Road Trips in El Salvador

Sightseeing around El Salvador won't be complete without a visit in the capital - San Salvador. After reaching the place, you should direct your first steps to the main square, Barrios, where you'll find all of the city's most interesting attractions. You'll see there, among others, a recently renovated cathedral, National Palace, and various monuments. The nearby Pargue Libertad, along with the Archbishop's Palace and El Rosario Church, will also become of interest to many tourists. 

If you aren't planning on limiting yourself to sightseeing around the capital, you should definitely head for Santa Ana located in the western part of the country. The place is known mostly for its beautiful colonial architecture and is considered a top-notch starting point for the town of Chalchuapa and Mayan ruins in Tazumal. In the town itself, you'll find plenty of attractions - during a walk around its streets, it's worth stopping by the marvellous El Calvario Church. 

El Salvador is a true paradise for the lovers of beaches and water sports. Among the country's most beautiful beaches, you'll find Costa del Sol, which is especially popular among the fans of surfing. Nearby, you'll find numerous other picturesque spots, including Playa San Marcelino or Playa Las Hojas.

Those who are into natural wonders should pay a visit at one of El Salvador's most beautiful places - El Imposible National Park. Tourists will have three walking routes at their disposal. They will allow the visitors to explore the most interesting recesses of the park. The longest 9-kilometre trail leads to the stratovolcano Cerro Leon, which is the highest point of the area. If you are planning to visit the park during your holidays in El Salvador, remember to make a reservation in advance. 

Suggested Road Trips in El Salvador

• Route of the Flowers: This scenic road trip takes visitors through the lush highlands of El Salvador, where they can experience the beauty of the country's coffee plantations and vibrant flower farms. The route passes through the towns of Sonsonate, Ataco, and Juayúa, offering a glimpse into traditional Salvadorian life and culture. The route is known for its vibrant flower markets, local festivals, and delicious cuisine.

• Volcano Loop: This road trip takes visitors on a journey through the volcanic highlands of El Salvador, passing by several active and inactive volcanoes. The route offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and provides opportunities to hike, camp, and explore the natural beauty of the area. Visitors can also visit the charming colonial town of Suchitoto, known for its cobblestone streets and vibrant arts scene.

• Pacific Coast: This road trip takes visitors along the stunning Pacific coastline of El Salvador, offering views of pristine beaches, charming fishing villages, and towering cliffs. Visitors can experience the local surf culture, try their hand at fishing, or simply relax on the beach. The route also passes through the town of La Libertad, known for its seafood markets and street vendors selling traditional Salvadorian food.

Overall, these road trips offer a diverse range of experiences and highlights in El Salvador, from the lush highlands and volcanic landscapes to the stunning Pacific coast. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, or simply taking in the sights, these road trips are a great way to experience the best of El Salvador.

Residents and tourists travelling around El Salvador can cover various distances by taking classic buses, taxis, trains, and the popular motor-taxis. However, you need to remember that you won't reach all points of interest that you've included on your holiday map. Tourists planning a trip to the less frequented recesses of El Salvador should consider renting a car at one of the local or international car rental companies. 

The road state in the capital is of appropriate quality which ensures a smooth and comfortable travel. However, the situation changes in smaller towns, where you can still come across gravel roads that lack asphalt surface. If you are planning a trip from the western part of the country to the eastern part of El Salvador, try moving along the Pan-American Highway - the section running through El Salvador is toll-free and well-maintained. 

While travelling in a vehicle around the country, you may come across frequent police patrols. However, you shouldn't be concerned by that fact - their main purpose is to improve the safety of tourists visiting El Salvador. While moving along local roads, you should stay extra vigilant as native motorists drive pretty chaotically and have a tendency to break the basic traffic regulations. It's also worth mentioning that El Salvador follows right-hand traffic. 

When taking a road trip in El Salvador, it is important to be aware of the following:

• Safety: Although El Salvador has improved in terms of safety in recent years, there are still areas in the country where crime and gang violence occur. It is important to be aware of the current security situation and to take necessary precautions, such as avoiding traveling alone at night and not carrying valuables in plain sight.

• Road conditions: While the roads in El Salvador are generally well-maintained, there may be some areas where road conditions are poor. It is important to drive carefully and be mindful of the road and weather conditions, especially in rural areas.

• Speed limits: Speed limits in El Salvador are generally enforced, and there are frequent checkpoints on the highways. Visitors should be mindful of the speed limit and drive at a safe and appropriate speed.

