Central America
Backpacking El Salvador
El Salvador is Central America's smallest country and is known to backpackers for Pacific surf breaks around El Tunco and the coffee towns of the Ruta de las Flores.
Photo: Diego Lopez / Pexels
Hostel destinations in El Salvador
Hostels and backpacking in El Salvador
El Salvador is compact, so its coast, volcanoes and colonial towns are within a few hours of each other. El Tunco and the surrounding beaches west of La Libertad are known for consistent Pacific surf and sunsets over rock formations. Inland, the Ruta de las Flores links small towns with coffee farms, waterfalls and weekend food markets.
Hostels on the surf coast are generally relaxed and surf-focused, with board rental, lessons and hammock-filled common areas. El Tunco also has an evening bar scene at weekends. Many travellers stay several nights to surf or learn, then head inland or on to Guatemala or the rest of Central America.