano. After breakfast, we will drive around 1 hour and a half to the National Park Cerro Verde.  If you are interested, you could also row a boat at Lake Coatepeque or swim there. In the late afternoon, we will drive back to San Salvador. Day Five: After breakfast, we will drive around 40 minutes to the Playa El Tunco. Here, we will leave a free day for you to explore. Day Six: Departure Day.

Please note this is a sample itinerary. The full itinerary is 100% tailored to you and your interests. Your Best El Salvador Tailor-Made Tour with Daily Departure will provide priceless experiences in the hands of Agate Travel. As the journey comes to an end, you’ll think back on the special occasions that were created just for you.

That’s what makes this tour so unique. It is very customizable. Take advantage of the warm El Salvadorian welcome, savor the beauty of hidden treasures, and become engrossed in the country’s rich tapestry. Agate Travel’s dedication to quality assures a seamless trip, leaving you with a heart full of special memories and the desire to visit this magical country again.

Epic Tours El Salvador

Join Epic Tours El Salvador on a memorable 7-day vacation to explore El Salvador. As we reveal the hidden gems of this Central American treasure, enjoy access to good eats, outstanding hospitality and unique natural beauty. A well-planned itinerary promises a once-in-a-lifetime trip, taking in everything from historic Mayan ruins to pristine beaches and lush rainforests.

This tour offers just that. Experience the vibrant tapestry of Salvadoran culture while dining on regional specialties and interacting with welcoming residents. With the help of our knowledgeable tour guides, you’ll learn more about this fascinating country and make lifelong memories. Prepare yourself for the most amazing way to experience El Salvador at its best. Here is a look at your full itinerary for this tour. Day One: Arrive in El Salvador. Day Two: Breakfast at the hotel. The driver will take you to the Ruta de Las Flores mountains. Afternoon at Leisure with the opportunity to join an Optional Coffee Tour of Finca El Carmen Day Three: In the morning, you will visit the archeological site of Joya de Ceren. After this, we will travel to the San Andres May a site. Transfer to Suchitoto. Day Four: You will spend the entire day exploring Suchitoto. Visit the cultural treasures of the Church of Santa Lucia on the main plaza, panoramic streets, old houses, and the “theater of the ruins”. Day Five: Transfer from Suchitoto to the east coast of El Salvador with beautiful remote beaches surrounded by tropic lush. An afternoon of leisure enjoying the sound of the Pacific Ocean. Day Six: Spend the day at leisure on the beach. Day Seven: Departure Day. Don’t pass up the opportunity to see all that El Salvador has to offer in just seven days with Epic Tours El Salvador. Thanks to such a carefully crafted itinerary, you will embark on an extraordinary journey through ancient history, stunning landscapes, and colorful culture.

Whether you’re an adventurer or a culture vulture, we have a customized experience. Get lost in El Salvador’s charm, from the famous Mayan ruins to the sandy beaches. Discovering the heart and spirit of this magical nation with Epic Tours will leave you with a sense of adventure or perhaps a longing to return. 

Surf and Trips El Salvado

Welcome to El Salvador’s amazing 3-Day Surf & Stay Adventure, where you may enjoy the sun, sea, and adrenaline surf. Experience the ultimate surfing adventure in El Salvador’s unspoiled coastlines, which are recognized for their top-notch breakers and surfable conditions.

This expertly planned experience mixes heart-pounding surf sessions with cozy beachside lodging, guaranteeing the ideal harmony of thrill and relaxation. This expedition promises an exciting tour into the center of El Salvador’s surf culture, regardless of whether you are an experienced surfer looking for new challenges or a beginner ready to ride your first wave. Prepare to catch waves, create memories, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this surfing haven. Day One: Arrival in El Salvador. Day Two: Depending on your surfing ability, we’ll choose the right surf break for you — enough to be challenged but still have a good time. Expect 2 surf sessions a day, so start layering on that sunscreen! Day Three: Depending on your departure time, you may get a morning surf in before departing. The tour ends here. Surf and Trips El Salvador offers the ultimate 3-day Surf & Stay Adventure in El Salvador, where you may catch the ideal wave. Experience the exhilaration of surfing while being coached by seasoned professionals along the magnificent Pacific coastline.

After seeing huge waves, relax in plush lodging with stunning ocean views. Enjoy delicious regional cuisine while taking in the vibrant surf culture. Your customized journey guarantees to leave you with priceless memories, whether you’re an experienced surfer or a beginner seeking an adrenaline rush. This is one of the best tours of El Salvador.

In Conclusion, Travel to El Salvador for a unique experience as you discover this hidden jewel of Central America. Wander through historic colonial towns and ancient Mayan ruins to learn more about this country’s rich cultural legacy. Enjoy the warm friendliness of the locals while indulging in delectable cuisine that combines a variety of influences.

Admire the stunning scenery, which includes spectacular volcanoes, luscious jungles, and immaculate beaches along the Pacific coast. El Salvador satisfies every traveler’s needs, whether seeking exhilarating experiences like surfing world-class waves or peacefulness in natural reserves.

El Salvador is an amazing place that provides many activities for tourists seeking adventure, culture, and stunning natural scenery. The best way to experience the Nation and get the most out of your trip is to go on a multi-day tour. A multi-day vacation in El Salvador ensures a memorable and enlightening experience through a nation that frequently astounds and thrills its tourists. A multi-day tour guarantees that you will leave El Salvador with a profound appreciation for its natural beauty, cultural legacy, and warm hospitality, thanks to skilled direction, seamless logistics, and access to unique activities.

Overall, El Salvador is a country that has done a lot to change its image on the world stage. Because of this, El Salvador is becoming the travel hotspot it always should have been and travel to El Salvador is easier now than ever. Accept El Salvador’s many charms and everything there is to offer here. I can guarantee you; you will completely enjoy yourself. Visit El Salvador.

