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HomeRoad TripsMiddle AmericaEl SalvadorEl Salvador
Zaragoza in El Salvador

El Salvador Road Trip

Las Flores - Usulutan - San Miguel - San Vincente - Suchitoto - Metapán - Santa Ana - Acajutla - Puerto de La Libertad - San Salvador

Expect on your itinerary

Culture Culture
Landscape Landscape
Beach Beach
Urban life Urban life
Historical sites Historical sites
Road conditions Road conditions
Security Security
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
El Salvador Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages10 km679 h/stage1.5

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a El Salvador Road Trip in El Salvador?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 540EUR drive & more 88EUR sleep & more 462EUR eat & more 240EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 790EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 1,330EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 990EUR drive & more 125EUR sleep & more 792EUR eat & more 360EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,277EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,267EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,260EUR drive & more 163EUR sleep & more 1,122EUR eat & more 480EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,765EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,025EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,250EUR drive & more 188EUR sleep & more 550EUR eat & more 240EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 978EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,228EUR
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El Salvador Road Trip Itinerary

Experience the beauty of El Salvador with a 10-day road trip starting in Las Flores. This 679km route takes you through Usulutan, San Vincente, Metapán, Santa Ana, and Acajutla, giving you the chance to explore the country's stunning landscapes and UNESCO Heritage Monuments. The best time to drive is from October to April, when the roads are in the best condition. You can expect partly curvy and narrow roads, but the overall condition of the roads is good. This road trip is suitable for every driver, and can be managed on a low budget. Enjoy the sights of El Salvador on this memorable road trip!
number of days 10 number of days
route length 679 km route length
budget low budget
good for family good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level fair accident level

START Las Flores

Distance 679 km Driving time 14.9 h Pace: modest 176.5 kWh Airports SAL
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Las Flores is a small town located in El Salvador and it is the perfect starting point for the "El Salvador Road Trip". This town is known for its colonial architecture and beautiful landscapes surrounded by mountains. From Las Flores you can easily reach the country's main attractions, including the beaches of El Tunco, the Volcano of San Miguel and the Ruta de las Flores. When visiting Las Flores, you should not miss the chance to explore the colonial buildings, the churches and the local markets. The local cuisine is also a must-try, especially the pupusas. You can also take a dip in the local hot springs and enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains. If you plan to visit Las Flores by air, the closest international airport is the Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (SAL) located in San Salvador. There are car rental services available at this airport, so you can easily reach Las Flores. By starting your "El Salvador Road Trip" in Las Flores, you will be able to explore this beautiful country at your own pace and discover the hidden gems of El Salvador. So, don't forget to include this town in your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.

1 Las Flores - Usulutan

Distance 84 km Driving time 1.5 h Pace: modest 21.9 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options dining venues
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Welcome to the Las Flores to Usulután stage of your road trip! This 84 km stretch of road will take you less than two hours to traverse, and is one of the most interesting parts of the tour. As you drive through Las Flores, make sure to check out the archaeological site of Tazumal, one of the most impressive Mayan sites in El Salvador. Here you can explore the ruins of the ancient city, learning about its history and culture. Next, you'll reach the town of Metapán, where you can visit the Church of San Bartolomé. This 18th-century church is a great example of colonial architecture and is a must-see for any road-tripper. Your final destination is Usulután, where you can explore the Plaza de la Libertad. This public square is the site of many festivals and events throughout the year, and is a great place to relax and people watch. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

2 Usulutan - San Miguel

Distance 46 km Driving time 1.2 h Pace: slow 10.5 kWh View map Itinerary
UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site accommodation options dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road sections of narrow road
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Embark on a fantastic road trip from Usulutan to San Miguel! This 46 km stretch of road will take you fewer than two hours to complete, and is one of the best parts of a larger tour. During your journey, you'll pass through some of El Salvador's most stunning landscapes, with plenty of opportunities to take in the sights. Be sure to keep an eye out for some of the UNESCO Heritage sites along the way! The road is winding in some sections, so take extra caution, and be aware that some sections of the road are quite narrow. You'll also be able to spot some of El Salvador's most beautiful natural scenery, so don't forget to bring your camera! When you reach San Miguel, you'll be able to explore the city's many attractions, from historical sites to scenic roads. For more information on attractions, recommended restaurants, accommodation options, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

