What to see in El Salvador: 10 must-sees

Wander through the Historic Center of San Salvador and stop in front of the Metropolitan Cathedral, where the remains of Archbishop Romero rest. Step inside the National Museum of Anthropology to trace Salvadoran history from its pre-Hispanic roots. Haggle in the markets of the old quarter, sample pupusas at street stalls, and watch how colonial buildings coexist with modern structures. The capital lays bare the blend of tradition and urban life that defines the country.

Climb the highest active volcano in El Salvador, 2,381 meters tall, and walk along volcanic rock trails to the edge of the crater. There you'll see the turquoise lake, one kilometer in diameter, with fumaroles that remind you the mountain is still alive. From the summit you'll take in Lake Coatepeque, Izalco Volcano, and the coffee plantations of the western region. The guided hike from Cerro Verde takes about two hours and requires sturdy footwear, water, and an early start, before the clouds roll in and block the view of the crater.

Explore the best-preserved Maya complex in Central America, where the 23-meter pyramid, the plazas, and the altars tell 2,000 years of history. Visit the museum, take in the pyramid, and discover the history of the Maya in El Salvador. Wander through the archaeological site, where ruins, artifacts, and history tell of civilizations that flourished millennia ago. Walk among the stones, admire the remains, and uncover the past.

Stroll along the Ruta de las Flores in Sonsonate and get to know towns with colorful streets such as Juayúa, Apaneca, and Ataco. In Juayúa, try the weekend food festival and visit the church of the Black Christ; in Apaneca, walk through highland coffee plantations and see the green lagoon; in Ataco, admire the murals painted on the facades. Head to the waterfalls in the area, hike among coffee farms, and buy local crafts at the markets of each town.

Hike the trails of El Imposible National Park in Ahuachapán, where tropical rainforest crosses rivers and waterfalls among steep hills. Spot colorful birds in the cloud forest and ask the guides about the origin of the name: coffee growers called it that because of the dangerous pass they had to cross with their mules. Pumas, toucans, and hundreds of butterflies take refuge here, on hiking routes that combine viewpoints, cool freshwater pools, and dense vegetation.

See how the ash from a volcanic eruption in 600 AD preserved an entire Maya village intact at Joya de Cerén, the so-called "Pompeii of the Americas." Walk among reconstructed mud houses, gardens with crop furrows, and a temazcal where you can glimpse the everyday life of its inhabitants. The site, near Santa Ana and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, displays utensils, seeds, and household items frozen in time.

Rent a board when you arrive and try the waves at El Tunco, the best-known surf beach in La Libertad, where dark volcanic sand mixes with rocks that form the famous pig silhouette at sunset. Between sessions, eat seafood at the oceanfront restaurants, stroll along the shore at the end of the day, and stay to experience the nightlife that brings surfers and travelers from all over the world together in beachside bars.

Visit the modern church designed by Rubén Martínez, where the 18-meter stained-glass window creates a spectacle of light and color at midday. Take in the light effect, admire the architecture, and discover a gem of modern art. Visit the sacred temple where spirituality, architecture, and history create a space of peace and reflection. Admire the architectural details and feel a connection with the transcendent.