Taking the bus is the cheapest option but for sure not the fastest one because of a shortage of buses. Ilamatepec is the highest volcano in El Salvador and reaches a height of 2381 metres (7812ft) above sea level. Its easy to reach from Belize City or Caye Caulker, and is only a short 2-hour journey, Read More Backpacking San Ignacio: COMPLETE Guide! Another option is to travel to Leon, south of El Salvador. Eat pizza and drink cocktails at Simmer Down, 11. Most trips to El Salvador will be trouble-free, but its important to know that there are still violent areas, and some cities are less safe than others. Youll be rewarded with amazing views of the city and surrounding countryside. You can find the Santa Ana theatre close to the cathedral and main square. Explore the very best that San Salvador has to offer on this guided trip. The 35 best things to do in El Salvador are: Guatemala border crossing Ahuachapan Los Auso l es geysers Ruta d e l a F l ores Nahuizalco Ataco Juayua Food Festiva l L os Chorros de l a Ca l era Barra de Santiago Release sea turtles Parque Nacional E l Imposib l e Santa Ana Parque Nacional L os Volcanes Lago de Coatepeque San Sa l vador Bring cash when visiting. Moreover, on a clear day you have an amazing view of the surroundings. Backpacking Europe, Read More Backpacking Europe: A Beginners Step-by-Step Guide (2023)Continue, Looking for the best ways to get from Caye Caulker to San Ignacio? Santa Ana is full of amazing culinary delights, from the popular pupuseras to the waterfront restaurants around Lago Coatepeque. Alternatively, yourSanta Ana hostelshould have options to book shuttles to El Tunco. Cerro Verde is located 2030 meters above sea level. These settlements were destroyed by Lake Ilopangos eruption. We have reviews of the best places to see in Santa Ana Department. GETTING AROUND EL SALVADOR BY A PRIVATE DRIVER. It s the best place to go for a little walk or take a boat trip. Dont feel like a steep climb? We found the locals to be exceptionally friendly and welcoming and loved trying some new dishes that we hadnt seen before. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in July. But thats not all they also host a variety of live music events throughout the week. Its a great thing to do whilst in Santa Ana! You can expect beautiful waterfalls, warm, water to swim in and tropical surroundings. The Santa Ana Cathedral is an incredible site that must be experienced in person. Ataco is just over an hour from the city of Santa Ana. You can take a tour like this one where the logistics are taken care of!. The crystal-clear waters of Lago de Coatepeque are ideal for those looking for a more laid-back spot and some beautiful views. From museums to waterfalls, lake views and colourful streets, Suchitoto is a beautiful and vibrant city to visit in El Salvador. El Tunco is the most visited location in El Salvador. During my visit it was unfortunately covered in scaffolding, but hopefully not anymore next time. Ask your hostel for the best directions. 7:30AM - 1:30PM: Take a local bus to Santa Ana volcano and hike to the top; take the local bus back or hire a driver. To avoid the crowds, visit during the week and not the weekend. But to be even safer, make sure you are taking a well-known route, keep your belongings close to you and use common sense. However, there are also Ubers available and yellow public taxis. In the next article you will find an overview of the most beautiful Mayan temples in Mexico and in the following articles I will tell you more about a visit to Tikal, Yaxha and El Mirador in Guatemala. This gives you enough time to see all of the major sites, do some of the day trips (such as the volcano hike) and take a trip along the Ruta de las Flores. You can view the cathedral from both the outside and inside, and even climb to the top for views over the whole city! When visiting the City of Santa Ana, you definitely need to stop and appreciate the churchs beauty and history. Tip- Another top spot for pizza in Santa Ana is Simmer Down Pizzeria & Restaurante, which is a great delivery option. Its a traditional Salvadorian city, with bustling streets, busy market stands, smells of local foods and a true insight into what local life looks like. Looking for tours? Some of the best tours in El Salvador include: Check out more tours for your trip here! El Salvador is great for tourists, especially if you would like to do some of the adventurous activities the country has to offer. Sign up forSafetyWing, and the job is done! From the volcanos summit, you will get iconic views of the