San Salvador in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in San Salvador
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Dry season perfection - February gets virtually no rainfall (0.0mm) but isn't brutally hot like March-May, making it ideal for volcano hiking and outdoor exploration without rain gear weighing you down
- Festival season peak - February hosts Carnaval de San Salvador and patron saint celebrations with street food vendors offering seasonal specialties like semita de piña and horchata de morro that aren't available year-round
- Clear volcano visibility - Low humidity compared to rainy months means crystal-clear views from Volcán de San Salvador and El Boquerón crater, with visibility extending 40+ km (25+ miles) to the Pacific on clear days
- Perfect hiking temperatures - Morning temperatures of 18°C (64°F) are ideal for starting volcano treks, warming to comfortable 28°C (82°F) by midday without the oppressive heat that hits in March
Considerations
- Dust and pollution accumulation - Dry season means months of accumulated dust and vehicle emissions with no rain to clear the air, making air quality noticeably worse especially in downtown areas near Guatemalacity
- Variable weather creates packing challenges - Daily temperature swings of 14°C (25°F) mean you need both warm layers for early morning volcano hikes and lightweight clothes for afternoon city walking
- Higher accommodation prices - February is peak tourist season with rates 30-40% higher than rainy season, particularly around Zona Rosa and near El Salvador del Mundo monument
Best Activities in February
Volcán de San Salvador Crater Hiking
February's dry conditions make this the absolute best month for hiking to El Boquerón crater. Morning temperatures of 18°C (64°F) at the 1,800m (5,905ft) elevation are perfect for the 2-3 hour round trip hike. Zero rainfall means stable trail conditions and the clearest crater views of the year. Afternoons warm to 25°C (77°F) at elevation - ideal hiking weather without rain delays.
Historic Centro Histórico Walking Tours
February's mild mornings (18°C/64°F) are perfect for exploring Asuncion, Teatro Nacional, and Plaza Barrios before afternoon heat peaks. Low rainfall means outdoor markets like Guatemalacity operate at full capacity with vendors selling seasonal fruits like jocotes and mangoes only available during dry months.
Lago de Coatepeque Day Trips
February's clear, dry weather provides impressive lake visibility and perfect conditions for swimming in the crater lake's constant 26°C (79°F) waters. The 30km (18.6 mile) drive from San Salvador takes 45 minutes through coffee plantations at peak harvest season. Zero rainfall means reliable road conditions and clear mountain views.
Coffee Farm Tours in Santa Ana Province
February coincides with coffee harvest season, making this the only time to see actual coffee picking and processing. Cool morning temperatures of 16-18°C (61-64°F) at 1,200m (3,937ft) elevation create perfect conditions for walking through plantations. Dry weather means farms are fully operational with no rain delays.
Archaeological Site Exploration at Joya de Cerén
February's dry conditions provide optimal access to this UNESCO World Heritage site without rain-related closures. Morning temperatures of 22°C (72°F) are ideal for walking the 2km (1.2 mile) archaeological trail. Clear skies enhance photography of the 'Pompeii of the Americas' preserved structures.
Artisan Market and Street Food Tours
February's dry weather brings out the full array of street vendors and outdoor markets. Seasonal specialties like horchata de morro, semita de piña, and fresh jocotes are at peak availability. Evening temperatures around 24°C (75°F) make night market exploration comfortable until 10pm.
February Events & Festivals
Carnaval de San Salvador
Multi-day carnival celebration with street parades, traditional dances, and extensive food vendor setups throughout Centro Histórico. Features regional bands, folkloric performances, and traditional costume displays. Street food vendors offer seasonal specialties only available during festival periods.
Festival del Divino Salvador del Mundo Preparatory Events
Religious processions and cultural events leading up to August's main festival. February features community preparation activities, traditional music performances, and special masses at Asuncion. Local restaurants offer traditional feast foods during this period.