14-Day Family-Friendly Adventure Road Trip through El Salvador

Day 1: Arrival in San Salvador

San Salvador, El Salvador

10:00AM

Arrival at San Salvador International Airport

Arrive at the vibrant capital of El Salvador and pick up your rental car as you gear up for an exciting road trip.
Drive to your hotel in San Salvador. Consider checking into the Barceló San Salvador.
USD100, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Mercado San Miguelito

Indulge in local cuisine at this bustling market where the family can sample traditional pupusas.
Located just about 10 minutes from your hotel.
USD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the National Palace

Explore the historic National Palace, an architectural gem that offers a glimpse into El Salvador's past.
A 10-minute drive from the market.
FREE, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Walk at the Plaza Barrios

Stroll through this picturesque square where you can take in the local ambiance.
Walking distance from the National Palace.
FREE, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at La Pampa

Enjoy a family-friendly steak and grill restaurant with a great selection.
Back to the hotel area, around 10 minutes drive.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Explore San Salvador

San Salvador, El Salvador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe D.filtered

Start your day with excellent coffee and hearty Salvadoran breakfast options.
A short 10-minute drive from your hotel.
USD35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Museum of the Word and Image

Learn more about El Salvador's history through its rich visual presentations.
Approximately 15-minute drive.
USD5, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Los Gallo Pinto

Family-friendly restaurant known for their local dishes that cater to all tastes.
About a 12-minute drive.
USD40, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit El Boquerón National Park

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the crater of the San Salvador volcano.
A 30-minute drive from Los Gallo Pinto.
USD1, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at La Taverna

An iconic restaurant, perfect for families to unwind and enjoy pizza or pasta.
30-minute drive back to the hotel area.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: La Libertad Coast

La Libertad, El Salvador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your hotel in San Salvador before hitting the road.
Start the drive to La Libertad.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to La Libertad

Head towards the beautiful coast of La Libertad, known for its surf beaches.
A scenic 40-minute drive.
FREE, 40 minutes

10:30AM

Surfing Lesson at El Tunco

Participate in a family-friendly surf lesson with expert instructors.
Walk a few minutes to the beach once you arrive.
USD100, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Fonda

Savor freshly caught seafood with stunning ocean views.
Located right on the beachfront.
USD50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax on the Beach

Spend the afternoon unwinding on El Tunco Beach, building sandcastles and swimming.
No need to move, simply enjoy the beach.
FREE, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at El Zonte

Experience a vibrant eatery with delicious fusion cuisine and a family-friendly environment.
Just a short drive away along the coast.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Continuing at La Libertad

La Libertad, El Salvador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sunzal

Enjoy a seaside breakfast at this laid-back restaurant overlooking the surf.
Close to your hotel.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking at Cerro Verde

Embark on a family-friendly hike at Cerro Verde National Park experiencing the lush nature.
About 30-minute drive inland.
USD2 per person, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at San Salvador Fish Market

Sample local fishes and freshest catch at the bustling market.
Drive back to San Salvador, about 40 minutes.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Cultural Immersion at the Central Market

Explore local crafts, souvenirs, and delicious street food to enhance your cultural experience.
Close by the fish market.
FREE, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Casa de Suecia

Finish the day with a mix of traditional and modern dishes enjoyed in a welcoming atmosphere.
10 minutes from the market.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Ahuachapan Landscapes

Ahuachapan, El Salvador

8:00AM

Breakfast at San Salvador Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before setting out on your next adventure.
From your hotel, head towards Ahuachapan.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Ahuachapan

Travel to the charming town of Ahuachapan known for its hot springs.
About a 2-hour drive.
FREE, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Ahuachapan Hot Springs

Relax at the natural hot springs, perfect for unwinding after a long drive.
Just minutes from the town center.
USD5, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at La Pampa Ahuachapan

Fabulous local grill offering delicious meals in a warm atmosphere.
Around 5 minutes from the hot springs.
USD50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Los Ausoles National Park

Explore this park boasting diverse flora and fauna with family-friendly trails.
A short drive from the restaurant.
USD1, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Delicias de Ahuachapan

Enjoy a rustic meal with a Salvadoran twist with an authentic atmosphere.
Drive back into town approximately 15 minutes.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Ahuachapan Activities

Ahuachapan, El Salvador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start off your day with a wholesome breakfast at the hotel.
Easy access from where you're staying.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Horseback Riding at Parque Las Cascadas

Experience nature through a scenic guided horseback ride suitable for families.
Drive to Las Cascadas Park in about 30 minutes.
USD50 per person, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch Picnic at Cascades

Pack a delightful lunch and enjoy it at one of the beautiful spots within the park.
Prepare lunch or buy simple sandwiches next to the park.
USD25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Exploring the Natural Pools

Cool off and have fun in the natural pools within the park.
Stay around the hiking and swimming areas.
FREE, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Tipicos Ahuachapan

Savor traditional El Salvadorian food at this cozy restaurant.
Back to Ahuachapan town center.
USD35, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Santa Ana Adventure

Santa Ana, El Salvador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ahuachapan Hotel

Fuel up for the day’s drive and adventures to Santa Ana.
Depart towards Santa Ana.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Santa Ana

Take the scenic route to Santa Ana, known for its beautiful architecture and nature.
The drive takes about 90 minutes.
FREE, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Santa Ana Cathedral

Discover the stunning Gothic architecture of the Santa Ana Cathedral.
Located in the main plaza.
FREE, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at La Plaza Santa Ana

Pop into this town square and seclect from various local food vendors.
Directly across from the cathedral.
USD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hiking at Cerro Verde National Park

Enjoy family-friendly hiking trails with opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Head to Cerro Verde, about 30 minutes from Santa Ana.
FREE, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at La Pampa Santa Ana