• Fuel availability: Fuel is widely available in El Salvador, but it may be more difficult to find in rural areas. Visitors should plan ahead and make sure their vehicle has enough fuel for their journey.

• Toll roads: Some roads in El Salvador are toll roads and require payment of a fee to use. Visitors should be prepared to pay the fee or take alternative routes if necessary.

• Documentation: Visitors driving in El Salvador should carry their driver's license and other necessary documentation, such as vehicle registration and insurance papers.

• Emergency services: Emergency services, such as hospitals and police stations, may be limited in rural areas. Visitors should plan ahead and be prepared for emergencies.

Overall, visitors taking a road trip in El Salvador should exercise caution, be aware of the local road conditions and speed limits, and plan ahead to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

The best time to take a road trip in El Salvador depends on your personal preferences and the activities you want to do. However, here are a few general observations:

• Dry season: El Salvador has a dry season that runs from November to April, which is considered the best time for road trips. During this time, the roads are less likely to be affected by rain and landslides, making for safer driving conditions. The dry season also offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

• Rainy season: The rainy season in El Salvador runs from May to October, and although the roads may be more challenging during this time, it is still possible to take a road trip. During the rainy season, the country is lush and green, and there are fewer tourists, making for a more peaceful experience.

• Hurricane season: The hurricane season in El Salvador runs from June to November, and visitors should be aware of the potential for severe weather during this time. Hurricanes can affect road conditions and cause travel disruptions, so it is important to monitor weather conditions and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary.

Overall, the best time to take a road trip in El Salvador depends on your personal preferences and the type of trip you are planning. Visitors should consider their travel goals and be mindful of the weather conditions when choosing the best time to visit.

The cost of a road trip in El Salvador can vary depending on various factors such as the type of accommodation, dining options, and activities. Here's a rough estimate of the costs per person for a day, week, and month:

For a day, the average cost per person can range from $30 to $60, depending on your preferences. This would include a budget accommodation, local street food, and free or low-cost activities such as visiting a museum or hiking.

For a week, the average cost per person can range from $200 to $500, depending on your travel style. This would include mid-range accommodation, dining at local restaurants, and some paid activities such as guided tours or water sports.

For a month, the average cost per person can range from $800 to $2,000, depending on your travel style and the places you visit. This would include a mix of budget and mid-range accommodation, dining at a variety of restaurants, and a mix of free and paid activities.

Renting a car in El Salvador can also add to your travel expenses. The cost of a rental car can vary depending on the type of vehicle, rental company, and length of the rental period. On average, you can expect to pay around $20 to $40 per day for a rental car, although prices can vary depending on the season and location.

It's worth noting that these are rough estimates and the actual cost of a road trip in El Salvador can vary based on individual preferences, travel style, and other factors. It's important to plan your budget carefully and research the costs of accommodations, dining, and activities before embarking on your road trip. Additionally, it's always a good idea to check for any travel advisories or safety concerns before traveling to El Salvador.

If you're planning a road trip in El Salvador, here are some guidebooks and road maps that you may find helpful:

• Lonely Planet El Salvador: Lonely Planet is a popular travel guide publisher that offers comprehensive information on various destinations around the world, including El Salvador. Their guidebook on El Salvador is packed with helpful tips on places to see, things to do, and where to eat and stay.

• El Salvador 1:250,000 Travel Map: This detailed road map by International Travel Maps is a great resource for planning your route in El Salvador. It shows all major highways, roads, and points of interest, making it easy to navigate the country.

• El Salvador Adventure Set: Map & Naturalist Guide: This adventure set includes a detailed map of El Salvador, as well as a naturalist guidebook with information on wildlife, ecology, and conservation in the country. It's a great resource for those interested in exploring El Salvador's natural wonders.

• Moon El Salvador (Travel Guide): Moon Travel Guides offers a comprehensive guide to El Salvador, including information on the country's history, culture, and geography. The guidebook also includes recommendations for restaurants, accommodations, and activities.

• El Salvador GPS Map: If you prefer to use GPS navigation on your road trip, the El Salvador GPS Map is a great resource. It includes detailed maps of El Salvador and turn-by-turn directions to help you navigate the country's roads.

These are just a few examples of the many guidebooks and road maps available for El Salvador. It's always a good idea to do some research before your trip to find the resources that best meet your needs.