4x Must-see in El Salvador
Nestled between Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua lies El Salvador, a country that is often overlooked. But nothing could be further from the truth, because a warm welcome awaits you here if you’re willing to look beyond the headlines! Since the new president took office, it has been a wonderful and safe destination to travel around. If it’s not the laid-back atmosphere you experience in the coastal villages, then it’s certainly the hand-kneaded pupusas.
As well as the towering volcanoes, colonial towns and lush coffee plantations in the highlands, I have a few more tips that are a must for any trip through this beautiful country!
San Salvador by night
As dusk slowly begins to fall, the city really comes to life! I hop into a taxi heading for the historic centre, because the main square is the place to be! Local music booms through the speakers, people are dancing in beautiful dresses, and in the background you can see the illuminated Catedral Metropolitana. You only really get to know a city with a local guide. No sooner said than done; we wander through the streets of San Salvador and end the trip at the iconic pool bar ‘Club La Dalia’. Tucked away in an old mansion, we climb the stairs and are surprised by a bar with live music. The walls are covered with old photographs, there’s an authentic atmosphere, and the evening is complete.
“ With a local guide, you’ll discover new places that you wouldn’t normally find as a tourist! ”
Puerto Barillas Ecolodge
After an hour’s bumpy ride along a dirt track, you reach the private estate of Puerto Barillas. This site, originally an old sugar cane plantation, has been transformed into an ecological paradise. On arrival, we were warmly welcomed with ice-cold fresh coconuts, which were most welcome! The bungalows are idyllically tucked away in the jungle; it really is an oasis of tranquillity here. In the trees surrounding the grounds, you can spot exotic birds and perhaps even monkeys. Another highlight is the chance to see hawksbill turtles, an endangered species that is protected here. During a boat trip through the calm waters of the Bahía de Jiquilisco, the guide explains how they monitor the population of these sea turtles. You can even help with the research and get a glimpse into the lives of the locals in the mangrove area.
Surfing at Las Flores Resort
The country boasts a number of world-famous surf spots, including Las Flores. This is a relatively secluded beach where you feel as though you’re completely on your own, surrounded by green cliffs and palm trees. It’s not for nothing that this place is known as a ‘surfer’s paradise’. The waves are perfect, and the resort offers lessons for all levels. The water is lovely and warm, so you won’t need a wetsuit! If you’re not a fan of surfing, there’s plenty of space here for beach walks, yoga sessions or simply relaxing at the hotel.
Private boat trip to Casa del Golfo
From La Unión, I board the boat that will take us on a trip of the Golfo de Fonseca for the rest of the afternoon. This place is so special because it is the tripoint of Central America, where the islands around the gulf are inhabited by traditional fishing communities. On the way, we stop for lunch on the little island of Isla Zacatillo. Here, you literally get a glimpse behind the scenes and into the lives of the locals. We’re treated to delicious fresh fish whilst enjoying the view of the Conchagua Volcano. Finally, we round off the day at our final destination: the boutique hotel Casa del Golfo, where we’re treated to platters of fresh oysters at sunset!
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