Things to Do in San Salvador

About San Salvador

Nestled in a valley between volcanic peaks, San Salvador pulses with an energy that defies its compact size—a place where colonial churches stand alongside sleek modern towers, and the aroma of pupusas mingles with third-wave coffee. This is Central America's most underestimated capital, a city shedding its turbulent past to reveal a sophisticated urban culture shaped by resilient communities and bold creativity. Here, the authenticity that mass tourism erodes elsewhere remains refreshingly intact.

Travel Tips

• Currency and Cash: While US dollars are the official currency, always carry small bills ($1, $5, $10) as many local buses, pupuserías, and small vendors cannot break $20 bills or larger denominations.

• Transportation Timing: Avoid using public buses after dark and during rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) when they're extremely crowded; instead, use Uber or InDriver apps which are widely available, affordable, and considered safer for tourists.

• Volcano Hiking Safety: If visiting Volcán de San Salvador or other nearby volcanoes, always hire an official guide through your hotel or a reputable tour company, as hiking alone is strongly discouraged due to safety concerns on isolated trails.

• Sunday Market Shopping: Visit the Mercado Nacional de Artesanías on Sundays when it's busiest and has the most vendors, but arrive before 2 PM as many stalls close early; bargaining is expected and you can typically negotiate 20-30% off initial prices.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit San Salvador is during the dry season from November through April, when temperatures hover between 23-32°C (73-90°F) with minimal rainfall and lower humidity, though March and April can feel scorching as the dry season peaks. December through February offers the most comfortable weather with occasional cool breezes, but you'll encounter higher hotel prices during Christmas, New Year's, and especially the August festivities (Fiestas Agostinas, August 1-6) honoring El Salvador del Mundo, the city's patron saint, featuring parades, concerts, and street celebrations—though this falls during the wet season when afternoon downpours are nearly guaranteed. Budget travelers should target May or late October, the shoulder months when prices drop 30-40% as the rainy season begins or ends, accepting that you'll face humid 80-90% conditions and daily afternoon thunderstorms lasting 1-3 hours. Avoid September and October entirely unless absolutely necessary, as these months bring the heaviest rainfall (250-300mm monthly), potential flooding in low-lying areas, and increased risk from the tail end of hurricane season affecting Central America, making transportation unreliable and limiting your ability to explore the city's outdoor attractions like El Boquerón National Park.