Taiwan El Salvador

El Salvador is bordered by Guatemala, Honduras, and the Pacific Ocean. The capital, San Salvador, is the country’s political and cultural centre, with historic landmarks, bustling markets, and a growing arts scene.

The population is around 6.5 million. El Salvador operates on Central Standard Time (GMT-6) and does not observe daylight saving time. El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America and the most densely populated country in the region.

Salvadoran cuisine is flavourful and hearty. Pupusas, thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, or pork, are a popular dish. Rice and beans and plantains are also very common. If you are in the coastal area, be sure not to miss óctel de conchas, a mix of black clams, lime juice, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and chiles. 

While El Salvador does not produce wine, horchata, a sweet rice-based drink, and tamarindo juice are popular.

El Salvador’s diverse landscapes make it perfect for outdoor adventures. Surfing in El Cuco and La Libertad is world-class, attracting surfers from across the globe.  Hiking Santa Ana Volcano, the highest in the country, provides breathtaking views of a bright blue crater lake. The Suchitlán Lake area is ideal for kayaking and birdwatching.  There are options for waterfalls, hot spring baths, tubing, and swimming.

El Salvador’s natural beauty includes volcanic peaks, tropical forests, and coastal mangroves. Cerro Verde National Park is home to three major volcanoes and offers spectacular panoramic views.

The Golfo de Fonseca, a bay shared with Honduras and Nicaragua, has untouched islands with pristine beaches. Montecristo Cloud Forest in the north is a biodiversity hotspot with rare orchids, monkeys, and exotic birds.

El Salvador celebrates its traditions through vibrant festivals. Fiestas AgostinasFestivals in San Salvador include parades, concerts, and fairs. Semana Santa (Holy Week) features religious processions and cultural events across the country.

Independence Day on September 15 is marked with parades, fireworks, and celebrations.

Travellers should ensure vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus are up to date. Dengue fever and chikungunya are present, so mosquito repellent is recommended.

Tap water is not safe to drink, so bottled or filtered water is advised. Healthcare facilities are adequate in cities but limited in rural areas, making travel insurance essential, and it is best to avoid street food if you are not used to it.

The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but cash is necessary in smaller towns and markets.

El Salvador uses plug types A and B, with a standard voltage of 120V and a frequency of 60Hz. Travellers from other regions may need an adapter.

Public transport consists mainly of buses, known as "chicken buses," which are colourful but often crowded. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber operate in major cities.

Domestic flights are not common, but ride-hailing services are available for intercity travel.

Spanish is the official language, and English is spoken in some tourist areas.

Salvadorians are warm and friendly. A handshake is a common greeting, and politeness is highly valued. When visiting homes or churches, modest attire is recommended.

Tipping 10% in restaurants is customary. Public displays of wealth should be avoided in urban areas for safety reasons.

• Dry Season (November to April): Warm, dry, and sunny are what describe the scene during dry seasons in El Salvador.

• Rainy Season (May to October): The season is characterised by rainfall and sometimes thunderstorms.

El Salvador is budget-friendly. Budget travellers can expect to spend $30–50 daily, covering hostels, local meals, and public transport. Mid-range travellers may budget $80–150 daily for comfortable hotels and guided tours. Luxury travellers can expect costs exceeding $200 daily, especially in high-end beach resorts.

Though El Salvador is not an expensive destination, prices can be high during peak season.
Avoid walking alone at night.

The most convenient way to move around is to hire a driver for the whole of your trips 

Balance your activities between city centres and beach areas.