El Salvador is an underrated Central American destination, but after visiting, my friend and I both agree—it’s a country full of beauty, culture, and adventure. The twist? We experienced it in two completely different ways.
In January, I traveled to San Salvador for an action-packed itinerary, from hiking Santa Ana Volcano to exploring historic sites. A month later, my friend arrived with a different goal—beachside relaxation in El Tunco with a touch of city life.
I was the traveler, chasing adventure. She was the vacationeer, embracing leisure. Two different styles, but one shared love for El Salvador.
The Traveler: Hiking Santa Ana and Exploring San Salvador
My time in El Salvador was all about adventure, and the highlight of my trip was conquering the Santa Ana Volcano (Volcán Ilamatepec), the highest volcano in the country.
The hike was a challenge, but the payoff? Absolutely worth it. The trail wound through rugged terrain, and as I climbed higher, the views became more breathtaking. The final stretch was steep, but reaching the summit and seeing the vivid turquoise crater lake was an unforgettable moment. The contrast of the steaming, sulfur-filled water against the volcanic rock was surreal—like something out of a dream.
After catching my breath (and snapping a hundred photos), I soaked in the panoramic views of Lake Coatepeque and the Pacific Ocean in the distance. It was a reminder of El Salvador’s untouched natural beauty.
Back in San Salvador, my trip was a mix of culture and city exploration. I wandered through Plaza Libertad, admired the striking blue-and-white facade of the Metropolitan Cathedral, and took in the city’s energy. I visited the National Palace, sampled pupusas at local markets, and learned about El Salvador’s history.
My trip was fast-paced, immersive, and full of discovery. For me, El Salvador was about adventure, discovery, and movement.
The Vacationer: Beach Bliss with a Touch of City Life
While I was lacing up my hiking boots, my friend was slipping on sandals, heading for the laid-back coastal town of El Tunco.
El Tunco is known for its black sand beaches, crashing waves, and a surfer-meets-backpacker vibe. My friend’s trip was all about relaxation—lounging on the beach, sipping tropical drinks, and enjoying fresh seafood with an ocean view. She stayed at a beachfront resort, where the hardest decision of the day was whether to have a poolside cocktail or a beachfront one.
But even as a vacationer, she wanted a taste of San Salvador—just at a slower, more relaxed pace.
Unlike my jam-packed itinerary, she spent a day/night in the city, strolling through historic sites at a leisurely pace, stopping for coffee breaks, and soaking in the atmosphere without rushing; and while there do a little bit of shopping at Zara which has become a traveling tradition – visit Zara in every country (if possible)
While I was navigating the city’s energy with an explorer’s mindset, she experienced San Salvador through a vacationer’s lens—taking her time, savoring each moment, and appreciating the charm of the city without the rush.
Different Trips, Same Love for El Salvador
It’s funny how one destination can offer two completely different experiences, but that’s the beauty of travel. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler craving epic hikes and cultural exploration or a vacationer looking for beachside relaxation, El Salvador delivers.
What we both took away from our trips was the same:
El Salvador is stunning.
The people are warm and welcoming.
The food is incredible (pupusas, anyone?).
We’d both go back in a heartbeat.
Are You a Traveler or a Vacationer?
No matter your travel style, El Salvador delivers. The real question is: How would you explore it?
Drop a comment below! Are you a traveler who seeks adventure or a vacationer who prefers relaxation? Or maybe a mix of both? Let’s chat!
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