Things To Do
in San Juan Nonualco

San Juan Nonualco is a charming town located in the La Paz department of El Salvador, known for its rich cultural heritage and friendly locals. The town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and offers a glimpse into traditional Salvadoran life. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant local markets and historical sites, making it a perfect destination for culture enthusiasts.

With its blend of natural beauty and cultural authenticity, San Juan Nonualco provides a unique experience away from the bustling tourist areas.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for handmade goods.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the local historical sites, including the beautiful church of San Juan Bautista.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Salvadoran dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes like pupusas and tamales.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Hike to the nearby hills for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the Pacific Ocean.

afternoon
:

Visit the local artisan workshops to see how traditional crafts are made, and perhaps participate in a workshop yourself.

evening
:

Relax at a local café and enjoy live music while tasting desserts like elotes locos.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
Coffee$1.50
🚌Bus Fare$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20
🛍️Local Handicrafts$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic cultural experience away from tourist crowds.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation may be infrequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • "¡Hola!" - Hello!
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Por favor" - Please

Places to Visit in San Juan Nonualco

Visit one of these nice places.

Church of San Juan Bautista

The main church in town, featuring beautiful architecture and a serene atmosphere, perfect for capturing local spirituality.

Local Market

Vibrant and colorful, the market offers a variety of scenes, from fresh produce to artisan crafts.

Hills Overlooking the Town

A hiking spot that provides panoramic views of San Juan Nonualco and the surrounding landscapes, ideal for sunset photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in San Juan Nonualco

San Juan Nonualco offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of traditional dishes that reflect the local culture.

San Juan Nonualco Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pupusas

Thick corn tortillas filled with cheese, beans, or meat, often served with a side of curtido (cabbage slaw).

Must-Try!

Tamales

Steamed corn dough filled with various ingredients, wrapped in banana leaves.

Yuca frita

Fried cassava served with garlic sauce, a popular street food.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, traditional snacks, and handmade crafts.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls around the town offering delicious street food such as tacos, empanadas, and fresh juices.

Climate Guide

Weather

San Juan Nonualco has a tropical savanna climate with a distinct wet and dry season. The dry season from November to April sees warm temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F), while the rainy season from May to October can bring cooler temperatures and higher humidity, with average rainfall of about 1500mm. Nights are generally cooler, especially during the wet season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake or a friendly greeting is customary when meeting someone for the first time.

Respect for Tradition

Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially during religious events.

Dress Modestly

When visiting churches or local homes, dress conservatively to show respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

San Juan Nonualco is considered relatively safe for tourists; however, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuable items, and travel in groups when possible. It's advisable to stay informed about local safety conditions and follow guidance from locals or tour guides.

Tipping in San Juan Nonualco

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is common to tip around 10% at restaurants and cafes, while rounding up is appreciated for street vendors.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred, but some establishments may accept credit cards; it's advisable to carry local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November - April)

Expect warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring.

Rainy Season (May - October)

Frequent rain showers can occur, so bring waterproof gear and be prepared for muddy trails.

Festivals (August)

Experience local culture during the annual town festival, featuring music, dance, and traditional food.

Harvest Season (September)

A great time to taste fresh local produce and experience agricultural fairs.

Nightlife Guide

San Juan Nonualco at Night

The nightlife in San Juan Nonualco is relatively laid back, with a few local bars and cafes that offer live music and traditional dance performances. The atmosphere is friendly, and locals often gather to enjoy a few drinks and socialize. While it may not be as vibrant as larger cities, the charm lies in the intimate gatherings and community feel.

Hiking in San Juan Nonualco

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro Verde National Park

A beautiful area with multiple trails offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife.

Los Volcanes National Park

Home to several volcanoes, this park features diverse ecosystems and challenging hiking trails for adventure enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach San Juan Nonualco by plane.

El Salvador International Airport (SAL)

Located about 45 minutes from San Juan Nonualco, this is the main international gateway to El Salvador, offering numerous flights to and from various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

San Juan Nonualco is quite walkable, with most local attractions, markets, and restaurants located within a short distance of each other. The town's layout encourages exploration on foot, making it easy to experience the local culture and interact with residents. However, some areas may have uneven pavements, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Communities

The area has a rich indigenous heritage, with many residents identifying as descendants of the Pipil people.

Urban Migrants

People from rural areas migrate to towns like San Juan Nonualco seeking better economic opportunities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (Fútbol)

The most popular sport in El Salvador, with local teams often playing in nearby towns.

Surfing

El Salvador is known for its excellent surf beaches, attracting both locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in San Juan Nonualco is generally light, making it easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. Public transportation primarily consists of buses and shared taxis, which are affordable and connect to nearby towns. However, during peak hours, local roads can become congested, so planning travel times accordingly is advisable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting San Juan Nonualco.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian, such as pupusas filled with cheese or beans.

Gluten-Free Options

Corn-based dishes like pupusas are naturally gluten-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in San Juan Nonualco is basic, with small clinics available for minor health issues. For more serious medical needs, it's advisable to travel to larger cities like La Paz or San Salvador, where hospitals are better equipped. Travelers should consider carrying a basic first-aid kit and have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover El Salvador

Read more in our El Salvador 2025 Travel Guide.

El Salvador Travel Guide