Main Info
Nestled between Honduras and Guatemala, El Salvador, the smallest country in Central America, packs a punch when it comes to vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.
Included | Transfer from the airport to the hotel 6 nights in San Salvador at Mirador Plaza or similar Breakfast Daily Visit to El Boqueron Naitonal Park Visit The Historic Center City tour to Suchitoto Visit Cerro Verde Visit San Andres Visit Joya de Ceren Tour to Flower Route Visit El Tunco Entrance fees to National Parks and Archaeological sites Private transportation with Air Conditions Goods & Services Tax English speaking guide Transfer from the hotel to the airport |
Excluded | Personal Expenses Unspecified meals Optional tours and activities Tips and gratuity |
Rates and Dates |
Hotel or Similar Mirador Plaza or similar |
Itinerary
Upon your arrival, one of our representatives will greet you at the main exit of the airport, holding a distinctive sign with your name on it. Reception and transfer to the city of San Salvador.
Overnight in San Salvador | Meals: N/A
Breakfast in the hotel, after we will start our tour to Boqueron National Park. San Salvador Volcano stands in the background of the Salvadorean capital city, known also by the name of El Jabalí (wild boar), due to the peculiar shape of the back and the head of this animal. The last registered eruption was in 1917 and since then has been dormant, but with activity around another volcanic-related phenomenon. Today its crater has a 1.5-kilometer diameter as a result of the last-mentioned eruption and is called El Boquerón which gives the name to the natural park founded at the top of the mountain. In the park is possible to enjoy a pleasant climate and observe different bird species of the highlands, it is also possible to obtain the best views of San Salvador city, and when the clouds allow it you can see the landscape of San Vicente Volcano and Ilopango Lake. San Salvador is the Salvadoran capital city, and the main political, cultural educational, financial, and economic center. The metropolitan area embraces the municipalities around conforming to the largest urban area in the country and the second one in Central America with almost two million inhabitants. Founded in 1525, by the Spanish.
Conquers is one of the oldest cities kept as a capital. The city is the called “Valley of the Hammocks” and has been destroyed several times by earthquakes and rebuilt in the same place. In the Historical Centre, we find around the main squares, some of the oldest monuments as the Metropolitan Cathedral, where we find the human rest of Saint Oscar A. Romero and; the National Palace. Six columns stand out on its main facade and the statues of Christopher Columbus and Isabel the Catholic; The National Theater, with Renaissance French style, and the beautiful Rosario church, a particular building with beautiful crystals coloring the inside.
In Plaza Las Américas, we find one of the Salvadoran identity icons: the Salvador del Mundo (Savior of the world) statue. A sight unseen through the main avenues and streets in the main areas of the city. After the tour, we will be coming back to the hotel.
Overnight in San Salvador
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast at the hotel, we will begin our tour to the charming town of Suchitoto. Founded by the Nahuatl people in pre-Columbian times, Suchitoto means “Place of Birds and Flowers” in the native language. Today, it is known as the “Cradle of Culture and History,” one of El Salvador’s key hubs for preserving traditions, customs, and local arts and crafts. The town's colonial architecture, with well-preserved antique buildings and cobblestone streets, offers a glimpse into the past, where the peaceful atmosphere captures the essence of local life. From the town, you can enjoy stunning views of Suchitlán Lake, the largest artificial lake in the country, especially from Casa 1800, which provides breathtaking vistas surrounded by forests and endemic birdsong.
As you explore the town, you’ll find art galleries, cafés, museums, and historic buildings with original roof tiles. Don’t miss the iconic Santa Lucía Church, built in 1853, which stands as a symbol of the town’s cultural and historical importance.
In the afternoon, you’ll have time to enjoy some optional activities (at an additional cost):
- Indigo Workshop: Learn the ancient art of indigo dyeing from the local community. Indigo, known as "añil" or "jiquilite," is a native plant historically used to create a beautiful blue dye, once referred to as "Blue Gold" in the 18th century for its economic value. El Salvador was a leading producer of indigo, and today, efforts are being made to revive this tradition as a source of income for local families. This workshop will give you a hands-on experience in crafting with indigo and an understanding of its cultural significance.
- Suchitlán Lake Boat Ride: Take a relaxing boat ride on Suchitlán Lake, the largest man-made lake in El Salvador. The lake is surrounded by lush vegetation, and it's a haven for both local and migratory bird species. Your journey starts at Puerto San Juan, offering scenic views of the lake’s mountainous backdrop and islands, each rich with legends and stories.
- Cihuatán Archaeological Site: Visit Cihuatán, the largest yet least known archaeological site in El Salvador. This pre-Hispanic acropolis served as an important cultural and residential center before it was abandoned. Explore the pyramids, ancient ball courts, and other intriguing structures. The site includes an interpretative center and a self-guided archaeological trail. Transportation is required for this activity.
- Los Tercios Waterfalls: Just 1.5 km from Suchitoto, enjoy a moderate walk to the unique Los Tercios Waterfalls. During the rainy season, water cascades down this striking basaltic rock formation, while in the dry season, you can marvel at the hexagonal stone formations left behind by volcanic activity. A local guide is recommended for this excursion.