If none of these tours work for you in El Salvador, please do not worry. There is a wide variety of tour options in the country, and we are confident that there will be something that fits your needs and interests.

Take a look at all the group tours in El Salvador now , which you can sort by private or group, maximum sizing, budget, dates and much (much more). The team at TourRadar is also always more than happy to answer any questions, provide further information or assist in any way in finding the perfect tour for you.

Tour El Salvador: Unveil a Wonderful Mosaic of Culture, History, and Nature (8 Days)

🇸🇻 El Salvador Tour El Salvador: Unveil a Wonderful Mosaic of Culture, History, and Nature (8 Days)

– Tour El Salvador – is an experience to discover the culture, history, and nature of this captivating and diverse country. Begin amidst nature in San Salvador , with its towering volcanoes. Let the suburbs’ charm and galleries’ allure captivate you, or simply unwind. Step into history as you explore the capital’s heart and the stories within the National Anthropology Museum. Allow your heart to dance through Suchitoto’s timeless beauty, and let the vibrant hues of Ruta de las Flores enchant your soul. Stand humbled before ancient Mayan ruins, and feel the ocean’s embrace in El Zonte and El Tunco .

• Explore galleries and museums and dive into the teeming markets of San Salvador.
• Visit the captivating UNESCO-listed ruins of Joya de Ceren known as the “Pompeii of the Americas”.
• Explore la Ruta de las Flores, a 36 km-long serene and verdant route perfect for hiking, village-hopping, and food experimentation.
• Relax your soul and body in Ahuachapan’s hot springs.
• Do surfing on El Salvador’s Pacific coast known for its vibrant party scene and beautiful black-sandy beaches.

How is this tour different?

Authentic    how this tour provides an actual image of the destination, life, and practices of the host community..

We do our best to make our trips educative and fulfilling, in which travelers can interact with local populations, learn about their traditions, and culture, and connect with their core values.

A tour with impact   ? How this tour positively affects the destination and local communities on economic, socio-cultural, and environmental dimensions.

We support the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Our tours are aligned with SDG 8 and 12, focusing on empowering local communities and promoting sustainable consumption and production practices. We take tourists to underdeveloped regions, creating opportunities for economic growth while respecting local traditions and educating communities on sustainable approaches.

Other   ? Other advantages this tour offers to travelers.

• Small groups of up to 12 travelers: thus closer communication, easier coordination, more adventures, and fun!
• Off-the-beaten-track tours with maximum immersion in local nature, culture, and traditions.
• Easy-going atmosphere of tours, perfect for informal travel and making new friends among co-travelers and locals.

Day 1: San Salvador

Tour El Salvador starts in San Salvador – a handsome Central American capital surrounded by green-tipped volcanoes, pleasant leafy suburbs, and filled with outstanding galleries and museums. Arrive at any time and take a taxi/shuttle bus to your accommodation. Once there, take your time to rest or explore the city. In the evening, meet your Tour Leader and the rest of the group for a welcome meeting followed by an optional dinner in a  restaurant.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in San Salvador
• Meals Included: n/a
• Activities Included: welcome meeting

Day 2: San Salvador – Suchitoto

Start your day with a walking tour of the historic center of El Salvador’s capital and visit the National Anthropology Museum with your guide. Then, move to the beautiful town of Suchitoto. Architecture buffs will surely love its colonial buildings, while outdoor types can choose between numerous hikes to waterfalls, caves, and beautiful Suchitlán Lake. Suchitoto is also a bird migration zone with over 200 species. Thousands of hawks and falcons fill the skies as the seasons change and birds of all sorts nest in the relative safety of the lake islands. After arrival and seeing impressive basaltic prisms of nearby Cascada Los Tercios, visit a charming Alejandro Coto House Museum and take an orientation walk around the downtown. In the evening, join an optional dinner.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Suchitoto
• Meals Included: breakfast.
• Activities Included: orientation walks in San Salvador and Suchitoto; visits to the National Anthropology Museum, Cascada Los Tercios, and Alejandro Coto House Museum.

Day 3: Suchitoto – Joya de Cerén Archeological Site – San Andrés Archeological Site – Lake Coatepeque

Firstly, take a boat tour of Lake Suchitlán and Market Food Experience in the morning. Thereafter, visit the impressive Mayan ruins of Joya de Ceren (UNESCO-listed) and San Andres in the afternoon. In the evening, arrive at your accommodation on the shore of Lake Coatepeque to enjoy the beautiful sunset and impressive views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Later, join an optional dinner and get-together with your group.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B on the shore of Lake Coatepeque
• Activities Included: boat tour and Market Food Experience in Suchitoto; Joya de Ceren and San Andres Archeological Sites

Day 4: Lake Coatepeque – Tazumal Archeological Site – Ahuachapan

In the morning, continue the Tour El Salvador and take free time to enjoy the sun, swim, or jet ski on the lake. Then, go to explore the impressive Tazumal Archeological Site before finishing in Ahuachapán. Situated at the beginning of the Ruta de las Flores, it’s a prosperous, small provincial capital that supplies 15% of the country’s electrical power thanks to the wonders of geothermal energy. Finally, relax in one of Ahuachapan’s thermal springs and explore its vibrant streets before an optional dinner and get-together with your group in the evening.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Ahuachapán
• Meals Included: breakfast
• Activities Included: orientation walk to Tazumal Archaeological Site; access to Ahuachapán thermal springs; walking tour in Ahuachapan

Day 5: Ahuachapán – La Ruta de las Flores – Cerro Verde National Park

Spend your day exploring la Ruta de las Flores, a 36 km-long serene and verdant route perfect for hiking, village-hopping, and food experimentation. Traveling by private vehicle, visit its brightly colored colonial towns, hike to impressive waterfalls, and see one of the country’s first coffee plantations. Finally, after a full day of exploration and discoveries, rest at your accommodation in Cerro Verde National Park and enjoy imposing views of the nearby Santa Ana Volcano.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in Cerro Verde National Park
• Activities Included: entrances to Cascadas de Don Juan and Laberinto de Café