other two volcanos in Cerro Verde National Park, the surrounding areas, and the Coatepeque Lake. Wear hiking shoes. Its also a large city, and someareas are nicer than others, so be sure to check out the following hostels and hotels in some of the best areas. The hike to the top should take about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace. Visitors can stroll into the local markets and experience the local culture; however, local markets are not for everyone. If youve eaten enough street food in Central America, you can visit one of the best restaurants in Santa Ana Simmer Down. One of the best things about Santa Ana is the amount of street food available. Santa Ana Volcano tour from: El Tunco, El Zonte or San Salvador Starting time: 08:30 am Experience duration: 9 hrs Difficulty: Moderate Are you ready for an awesome experience hiking and active volcano? Santa Ana is a popular destination for local and foreign tourists; particularly, those who want to learn about Salvadoran culture. But the center is also worth exploring. 19 Amazing Things To Do In Santa Ana, El Salvador! If you are a backpacker in Santa Ana, I recommend checking out the following hostels: Related post: Backpacking El Salvador: A Complete Guide, Best guided tour: Santa Ana Volcano Hike Full Day Tour. A guide is mandatory. However, I advise sticking to the tourist-focused and busy areas. by waynekask | Jul 5, 2023 | Blog | 0 comments. Pupusas can be served plain or topped with salsa, curtido (, Many also offer a variety of tacos and other traditional dishes like pupusas de queso (, 8. However, that doesnt mean that visitors or residents can be careless and not worry about safety at all. Visit the small towns of Concepcin de Ataco and Apaneca, 5. And one of the cheapest they have deals that start atjust $42 USD per month. You can check out the prices for car hire in El Salvador now! Looking for something to do in Santa Ana? Its time to explore the beauty of El Salvador! After a long day of sightseeing in Santa Ana, theres no better way to cool down than with ice cream from Boston Premium Ice Cream. Check out Simmer Down, a popular pizza and pasta food restaurant near the Santa Ana main square. Explore the fascinating pre-Columbian villages of San Andrs and UNESCO-listed Joya de Cern. Its a great activity to do if youre in Santa Ana, and its right next to some of the citys best restaurants for a treat afterwards! Other things to do in downtown Santa Ana El Salvador include the Municipal House and the National Theater, which is known for its great acoustics. Related post: El Tunco Beach, A Complete Guide. It is located in the downtown area with a plaza, a church, and governmental offices. Hike in the Cerro Verde National Park, 19. Best guided tour: Joya de Ceren archaeological site tour. Bear in mind this takes around 19-20 hours! You can also drive the Rutas De Flores at your own pace if you have your own car. Passport The World, is an online travel magazine by Deborah Durrfeld, focusing on scenic and cultural travel. Yay! Expect personal travel stories, backpacking tips + the latest travel inspiration! 17 Amazing Things To Do In Seaside, Florida (+Best 30A Beaches)! There are restrooms and also snacks and drinks that you can purchase in this area. El Tazumal is about 25 minutes from the city of Santa Ana. On top of the covered terrace you have a good view of the plaza. The city of Sant Ana is excellent for shopping; it can be done at the big stores located at the shopping mall or at the local markets. Santa Anas retail and manufacturing industries are of great importance to the Salvadoran economy. Youre in the right place! Almost any bus heading east from La Libertad will pass El Zonte, just confirm with the driver before boarding. You can book a tour here. Just about all the varieties that you can imagine! Backpacking San Ignacio? When you think of Switz, Have you ever been to Ticino? El Salvador is world-famous for its coffee, so what better place to do a coffee tour? Andif you ended up on a post thats called epic party tips, you know (just as well as I do) that youdefinitelyneed travel insurance. GETTING AROUND EL SALVADOR BY SHUTTLE BUS. Public buses in El Salvador: Are they safe? The best thing about this volcano hike in Santa Ana is its suitable for all. Even though the municipality of Juayua is in a different department, its easy to get to Santa Ana. From creamy classics like chocolate and vanilla to more exotic flavors like Tamarindo and Mango Verde, Boston Premium Ice Cream has plenty of dessert options. If youre visiting Central America