3 San Miguel - San Vincente

Distance 83 km Driving time 2.0 h Pace: modest 21.7 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site dining venues scenic road
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Embark on a memorable road trip from San Miguel, El Salvador to San Vicente! This 83-km drive is sure to be filled with breathtaking views and amazing historical sites. You’ll have plenty of time to explore each destination, as the entire journey will take less than two hours. Start your trip with a visit to the San Miguel Cathedral. Built in the 18th century, this charming church is a beautiful example of colonial architecture. Then, take a stroll through the historic downtown area, where you’ll find a variety of interesting shops, restaurants, and cafes. Next, head to San Vicente, where you can explore the beautiful El Calvario Church. This stunning church was built in the late 19th century and features impressive stone carvings. Be sure to take a few moments to admire the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. As you make your way along the scenic roads, be sure to take in the stunning views of the lush countryside. There are plenty of opportunities to take in the beauty of El Salvador’s nature, so be sure to take your time and enjoy the journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. With plenty of amazing sights and activities, this road trip from San Miguel to San Vicente is sure to be a memorable one!

4 San Vincente - Suchitoto

Distance 65 km Driving time 1.2 h Pace: modest 16.9 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options dining venues scenic road sections of narrow road
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from San Vincente to Suchitoto! This 65 km journey will take you less than 2 hours to complete, and you'll be able to take in the stunning scenery along the way. In some sections, the road will be narrow, so you'll need to pay attention. But don't worry, the stunning views will make it all worth it! You'll start your journey in San Vincente, where you can explore the ancient ruins of Joya de Ceren, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then you'll make your way to Suchitoto, where you can take in the beautiful colonial architecture and visit the Church of San Pedro. This is just one of many stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey!

5 Suchitoto - Metapán

Distance 97 km Driving time 2.1 h Pace: modest 25.1 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options dining venues scenic road
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Embark on a road trip from Suchitoto to Metapán and discover the beauty of El Salvador! This 97 km journey will take you fewer than 3 hours and will be filled with historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. Start off your journey in Suchitoto, a colonial-era town known for its cobblestone streets, vibrant cultural life, and colonial-era architecture. Then, head to El Congo, a small town renowned for its traditional local cuisine and nearby natural attractions. Continue your drive to Metapán, a picturesque town with a rich history and vibrant culture. Here, you can explore the ruins of the old San Francisco church, visit the museum and art gallery, and take a stroll through the town’s cobblestone streets. Along the way, be sure to take in the stunning views of the lush countryside and take a few moments to appreciate the beauty of El Salvador. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

6 Metapán - Santa Ana

Distance 52 km Driving time 1.2 h Pace: modest 13.4 kWh View map Itinerary
UNESCO World Heritage Site interesting  historic site attractive landscape accommodation options dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Metapán to Santa Ana, El Salvador. This 52km journey takes less than two hours and takes you through some of the most beautiful and historically significant places in the country. Start your journey in Metapán, a small town with a rich history, and make your way to Colonia Tazumal, one of the most important archaeological sites in El Salvador. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features the remains of a pre-Hispanic pyramid and a museum displaying artifacts from the area. As you continue your journey, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, as well as winding roads through rolling hills. Once you reach Santa Ana, you'll be able to explore the city's many attractions, including the Santa Ana Volcano and the Santa Ana Botanical Garden. Make sure to take advantage of all the historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads along the way. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage.

