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!
10
number of days
681 km
route length
low
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
Las Flores
Distance 681 km
Driving time 15.7 h
Pace: slow
156.7 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
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Itinerary
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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!
Usulutan - El Salvador - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
Usulutan - El Salvador - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Usulutan
- San Miguel
Distance 46 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: slow
10.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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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!
San Miguel - El Salvador - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
San Miguel
- San Vincente
Distance 84 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: modest
21.7 kWh
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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!
San Vincente - El Salvador - Middle America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
San Vincente - El Salvador - Middle America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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4
San Vincente
- Suchitoto
Distance 65 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: modest
16.9 kWh
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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!
Suchitoto - El Salvador - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Suchitoto
- Metapán
Distance 103 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: slow
23.7 kWh
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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!
Metapán - El Salvador - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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6
Metapán
- Santa Ana
Distance 51 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: modest
13.2 kWh
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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.
Santa Ana - El Salvador - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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7
Santa Ana
- Acajutla
Distance 96 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: slow
22.1 kWh
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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!
Acajutla - El Salvador - Middle America - Road Trip - Wallpaperflare
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8
Acajutla
- Puerto de La Libertad
Distance 82 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: modest
21.4 kWh
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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!
Puerto de La Libertad - El Salvador - Middle America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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9
Puerto de La Libertad
- San Salvador
Distance 29 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: modest
7.6 kWh
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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!
San Salvador - El Salvador - Middle America - Road Trip - pxhere.com
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10
San Salvador
- Las Flores
Distance 42 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: fast
12.5 kWh
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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
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Start:
Las Flores
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End:
Las Flores
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Distance:
681 km
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Stay:
10 days
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Getting there:
Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport (SAL)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an enchanting 10-day Road Trip through the heart of El Salvador, a journey spanning approximately 679 km. Begin your adventure in the coastal town of Las Flores and traverse through the vibrant cities and serene natural landscapes of Usulután, San Vicente, Metapán, Santa Ana, and Acajutla. This itinerary presents a remarkable opportunity to delve into the nation's rich cultural heritage, its stunning volcanic topography, and the warmth of its people.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Las Flores: This charming town is a surfer's paradise, offering some of the best waves in the country along pristine beaches framed by lush hillsides.
- Usulután: Venture into the Jiquilisco Bay biosphere reserve, a sanctuary for various wildlife species, including sea turtles and an array of birdlife.
- San Vicente: Ascend the San Vicente volcano, known locally as Chichontepec, for panoramic vistas that will leave you awe-struck.
- Metapán: Find solace amidst the cloud forests of Montecristo National Park, where the biodiversity includes exotic flora, elusive pumas, and quetzals.
- Santa Ana: Explore the majestic Santa Ana Volcano, the highest in the country, and take a step back in time in the historic city center, adorned with captivating colonial architecture.
- Acajutla: Unwind in this bustling port city, where golden beaches meet a horizon of azure waters and the local cuisine offers some of the freshest seafood delights.
Best Time to Go:
To fully enjoy El Salvador's offerings, plan your Road Trip between October and April, during the dry season. This period provides excellent weather for outdoor activities, with minimal rain to disrupt your plans.
Potential Risks:
While El Salvador's Roads are generally in good condition, be prepared for occasional stretches with sharp curves and narrow lanes, especially in rural or mountainous areas. Stay vigilant and drive defensively to ensure a safe journey.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- El Salvador's Ruta de las Flores is a popular stretch that connects several picturesque towns known for their coffee plantations, weekend festivals, and local artisans.
- The country is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the pre-Columbian archaeological site of Joya de Cerén, often referred to as the `Pompeii of the Americas` due to its well-preserved nature.
- The nation's currency is the US dollar, making transactions convenient for many travelers.
A good choice for:
Discover the allure of El Salvador on a Road Trip that weaves through a tapestry of natural wonders and cultural sites. Whether you are an intrepid explorer or a traveler seeking relaxation, this Central American gem offers an array of experiences that cater to every interest and budget. Embrace the journey and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and landscapes of El Salvador.
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