Tourism and fun things to do while traveling in El Salvador

For in depth information on tourism activities, visit the Ministry of Tourism (English version) which lists event, services, and destinations around El Salvador. Also, check out a The El Salvador Gringo for some more ideas and travel tips.

Typical activities our teams do

The Beach! There are lots of them and you can get creative with your beach activities or just take the time to lounge around and wade in the water. Since the normal housing option for work teams is at a beach house, many teams find this to be an enjoyable, free way to spend the evenings relaxing after a hard day of work.

Surfing Lessons. For the adventurous and young at heart, we have a great relationship with a surfing instructor in the ocean community of El Zonte. Alex speaks great English and has a team of instructors with years of experience. They provide instruction that can get almost any beginner standing on a board, riding waves in under an hour. El Zonte is about 45 min – 1 hour west of the beach house. Make sure to let us know ahead of time if your team is interested in surfing so we can schedule a time and make arrangements. Cost = $15 per person.

La Puerta del Diablo (Devil’s Door) is an historic site about 15 km from San Salvador (45 minutes from beach house). A short hike (on carved steps) to the top of either of two rock peaks provides an amazing 360 degree view of the country. On a clear day one can see the Pacific ocean, San Salvador, lakes and volcanoes, and supposedly all the way from the Northern to the Southern extents of El Salvador. The area is patrolled by a permanent police force and is a great place to sample some local treats. Cost = $0 – $15.

Parque Nacional El Boquerón is the site of a scenic volcano overlook. About a 45 minute drive from San Salvador (1.5 hours from the beach house) will take you most of the way to the top. A 5-10 minute hike up a nice path gets you to a boardwalk overlooking a massive  crater, 5 km in diameter and 450 km deep. On the boardwalk you can walk about 1/4 of the circumference of the crater. Other trails may also be available in the area. Cost = $1/person + $1/vehicle.

Canopy Tour. Also near El Boquerón is a 2.5 km canopy tour that will let you fly through the jungle and experience the beauty of El Salvador along suspended cables up to 350 meters long. Children and adults are welcome to take part in this adrenaline rush. Be sure to bring light clothing, tennis shoes, and sunscreen (and make sure your pockets are empty). Cost = $25/person.

Mercado Nacional de Artesanías (National Artesian’s Market) This is the place to find vendors selling a wide variety of ceramics, miniatures, hammocks, tables and full range of crafts produced by artisans in the country. There is also a small diner that offers home cooking on the premises of the market. Located in San Salvador (45 min – 1 hour from beach house). No cost unless you decide to buy something.