7 Santa Ana - Acajutla

Distance 100 km Driving time 2.4 h Pace: modest 25.9 kWh View map Itinerary
accommodation options dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road
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Embark on a road trip from Santa Ana, El Salvador to Acajutla and explore the best of what this beautiful region has to offer! The journey is only 100 km and will take you less than 3 hours to complete. Along the way, you'll be treated to some of the most stunning views, as the road winds through the valleys and mountains. Keep an eye out for the picturesque churches and colonial architecture that you'll pass on the way. In Santa Ana, make sure you visit the Cathedral of Santa Ana, a beautiful neo-gothic structure that is the pride of the city. In Acajutla, explore the beaches and take a stroll through the old town. Pay attention to the colonial architecture, cobblestone streets and the old fort. This is just one of the stages of your journey, so be sure to check the "Itinerary" for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!

8 Acajutla - Puerto de La Libertad

Distance 82 km Driving time 1.9 h Pace: modest 21.4 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road
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Embark on a delightful 82 km road-trip from Acajutla to Puerto de La Libertad in El Salvador. You will drive through the stunning Costa del Balsamo, a coastal stretch of the Pacific Ocean. The journey will take less than two hours and you will get to experience some of the most beautiful views of the ocean. Along the way, make sure to take in the picturesque scenery, with lush vegetation and a variety of wildlife. Be sure to stop at some of the most interesting places in these locations, such as Playa El Espino, Playa El Tunco, and Playa El Sunzal. Each of these beaches offers a unique experience, with activities such as swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and kayaking. As you make your way to Puerto de La Libertad, keep your eyes peeled for some of the local attractions, like the Monumento al Divino Salvador del Mundo and the Iglesia de San Salvador. These are great places to take some photos and learn about the history of the region. Finally, make sure to take advantage of the many accommodation and dining options available in the area. You can find a range of restaurants, hotels, and campsites to suit your needs. For more information, check out the “Itinerary” section of this stage of the tour. Enjoy your journey!

9 Puerto de La Libertad - San Salvador

Distance 29 km Driving time 0.6 h Pace: modest 7.6 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site attractive landscape interesting cultural site accommodation options dining venues scenic road
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Puerto de La Libertad to San Salvador? This route is only 29 km long, and it takes less than an hour to drive. Get ready to explore the beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and scenic roads of El Salvador. Start your journey in Puerto de La Libertad, where you can find the beautiful beaches of El Salvador. As you drive, you will be able to appreciate the picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean and the vibrant colors of the native flora. Continue your journey to San Salvador, where you can explore the historical and cultural sites of the city. From the National Palace and the National Theater to the Metropolitan Cathedral and the San Salvador Volcano, you will find plenty of interesting places to visit. This is just one of the stages of your road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to explore El Salvador!

10 San Salvador - Las Flores

Distance 42 km Driving time 0.7 h Pace: modest 10.8 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues
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Embark on an exciting road trip from San Salvador to Las Flores! This 42 km journey will take you less than an hour, and you will be able to explore some of the most interesting places in El Salvador. Start your journey in San Salvador and make sure to visit the Monumento al Divino Salvador del Mundo, located in the city center. This iconic monument is a symbol of the country’s independence and a must-see for any traveler. Continue your journey to the small town of Las Flores and visit the Church of San Antonio, a beautiful colonial-style church with a stunning façade. You can also take a tour of the local coffee plantations and learn about the traditional production process. For a unique experience, take a trip to the nearby Cerro Verde National Park, where you can explore the lush green forests and admire the stunning views of the region. Finally, make sure to explore the nearby beaches, where you can relax and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. This is just one of the many stages of your journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

  Las Flores

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Las Flores, El Salvador, is the perfect ending point for the El Salvador Road Trip. Located on the western coast of El Salvador, the small town of Las Flores offers a peaceful atmosphere and plenty of activities for travelers. The main attraction in Las Flores is the beach. With its white sand and crystal blue waters, the beach is the perfect place to relax and take in the majestic views of the Pacific Ocean. For those looking for a little more adventure, there are plenty of water sports available, such as kayaking, snorkeling, and diving. Las Flores is also known for its vibrant nightlife and many restaurants. From beachfront bars to traditional El Salvadorian cuisine, there are plenty of options to choose from. For the shopping-inclined, the town is home to a variety of stores, including souvenir shops and local artisan stores. For those looking to explore further, there are several nearby attractions that are worth visiting. A few of these include El Espino National Park, Playa El Espino, and the ruins of San Andres. For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is in San Salvador, with IATA code SJO. The perfect ending to a great El Salvador Road Trip, Las Flores offers a peaceful atmosphere and plenty of activities for travelers of all ages. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Las Flores is the perfect destination.