Day 6: Cerro Verde National Park – El Zonte – El Tunco – La Libertad

First, in the morning, take a 3-hour intermediate-level hike to enjoy the sunrise from the crater of Santa Ana Volcano. Then, go to discover El Zonte and El Tunco – small villages on the Pacific whose beautiful black-sand beaches are considered one of the best in the world for surfing. Once hidden gems are known only amongst Salvadorans, now they are some of the most popular surfing destinations in El Salvador and especially appeal to international visitors. Afterward, move to our final destination, La Libertad, a quieter beach town with windswept sandy beaches and a more authentic Central American experience.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B/guesthouse in La Libertad
• Activities Included: guide hike to Santa Ana Volcano; orientation walks of El Zonte, El Tunco, and La Libertad

Day 7: La Libertad

Free program: rent a surfing board and enjoy the waves, relax on the beach sipping a refreshing cocktail, or go hiking in the nearby Walter Thilo Deininger National Park. Alternatively, walk down the Malecon to enjoy delicious local seafood and awesome views of the Pacific, people watch, and visit the pier where fisherman bring in their daily catches. In the evening, opt to experience local party vibes or join locals down from El Salvador at one of the local bars. Finally, finish the day with an optional dinner and get-together with your group in the evening.

• Accommodation: conveniently located, locally-owned hotel/B&B in La Libertad
• Activities Included: n/a

Day 8: La Libertad

Last day of the Tour El Salvador . Depart at any time or extend your vacations and stay longer!

• This tour is private : only your group will participate.
• The price per person is variable and depends on the size of your group (please choose the number of participants in the booking calendar ➡️ to see the final price).

Local Expert Guides

English/Spanish Tour Leader service

Accommodation

7x nights in conveniently located, locally-owned hotels/B&Bs

Transportation

private vehicle

7x breakfasts

Guided visits to Joya de Ceren, San Andres, and Tazumal Archeological Zones; Lake Suchitlan boat tour; entrance to hot springs in Ahuachapan; guided hike to Santa Ana Volcano; entrances to Cascada Los Tercios, Cascadas de Don Juan and Laberinto de Café.

Personal expenses

Flights are not included: check our partner deals .

Travel insurance is not included: find insurance tailored for you.

Cancellations

Most of our 1-day tours can be canceled up to 48 hours prior to the departure.

Please see our Cancellation Policy for more info.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How to book.

To reserve the tour, please choose the date and complete the booking form. Once finished, you will receive a booking confirmation in your email.

How can I contact the tour organizer?

You can find the contact phone number and email of the tour organizer in the confirmation email.

Can I talk to someone?

Except for the information on this page, you can see full terms & conditions from each tour organizer before completing your booking.

About Vibe Adventures

Unless expressly stated otherwise, the tour and activity providers (“Organizers”) listed on vibeadventures.com are independent third parties and are not agents or affiliates of Vibe Adventures. Therefore, Vibe Adventures shall not be held liable for any injuries, sickness, accidents, delays, neglect, fraud, poor weather conditions, negative consequences, or expenses arising from or associated with the Organizers, their tours and activities, or those of their affiliates. If the tour does not include insurance, the travelers are responsible for obtaining travel insurance, as well as passports, appropriate visas, and necessary vaccinations.

Cancellations & Modifications

To cancel or modify your booking, please contact the Organizer directly using the email or phone number provided in the booking confirmation. Cancellations and modifications are subject to availability and the approval of the Organizer in accordance with their booking terms and conditions, which are made available to you during the booking process.

If you have any other questions please contact us .

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El Salvador Small Group Tours

Uncover new and exciting adventures in El Salvador by taking part in our small group tours. Go sightseeing at your own pace surrounded by travellers like you. Provided by top tour operators & travel companies, our small group tours in El Salvador will offer you the perfect balance between spending time on your own and group activities. View all small group tours .

8 El Salvador small group tours with 16 reviews

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Around El Salvador 6 Days

"We liked the tour around El Salvador and that we could change the schedule to climb a Vulcano. All transfers and hotels were included, hotels were good." Manuelle, traveled in February 2022

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Tailor-Made Best El Salvador Tour with Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility View tour Download Brochure

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Explorer Surfing

Tour El Salvador: Unveil a Wonderful Mosaic of Culture, History, and Nature

"Prebooking information from Alex was clear, responsive and thorough. We booked with confidence." Colin, traveled in May 2022

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"Well organised. We also felt very safe during the whole tour." marques, traveled in December 2022

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Santa ana volcano hiking + panoramic view at coatepeque lake.

Join our best-selling tour and hike to the summit of Santa Ana Volcano, El Salvador’s highest peak. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the beautiful Coatepeque Lake below. The trail takes you through diverse landscapes, ending at the vibrant turquoise crater lake. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this tour offers an unforgettable experience amidst stunning natural beauty.

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Ruta de las flores.

Ruta de Las Flores (Flower Route) is the best option for those that love picturesque colonial villages, culture and nature.

ilamatepec volcano

Is considered one of the jewels par excellence of El Salvador, it’s the highest volcano in the country and also the most active.

the mayan culture

Has been designed to learn every detail of the most interesting civilization of Mexico and Central America “The Mayans”.

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A Guide to Climbing Santa Ana Volcano in El Salvador

By Adam Chance · Last updated on June 10, 2024

Santa Ana Volcano is the highest in all of El Salvador and, in fact, the most active. Those who touch down in the beautiful city of Santa Ana do so with the intention of ticking off this moderate hike from their bucket list.