Wrap up the day at a local steakhouse offering great variety for food lovers.
About 20 minutes drive back into town.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Nature & Relaxation at Coatepeque

Coatepeque, El Salvador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Santa Ana Hotel

Start your day right at the hotel breakfast buffet.
Preparing for travel towards Coatepeque.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Coatepeque Lake

Travel to the stunning Coatepeque Lake, a popular destination for its natural beauty.
The drive takes about 1 hour.
FREE, 1 hour

10:30AM

Kayaking on Lake Coatepeque

Rent kayaks and see the stunning landscapes from the water’s perspective.
Easy access from lakeside rentals.
USD30, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante El Bejuco

Enjoy local and international cuisine with a beautiful lake view.
Just on the lakeside.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Rest at the Lake Beach

Unwind on the beach or take a swim in the clear waters of Lake Coatepeque.
No need to move, simply relax on the beach.
FREE, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at El Mirador

Enjoy flavorful dinner with local dishes and the beauty of the sunset.
A quick walk from the beach.
USD65, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Cultural Exploration in Juayua

Juayua, El Salvador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Coatepeque Hotel

Enjoy breakfast with a lakeside view before heading out.
Depart towards Juayua.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Juayua

Travel to the vibrant town of Juayua famed for its weekend food festivals.
The drive takes about an hour.
FREE, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Juayua's Waterfall

Hike to the beautiful waterfall while enjoying the scenic trails and fresh air.
A short drive to the trailhead.
FREE, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Juayua Food Festival

Savor local delicacies and street food at Juayua’s renowned food festivals.
Back to town, easy walk.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Artisan Market Visit

Browse the artisanal shops, offering pottery, crafts, and local products.
Walk around town center.
FREE, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Casa de la Abuela

Try traditional Salvadoran dishes for dinner in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Just a short walk from the artisan market.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Return to San Salvador

San Salvador, El Salvador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Juayua Hotel

Fuel up on a hearty breakfast at your hotel.
Depart after breakfast for San Salvador.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to San Salvador

Make your way back to the capital city, taking in the scenery one last time.
The drive takes about 2 hours.
FREE, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Museum of Anthropology

Dive into El Salvador's rich cultural heritage at this fascinating museum.
Located in San Salvador.
USD5, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Los Sopes

Enjoy a tasty and affordable lunch at this popular local venue.
Nearby the museum.
USD30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at Parque Cuscatlán

Spend the afternoon in this vibrant park, a great spot for family recreation.
Situated centrally in the city.
FREE, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Los Heroicos

Enjoy local and international cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
Here, you can reflect on your day.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Cultural Immersion in Suchitoto

Suchitoto, El Salvador

8:00AM

Breakfast at San Salvador Hotel

Savor breakfast one more time at your hotel before heading out.
Prepare for departure towards Suchitoto.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Suchitoto

Enjoy a 1.5-hour scenic drive to Suchitoto, known for its charming colonial architecture and lakeside views.
Head northeast from San Salvador.
FREE, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the César Menchú Museum

Experience the incredible story behind El Salvador’s history through indigenous perspectives.
In Suchitoto, easy driving distance.
USD3, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at El Pescador

A lakeside restaurant serving up fresh fish and local flavors.
Close to the lakefront.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Artisan Craft Workshop

Engage in a family-oriented craft workshop, learning to create local handicrafts.
Pre-arranged workshop location.
USD25 per person, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at El Huerto

A cozy restaurant that showcases local ingredients in their delightful dishes.
Back in Suchitoto town.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Nature at Cerro Verde

Cerro Verde, El Salvador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Suchitoto Hotel

Enjoy the last breakfast in Suchitoto before your next adventure.
Prepare to transition to Cerro Verde.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Cerro Verde

Head towards Cerro Verde National Park’s stunning landscapes, a highlight for nature lovers.
The drive takes about 1 hour.
FREE, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the Trails

Hike among the trails surrounded by breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife.
Trails start near the park entrance.
FREE, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Casa de la Montaña

Refresh yourself with a delicious meal after exploring in the restaurant that offers stunning views.
On-site at the park.
USD50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Guided Tour of Cerro Verde

Join a local guide for enriching stories about the park’s ecosystem and history.
Pre-arranged with park services.
USD5 per person, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Los Eucaliptos

Conclude the day with a comforting meal in a relaxed atmosphere.
Ease back to your accommodation.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 13: Cultural Day in La Palma

La Palma, El Salvador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cerro Verde Hotel

Savor a filling breakfast surrounded by serene nature.
Prepare to drive to La Palma.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to La Palma

Set off on a 1.5-hour journey toward La Palma, known for its vibrant arts scene.
Northbound drive through lush landscapes.
FREE, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Museum of Art of La Palma

Engage with local art focusing on the incredible talent within the area.
Right in the town center.
USD3, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café La Palma

A charming café, perfect for coffee lovers and a tasty meal.
Within walking distance from the museum.
USD35, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Artisans' Workshops

Tour local studios where artisans create beautiful crafts from the surrounding scenery.
Walking around La Palma town.
FREE, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at El Taller

End your visit with a delightful local dining experience at this artisan-themed restaurant.
Easily accessible as you return to your vehicle.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Departure from San Salvador

San Salvador, El Salvador

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Relish your final breakfast before the journey ends.
Final packing for departure.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to San Salvador International Airport

Take the leisurely drive back towards the airport, reflecting upon your trip.
A short 45-minute ride.
FREE, 45 minutes

10:00AM

Return Rental Car

Wrap up your adventure by returning the rental car at the airport.
Follow signs once at the airport.
FREE, 30 minutes

11:00AM

Airport Check-In

Arrive on time for your international flight exit from El Salvador.
Head to terminal after car return.
FREE, 1 hour
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