El Salvador Road Trip at a glance

No doubt our tour will become a superb inspiration for your future holiday excursions.
The plan we’ve prepared can be used as a foundation that you can recreate in its entirety or only partially and that can be enriched with interesting attractions.
If car travel is a means of travel that you prefer, there are a number of vital traffic regulations to follow and a list of things to bear in mind to make your trip smooth and safe. The following road rules will surely become useful for all drivers considering renting a car or hiring a camper in El Salvador.
It is essential to pay attention to the local traffic regulations when on a trip around El Salvador. When moving around El Salvador in a car, it is best to avoid alcohol at any expense. Travellers ought to remember that the amount of alcohol you can consume is extremely low and amounts to only 0.5‰. Exceeding the maximum permissible speed, which is 50km/h, when driving around the build-up areas may lead to speeding offence. Never exceed the maximum allowed speed of 80km/h when travelling in undeveloped areas. The allowed speed when it comes to highways in El Salvador is 100km/h. It is best to equip your car with a fire extinguisher and first aid kit and drive with your headlights on at daytime for safety reasons.
The majority of holidaymakers wonder about the costs of the whole trip. The amount of money that you have to pay during the whole tour are dependent on the budget option that you choose. A wide range of budget options is described below.
We estimate that the cheapest offer when it comes to gasoline to cover the planned 11 stages while travelling around El Salvador will be roughly 88 EUR. Travel expenses connected with economy overnight stays will cost up to around 462 EUR. When it comes to the travel expenses related to restaurants and food in this option, the average costs are 240 EUR. If you also choose the cheapest hire car offer, you will pay around 540 EUR. Thus, going for car rental will increase the costs of the road trip from roughly 790 EUR to about 1,330 EUR.
Holidayers who seek greater comfort and the standard option should be prepared to pay the maximum of 125 EUR for the gasoline needed to cover the trip. Cost amounting to 792 EUR can be expected by all holidayers who are considering standard accommodation. Food and restaurants from the standard range will cost approximately 360 EUR. Travellers who are also interested in a standard car rental should expect a cost of about 990 EUR. Summing up the standard offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total around 2,267 EUR for drivers who would like to try car rental and 1,277 EUR for those who are not interested in rental.
The available premium option has been prepared with the most demanding holidaymakers in mind. When it comes to this offer, the estimated cost of the road trip will total around 3,025 EUR for holidayers who are considering vehicle hire and 1,277 EUR for those who do not need a hire car. Travellers who want to cover the road trip in a premium hire vehicle should expect a cost of around 1,260 EUR. If you are interested in the highest standard of the adventure, you should expect the average cost of more or less 163 EUR when it comes to gasoline. Drivers who opt for top services in all aspects of their tour should expect to pay approximately 480 EUR for food and restaurants and around 1,122 EUR for hotels.
Our tour will also measure up to the expectations of all camper lovers. If you choose this travel means, you will pay up to roughly 2,250 EUR. Gasoline costs when travelling in a camper should amount to about 188 EUR. Tourists who choose camper rental should expect to pay around 550 EUR for accommodation and roughly 240 EUR for expenses connected with food.
You can check all of the details connected with costs in the Road Trip Costs section.
The period between September and April is superb to visit the part of El Salvador mentioned in our road trip idea. There are plenty of beautiful road adventures that are available on our website if El Salvador Road Trip has sparked your creativity. Even the most demanding of holidayers will surely be taken aback by the broad spectrum of trips available on our website.

Facts for safer driving in El Salvador

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0.5
max speed urban max speed urban 50 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 80 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 100 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime off
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls no
seat belts seat belts yes

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