Things To Do
in El Salvador
El Salvador is a coastal city in Misamis Oriental on Mindanao’s northeastern coast. It sits along the calm waters of Iligan Bay and serves as a relaxed gateway to both beaches and inland adventures. The city blends traditional Filipino hospitality with a maritime vibe, visible in its fishing boats, markets, and seafront eateries.
Visitors come for seafood, scenic viewpoints, and friendly local culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at El Salvador International Airport and transfer to your hotel. After checking in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring local favorites at a nearby café. Take some time to settle in and refresh yourself before the day's adventures.
Embark on a guided walking tour of the nearby historical sites, learning about the rich cultural heritage of the area. Visit landmarks such as the San Salvador Cathedral and the National Palace, immersing yourself in the vibrant history. Stop for lunch at a local eatery, sampling traditional pupusas.
Finish your day with a sunset view from the hills of San Salvador. Dine at a charming restaurant overlooking the city while enjoying the local cuisine. Experience the lively local nightlife, perhaps visiting a bar with traditional music.
After breakfast, head out for a trip to the stunning Cerro Verde National Park, home to breathtaking views of the Izalco Volcano. Join a guided hike to explore the rich biodiversity and unique flora of the area. Capture stunning photos and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Visit a local coffee plantation where you can learn about the coffee-making process, from bean to cup. Participate in a tasting session to appreciate the unique flavors of Salvadoran coffee. Enjoy a leisurely lunch on the plantation while soaking up the surrounding nature.
As the day winds down, return to your hotel and refresh yourself. Take a casual stroll through the city center, enjoying the lively atmosphere and visiting various shops. Conclude with dinner at a local restaurant, savoring fresh seafood dishes popular in the region.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel (per night) | $15-40 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (5-6 km) | $3-5 |
| 🥤Coffee or soft drink | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Dinner at mid-range restaurant | $6-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed coastal vibe with friendly locals
- Excellent seafood and affordable prices
- Compact city center is walkable with scenic waterfronts
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Transportation between towns can be slower
- Healthcare facilities are adequate but unevenly distributed
- "Maayong adlaw" - Good day
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Unsay imong ngalan?" - What is your name?
- "Palihug" - Please
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Asa ang CR?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in El Salvador
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour sunsets over calm waters with fishing boats and palm silhouettes; a classic coastal shot.
Sunlit façade and interior arches; good for daylight interior shots and exterior architecture photos.
Early morning scenes of working boats and fishermen preparing for the day; moody light and activity.
Panoramic overlooks of the bay and surrounding hills; best at late afternoon for warm tones.
Food in El Salvador
El Salvador Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fresh raw fish dish marinated in vinegar, citrus, onions, and peppers; best eaten at seaside eateries.
Must-Try!
Char-grilled seafood or meat served with local sauces and rice; a hallmark of coastal cooking.
A light chicken soup with ginger and leafy greens, a comforting staple in homes and casual eateries.
Marinated, fried milkfish that’s commonly enjoyed with rice and eggs at breakfast or any meal.
Tilapia cooked in coconut milk with chili and vegetables, a creamy coastal dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively hub where you can sample grilled seafood, fried snacks, fresh fruit, and regional snacks from stalls and small eateries.
Casual stalls along the bay offering fried fish skewers, bananas fritters, and coconut water fresh from the shop.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm smile and a polite greeting go a long way; use 'po' and 'opo' when addressing elders; modest dress in religious sites.
Ask before taking photos of people, especially in markets or villages; avoid public displays of anger and keep conversations respectful.
Safety
Tipping in El Salvador
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not always expected; 10-15% at sit-down restaurants if service charge isn’t included; small tips for hotel staff and taxi drivers are common.
Cash (Philippine Peso) is widely accepted; major cards are increasingly accepted at larger establishments; mobile wallets like GCash and PayMaya are popular for quick payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry, sunny days with warm temperatures and higher humidity; ideal for beach time and outdoor activities, but carry water and sun protection.
Frequent short showers and occasional heavy rains; cooler evenings but mud and slick trails may affect hikes; plan flexible outdoor itineraries.
El Salvador at Night
Hiking in El Salvador
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hikes with bay views and coastal scenery, suitable for a half-day excursion.
Leafy trails leading to waterfalls and shaded spots ideal for picnics and nature photography.
Airports
How to reach El Salvador by plane.
Main gateway for Northern Mindanao; serves domestic and some regional flights; drive time to El Salvador is several hours depending on road conditions.
Another option in nearby Caraga region; useful for faster access from southern routes; check domestic flight options and onward transport.
Northwestern Mindanao airport offering regional flights; useful if combining a coastal itinerary with nearby provinces.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong coastal culture with heritage tied to Iligan Bay and local waters.
A mix of locals and visitors, with a growing number of small businesses and cafes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in communities, schools, and informal courts; local leagues are common.
Popular in coastal areas and bayside communities; often part of everyday life.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting El Salvador.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Seafood and vegetable-forward options are common; ask for vegetable dishes, tofu, or egg-based meals; many places can prepare dishes without fish sauce or meat stock.