Ultimate Travel Guide to Backpacking El Salvador (2024)

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If you’re looking for a unique and exciting adventure in Central America, then backpacking El Salvador is perfect for your next trip!

El Salvador is a small but beautiful country in Central America, and I have a strong feeling it’s going to be one of the most popular backpacker destinations very soon.

I recently spent several months backpacking solo through Central America, and my travels in El Salvador were the highlight of my trip!

With its stunning beaches, lush jungles, fascinating culture, and friendly locals, El Salvador is the perfect destination for backpackers who are seeking an unforgettable experience. From exploring ancient Mayan ruins to surfing some of the best waves in Central America to enjoying delicious local cuisine – El Salvador has something for every backpacker!

Whether you’re traveling in El Salvador solo or with friends, this ultimate travel guide to backpacking El Salvador will help ensure that your trip is one you won’t soon forget!

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready to explore all that this amazing country has to offer!

Is El Salvador Worth Visiting?

El Salvador is definitely worth a visit for any adventurous traveler looking for an unforgettable experience!

Solo backpacking El Salvador was the highlight of my time in Central America.

From exploring the stunning beaches and experiencing some of the best surfing in the world to climbing active volcanoes and cliff-jumping from waterfalls – El Salvador is sure to be your next favorite destination!

Plus, the locals are some of the friendliest I’ve met in my 2+ years of solo travel around the world.

With enough backpackers visiting to have fun but not too many to lose the off-the-beaten-path feel, this country offers one of the best backpacking experiences in Central America.

Plus, it’s surprisingly affordable – making El Salvador even more appealing as a travel destination for backpackers!

Is Backpacking El Salvador Safe?

El Salvador may have a reputation for being an unsafe destination, but the reality is that it’s safe to visit (always check the current political climate before you go as things can change quickly).

Despite its history of civil war and gang problems, El Salvador has become one of the most popular backpacker destinations in Central America. In fact, I recently spent several months backpacking solo through Central America and my time traveling in El Salvador was the highlight of my trip!

During the 1980s, the small Central American nation was devastated by a brutal civil war. Since 2017, the crime and homicide rates in El Salvador have decreased significantly due to the efforts of the President, who has apprehended and incarcerated over 100,000 gang members. Some areas are still under the control of gangs, but it is rare for tourists to be targeted.

In recent years, El Salvador has managed to make a significant turnaround in terms of security and is now one of the best backpacker destinations in Central America.

I almost didn’t go to El Salvador because of its reputation, but after reading about the experiences of other solo female travelers, I decided to go solo backpacking in El Salvador. And it ended up being my favorite country in Central America!

Don’t let safety concerns stop you from visiting this amazing country!

Safety Tips for Backpacking in El Salvador

I felt safe while backpacking El Salvador solo, but I always take these precautions when I’m traveling to mitigate as much risk as possible.

• Whenever feasible, travel during the day and refrain from walking alone in the evening. I used Uber in San Salvador and Santa Ana because they were so cheap.

• Don’t carry large amounts of cash with you or leave your possessions unattended in public places.

• Trust your instincts – if a situation doesn’t feel right, then don’t go there.

• Get travel insurance that covers medical emergencies as well as theft and loss of valuables.

• Avoid walking around with expensive electronics or jewelry – keep them out of sight whenever possible.

• Ask your hostel if there are any local safety concerns to be aware of. They know their neighborhood the best.

• Familiarize yourself with emergency phone numbers like police, ambulance, etc., just in case you find yourself in an emergency situation while backpacking in El Salvador.

• Don’t go out in public if you are intoxicated, especially if you’re solo, as this can make you an easy target.

Inspiration for Your El Salvador Itinerary

How Long Should You Spend in El Salvador?

The answer to that depends on what kind of traveler you are and what your goals are for your trip.

If you’re just looking to visit one of El Salvador’s top destinations, then three days in El Salvador is sufficient, although I personally feel like that’s not enough time to experience everything El Salvador has to offer, and I would recommend spending at least one week in El Salvador.