as a backpacker, or even for a short vacation, it issoimportant to havetravel insurance. Would you like to spend the night in a unique hotel with a view of the Santa Ana volcano from your room? Check the latest prices and availability at Remfort Hotel, Hotel Equinoccio and Casa 1800 Cerro Verde. Click For Details On The Travel Guide! Cerro Verde is part of El Salvadors Los Volcanes National Park, which consists of five volcanoes: Santa Ana, Izalco, San Marcelino, Coatepeque, and Cerro Verde. Its one of the only modern shopping centres in the area and has high street stores, electrical shops and American food outlets such as Mcdonalds. The southernmost reg, Hope you are doing well. 2023, How to Visit Sian Kaan WITHOUT A Tour: Ultimate Guide! My girlfriend is an El Salvador native so Ive got to experience the best tourist attractions and the finest local spots. WithSafetyWing, youre covered on travel emergencies, basic medical costs and medical expenses throughout your trip, so you can travel without worry (at a backpackers price!). Antigua (Guatemala) to Santa Ana, check out my post here. If so, we have you covered. As well as spotting the beautiful flowers along the roads, you can stop off in the local towns and learn more about El Salvadorian culture. Learn all about the country's history, culture . 1. However, most of the building was destroyed by a lightning strike in the 19th century and was rebuilt over a hundred years later. Santa Ana in El Salvador is the second biggest city in the country. Youll be sure to have an unforgettable experience as you explore the ancient archeological site of Tazumal. You can travel to Honduras easily from El Salvador. Santa Ana Cathedral is a Catholic Church built in the early 1900s located in the heart of Santa Ana, El Salvador. No matter what type of activity you choose to do while visiting Lago de Coatepeque, youre sure to have an unforgettable time. Check Out This Free Workshop! I personally joined Scale Your Travel Blog in 2021 and my website has grown exponentially. Shuttles in El Salvador will be with other backpackers, and can either be booked online or via your hostel. Travel EAST to Honduras. Restaurants in Santa Ana. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in January. Looking for more hotels in and around Santa Ana in El Salvador? 1.5hrs - 90c. Again, to do this, I recommend hiring a car. The Cathedral was destroyed by lighting at the end of the 19th century. Some visitors or locals take day trips to Juayua and enjoy what the small town has to offer, especially on the weekends. First, there are many things to do in the city and its near surrounding, second, and more importantly, Santa Ana is known as one of the safest places in El Salvador. I receive a small commission if you use the links at no extra cost to you! You can have one of their entrees such as shrimp with rice and broccoli or one of their delicious soups. San Salvador has something for everyone whether youre looking to explore the citys culture or take in its amazing views, this vibrant metropolis is sure to be a highlight of your trip. It is also known for being in close proximity to the Cerro Verde National Park, which is home to the Santa Ana volcano. With a menu full of pizza, pasta, seafood and desserts, its the perfect place to have some comfort food. Its an adventurous day out, and one you wont forget for a while! Visit the Cerro Verde National Park, see the Santa Ana Volcano, and explore Izalco and its volcano. The pyramid was used as a temple and consists of several platforms, connected by long staircases. For a full guide on travelling fromSanta Ana to Anitgua, click here. Decline Accept, traveltips, cityguides, history, art and experiences for the cultural & scenic traveler, One of the top things to do in El Salvador is to, One of the most beautiful viewpoints in El Salvado, Suchitoto is one of the most beautiful destination, I just came back from an amazing trip in El Salvad, Look at the views! Bus operators. In 1824, Santa Ana became part of the department of Sonsonate; subsequently, in 1835, it became the departments head city or capital. For example, hiking the Santa Ana volcano, sliding down the famous Rainbow Slide, swimming in Lake Coatapeque and jumping in waterfalls at Tamanique. Every weekend (and sometimes even Friday night), the main streets of Juayua transform into an open-air food festival. It is a great place for backpackers in El Salvador to base themselves whilst enjoying some of the best adrenaline-fuelled activities in the country. $MMT = window.