A couple of months back, I was lucky enough to have the chance to climb Santa Ana Volcano, and what a rewarding experience it was. Seeing the turquoise-blue crater lake in real life is something that I’ll never forget and was easily one of my highlights of Central America.

I took on this climb with little to no preparation, which was probably a bad idea, but it worked out in the end. So you don’t make the same mistakes I did, I’ve written this guide with all the need-to-know information that will help you during your trek.

How to Get to Santa Ana Volcano From Santa Ana

Getting to Santa Ana Volcano is a lot easier than it seems. The drive to the trail only takes just under an hour, so it’s pretty close. You’ll have the choice to either take a bus or a taxi/In Drive.

If you want to go there by bus, you’ll have to take bus number 248 from Santa Ana; it will be labelled on the top of the vehicle, so you won’t be able to miss it. Expect the journey to last around two hours; this is Central America, so it’s going to be a chicken bus, which makes many stops along the way, adding extra time to the journey.

The other option is to take a taxi to the trailhead or an In Drive, which is what I did. In Drive is a ride-sharing app used throughout El Salvador, and it’s very affordable. We split the ride between four people, costing only $2.50 per person.

Pro-tip : If you get a taxi driver and they give you a crazy price, take out the In Drive app and show them how much the drivers are offering. You might be able to get a cheaper fare.

Cost of Hiking Santa Ana Volcano

Unfortunately, hiking Santa Ana Volcano isn’t free. There’s an entry fee of $6 per person when you arrive at the gate for all foreigners. If you’re Salvadorian, the fee is only $3.

You should be aware that when you arrive at the gate, you’ll be told you can’t hike without a guide. This happened to us; we had to join a big group and pay an extra $3 for the guide, which was perfectly fine; we didn’t mind paying more. However, things do move slowly, and if you like to hike fast without waiting around like me, the trek can drag in, so be aware.

The reason for the guide is that there have been muggings on the trail in the past, so it’s for your safety. I have heard of people being able to do it without a guide, so who knows what the situation will be when you get there?

Pro tip : Grab some traditional Salvadorian breakfast at the trailhead before you start hiking because there are only some snack stalls halfway through, but nothing substantial.

The Climb Itself

Now, for the best part: the climb itself. My group and I took around two hours to reach the top, with plenty of breaks throughout.

Even if you’re not extremely fit, you’ll be able to manage it; it’s an easy-to-moderate climb with a very slow incline. Just be sure to have comfortable shoes and take along some hiking sticks for extra support if needed.

About halfway through the ascent, there are some toilets and a little tienda where you can pick up some snacks and water if you need it.

Once you get to the final section of the trail, the views start getting really good: rugged mountains everywhere you look and vistas of Lago de Coatepeque in the distance; you won’t be able to stop taking pictures.

Pro tip : Make sure you bring plenty of water because it can be quite humid on the trailhead.

The crater will be waiting for you at the top of the volcano; it really is a sight to behold. The aqua colour of the crater lake doesn’t look real; when you hear and see it bubbling away, it brings into perspective the power and beauty of Mother Nature.

You’ll be free to walk around the ridge of the volcano, but I urge you to be careful when you’re up there. It can get slippy, and an accident can easily happen if you’re fooling around. All the guides usually surround you anyway and are very cautious about every step you take, so just listen to the rules, and you’ll be fine. There’s also a police officer at the top, just in case anything goes wrong.

We stayed at the top for nearly an hour, and personally, I thought that was too much time. Especially with the heavy winds up there, it gets cold after you’ve had time to sweat all the hiking off.

Pro-tip : When you reach the summit, take a left and walk for about 100 metres where there are fewer people to get a better photo.

The Descent

What goes up must go down. Luckily, the descent takes a little less longer than the ascent, especially if you’re with a guide because the group needs fewer breaks.

Many of our group members actually ended up jogging down a good chunk of the trail when it started to even out, which was fun. However, you should take extra caution at the beginning of the descent because there are a lot of boulders that you need to climb over. They can be dangerous if you’re not looking where you’re going.

Once you get back to the trailhead, you’re done! Your next challenge is getting back to Santa Ana, which can be tricky. The public buses back to the city only run at 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM, so you’ll have to try to make one of them. The other option is to take a taxi, which can cost a bit more than if you were to do it the other way around since you’re at the driver’s mercy.

Pro-tip : If you’re with a big group, pay your In Drive driver who took you to the trailhead more money to stick around and wait for you to drive you back to Santa Ana.

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Central America Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

Surrounded by the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, the slender land bridge of Central America runs from Mexico to South America and is made up of seven countries: Guatemala , Belize , El Salvador , Honduras , Nicaragua , Costa Rica , and Panama .

Political and civil unrest in the 1980s kept most tourists away for decades (people never forget bad news), but now the area is becoming hotspot for travelers, surfers, luxury travelers, and even retirees.

Because Central America is beautiful, filled with history, affordable, and much safer than it used to be.

While there are still regions where you need to be vigilant, people have realized that it’s not the place the media makes it out to be. The region’s rainforests are filled with unexplored Mayan ruins and wildlife, its beaches are great for surfing, its reefs offer world-class diving, there’s a huge variety of flora and fauna here, and the cheap accommodation, food, and transport throughout the region make it a budget traveler’s dream.

I’m glad the collective consciousness is shifting and people are finally recognizing how amazing this area. I began my nomadic life traveling around Central America and whenever I return, I fall in love even more with the friendliness of the people, the tasty food, the weather, the history, and the beauty.

This travel guide to Central America will give you all the tips to help you plan your trip, stay safe, and save money in this underrated region of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Central America

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in central america.