If you’re looking for a relaxed beach holiday with plenty of time to explore the culture and history of El Salvador then two weeks in El Salvador is enough time to really take in the beauty and charm of the country. You’ll also have time for some of the adventure activities like hiking to waterfalls and exploring the Ruta de las Flores.

However, if you like to have some downtime and spend more time in one place before moving on, then three weeks would be ideal as there is plenty to do during your El Salvador trip. I spent three and a half weeks solo backpacking in El Salvador and I got to do so much – but there were still more things I wish I had time for!

Ultimately, no matter how much time you spend here – one thing’s sure: You won’t regret visiting this incredible destination!

When is the Best Time to Visit El Salvador?

The weather in El Salvador varies throughout the year, and this can have a big impact on your trip.

The dry season runs from November through May and is generally considered the best time of year for visiting El Salvador as temperatures are milder and there’s less rainfall. But there are a lot of other factors to consider when choosing the best time to travel to El Salvador.

During these months, you’ll be able to explore all that El Salvador has to offer without having to worry about rain or humidity. This is also peak tourist season so expect higher prices and more crowded places during this period.

Alternatively, if you don’t mind braving hot temperatures and occasional showers (which usually come in short bursts), then June through October might be better for you as prices tend to be lower during this period due to fewer tourists being around.

I was backpacking in El Salvador at the end of the rainy season. The rain didn’t impact my trip too much, but it did make for some muddy hiking in El Salvador. Just carry a raincoat with you and you’ll be fine.

However, do keep in mind that some attractions may close during the rainy season due to flooding or other safety issues which could limit your options while traveling around El Salvador at this time of year.

Must-Visit Destinations in El Salvador for Backpackers

These are the most popular places in El Salvador for backpackers:

– Santa Ana: Explore the colonial architecture, hike up the Volcano Ilamatepec (aka Santa Ana Volcano), and visit El Boqueron National Park.

– Ruta de las Flores: Wander through colorful towns full of vibrant culture and explore nearby waterfalls such as San Sebastian waterfall. My favorite towns to visit are Juayua and Ataco. If you time your visit right, you’ll see a stunning display of wildflowers all over the countryside!

– San Salvador: Visit Museo de Arte MARTE for a dose of contemporary art and also check out some historical monuments like Monumento al Divino Salvador del Mundo.

– El Tunco: Enjoy black sand beaches, amazing sunsets, excellent surfing opportunities, taquerias with delicious pupusas, and much more!

– El Zonte: Experience nature to its fullest by going on hikes around this beautiful beach town or try your hand at catching fish off the coast.

– Suchitoto: Take in stunning views from Cerro Verde National Park, go kayaking along Lago Suchitlan or wander through cobblestone streets admiring local artwork & craft stores.

– Sonsonate: Take a day trip to the nearby colonial town of Sonsonate and explore its colorful streets, visit its impressive churches, and have lunch at one of the many delicious restaurants.

– El Cuco: This laidback beach town is perfect for those who are looking for some rest & relaxation. Enjoy long days of lounging on the beach and swimming in crystal clear waters.

– Lago de Coatepeque: Spend a day exploring this stunning crater lake, surrounded by lush tropical jungles. Go for a boat ride or kayaking around the lake and also visit the nearby island Tziscao to experience some ancient Mayan ruins.

Enjoy the best places to visit in El Salvador!

Must-Do Experiences for Backpackers in El Salvador (Things to Do in El Salvador)

The ultimate itinerary for backpackers in El Salvador – whether it’s a 1 week itinerary or (hopefully) longer – will include some or all of these best things to do in El Salvador:

– Ride one of El Salvador’s colorful “Chicken Buses” to explore El Salvador as the locals do – I promise this is a crazy experience that you’ll never forget.

– Climb an active volcano and take in stunning views from the top

– Relax in one of the thermal hot springs

– Soak up the sun on Lake Coatepeque

– Catch some waves at one of El Salvador’s many surf spots

– Trek through cascading waterfalls, such as the Salto de Malacatiupan aka the Hot Waterfalls of El Salvador

– Explore the local markets and taste some of the tropical fruits you can’t find at home

– Savor delicious local dishes, like Pupusas (my favorite!) for lunch or dinner

– Tour a coffee plantation and taste some of the best coffee in the world

– Participate in an impactful experience by releasing baby turtles into the wild!