$MMT || {}; $MMT.cmd = $MMT.cmd || [];$MMT.cmd.push(function(){ $MMT.display.slots.push(["cb38f3de-8fed-46f4-97c7-e8d78972f1b9"]); }), $MMT = window.$MMT || {}; $MMT.cmd = $MMT.cmd || [];$MMT.cmd.push(function(){ $MMT.display.slots.push(["d2690919-d0a1-46f3-9aa8-4041fd50fc6c"]); }), Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress, Discover El Salvadors El Imposible National Park), (Catch The Sunrise From Santa Ana Volcano, Great For Backpackers Who Wants An Outdoor Adventure). Cities in the Ruta de las Flores include some that weve already covered, Ahuachapan and Atcaco, and others such as Apaneca, Juayua, and more. Did you enjoy reading this article with tips and things to do in Santa Ana? Santa Ana, city, western El Salvador. This Excursion Includes A Boat Tour Around Lago Coatepeque. Then have a look at the Remfort Hotel. Most backpackers, when travelling from Guatemala to El Salvador, depart from Antigua and enter El Salvador at Santa Ana. Santa Ana is about 1.5- hours drive from the capital, San Salvador. My phone said I had almost 20,000 steps and did 71 flights after completing the hike. There are direct shuttles from El Tunco to Leon,Nicaragua. In Passport The World you'll will find tips and inspiration about exploring the world and its countries. 7) Do I need a SIM card to travel around El Salvador? The best time to visit is in mid-July during the celebrations of Our Lady of Santa Ana. El Salvador airport is around a 2-hour drive from Santa Ana. Whilst it isnt one of the prettiest of cities in the world, its an excellent base to have when exploring some of the other parts of the country, including the Santa Ana volcano, Suchitoto, the Rutas de las Flores and Lake Coatepeque. We found El Salvador easy enough to travel around via buses and shuttles, but one of the preferred modes of most backpackers is hiring a car. Cerro Verde National Park is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. So, there you have it! There are plenty of walks to choose from, where you can observe the beautiful volcanoes in the distance, spot rare flora and fauna and look out for wildlife. Theshuttleshold around 16 people andare full of other backpackers. The activities held during these weeks are mainly religious. It is best to avoid exchanging money at the airport, as prices are high. The atmosphere at Inna Jammin is always buzzing, and the live music is sure to get everyone in the mood for a good time. The weekends get busier with lots of tourists. Make sure to try the mojarra with shrimps. A knowledgeable guide will be able to point out the best spots and provide insight into the local flora, fauna, and culture. Private drivers can be hired for different amounts of time. John's Pass Restaurants- 10 Great Places To Try! 25 Feb 0:56 Lives Less Ordinary Guns, guards, snarling dogs: a child migrant's story Javier Zamora travelled alone from El Salvador to the US when he was just nine years old BBC World Service. Around 600 AD, a volcanic eruption swallowed the community whole, and it was buried in the rubble, similar to the Pompeii devastation in Italy. The Cerro Verde National Park covers some of El Salvadors most beautiful and biodiverse landscapes, from lush forests to rolling hills. Depending on the time of year, it will be very hot and youll want to be sure to hydrate and also protect your skin. Strolling around the city is a great way to get to know the town and the local culture; you can visit museums, go shopping, visit the markets, and much more. You can easily rent a car in San Salvador and drive there yourself. Whilst backpacking Central America, San Ignacio in Belize was one of our favourite places, and it issounderrated! Enjoy seafood dishes like ceviche, fresh fruit juices, and seafood tacos while taking in the breeze. Tazumal is one of the things to do in Santa Ana El Salvador if you are interested in history. Within El Salvadors boundaries lie some of the countrys highest mountains, including Cerro Verde and El Pital. Its an incredible adventure that shouldnt be missed! They also have great discounts and cancellation policies. So, there is no wonder why this city is popular with tourists. Tazumal was an important Mayan settlement between 100 BC to about 1200 AD. If you are doing the Ruta de las Flores on the weekend, make sure you stop at Juayua! We have reviews of the best places to see in Santa Ana. As for plugs in El Salvador uses A and B plug types. Or have a Pilsener or large Regia beer. The theatre hosts various events throughout the year, including art exhibitions and cultural festivals. How Do You Get Around Santa Ana El