Things To Do
in San Martín
San Martín is a small town in eastern El Salvador known for its warm community and rural charm. Surrounded by rolling farmland and gentle hills, it offers a glimpse into everyday Salvadoran life away from the capital. Visitors can enjoy simple, flavorful cuisine, friendly locals, and nearby nature that invites exploration.
This laid‑back destination serves as a gateway to authentic regional culture and relaxed outdoor experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the Comalapa International Airport and make your way to San Martín, a charming town that promises a blend of culture and nature. As you settle into your accommodation, enjoy a traditional Salvadoran breakfast to fuel your day ahead. Take a stroll around the town square to soak in the local atmosphere and architecture, greeting the friendly locals as you go.
Head to Parque de San Martín, where you can enjoy a leisurely afternoon amid beautiful gardens and vibrant plazas. Explore the local shops for handmade crafts and souvenirs, immersing yourself in the local art scene. Treat yourself to a delicious lunch at a nearby pupusería, savoring the iconic El Salvadoran dish.
As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant, indulging in more traditional cuisine while listening to live music. After dinner, take a peaceful evening walk along the streets, experiencing the warm hospitality of the town. Wind down your first day with a visit to a local café for a cup of rich Salvadoran coffee.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a day trip to the nearby Cerro Verde National Park. Here, you can hike through lush trails, witnessing breathtaking views of the Izalco Volcano and Lake Coatepeque. Take your time to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna that call this park home.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of the forest. You might spot some local wildlife, making it a perfect photo opportunity. Spend the afternoon taking in the scenery or visit the Interpretive Center to learn about the park’s ecosystem.
Return to San Martín in the evening and treat yourself with a nice dinner at a local eatery, perhaps trying some seafood dishes fresh from the nearby coast. Share stories with fellow travelers or locals, learning more about Salvadoran culture and traditions. End your day with a leisurely stroll back to your accommodation, reflecting on your adventurous day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-10 |
| 🥗Combo meal at mid-range restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🏨One-night hotel in town | $35-70 |
| 💊Healthcare visit | $25-40 |
| 🛍️Monthly groceries | $150-250 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere
- Affordable travel with authentic cultural experiences
- Limited tourist infrastructure compared to larger destinations
- Rural roads can be rough during the rainy season
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Puede recomendar un restaurante?" - Could you recommend a restaurant?
- "Perdón, no entiendo" - Sorry, I don’t understand
Places to Visit in San Martín
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful storefronts, the church, and locals gathered in the plaza provide vibrant street photography opportunities as light softens toward sunset.
Rows of stalls with fruits, vegetables, textiles, and everyday life—great for candids and color-rich compositions.
Open countryside with patchwork fields, distant hills, and winding roads ideal for panoramic shots.
Simple, classic architectural lines suitable for architectural photography in a small-town setting.
Food in San Martín
San Martín Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, or pork; widely available in pupuserías and markets.
Must-Try!
Fried cassava served with crisp pork bits and tangy sauces.
A hearty beef soup with vegetables, commonly found in local eateries.
Steamed corn dough filled with meat or vegetables, wrapped in corn husks.
A warm corn porridge often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market stalls selling fresh produce, tortillas, cheeses, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Casual, colorful stalls offering pupusas with a variety of fillings—great for a quick meal.
Small shops selling fresh corn tortillas and seasonal fruits and sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake or a warm greeting using 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' is typical; address people respectfully, especially elders.
Always ask before photographing people, particularly in intimate or family settings.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites or more conservative spaces.
Life often moves at a slower, more relaxed pace; be patient and courteous in interactions.
Safety
Tipping in San Martín
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5–10% is appreciated if service is not included; many locals round up the bill in casual places. In nicer establishments, 10–15% is common.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller eateries. Cards are more commonly accepted in larger restaurants and hotels. ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Usually sunny with little rain; comfortable daytime temperatures, but can be hot midday. Great for outdoor activities, walking tours, and photography without interruptions from rain.
Frequent afternoon showers and higher humidity; landscapes are lush and green, but plan for rain gear and muddy trails. Roads may become slick after rain.
San Martín at Night
Hiking in San Martín
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hiking routes through coffee and corn fields with rural vistas and small streams; suitable for beginners.
Elevated paths offering wide views of the surrounding countryside and distant towns.
Airports
How to reach San Martín by plane.
Main international gateway for the country with regular regional connections.
Smaller airport near San Salvador used primarily for domestic and private flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents work in farming and local trades; families are central to community life.
A significant portion of residents are young, with schools and community centers shaping daily routines.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local games and informal matches are common in communities.
Played in schools and community leagues in some towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Martín.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be adapted to be vegetarian by omitting meat. Opt for pupusas de queso y frijoles, yuca, beans, rice, and salads. Ask for cheese or beans instead of pork, and request oil or butter instead of lard when available.