Enjoy a day rich in culture, history, and natural beauty in Suchitoto!
Overnight in San Salvador
Meals: Breakfast
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by an unforgettable tour through some of the most iconic sites in El Salvador.
Your adventure begins at Cerro Verde, a natural protected area located on a dormant volcano, standing 2,035 meters above sea level and spanning 500 hectares. This park is part of the renowned Lake and Volcanoes Complex. As you walk through the cloud forest surrounding the extinct crater, you'll enjoy cool temperatures between 12°C and 18°C. Along the trails, take in the rich biodiversity, with unique plant species, butterflies, and birds. Don’t miss the scenic viewpoints offering stunning vistas of the Izalco Volcano, known as the “Pacific Lighthouse,” and the towering Ilamatepec Volcano (Santa Ana’s Volcano), the largest in the country. You’ll also be treated to panoramic views of Coatepeque Lake, a volcanic crater lake.
Next, visit San Andrés, an important ceremonial, religious, and political site from ancient times. Here, you'll explore the acropolis, which once housed governing structures, with the most notable being Pyramid 5, famously known as "La Campana" for its distinct shape. You'll also see remnants of ancient indigo mills, with much of the site preserved under ash from the Playón Volcano eruption.
Finally, head to the Joya de Cerén archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1993. Known as the "Pompeii of the Americas," Joya de Cerén offers a rare glimpse into the everyday life of pre-Columbian Maya farmers. Preserved under layers of volcanic ash from an eruption around A.D. 600, the site is a remarkably intact farming village that provides invaluable insights into the lives of the region's ancient inhabitants.
Overnight in San Salvador
Meals: Breakfast
Breakfast in the hotel. After we start the Flower’s Route is one of the most famous and visited destinations in El Salvador, hidden along the Apaneca hills on the west side of the country, and includes a group of picturesque towns where is possible to appreciate the local and peaceful life of Salvadorean people and each one with particularities which make it special and providing different flavors during the visits.
Concepción de Ataco or simply Ataco, is a village in the west mountains of El Salvador, was a prehispanic settlement and its name means “place of high springs” and is one of the most important spots in the famous Flower Route. Perfect for enjoying the quiet local life far away from urban areas; in the picturesque town the cobbled
streets lead you through a huge gallery art of colorful murals painted on the walls of the local houses, markets, cafés and local stores; which try to reflect the good things that El Salvador has the nature, the children, and the daily life situations of their friendly people.
Apaneca is one of the main coffee maker towns and by the way, Salvadorean coffee is famous worldwide due to its properties and quality. The small village is 1455 meters above the level sea is one of the higher municipalities in El Salvador; for this reason, surrounded by coffee plantations growing in the perfect climate for them. Enjoy a coffee cup produced locally or here is a good place to visit a coffee plantation and learn about the process to obtain this popular beverage.
Juayúa, its name comes from Nahuat and means probably “Place where you can find trees”, which makes sense, considering that currently the village has a greener landscapes, surrounded by lush vegetation and especially coffee plantations, due to the pleasant weather in this mountainous region, and has another natural place as the very famous “Chorros de La Calera” for example. In late century XVI, the Franciscan order brought a Black Christ similar then Esquipulas, just in the same place that would be Santa Lucía church of Juayúa. In late century XX the town was involved in the peasant uprising a sad sheet in the book of Salvadorean history.
Nahuizalco or the place of the four Izalcos, is a very important center for indigenous communities and one of the last places where people speak Nahuat in the country. Peasants especially indigenous were involved in an uprising due to social discontent which provoked a massacre in 1932 and reduced the population of native indigenous, nowadays the customs, traditions, heritage, and ceremonies are being protected and preserved by some of the last pure descendants remaining in this place as a cultural treasure. One of the main attractive of Nahuizalco is its colorful market, where you can find fresh fruit, live birds, and other raw materials locally grown including Wicker and tule, used by local artisans to make the famous handicrafts including baskets and the popular petates.
Overnight in San Salvador
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast in the hotel, we will transfer to the Salvadorean coast which is just a 300 km line laying down over the Pacific Ocean, formed mainly by volcanic processes coloring the sand with black-gray tones. Along the way, you can find different sceneries a combination of local flavors and natural beauty. Very close to this place is the local dock of La Libertad town where you can appreciate the daily fishing activities and how people sell fresh products to local inhabitants. Amazing places to admire the sunset every afternoon.
El Tunco Beach, one of the most popular destinations in La Libertad, is a favorite among both national and international surfers. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking for lessons, certified experts and local instructors are available to guide you. Beyond surfing, the area offers a range of activities, including yoga classes and massages. You'll also find a vibrant local scene with cafés, bars, restaurants, Spanish lessons, craft shops, and more, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and adventure.
Overnight in San Salvador
Meals: Breakfast
Breakfast in the hotel. According to your schedule, shared departure transfer to the airport, on time to catch your international flight