– Explore ancient Mayan ruins scattered throughout El Salvador’s countryside

– Combine your visit to El Salvador with a visit to Copan Ruinas in Honduras

– Take one of my favorite day tours in El Salvador

Related Posts:

13 Best El Salvador Tours You Can’t Miss in 2023

3 Best El Salvador Hot Springs: Everything You Need to Know

10 Stunning Waterfalls in El Salvador that You Must See (2023)

9 Delicious Fruits in El Salvador You Must Taste at Local Markets

Where to Stay in El Salvador (Best Hostels and Hotels in El Salvador)

If you’re backpacking, chances are you’re most interested in staying in hostels or budget hotels. Keep in mind that private rooms in El Salvador are very affordable compared to other parts of the world, in case you need a break from hostel life.

Budget or Cheap Hotels in El Salvador

• Hostal Casa Verde (Santa Ana) – This is where I stayed during my time in Santa Ana. It has a pool, a good breakfast, and a caring owner who gives great El Salvador travel tips.
• Hotel Oasis (San Salvador) – lovely garden and patio, and decent breakfast that changes daily.
• Hostal Dona Mercedes (Juayua) – Great base for the Ruta de las Flores with hot showers and helpful staff.
• Pelicano Surf Camp (La Libertad) – A bare-bones hostel where you stay in a hut right on the beach.

Mid-level and Boutique Hotels in El Salvador

• Remfort Hotel (Santa Ana) – Guests rave about the prime location of this hotel, as well as the great breakfast and pool.
• Hotel Juayua (Juayua) – Boutique hotel with an incredible view of mountains and a volcano.
• Las Casitas Hostal Ataco (Ataco) – Convenient location in town, comfortable rooms, and very helpful staff.
• Casa Degraciela Hotel Boutique (Ataco) – Beautiful boutique hotel with a very attentive staff.
• Papaya Lodge (La Libertad) – Basic hotel in a great location, with air-conditioning, and a pool.

Camping in El Salvador

For backpackers who prefer to camp, El Salvador is the perfect destination!

Backpackers in El Salvador especially love camping on the beach.

Here are some of the best camping spots for backpackers in El Salvador:

• Pachamama, Apaneca
• Domo Kafen, Valle Nuevo
• Sea Garden Mizata Restaurant and Surf Camp, Santa María Mizata 
• Pelicano Surf Camp, La Libertad
• Villa Limon Hostal, Metapan
• Hotel Finca Campo Bello, Cerro Verde, Santa Ana
• Puerto Barillas, Bahia de Jiquilisco
• Tortuga Surf Lodge, El Tunco
• Sunzal Point Surf Lodge, El Sunzal
• Victory Paradise Camping & Hiking, San Francisco Chinameca
• Golden Camp, El Cuco
• El Cocalito Campground, Mizata
• Palapa Cabins, El Corozal

What to Eat in El Salvador

– Pupusas: The classic Salvadoran dish, pupusas are thick corn tortillas stuffed with a variety of ingredients such as cheese, beans or pork. Delicious and hearty!

– Tropical Fruits: El Salvador is full of delicious and often unknown fruits such as mamon, marañon, and guanabana.

– Seafood: Fresh shrimp ceviche, fried fish with plantains and grilled octopus are all popular dishes in El Salvador.

– Yuca Frita: Fried yucca root served with curtido (pickled cabbage slaw) & crema is the ultimate indulgence.

– Sopa de Res: Beef soup made flavorful by adding in potatoes, squash, carrots, and cilantro.

– Platanos Fritos: Sweet fried plantains often served as a side dish to meats or other meals that have savory sauces.

– Carne Asada con Tajadas de Platano Verde: Grilled beef topped with green plantain chips – a local favorite you won’t find anywhere else!

– Empanadas Salvadorenas: Pastries filled with meat and vegetables cooked over an open flame for added flavor.

– Queso Fresco con Miel de Palma y Nueces Garapiñadas: Fresh cheese drizzled with honey from palm trees and candied nuts – the perfect way to end your meal!