Salvador? Lago de Coatepeque is a crater lake located in the Los Volcanes national park. Whether you get the Tipico- scrambled eggs and refried beans, or Aguacatero, which is fried eggs, avocado, and refried beans, you cant go wrong. Just about all the varieties that you can imagine! Everything you need to know about things to do in Santa Ana, El Salvador. Cerro Verde National Park is a must-see for anyone visiting El Salvador. Santa Ana Volcano Hiking + Panoramic View Lake Coatepeque (Best Day Tour), Hidden Waterfall Guided Tour (Discover El Salvadors El Imposible National Park), Santa Ana Volcano Sunrise(Catch The Sunrise From Santa Ana Volcano), Thermal Tour: Cafe Albania + Hot Springs + Ataco + Lunch (Private Day Trip In San Salvador), Hike Santa Ana Volcano With A Sulphur Lake Inside & Coatapeque Lake (Great For Backpackers Who Wants An Outdoor Adventure), Hostal Las Puertas (Best Budget-Midrange Hotel In Santa Ana), Equinoccio Hotel (Modern-Style Hotel With Swimming Pool), Remfort Hotel (Top-Rated Hotel With Buffet Breakfast), Captain Morgan Hostel Lake Coatepeque (Highly Booked Hostel With Mountain Views). If its a clear day, you can even see some of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as the neighbouring active Izalco Volcano! I know all of the information online may seem overwhelming. Another volcano that you can climb around Santa Ana in El Salvador is the Izalco. Some people dont like the chaos of these markets, while others think it is a charming cultural activity. Travel south to the coast and to the beach town of El Tunco. Whether youre looking to explore the trails or just relax in the peaceful natural surroundings, this park is sure to offer something for every outdoor traveler. Thereare three ways to get fromAntigua to Santa Ana: If yourebackpacking El Salvador,the most common, safest and easiest way to travel between Santa Ana and Antigua is byshuttle. Visitors should use common sense and plan ahead when traveling to this city. There are plenty of activities to choose from when visiting Lake Coatepeque, from swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and even tubing! Two of the prettiest towns on the Ruta de las Flores are Concepcin de Ataco and Apaneca, and visiting them makes for the perfect morning trip from Santa Ana. Sit outside for beautiful garden views and the kids can also bounce around on the outdoor trampoline. Sample One-Day Itinerary in Santa Ana. There are also no lifeguards here. Do you want to read more about Mayan ruins in Central America? Santa Ana in El Salvador is the perfect city for those looking for a town with a fascinating history, great local traditions, and plenty of activities. 1. These family-run restaurants specialize in serving up delicious authentic Salvadorian cuisine, including pupusas that are freshly made daily. Hike the Santa Ana Volcano in Cerro Verde National Park, 4. But one of the best things to do in Santa Ana is to try the local vendors! Do you also want to hike the Santa Ana volcano? Belong anywhere with Airbnb. To help you get the maximum out of your travels or to just get to know a country and culture better! June 23, 2023 - 613 likes, 31 comments - Sienna Christine | Traveler (@iamsiennachristine) on Instagram: "Ten Things to Do in El Salvador (Save & Share) 1. Hereyou will find a comprehensive overview. Just be sure to tell the driver that you are going to Lago de Coatepeque. Of course there are a few steep parts, but the walk is doable for anyone with a normal physical condition. Related post: La Paz A Hidden Beach Close to El Tunco | Is El Salvador Safe? The Santa Ana Cathedral was built in the 16th century, making it over 400 years old. Most backpackers use Santa Ana as a base, as it has some great hostels and accommodations to stay in. The best time to travel to El Salvador is the dry season, which runs from November to April. Head out into the streets of Santa Ana, where youll find vendors selling all sorts of delicious treats, from fresh fruits and coconut water to freshly-made pupusas and juicy avocados. ), creating guides and itineraries for you to follow in our footsteps! Whether you want to take in some stunning views or experience the local cuisine, Santa Ana is a memorable place to explore and has lots to offer! $MMT = window.