1. Explore the volcanoes

This region is rich in volcanoes — both active and inactive. You can hike, take a horse up, and even roast marshmallows at Pacaya (Guatemala), known for frequently erupting in ash clouds. Poás (Costa Rica) is famous for its green volcano crater lake, Arenal has hiking trails, geothermal springs, a gorgeous rainforest area with waterfalls, ziplining tours and a plethora of wildlife. Masaya in Nicaragua is well known for its spectacular crater lava lake that you can visit at night to truly see the bubbling lava (coined ‘La Boca de Infierno’ (or ‘Mouth of Hell’). For adventure seekers, don’t miss trying some adrenaline-inducing sandboarding down Cerro Negro volcano in Nicaragua.

2. See Mayan ruins

Central America has many ruin sites. Tikal, in Guatemala, is an enormous national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site with centuries of Mayan history and archeology covered in lush vegetation and rare tropical wildlife. Copán in Honduras dates back to the 5th century and boasts intricate stelae, tunnels, a hieroglyphic stairway, and lush tropical vegetation filled with monkeys, sloths, parrots, and macaws. Meanwhile, Xunantunich is one of Belize’s most impressive and easily accessible Maya sites known for its scenic location in the middle of the jungle. Last but not least, San Andrés archeological site in El Salvador is the largest pre-hispanic ruins site in the country and includes pyramids and ancient plazas. The intricate wall carvings, imposing pyramids, and crumbling columns should not be missed. Prices vary but expect to spend around $20 USD for admission.

3. Relax on Caye Caulker, Belize

This little island is incredibly popular with backpackers. It’s less expensive than some of the larger islands in the country and has a relaxed atmosphere to it. There is something here for everyone and there is way more to do here than just lay out on the exquisite beaches (although this is definitely a place you could chill for a few days). However, it’s also a spectacular place to see the delicate ecosystems of Caye Caulker Forest Reserve, which is filled with rare tropical plants and marine life. Caye Caulker is also a great place to snorkel with nurse sharks, dive the Belize Barrier Reef or the Great Blue Hole, swim with gentle manatees, or just kayak around “The Split” in paradise. July is a great time to go because of their famous lobster festival, offering tasty lobster as well as lively beach parties.

4. See the Panama Canal

First opened in 1914, the Panama Canal is an 80-kilometer (50-mile) marvel of human labor and engineering. 13,000-14,000 ships cross between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean every single year thanks to the canal (nearly a million boats have crossed since its construction). The canal raises ships an impressive 27 meters (85 feet) using a complex lock system, so it takes 8-10 hours for each boat to cross. The Canal relies on three sets of locks: Miraflores and Pedro Miguel Locks on the Pacific side and Gatun Locks on the Caribbean side. The most common place to see the canal is at Miraflores Locks in Panama. Admission is $20 USD.

5. Trek through the rainforests

Much of Central America is covered in lush and humid rainforests. A popular way to see these is to take a canopy tour, where you’ll be suspended on a zip-line and glide over the tops of the trees. The rainforests are filled with howler monkeys, jaguars, lizards, tropical birds, and so much more. Check out Costa Rica’s Volcán Arenal or La Fortuna Zip lines for breathtaking scenic views. Or Guatemala’s Atitlán canopy tours, where you can zip right over the stunning blue lake below. Honduras’s remote paradise Roatán Island offers incredible zip line views of its perfect crystal coast before sunning on the beach too. Expect to pay $40-65 USD.

Other Things to See and Do in Central America

1. head to antigua.

Considered one of the best-preserved colonial cities, Antigua (in Guatemala ) is a major travel hotspot for backpackers. Wander around the Spanish-style cobbled streets and visit the ruins of San Francisco Church. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike up to the 3,976-meter-high (13,000-foot) summit of one of the most active volcanoes in the world, “Volcan Fuego” (which is nearby). You can also head to Acatenango (another nearby volcano) if you’d rather see a volcano spit smoke and fire. Plus, there are tons of pubs, restaurants, coffee shops, hostels, and even Spanish language schools here if you want a reason to stay longer!

2. Go diving

The shores around Central America are home to many coral reefs. As such, diving is hugely popular. The colors and variety of fish will amaze you, as will the clear visibility. Diving here is cheaper than in the Caribbean and most parts of Mexico . Popular dive countries include Panama, Honduras, and Belize. Expect to pay $50-100 USD for a two-tank dive, or a few hundred dollars for your certification course.

3. Tour coffee plantations

This entire region is known for its coffee, particularly Costa Rica and Panama. Tour the plantations and see how the beans are grown, picked, and ground. You can also buy fresh coffee at heavily discounted prices (it’s a great souvenir). I found the best coffee to be from Monteverde, Costa Rica — and I don’t even like coffee! But I drank it and loved it (it tasted like chocolate!).

4. Visit Chichicastenango

Most people who come to Guatemala visit Chichicastenango , the largest indigenous market in Central America. Stalls sell handicrafts, blankets, pottery, souvenirs, and more. It’s the best place to find local food for cheap and take in the hustle and bustle of local life.

5. Tour the museums

Most cities in Central America are filled with museums, particularly those paying homage to the Mayan civilization. The Pre-Columbian Gold Museum in San José, Costa Rica is fascinating, with over 1,000 different gold objects such as animal figures, and jewelry, as well as a scale model of a Pre-Columbian village. For Mayan artifacts, head to the Copán Archaeology Museum in Honduras ($3 USD).

6. Sail the San Blas Islands

This archipelago in Panama consists of 378 islands and cays to explore. Taking a day, or even a week-long sailing trip throughout them is super fun. There are incredible seascapes to behold, as well as fascinating people to meet and colorful reefs to see up close. There is an abundance of wildlife to check out and the boats make frequent snorkeling and scuba diving stops. These trips are popular with budget travelers and can be organized anywhere in the country. You can do a day trip to three of the islands for $90 USD but expect to spend upwards of $600 USD for a 4-5-day cruise. It’s not super cheap, but it’s worth it!