One of the best places to try local food in El Salvador is at the weekend food festival in Juayua, one of the most popular towns along the Ruta de las Flores.

Getting Around El Salvador

El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America and is fairly easy and inexpensive to get around. But getting around can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors. Here’s everything you need to know about getting around!

Chicken Buses

One of the most popular ways to get around El Salvador is by taking the bus, commonly known as “Chicken Buses”. These buses are colorful, often decorated with religious symbols and inspirational quotes, and offer a unique way to explore this beautiful country.

The Chicken Bus system is an inexpensive mode of public transportation that can take you from one end of El Salvador to the other in just a few hours.

The buses are usually run by friendly locals who will help guide you on your journey when you are looking a little lost.

So if you’re looking for an authentic experience while backpacking through El Salvador, make sure to hop aboard one of these iconic Chicken Buses!

Tips for Riding Chicken Buses in El Salvador

For many backpackers, riding a “Chicken Bus” in El Salvador can be a bit intimidating at first. But with a few helpful El Salvador travel tips, you’ll be riding like a pro in no time!

Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Know your destination: Before hopping on a Chicken Bus, it’s important to know where you’re going. The buses follow a particular route and are marked with the number of the route and/or the name of the final stop on the route. Make sure to double-check the destination with the bus driver or conductor to ensure you’re on the right bus, and tell them when you’re ready to get off.

2. Keep small change handy: Chicken Buses typically don’t give out change, so it’s best to have small bills and coins on hand to pay for your fare. The cost of a ride is usually around $0.25 to $1.00 USD, depending on the distance. If they don’t collect the fare when you enter the bus, the helper will collect it from you mid-ride.

3. Get on the bus at the right time: Chicken Buses have specific departure times, and they leave when they’re full. It’s best to arrive at the bus stop early in order to ensure a seat.

4. Watch your belongings: While riding a Chicken Bus, it’s important to keep a close eye on your belongings. Backpacks and other items should be placed on your lap or between your feet to avoid theft.

5. Be prepared for crowded conditions: Chicken Buses can get very crowded, so be prepared for tight spaces and standing room only. It’s common for people to stand in the aisles, so be aware of your surroundings when moving around the bus. You are lucky if you can find a seat.

Private Shuttle Bus

One of the most convenient and comfortable ways to get around El Salvador is by taking a private shuttle bus. With a private shuttle, you can travel between cities in comfort and style, often with air-conditioning, reclining seats, and wifi.

Shuttle buses are most commonly used to get between Central American countries, and make border crossings a breeze.

The shuttles are usually well-maintained vehicles that have been checked for safety standards before they hit the road. They also tend to be more reliable than public buses or taxis when it comes to arrival times.

Plus, if you’re traveling in a group or family there may be discounts available on booking multiple tickets together.

Shuttles are an ideal way to explore El Salvador without having to worry about getting lost or worrying about your safety while on the road.

Taxis, Uber, and Private Driver

Taxis are another popular way to get around El Salvador, although they can be more expensive than public buses. Uber is also available in some areas of El Salvador like in San Salvador and Santa Ana, which I especially recommend using if you’re moving around at night.

Taxis and Ubers are still extremely affordable options, especially if you’re splitting the cost with friends.

If you’re doing a big day trip and need reliable transportation, consider hiring a private driver for the day. It will be on the expensive side for more backpackers but makes getting around stress-free.

Rent a Car or Scooter

If you’re looking for a more independent way to explore El Salvador, consider renting a car or scooter. It’s an ideal option if you want to explore rural areas or go on longer trips that are off the beaten path.

I teamed up with three other solo backpackers when I was in El Salvador and we rented a car together for a few days – the driving was fairly easy and we had a blast!

The cost of renting a car in El Salvador ranges from $20 to $45 USD per day.

It’s also increasingly popular to rent a scooter for a couple of days to explore places like the villages along the Ruta de las Flores.

Related Post:

Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in El Salvador in 2023

Hitchhiking in El Salvador

Hitchhiking is a relatively safe and popular way to travel in El Salvador, especially if you’re trying to get to remote parts of the country.

