Exploring San Salvador, El Salvador: Walking Tours, Pupusas and The Historic Center
Sitting by the El Salvador sign in San Salvador
Exploring San Salvador, El Salvador: My First Time Visiting - Walking Tours, Pupusas and The Historic Center
My episodes in February and March on the Winging It Travel Podcast will focus on El Salvador, where I travelled in November 2024. There will be immersive episodes, interviews, itineraries, and a reflection conversation with Leah from Ticket 2 Anywhere, who also travelled there in December 2024.
It proves to be a great few months showcasing this great country!
The first episode is an audio-immersive journey through the capital city, San Salvador.
San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador, is a city often overlooked by travellers.
But after spending a few days exploring its vibrant streets, historic landmarks, and bustling markets, I can confidently say that San Salvador is a hidden gem worth discovering.
From my first impressions, as I landed in the city to the incredible walking tours with local guides, this trip was packed with unforgettable moments.
Whether you're planning a visit or just curious about El Salvador, this blog will take you through my immersive travel experience—and you can listen to the full journey on the latest episode of the Winginit Travel Podcast below!
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Jardin Centroamerica in San Salvador
Day 1: Arrival in San Salvador & First Impressions
My journey began in Vancouver, with a connecting flight through San Francisco before finally landing in San Salvador.
After a long travel day, I was greeted by the city’s humid, 30-degree heat, marking my official welcome to El Salvador.
I met my driver and took the 45-minute ride from the airport into the city, an easy and smooth journey costing between $25-$30.
I checked into my hostel, The Volcano Guest House, and immediately indulged in pupusas—El Salvador’s famous dish made of corn tortillas stuffed with beans and cheese.
After a much-needed meal and shower, I went straight to bed, excited for the adventure ahead.
National Palace in the Historic Centre of San Salvador
Day 2: Exploring San Salvador’s Historic Center
Waking up in San Salvador was exciting—I was ready to wander the streets, explore the city, and experience the local vibe. After grabbing breakfast at my hostel, I set off on a 30-minute walk toward the city centre.
Since it was Sunday, the streets were fairly quiet, but I immediately felt the Latin American energy I had missed from my previous travels.
First Stops: Historic Center & National Palace
As I reached the heart of the city, San Salvador’s charm unfolded before me.
The National Palace stood out as an impressive colonial-era structure, and for just $5, I could explore its beautiful architecture.
The streets buzzed with vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to fresh fruit, and music filled the air with reggaeton beats and traditional Latin melodies.
Food & Coffee: Café Luz Negra
I took a break at Café Luz Negra, where I enjoyed a delicious chilaquiles breakfast set—eggs, nachos, avocado, cheese, and coffee for just $7. It was the perfect way to recharge before my first walking tour of the trip!
Walking Tour with Dave: History & Transformation of San Salvador
In the afternoon, I met up with Dave Mendez, a local guide, for an in-depth walking tour of San Salvador; he met me at the hostel with his assistant.
Before we set off, we recorded a one-hour interview for the podcast in the hostel. It will be available on the Winging It Travel Podcast on February 17th, 2025.
He has lived through the country’s tumultuous past, including the civil war and gang violence, and offered insightful commentary on how the city has transformed into a safe and thriving hub.
We explored several landmarks, including:
✔️ Parque Libertad & The National Theatre – A lively public square surrounded by colonial buildings.
✔️ Metropolitan Cathedral – One of the city’s most stunning churches.
✔️ The National Library – A brand-new, 24-hour facility built in partnership with China, offering great city views from the upper floors.
✔️ Local Markets – We ended the tour playing Caparuccio, a traditional Salvadoran game, in the bustling market streets.
By nightfall, the city transformed into a vibrant, festival-like atmosphere, with families out in the squares, street musicians performing, and a palpable sense of positivity.
It was far from the dangerous image many people have of San Salvador.
For more information about Dave’s tour, please click this Guruwalk link to learn more!
Walking tour group with Dave Mendez
Day 3: A New Perspective with Carlos
For my second day of exploration, I joined another walking tour—this time with Carlos Guardado, a younger local guide who provided a different perspective on San Salvador.
He met me at Captain Gerardo Barrios Plaza, and we set off to uncover more hidden gems of the city.
Highlights from Carlos’ Tour:
✔️ Iglesia El Rosario – This unconventional church is a must-see, with its modern architecture, rainbow-stained glass windows, and bullet hole scars from the Civil War. Entry was just $2, and it left a lasting impression.
✔️ Cha Cha Cha Cuban Restaurant – A great spot to relax with a view overlooking Plaza Libertad.
✔️ Metropolitan Cathedral – Though I had seen it the day before, I explored its stunning interior this time.
✔️ Gang History & City Transformation – Carlos walked me through once-dangerous gang territories that are now entirely safe and bustling with vendors.
✔️ Dinner with Carlos – We ended the night with a hearty meal of beans, eggs, and chilli con carne—a true Salvadoran experience.
By the end of the tour, it was clear that San Salvador had undergone a major transformation and had emerged as a safe, exciting, and culturally rich city.
Thank you to Carlos for showing us around. Please click this Guruwalk link to find out more about his tour.
Carlos and Gustavo on my walking tour.
Final Thoughts: Why San Salvador Should Be on Your List
Many travellers skip capital cities, but San Salvador is one you shouldn't miss.
It’s a place of rich history, delicious food, welcoming locals, and an electric atmosphere.
The city’s transformation from a troubled past to a safe, thriving destination is genuinely inspiring.
Beyond its historic landmarks and bustling markets, San Salvador offers a vibrant nightlife, modern infrastructure, and a unique fusion of tradition and progress.
As I reflect on my time here, I can’t help but appreciate the resilience and warmth of the Salvadoran people.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure traveller, San Salvador has something for everyone. And with its affordability and accessibility, it’s an easy addition to any Central American itinerary.
So what’s next? I’m heading to Suchitoto, an old colonial town with breathtaking views and a fascinating Civil War history. To follow along, tune into the next episode of the Wingin It Travel Podcast!
🎧 Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Voyascape.com and let me take you on an immersive journey through San Salvador.
And if you're inspired, book that trip—you won’t regret it!
Iglesia El Rosario in San Salvador
Check out my Roaming with Hammo YouTube episode on San Salvador, El Salvador, if you prefer to watch.
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Winging It Travel Podcast is a travel and adventure podcast hosted by James Hammond. It is designed for those who love exploring the world without rigid itineraries.
Whether you're a backpacker, digital nomad, or weekend traveller, this podcast offers immersive storytelling, insightful travel tips, and engaging interviews with fellow travellers and locals.
Each episode takes you on a real, unfiltered journey through destinations worldwide, offering first-hand experiences, cultural insights, and practical travel advice. From epic road trips and scenic hikes to city explorations and off-the-beaten-path adventures, James captures the essence of travel through sound.
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