7. Surf down a volcano in Nicaragua

If you like adrenaline activities, try volcano boarding. Cerro Negro, a young and active volcano in Nicaragua, offers tourists a chance to ride a surfboard down its graveled slopes. You have to hike up to the top yourself (which takes around an hour) so be prepared for a climb and to get dirty! A full-day excursion costs $45-50 USD, with transportation, gear, and drinks included.

8. Dive the Great Blue Hole

This natural wonder in Belize is part of the Lighthouse Reef system. It’s a near-perfect circular hole that stretches 146 meters (480 feet) below the surface. The water here is almost completely motionless, so visibility is clear to about 60 meters (200 feet). The Great Blue Hole is an amazing place to dive or snorkel and is considered one of the best natural dive spots in the world! Tour prices vary, but snorkeling tours cost around $220 USD, and diving tours start at $240 USD. A half-day tour with two dives starts from $130 USD. The trips to the Blue Hole are full-day, 3-tank tours and start from $300 USD.

9. Walk through the Treetops

The Rainmaker Aerial Walkway in Costa Rica was the first aerial walkway to be built in Central America and it’s still considered one of the top aerial walkways in the region. At the highest point on the walkway, you’ll find yourself 20 stories above the ground. Tours start at $75 USD and include two light meals. There is also a night tour that lasts three hours and costs $60 USD.

10. Visit the Macaw Mountain Bird Reserve & Park

Located in Copán Ruinas, Honduras, this enclosure is in a tropical rainforest brimming with an amazing range of birds. You’ll see everything from brilliant Buffon Macaws to vibrant Blue and Gold Macaws to colorful Keel-Billed Toucans. Included in the ticket price is a three-day access pass to the park, a one-hour guided tour, and a 20-minute walk through an adjacent coffee plantation. Admission is $10 USD.

11. Admire the Belize Barrier Reef

This is the second-longest barrier reef in the world. It’s home to a vibrant coral reef and magnificent marine life (including sea turtles, rays, and sharks) and is the country’s most popular tourist attraction. In 1996, the reef was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s now a popular spot for diving, snorkeling, and boat tours. A three-tank dive costs around $115-125 USD.

12. Go to Ometepe Island, Nicaragua

Located on Nicaragua Lake, this is the largest volcanic island in the world that resides inside a freshwater lake. It’s easy to get to and is close to Managua. There are a plethora of restaurants and hotels on the island. Be sure to check out Cascada San Ramon, a waterfall you can access via a beautiful four-hour hike. Also, don’t miss El Pital where you can learn how chocolate is made (tours are $15 USD).

13. Take in the Nicoya Coast, Costa Rica

This is a beautiful peninsula in Costa Rica peppered with quaint little towns and plenty of beaches. It is constantly sunny here, and there’s a lot to see and do. Some of the main attractions include Barra Honda National Park, Isla Tortuga, scuba diving, and driving along the coast. My favorite town in this area is Santa Teresa.

14. Visit La Libertad, El Salvador

For those of you who are big on surfing, this is considered the best place to catch a wave in Central America. While there is the risk of bumping into a swarm of beach-bum types, it doesn’t take away from the amazing waves, the endless seafood barbecue, and cool accommodation. Surfboard rentals start at $15-25 USD.

15. Enjoy Carnival

The biggest carnival in the region is La Ceiba in Honduras. Held every May, the streets fill with bright costumes and dancing, while bars and clubs burst with locals and tourists alike, all vying to soak up the party atmosphere. Different neighborhoods host “Carnavalitos” (little carnivals), competing on who can throw the best party.

16. Visit the Montecristo Cloud Forest

This cloud forest has a diverse swath of flora and fauna including ferns, orchids, mosses, spider monkeys, and anteaters. Hike to the highest point, El Trifinio, where the borders of El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala converge. It’s a steep 7-kilometer (4-mile) climb, so bring lots of water. There’s a limit to how many people can visit the park each day so it’s best to arrive bright and early and finish before the park closes at 3pm.

17. Dive the Bay Islands in Honduras

The Bay Islands are one of the best diving spots in Central America. The Roatan, Utila, and Guanaja archipelagos all offer stunning dive sites. Get up close to colorful coral formations or deep dive 600 meters (2,000) feet into the abyss for bluntnose sixgill shark sightings. It’s also super affordable; prices start at $35-40 USD.

Be sure to visit our Central America country travel guides for more detailed information about what to see and do in each destination:

• Belize Travel Guide
• Costa Rica Travel Guide
• El Salvador Travel Guide
• Guatemala Travel Guide
• Honduras Travel Guide
• Nicaragua Travel Guide
• Panama Travel Guide

Central America Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostel dorms with 6-8 beds cost $8-20 USD per night while private hostel rooms cost $15-30 USD for a single or double bed with private bathroom (in Belize, Costa Rica or Panama, you will pay on the higher end of that range).

Family-owned guesthouses or hotels are the next most affordable accommodation. These rooms average $25-40 USD per night for a private room with an ensuite bathroom. Many include breakfast, not to mention the added bonus of meeting a local.

In cheaper countries like Honduras, a private room can cost $15 USD per night while in a more expensive destination like Panama City, you can expect to pay on the higher end, about $40-50 USD per night.

Airbnb is also an option around Central America, with private rooms starting at around $30 USD per night. For an entire home or apartment expect to pay at least $70 USD per night (though prices are often double that).

Camping can be done easily at some hostels and in certain national parks. Many hostels have spaces where you can pitch a tent or string up a hammock for under $10 USD per night. National parks require camping fees that vary from country to country. See country guides for specifics on where to stay.

Generally, I’d avoid wild camping in this region (even where it is legal it is not advised due to crime, the heat, and wildlife).

Food – While the cuisine for each country in Central America varies, there is some overlap. Expect to find dishes centered around rice, beans, tortillas, meat, and seafood. Generally, you’ll find a mix of Spanish, Caribbean, and traditional Mesoamerican influences here. Fresh fruit is also huge, including favorites like bananas, plantain, mangoes, papaya, and more.

