El Salvador wasn’t high on my travel list — not because it didn’t look beautiful, but because of the stories I’d heard about safety over the years. Still, when I found a $34 Frontier flight from Atlanta, I couldn’t resist. What started as a nervous late-night arrival turned into one of my most rewarding solo adventures. From black sand beaches to ancient ruins and a volcano hike that nearly broke me (in the best way), here’s how my three-day trip to El Salvador went down — unfiltered and unforgettable.
Late-Night Arrival in San Salvador
It was 10:40 PM when I landed at El Salvador International Airport. I’d managed to snag a $34 Frontier flight from ATL, grabbed my personal item, and headed toward baggage claim — still debating whether it was smart to get a rental car this late at night.
This was my first time visiting El Salvador, and honestly, the things I’d heard about safety weren’t exactly easing my mind. Still, I hesitantly walked to the rental counter and shared my concerns with the rep. She smiled and told me that since the new presidency, things had changed a lot when it came to safety. That gave me a little reassurance.
I’d booked an affordable room near Playa Las Flores — Hotel y Restaurante Rincón Familiar — on Booking.com. It was about a 30-minute drive away. After weighing my options between Uber and renting, I went with the rental. A shuttle took me to pick it up from a nearby hotel parking lot, and soon enough, I was on my way.
The roads were surprisingly smooth — smoother than many U.S. cities I’ve driven in. It was pitch black, barely any cars in sight, and I was a mix of nervous and excited as I finally pulled up to the hotel. The host let me in through the gate, I checked in, and crashed in my small but cozy room with a queen bed and cold AC.
Settling In for the Night
There are always concerns about water safety in El Salvador, but the strong chlorine smell from the tap told me the hotel heavily treated their water. I’d read up on this beforehand (which I highly recommend to all travelers), so I filled my bottle at ATL before leaving and drank that overnight.
It was humid — classic Latin America — and I had to kill a mosquito or two before finally relaxing. The Wi-Fi worked great, so I messaged my mom to let her know I’d made it safely and called it a night.
Morning at Playa Las Flores
The next morning, I rushed down to Playa Las Flores, just a two-minute walk from my hotel. I was surprised no one else was out, but it was 7 a.m. and this wasn’t the most touristy area.
The black sand beach instantly blew my mind. I’ve always been used to white or golden sand, so seeing jet-black sand — with calm waves and no one else around — felt surreal. I took a few photos, then just walked the shoreline, dug my feet in, and breathed it all in.
Breakfast at the hotel was underwhelming (just ham and cheese), so I grabbed a couple of water bottles, showered, brushed my teeth with bottled water, and video-called my mom to check in.
Thermal Waterfalls Gone Wrong
My first stop of the day was Salto de Malacatiupán, a thermal waterfall about two hours away. I’d downloaded offline maps and had an Airalo SIM card for backup data.
After driving through a small town and some questionable backroads, a local man stopped me to say the road ahead was closed — private property. I took that as my cue to turn around. Sometimes you just have to listen to your instincts.
Tired and a little disappointed, I made a Walmart run for a rotisserie chicken, canned veggies, and bottled water for brushing my teeth. (Yes — there’s Walmart in El Salvador, and you’ll see it again in this story.)
Sunset at El Zonte Beach
Next, I headed to El Zonte Beach, known for surfing and rocky shores. Parking was $5, plus a small entry fee. By the time I arrived, the sun had set and the beach was alive with lights, restaurants, and music.
I took a walk along the boardwalk, enjoyed the view, and sat quietly near the surfboard photo spot just listening to the waves. Afterward, I drove 25 minutes back to my hotel, where the host smiled and welcomed me back — night two at Rincón Familiar.
Exploring Joya de Cerén and Santa Ana
The next morning, I grabbed some canned salmon and veggies for breakfast (glamorous, I know) and drove to Joya de Cerén, an archaeological site showcasing ancient homes and structures preserved underground. Entry was $10 USD plus $1 for parking.
It was incredible seeing how well-preserved everything was — like a time capsule of history.
Afterward, I drove to Santa Ana, a colorful, vibrant city. I walked around, visited Catedral de Nuestra Señora Santa Ana, admired the local theater, and explored the Sunday markets filled with food vendors and street performers.
That evening, I went back to my familiar hotel for night three.
Conquering the Santa Ana Volcano
On my final day, I set out to hike Santa Ana Volcano. I woke up at 6 a.m., grabbed almonds and water, and hit the road.
The hike was no joke — steep, rocky, and full of elevation changes. I wore clearance Walmart sneakers (mistake #1). Thankfully, a kind hiker lent me his walking stick.
After nearly two hours and countless breaks, I finally reached the top — breathless, sweaty, and amazed. The turquoise crater lake was absolutely worth it.
The hike down was faster but tricky. I slid once or twice, but my guide stayed with me and even introduced me to two other hikers — both from North Carolina like me! Small world.
Rainy Beach Day and San Salvador at Night
Feeling proud of myself, I made yet another Walmart run for that amazing roasted ham (seriously, I’m not kidding — it’s that good). Then I drove toward Playa Costa del Sol for one last beach visit.
It rained on and off, but I made it to a beachfront restaurant with pool access. I changed clothes, walked the beach, and took in the “calm after the storm” vibes.
Later, I drove toward San Salvador before nightfall. My first stop was Parque Colonia Centroamérica, then Plaza Libertad, and the stunning Catedral Metropolitana de San Salvador.
The city glowed beautifully at night, and I even got a photo with the colorful “El Salvador” sign near the Biblioteca Nacional. That library is huge — seven floors of modern architecture.
Heading Home
By now, it was time to head to the airport. I left with an hour and fifteen minutes to spare — thank God, because Safari Maps tried to send me through what looked like the set of Jeepers Creepers. I prayed the whole drive until I found the main road again.
After returning the rental, I went through double security (one at the checkpoint, one at the gate), tossed my water again, and boarded my 11:45 PM Frontier flight.
Three and a half hours later, I landed in ATL at 5:45 AM — exhausted but proud.
Final Thoughts
El Salvador completely surprised me. From the black sand beaches and ancient ruins to volcano hikes and kind locals — it’s a country full of heart and beauty.
I went in nervous but left inspired, safe, and grateful. And yes… I’ll definitely be back (if only for that Walmart ham).
Leave a Reply