San Martín

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with San Martín's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in San Martín
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Exploring the Surroundings
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Dive into the rich history of El Salvador with a visit to the local museum, where you can explore artifacts that showcase the region's heritage. Engage with knowledgeable staff who can share fascinating stories that bring the exhibits to life. Continue your morning with a walking tour of San Martín, guided by a local who can point out significant landmarks.

afternoon
:

For lunch, experience a cooking class to learn how to make classic Salvadoran dishes, immersing yourself in culinary traditions. In the afternoon, you could visit a local artisan workshop, where you can see craftsmen at work and potentially create your own handmade souvenir. This hands-on experience will deepen your connection with Salvadoran culture.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional dance performance in the evening, showcasing the vibrant music and dance forms of El Salvador. The lively atmosphere will invite you to join in and dance along, creating unforgettable memories. Gather with fellow attendees afterwards to discuss the show over a casual dinner.

day 4
Volcano Adventure
morning
:

Rise early to make your way to the San Salvador Volcano, known as Ilamatepeq, for an invigorating hike. The trails promise stunning vistas as you ascend, with the chance to spot unique wildlife along the way. Reach the summit to witness an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.

afternoon
:

After conquering the volcano, head back down and stop for lunch at a local restaurant known for its grilled meats and fresh salads. Dedicate your afternoon to exploring the nearby town of Santa Tecla, browsing its quaint shops and enjoying the local coffee culture. Don’t forget to try a summary snack like traditional street food.

evening
:

Return to San Martín for dinner at an outdoor terrace restaurant, where you can dine under the stars while savoring a variety of local dishes. Engage in conversation with fellow diners, sharing travel tips and experiences. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar that features local musicians.

day 5
Beach Day at Costa del Sol
morning
:

Depart early for a refreshing day at Costa del Sol, one of El Salvador's most famous beaches. Enjoy a breakfast of fresh fruit and pastries at a beachfront café before lounging on the sandy shores. Take a swim in the warm waters or try your hand at surfing with a local instructor.

afternoon
:

For lunch, indulge in fresh seafood, grilled to perfection, at one of the many beachside restaurants. Spend the afternoon engaging in water sports or simply relaxing with a book under a palm tree. Capture the beauty of the coast with some photography, especially as the waves crash against the shoreline.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, enjoy a leisurely dinner right by the water, watching as the sky is painted with stunning hues of orange and pink. Reflect on your beach adventures while sipping a cocktail made with local rum. After dinner, take a late evening walk along the beach as the stars begin to twinkle overhead.

day 6
Artistic Exploration
morning
:

Start your day at the bustling Mercado Central in San Salvador, where you can find everything from local produce to handmade goods. Enjoy a traditional Salvadoran breakfast amidst the vibrant sounds and sights of the market. Use this opportunity to interact with local vendors and sample some of their fresh fruits.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museum of Art of El Salvador (MARTE) to explore both modern and contemporary artworks from Salvadoran and Central American artists. Spend time admiring the diverse pieces and appreciating the cultural context behind them. Later, head to a nearby artsy district for lunch and to browse through local galleries.

evening
:

Join an art workshop in the evening, where you'll be given materials to create your own masterpiece inspired by the local culture. Share the experience with fellow participants over dinner at a creative café nearby. Wrap up your day with an inspiring discussion about art and its role in cultural expression.

day 7
Adventure in the Mountains
morning
:

Venture out to the mountainous region of El Boquerón, where you can hike through majestic landscapes and enjoy breathtaking views. Start your morning with a refreshing breakfast at a local café before setting off on one of the scenic trails. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse bird species that inhabit the area.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the lookout points, surrounded by the serene beauty of nature. Spend your afternoon exploring the ecological pathways and immersing yourself in the tranquility of the area. Make sure to take plenty of photos of the lush greenery and expansive views.

evening
:

Head back to San Martín for dinner, where you can indulge in a hearty meal at a family-owned restaurant. Discuss the day’s adventures and plan for tomorrow’s explorations with newfound friends. End your day with some downtime, unwinding with a book or a game before bed.

day 8
Local Markets and Shopping
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the artisanal market in San Salvador, where you can find unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Enjoy breakfast at a café nearby, sampling local specialties as you recharge for a day of shopping. Browse the colorful stalls filled with textiles, pottery, and artwork created by local artisans.

afternoon
:

For lunch, try a popular local dish at the market while engaging with the artisans about their crafts. Spend the afternoon hopping between various markets, ensuring you have plenty of time to negotiate for the best prices on lovely artifacts. Take a moment to enjoy a freshly made ceviche or elote as a mid-afternoon snack.

evening
:

Return to San Martín to unwind and relish your found treasures over a relaxed dinner. Share your market experiences with your travel companions, laughing over negotiated deals and unique finds. Conclude your day with a quiet evening walk through the town, absorbing the peaceful ambiance.

day 9
Relaxation and Reflection
morning
:

Spend your morning leisurely enjoying a breakfast of fresh fruit and pastries at a local café, taking in the peaceful rhythms of San Martín. Use this time to reflect on the experiences of the past days, jotting down your memories in a journal. Wander through local parks to enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds the town.

afternoon
:

Take a trip to the spa for some pampering, treating yourself to massages or traditional herbal treatments. Enjoy a light lunch at the spa café, where you can relax completely and enjoy the tranquil setting. This is the perfect time to unwind and rejuvenate after your adventurous journey.

evening
:

For your final evening, dine at a special restaurant known for its ambiance and exquisite cuisine. Engage in heartfelt conversations with your travel companions about the highlights of your trip. As the night falls, take a quiet moment to appreciate the beauty of San Martín, cherishing the memories created during your visit.

Discover San Martín

Read more in our San Martín 2025 Travel Guide.

San Martín Travel Guide