The cheapest food option is to eat at the roadside restaurants that dot the region. Buying your own groceries and cooking is also super affordable, though not all hostels have kitchen facilities.

At small restaurants serving regional cuisine, expect to pay around $5 USD for a meal. If you want really cheap food, you can find empanadas (fried pastries filled with meat, cheese, or potatoes) for under a dollar.

If you plan on cooking your own meals, head down to the local market and pick up fruit, vegetables, rice, and some meat or seafood for $20-40 USD per week depending on your diet.

The local markets have tons of fresh fruit for incredibly cheap, so fill up on that when you can. A typical restaurant meal per main dish and a drink is about $10 USD, however, western food costs about three times as much as local dishes — so skip it!

See each destination’s guide for more info and prices.

Backpacking Central America Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $30-55 USD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat some local street food, cook most of your meals, visit a few attractions (like museums and national parks), do some free walking tours, and take local transportation to get around. If you plan on drinking, you’ll need to add a few extra dollars to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of $75-150 USD per day, you can stay in a private hostel or Airbnb, eat out more, enjoy a few drinks, visit some historical sites and do some tours, and take coach buses and the occasional taxi to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of $180-290 USD per day, you can stay in a hotel, drink as much as you’d like, eat out for all your meals (including at Western restaurants), take private tours, rent a car for day trips, go diving, and even take the occasional flight. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Note that if you visit Costa Rica and Panama (the region’s two most expensive countries), you’ll spend on the higher end of these ranges (and above).

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Central America Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

While our country guides have more specific ways to save (every country in the region is very different), here are five general rules for saving money in Central America:

• Visit the markets – Although eating out is cheap in Central America, it makes sense to shop at the markets for your food to take on day trips or to prepare at your hostel. Fruit is super cheap!
• Hitchhike – Hitchhiking is one of the most popular ways to get around the region and used extensively by locals. You’ll find people regularly willing to pick up people and give them a lift. Just be sure to use common sense as some regions should not be traveled by hitchhiking.
• Eat on the side of the road – The local eateries at the side of the road will be the cheapest food you can eat, costing just a couple of dollars per meal.
• Avoid flying – Bus rides are longer, but if you are trying to see this region on a budget you shouldn’t fly. Flights are 5-10 times more expensive than the bus! An hour-long flight can cost hundreds of dollars. Avoid flying as much as possible!

Where to Stay in Central America

Each country guide has lots of suggested places to stay but here are some of my top top places to stay in the region:

• The Red Hut Inn (Belize City)
• Sophie’s Guest Rooms (Caye Caulker)
• Dirty McNasty (Caye Caulker)
• D’s Hostel (San Ignacio)
• Maya Papaya (Antigua)
• La Iguana Perdida (Santa Cruz, Lake Atitlan)
• Casa de Grethel (Flores)
• Hostal Los Lagos (Guatemala City)

El Salvador

• Hostal Cumbres del Volcan Flor Blanca (San Salvador)
• Hostel Casa Verde (Santa Ana)
• Roatan Backpackers Hostel (Roatan)
• Palmira Hostel (Tegucigalpa)
• Iguana Azul (Copan Ruinas)
• De Boca en Boca (Granada)
• Bigfoot Hostel & Volcano Boarding (Leon)
• Managua Backpackers Inn (Managua)
• Hostel Life is Good (Ometepe Island)
• Rocking J’s (Puerto Viejo)
• Costa Rica Backpackers (San Jose)
• Pura Natura Lodge Manuel Antonio (Manuel Antonio)
• Camino Verde B&B (Monteverde)
• Hostal Casa Areka (Panama City)
• Magnolia Inn Casco Viejo (Panama City)
• El Machio (Panama City)
• Bambuda Castle (Boquete)
• Bambuda Lodge (Bocas del Toro)

How to Get Around Central America

Public transportation – Public buses are the most common (and cheapest) way to get around, with fares costing less than a dollar. These buses are often referred to as “chicken buses” because of the number of chickens and rice that is transported on them. They stop just about everywhere to let people hop on and off, and you’ll be crammed in tight with locals. They’re slow, but cheap.

Taxi – Taxis are common and affordable, but not all of them have meters. Be sure to check before you get into the taxi and if there’s no meter, negotiate a fare upfront.

On the higher end, taxi fares start at about $2 USD in Panama City and then they charge $2 USD per kilometer. In San Jose, Costa Rica, rates start at around $1 USD and then are $1.11 USD per kilometer.

Always ask your hotel/hostel staff how much your ride should be so you know in advance. When in doubt, have them call a taxi for you as well so you know you won’t get ripped off.

Bus – Longer bus rides and overnight buses between countries usually cost between $10-30 USD. They’re not always overly comfortable, but they usually have air-conditioning and some night buses have reclining seats.

Shuttle buses are a popular way to get travelers around the backpacking trail. All you need to do is show up at a travel agency (they’re everywhere) and negotiate a price and route. Make sure you’re clear about where the bus is picking you up — it’s not always a bus station. In some cases, you can just show up and pay the driver onboard.

Larger international buses also run between the larger cities and tend to have their own bus terminals. Some services include Tica Bus, Central Line, and Expreso Panama.

On Tica Bus, for example, you can get from Panama all the way to Guatemala. From Panama to Costa Rica is about $55 USD, and the price increases the further you go. These buses are more comfortable, but the smaller minibusses arranged through an agency tend to be cheaper.

Train – Trains are non-existent in this region. Stick to buses.

Flying – Flying between cities and countries is expensive and routes are limited. A flight from Guatemala City to Belize City can cost upwards of $240 USD while a one-way flight from Belize to Panama is over $375 USD! I would avoid this method of travel unless you are very pressed for time and have lots of money to burn.

