Feeling El Salvador: Volcanoes, Colonial Towns & Hidden Gems
- nezemna
- Dec 26, 2025
- 4 min read
I felt El Salvador with the first breeze. As soon as I get out of the airport, I felt this calmness and tranquillity; as if I transcended into a different world with a different pace, in the hecticness of traffic, there was somewhat slower pace, one that enjoys and celebrates life; that dances and sings with life.
San Salvador, the ex-capital of murder, is the capital city of El Salvador which has undergone a major transformation in the last few years under Nayib Bukele, who calls himself the “coolest dictator of the world’. His presidency has secured the streets of the country (mainly by putting in jail all gangsters) and had opened the doors for tourism in the country; something which was considered a highly risky and reckless affair until very recently.
And El Salvador doesn’t disappoint when it comes to sights to visits and activities. The best part of it a still at tourism nascent, which means you don’t encounter the crowds in neighbouring Guatemala for example. It offers equally astonishing landscapes, formidable volcanoes, hikes and historical towns but without the crowds!
Volcanoes and Hiking Adventures
One of El Salvador’s greatest draws is its dramatic volcanic landscape. Known as The Land of Volcanoes, the country offers extraordinary opportunities for hiking and nature lovers.
Santa Ana Volcano (Ilamatepec) rises proudly above the western highlands. The hike is moderately challenging but deeply rewarding — you ascend through verdant paths to a turquoise crater lake with panoramic views over Lake Coatepeque and surrounding volcanoes.
Nearby, Izalco Volcano — famously known as the “Lighthouse of the Pacific” — presents a striking profile with its near-perfect cone. Historically, its eruptions were visible from the sea and used as a beacon by sailors.
Even if you’re not hiking to the summit, the scenic drives through the Los Volcanes National Park and the viewpoints around Cerro Verde make the volcanic terrain one of the most memorable parts of any El Salvador itinerary.
Colonial Towns, Ruins & Surf Culture
El Salvador’s colonial towns speak to its rich cultural tapestry. Suchitoto is a favourite for travellers — its cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and quiet plazas feel delightfully timeless. Nearby, Panchimalco offers a similar charm with a local vibe that’s both authentic and intimate. Wandering here feels like stepping back to a simpler rhythm of life.
For history lovers, the archaeological sites are a highlight:
Ruinas de San Andrés preserves what was once an important ancient Maya city, with terraced plazas and remnants that reveal centuries of pre-Columbian life.
Tazumal, near Chalchuapa, contains well‑restored pyramids, platforms, and ceremonial structures, part of a larger archaeological zone that tells a story of ancient complexity and connectivity.
Joya de Cerén, a UNESCO World Heritage site also known as the “Pompeii of the Americas,” offers one of the most poignant and detailed windows into everyday life in a pre-Hispanic community prior to its burial under volcanic ash.
El Salvador’s coastline on the Pacific is beloved by surfers and sun seekers alike. El Tunco is perhaps the most iconic coastal town — a laid-back hub with black sand beaches, great waves, and vibrant sunset scenes that linger in memory.
Even if you’re not surfing, walking the beach at dusk, coconut in hand, and feeling the ocean breeze is absolute bliss. The relaxed pace here contrasts beautifully with the dramatic landscapes inland.
San Salvador & the Historic Heart
Back in San Salvador’s historic centre, what was once a place many avoided is now thriving with cultural life. Street art, museums, and refurbished public spaces invite exploration, and there’s a lovely symbolic gem here — the public library. A beautiful, modern space where children from all backgrounds can read, learn, and imagine, it felt like a powerful testament to how the city is reinventing itself for the future.
Coffee Culture: Alquimia & More
Coffee in El Salvador is more than a drink — it’s part of the culture. In the highland towns along the Ruta de las Flores like Juayúa, Apaneca, and Ataco, coffee plantations dot the landscape, offering tours and tastings for lovers of great beans.
In San Salvador, one standout spot worth visiting is Alquimia Coffee — where the aroma of freshly roasted beans greets you like an invitation to pause. It’s a beloved stop for both locals and visitors who appreciate quality coffee and thoughtful roasting.
Other notable cafes like Good Beans El Salvador Coffee Roasters offer excellent local brews that pair perfectly with a relaxed afternoon out.
Where to Eat in San Salvador — Culinary Highlights
San Salvador’s dining scene is vibrant and varied. Here are the must-visit spots I recommend:
Fine & Highly Rated Restaurants
Brutto – My personal favourite, known for stylish Japanese-fusion cuisine and creative dishes.
La Gastroteca – Elegant, European-inspired fine dining perfect for a special evening.
Casa 43 Restaurante – Warm atmosphere and well-executed dishes.
Restaurante La Rueda Steakhouse – Quality steaks and hearty meals for a memorable lunch or dinner.
Coffee & Casual Bites
Alquimia Coffee – Artisanal coffee experience in the capital.
Good Beans El Salvador Coffee Roasters – Fantastic local coffee hotspot.
Practical Tips for Travelers
Getting around: Rental cars give the most freedom, though buses and rideshares like Uber are widespread and reliable in urban areas.
Timing: Early mornings are ideal for volcano hikes and coastal sunsets.
Packing: Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and light layers for hiking are must-haves.
Safety: Tourist areas in San Salvador and around major sites are generally safe, but normal travel awareness is always wise.
El Salvador may be small, but it is endlessly rich in experience — from volcanoes and ancient ruins to colonial towns and vibrant city life. Its roads connect world-class nature with deeply rooted culture, all without the crowds you find in other parts of Central America. Every corner feels like a quiet invitation to explore — and that is the true magic of this country.
Comments