It’s worth considering for budget travelers or those looking for an adventure. Keep in mind that it can be hit-or-miss depending on the location and time – I saw a group of French backpackers get picked up within a couple of minutes after the Santa Ana Volcano hike.

Be sure to always use your best judgment and never hitchhike alone. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to take the road less traveled in El Salvador, give it a go!

How Much Does El Salvador Cost?

Currency: USD or Bitcoin

The official currency in El Salvador is the United States Dollar (USD). This makes it much easier for travelers from abroad as you won’t have to worry about exchanging money or carrying a lot of cash with you. ATMs are easy to find.

Bitcoin is also one of the official currencies and is accepted everywhere, although not that commonly used by locals.

Many restaurants and shops do not accept credit cards, so having cash handy will come in handy during these situations.

Plan Your Budget: How Much Does it Cost to Backpack El Salvador?

On average, budget travelers can expect to spend around $10 USD per day on accommodation, and about $20-$30 on food and activities while backpacking in El Salvador.

I found it to be extremely inexpensive to backpack in El Salvador, even on the nights I splurged on a private room and split a rental car with other backpackers.

If you’re on a tight budget, plan extra time for taking local “chicken buses” and eat mostly local street food, and you’ll be fine.

Tipping

Tipping 10% at a sit-down restaurant is normal in El Salvador, but check your bill first – it’s common for a 10% service charge to be added automatically to your bill.

Tipping taxi drivers is not expected but appreciated by taxi drivers – usually it’s good just to round up to the nearest dollar.

Tour guides don’t expect a tip, but $5-10 for a tour (depending on how long) is very much appreciated.

What to Pack for Backpacking El Salvador (Packing for El Salvador)

Here are some of the items you will want to pack for El Salvador:

– A good pair of walking shoes: Comfortable, supportive and waterproof footwear is essential for exploring El Salvador’s diverse landscapes.

– Lightweight clothing: Temperatures vary throughout El Salvador depending on the elevation and season; lightweight clothes are best for staying cool during hot days and warm nights.

– Rain protection & sunblock: The weather in El Salvador can be rainy at times so bring along a rain jacket or poncho as well as sunscreen for sunny afternoons.

– Travel adaptor: Electricity in El Salvador is 120V / 60Hz, Plug type: B

– Filtered water bottle: Make sure to bring a filtered water bottle with you, as tap water is not safe to drink.

Check out my full round-the-world trip backpacking list for everything you will need in El Salvador.

Helpful Spanish Words and Phrases for Backpackers to Know

Spanish is the official language in El Salvador and the majority of locals speak only Spanish.

I was very happy to speak a little bit of Spanish – it really helped when getting around and ordering food at restaurants!

Although the Google Translate app and a smile go a long way, I recommend that all travelers learn at least a few words in the local language.

Here are some words and phrases to know in Spanish:

– Hola: Hello

– Adiós: Goodbye

– Por favor: Please

– Gracias: Thank you

– Lo siento, no entiendo: I’m sorry, I don’t understand

– ¿Habla inglés?: Do you speak English?

– ¿Cuánto cuesta?: How much does it cost?

– Muchas gracias por su ayuda.: Thank you very much for your help.

– Buena suerte!: Good luck!

– Dónde está el baño?: Where is the bathroom?

– ¡Salud!: Cheers!

– ¿Podría ayudarme?: Can you help me?

With these few words, you can already get by in El Salvador and make plenty of friends along the way.

Don’t be afraid to use them – locals will appreciate your efforts to speak their language.

Backpacking El Salvador FAQs

Wrap Up: Backpacking El Salvador

El Salvador has a lot to offer travelers, from stunning natural landscapes and beautiful beaches to vibrant culture and delicious food.

Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax in paradise, El Salvador is the perfect destination for your next backpacking trip.

With so much on offer, it can be difficult to decide where exactly you should go – but with this ultimate backpacking El Salvador travel guide as your companion, you won’t have any trouble making the most of your time here!

Need more inspo? Check out some of my favorite day tours in El Salvador.

So pack up those bags and get ready for an unforgettable experience – El Salvador awaits!