Car rental – Roads and driving conditions vary widely here. Overall, you’ll want to be an experienced driver here if you are going to rent a car. Rentals cost around $15-35 USD per day for a multi-day rental. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Central America

The weather in Central America varies drastically depending on where you are thanks to its many distinct microclimates from coast to coast (and with the altitude in the mountainous areas). The dry season is from December to April, which is generally considered the best time to visit. This is also when most people visit so you can expect more crowds and inflated prices.

The rainy season is from April to December, with hurricane season being at its peak in September and October (especially on the Caribbean side). Having said that, the rainy season isn’t a bad time to visit. Mostly you’ll find periods of heavy rainfall, but plenty of nice weather otherwise. Humidity can be high, and mosquitos and tropical storms can be a nuisance.

In the mountains, temperatures can drop as low as 10°C (50°F). In the hottest places, it’ll soar into the high 30s°C (80s°F). Refer to our country-specific guides to get a better breakdown of temperatures and climates!

How to Stay Safe in Central America

While Central America is generally safe for traveling and backpacking, there’s no denying that certain precautions should be taken. There are certain parts of Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala that are currently best to avoid completely and theft and pick-pocketing is common in most cities around the region.

Additionally, there are lots of places you don’t want to go out at night (especially in big cities).

You can find the current situation for each country in their destination guide but here are some general rules for staying safe in Central America:

• Avoid isolated areas, especially at night and in big cities.
• Avoid night buses, where robberies are common, unless your hotel/hostel staff say otherwise.
• Avoid taking drugs here. Penalties are stiff.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Keep your personal belongings on you while using public transit (especially chicken buses).
• Take taxis at night in foreign cities (ideally with other travelers).
• Don’t wear flashy items or start flashing your phone around (especially at night).

Overall, violent attacks against tourists are rare. Petty theft is common here and you must be extremely vigilant to make sure you don’t get robbed — especially when on public transportation or in large crowds.

Don’t carry lots of cash on you and avoid flashing expensive gear. When you go out, only take as much money as you need.

Keep an eye out for common scams against tourists , such as fake ATMs, taxis that don’t use a meter, and questionable tour operators.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Central America, check out this post we wrote that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Central America Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Central America Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Central America travel and continue planning your trip:

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

How to Get Around Central America on a Budget

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Fee:  The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).

Number of Entries:  The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. “M” means multiple times. If there is a number, such as “One”, you may apply for entry one time with that visa.

Validity Period:  This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.

What is the Difference between the Reciprocity Fee and the Nonimmigrant Visa Application Fee?

The nonimmigrant visa application fee, also known as the MRV fee, is a nonrefundable fee paid by most applicants for U.S. visas, whether the application is approved or refused. It covers the costs associated with processing a U.S. visa application. Current nonimmigrant visa application fees can be found on our  Fees – Visa Services  webpage. (This webpage also lists the few visa categories for which application fees are not required.)

While most visa applicants are required to pay the visa application fee, the Reciprocity Fee is only charged to an approved nonimmigrant visa applicant after the visa interview.

Immigrant Visa Interviews

For Immigrant Visa interviews each U.S. Embassy or Consulate has specific instructions for their applicants. Please click here to select your designated interview location.

Civil Documents and How to Use Them

Immigrant visa applicants are required to submit certain civil documents as part of their visa application, such as birth certificates and police records. (Nonimmigrant visa applicants do not routinely need to submit civil documents as part of their visa application.) Each Reciprocity Page will provide detailed information about how to obtain these civil documents from the country* you have selected, as well as the location of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you can apply for your visa. For more information about civil document requirements for immigrant visa cases, see  civil documents .

To view the Civil Documents for your country* of nationality, select your country*/area of authority from the drop-down menu below. On the Reciprocity Page, click on the tabs on the left to see the categories of Civil Documents and how to obtain them.

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* With respect to all references to “country” or “countries” on this page, it should be noted that the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979, Pub. L. No. 96-8, Section 4(b)(1), provides that “[w]whenever the laws of the United States refer or relate to foreign countries, nations, states, governments, or similar entities, such terms shall include and such laws shall apply with respect to Taiwan.” 22 U.S.C. § 3303(b) (1). Accordingly, all references to “country” or “countries” in the Visa Waiver Program authorizing legislation, Section 217 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. 1187, are read to include Taiwan. This is consistent with the United States’ one-China policy, under which the United States has maintained unofficial relations with Taiwan since 1979.

Additional Information for Reciprocity

Reciprocity: What's New Temporary Reciprocity Schedule Country Acronyms Terrorist Designation Lists State Sponsors of Terrorism Treaty Countries Visa Issuing Posts

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International travel documents for children

See what documents a child needs to travel to or from the U.S. alone or with a parent or relative.

Children traveling to the U.S.

All children, including infants, must have their own travel documents such as a passport or document from a Trusted Traveler Program to enter the U.S. If you travel or are going to travel with a child, consider taking the following documents:

• If the child is traveling with only one of their custodial parents, they must have a letter of consent, preferably in English and notarized, from the other parent or signed by both parents. The letter should say "I acknowledge that my son/daughter is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission."
• If one parent has sole custody of the child, a copy of the custody document can take the place of the other parent's letter.
• Parents who frequently cross the border by land with a minor must always carry a letter of permission from the other parent.

U.S. citizen children traveling abroad

Ports of entry in many countries have security measures to prevent international child abduction . If you are traveling alone with your child, you may be required to present documentation proving you are the parent or legal guardian. You may also need a letter of permission from the other parent for your child to travel. 

If your child travels alone, depending on the country, they may be required to present a notarized letter from both parents or their legal guardian. If a minor is traveling abroad and is not accompanied by both parents or a legal guardian, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you will be visiting and ask about entry and exit requirements for that country.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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