El Salvador Vacations

El Salvador's culture is a mix of Native American and Latin American influences. Most people in the country are Mestizo, meaning they have Native American and European ancestry. The Catholic Church plays a very significant role in their lives. But while most people in El Salvador are Roman Catholic, there is a growing group of Protestants, too.

The official language is Spanish, but before the Spanish arrived, the people spoke different indigenous languages. They spoke Nahuatl in the central part of the country and Poton in the east.

The town of Suchitoto is known for its rich history in arts and culture, going all the way back to the time of the Mayans and the Spanish conquest. It's even been named the "Cultural Capital of El Salvador" by the United Nations. Suchitoto hosts art festivals that attract artists from all over the world.

El Salvador has some fascinating traditions. For example, Salvadorans light up the sky with fireworks during Christmas. They also have a tradition of praying for nine nights to remember those who have passed away. And many Salvadorans still use traditional medicine for common illnesses. 

El Salvador vacations are best when it's dry and the weather is warm, from December to March. December is dry, but it's also the busiest time for tourists. It can be a bit chilly at night in the mountains.

January and February are also suitable for visiting El Salvador. You can expect bright and sunny days, lower humidity, and slightly cooler temperatures during these months. There might be sudden rain, so bring rain gear just in case. While these months are still popular for tourists, they are less crowded than during Christmas and Easter.

March and April are busy because of Easter holy week or Semana Santa. You'll find both international tourists and local Salvadorians enjoying their holidays. The rainy season starts in late April and lasts until early November. Some national parks, like Montecristo, may close during this time.

If you want to see sea turtles, they nest from May to September, and the baby turtles hatch about eight weeks later. One of the best places to see this fantastic sight is in Jiquilisco Bay — an ideal place to relax, fish, bird watch, or swim in calm waters.

June, July, and August are wet, with the most rain in September.

August is a popular time to visit El Salvador despite the rain. That's because some of the biggest festivals are celebrated now. San Salvador has the Fiestas Agostinas with parades, music, and food stalls. In Nejapa, you can witness the Bolas de Fuego or the Annual Fireball Festival. Opposing teams throw balls of fire at each other to commemorate a volcanic eruption in the 1600s.

The monsoon comes to an end toward the end of November. It's much quieter now, with fewer tourists and lower prices.

The beautiful country of El Salvador is steeped in rich culture and history. This enchanting Central American nation is renowned for its warm hospitality and breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. While Spanish is the official language, locals often speak a unique Salvadoran Spanish dialect. El Salvador's currency is also the United States Dollar (USD), making it convenient for globetrotters. 

El Salvador's cuisine is a mouth-watering and delicious fusion of Amerindian and Spanish influences. Corn is a crucial ingredient in many dishes. You'll find a variety of meats like pork, beef, and chicken, as well as seafood like clams and shrimp. Some popular dishes include pupusa (a stuffed tortilla with cheese, pork, or other fillings), refried beans, and yuca frita (deep-fried cassava root with pickles).

While coffee is a popular choice, El Salvador has more unique options. For the adventurous, consider indulging in trendy cokas, which are very popular with teenagers. If you seek something truly unique, explore delights like Kolachampan, a sugarcane-infused soda, or the tantalizing ensalada – a blend of pineapple juice and an array of fresh, chopped fruits. For a taste of the exotic, savour the tamarindo juice. But that's not all—discover the heart and soul of El Salvador with Tic Tack, the country's iconic cane spirit crafted from the sweet sugar cane. Or, if you prefer something less heady, stick to beer – a favourite among the locals.