El Salvador Trip Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in El Salvador

Afternoon

  • Arrive at El Salvador International Airport (SAL) by 1:00 p.m., where your Trip Leader will be waiting to kick off the adventure. From here, we’ll head to our hotel in San Salvador for check-in (about a 1-hour drive). Take some time to settle in, freshen up, and meet your fellow travelers.

Evening

  • We’ll head out for a guided city tour of downtown San Salvador, where you’ll explore colonial-era buildings, grand plazas, and important landmarks like the National Palace, National Library, and San Salvador Cathedral. Along the way, you’ll learn about the city’s history, culture, and how El Salvador has evolved over time.
  • We’ll wrap up the day with a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying traditional flavors and our first night together as a group. After dinner, head back to the hotel to rest up for the adventure ahead.

Day 2

Cerro Verde and Santa Ana Volcano

Morning

  • After breakfast, we’ll depart early for Cerro Verde National Park. Here, you’ll have the option to hike up Santa Ana Volcano to see its striking sulfuric lagoon. The hike is of moderate difficulty and takes about 1.5–2 hours through forested and rocky terrain.
  • Prefer something more relaxed? You can explore the Window to Nature Pathway, an easier walk through the cloud forest offering beautiful views and rich biodiversity.

Afternoon

  • After our time at Cerro Verde, enjoy lunch before continuing along the famous Flower Route (Ruta de las Flores), passing through colorful mountain towns, coffee plantations, and local culture.

Evening

  • We’ll arrive in the charming town of Apaneca, where we’ll check into cozy, family-run countryside cabañas located in the middle of the rainforest. Expect insects, bugs, and a very cozy cabin for the night. Tonight, you’ll take part in a hands-on pupusa workshop, learning how to make El Salvador’s most iconic dish—and yes, this will be your dinner. Afterward, relax and enjoy a peaceful night in the mountains.

Day 3

Adventure, waterfalls & the road to the beach

Morning

  • This morning is all about adventure. We’ll head to Cafe Albania, one of El Salvador’s most unique outdoor playgrounds. You’ll have a couple of hours to choose your own thrills: find your way through the massive maze, fly on the highest swing in the country, ride a bicycle suspended on a cable, slide down the longest toboggan in El Salvador, or try other adrenaline-filled activities.

Afternoon

  • Next, we’ll cool things down at Los Chorros de la Calera, a beautiful natural area where waterfalls cascade down the mountainside into shallow pools—perfect for swimming and relaxing. The walk is moderate, but the refreshing water and lush scenery make it well worth it.
  • Take a relaxing two-hour drive to the beach and enjoy the beautiful first sunset. It's a perfect way to unwind and soak in the stunning views.

Evening

  • Arrive at the beach and unwind with the sound of the waves. Enjoy dinner and an overnight by the ocean.

Day 4

Beach day

Morning

  • Wake up to ocean views and enjoy a relaxed breakfast by the beach. Today is all about slowing down and enjoying El Salvador’s Pacific coast.

Daytime

  • Spend the day however you like: relax on the sand, swim in natural or saltwater pools, stroll along the boardwalk, or soak up the sun. If you’re feeling active, you’ll have the option to take a surf lesson at one of the nearby beaches—perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to improve their skills.

Evening

  • As the sun sets, enjoy a laid-back evening by the beach, soaking in those final coastal vibes.

Day 5

Departure

Morning

  •  Enjoy one last breakfast and coffee by the ocean and take a moment to reflect on the past five days of adventure, connection, and new friendships.

Departure

  •  Private transportation is included back to El Salvador International Airport (SAL) for your flight home. As the trip comes to an end, remember—this isn’t goodbye.
  • Stay connected with your travel crew and the Under30Experiences community, where future trips, meetups, and lifelong friendships often begin.

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