$MMT || {}; $MMT.cmd = $MMT.cmd || [];$MMT.cmd.push(function(){ $MMT.display.slots.push(["21ed1d79-647a-4558-912d-13f75c315547"]); }). In the next article you will find the most beautiful hotels in El Salvador my personal favorites, sorted by region. There are many ways to get to Santa Ana. Top Things to Do in Santa Ana, California: See Tripadvisor's 17,716 traveller reviews and photos of Santa Ana tourist attractions. Some of the main towns and cities are a distance away from each other, so to maximise your time in the country, you may want to hire a car. One of the easiest and most popular ways to travel around El Salvador is by rental car. If youd like to do some hiking whilst in Santa Ana El Salvador, head to the Cerro Verde National Park. As always, thanks for reading and supporting the blog! detailed guide on travelling between the two places here. Check out my honest opinion about safety in El Salvador here | Is El Salvador Safe? When visiting the city of Santa Ana, you should look at the theater and its history; furthermore, see if there is a play showing that you might like. Its one of the best places in El Salvador to take a coffee tour. The City of Santa Ana is of high significance to El Salvadors economy. As we were leaving, there was also live music outside. Concepcin de Ataco is another colourful town along the Ruta de las Flores, with cobbled streets, bright street art and murals, arts and crafts markets and incredible local street food. Whilst Santa Ana isnt the prettiest city, it has a lot of soul to it. For those looking to get away and explore a hidden gem in El Salvador, Concepcin de Ataco is an ideal destination. Things to do in Santa Ana Santa Ana Volcano (Volcn Ilamatepec) Tours Santa Ana Volcano (Volcn Ilamatepec) Tours and Tickets 283 Reviews If you make a purchase, we make a small commission at no cost to you. Bring cash- If you dont do this tour, youll need cash for entering the park, before you begin the hike, and again to pay at the government office while youre on the hike. This lively bar and restaurant serves up delicious pizzas, burgers, and other tasty treats. It is estimated that the last eruption was 25,000 years ago. So drive with caution and take a bigger vehicle if possible. It may sound hard to believe but there is a giant rainbow slide near Santa Ana that can be enjoyed by adrenaline junkies. There are 2 ways to get from Guatemala City to Santa Ana by bus or car Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2Rio's travel planner. Located in El Imposible National Park, these majestic marvels of nature are a must-see for any traveler visiting El Salvador. 3) What is the most visited place in El Salvador? Driving in El Salvador is safe and straightforward. The city is a good starting point for amazing volcano tours in the surroundings, a visit to Lake Coatepeque and the Mayan ruins of Tazumal. The Joya de Ceren archaeological site was previously a large farming area. Alternatively, you can choose to take the bus or a taxi. Here you will find more information about transport from San Salvador to Santa Ana and the surrounding area. When youre planning a trip to El Salvador, make sure you let me know over on Instagram or in the comments below! The top things to do in Santa Ana include visiting the Santa Ana historic downtown, shopping, and strolling around the city. For those looking for a more active experience, there are kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) tours available. You can sign up for my newsletter and juicy travel updates here! For those who are looking for an active adventure, you can hike to the top of the volcano and explore the area around its crater lake. There are a couple of stands at the parking lot when you park for the beach. It is a series of volcanic cracks that emit hot water and sulfur up to the surface. The same traditions and history that attract visitors also make it an excellent city to live in. Lake Coatepeque (Lago de Coatepeque) is a large crater lake around 2 hours from Santa Ana. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Top Things to Do in Santa Ana Department, El Salvador: See Tripadvisor's 3,314 traveller reviews and photos of Santa Ana Department tourist attractions. Evidence of Preclassic settlements was found in Santa Ana. See all 2022 Santa Ana Volcano 342 Volcanoes Izalco Volcano 30 Volcanoes Lago de Coatepeque 175 Bodies of Water Santa Ana Cathedral 118 Churches & Cathedrals Teatro Nacional de Santa Ana 61 Theatres 3 Days In Quito: The PERFECT Itinerary (2023), Quito To Guayaquil: Full Guide & Transport Options (2023), One Day In Quito: What To Do, Eat, See & Explore (2023), Banos To Guayaquil (Ecuador) Complete Guide & Routes 2023, Banos To Cuenca (Ecuador) Full Guide & Routes In 2023, Public bus (cheapest option but with the longest duration), Private transfer (most expensive but the quickest option).