Layover tour San Salvador city and a charming colonial town, Panchimalco
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Layover tour San Salvador city and a charming colonial town, Panchimalco

Active
(10 reviews)
5h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Undoubtedly San Salvador is a city full of surprises and this tour is the ideal opportunity to discover the country of short distances. We will start this tour enjoying a tour of the city of San Salvador, discover the history through the most representative monuments of the capital, we will finish walking in the heart of the historic center of San Salvador, where we can appreciate the day to day of the Salvadorans. Know the main monuments such as the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace. We will continue with a visit to the enchanting and small colonial city of Panchimalco. Colorful city of painters and sculptors, which preserves the oldest church in the country
• Duration of 5 to 7 hours according to your flight itinerary
• Visit to the top of the Devil's Door
• Explore the city of San Salvador
• Visit to the Historic Center of San Salvador
• Incredible landscapes of the salvadorean territory

Available options

Layover tour San Salvador city and a charming colonial town, Panchimalco

Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide
National Park fees
Airport pickup and drop-off
Driver/guide

Detailed itinerary

1

At your departure from the plane, our team of collaborators will be waiting for you, inside the airport, to assist you in an express migratory process, where they will accompany you at each step, and carry out the exoneration of exit taxes from the airport.

Once outside the airport, our guide will be waiting for you to accompany you on this fabulous adventure. And your first destination will be the busy city of San Salvador, considered one of the most overpopulated of Latin America. Undoubtedly, if you are in El Salvador you would love to know the city.

2

 We will visit the most important monuments of the city, crossing the streets and avenues of the most modern metropolitan area. All the way to the Historic Center of San Salvador.  In this tour you will be able to see up close as it is the day to day for the Salvadorans, you will have the opportunity to walk through the open markets, and walk in the heart of the historic center of San Salvador.

We will visit the Metropolitan Cathedral of San Salvador and the Crypt of Monseñor Romero. We will have beautiful views of the National Palace, we will walk in the square Gerardo neighborhoods. We will visit La Plaza Libertad and discover El Rosario Church, which looks like an abandoned building on the outside, but when entering the architectural beauty is unique at the continent level.

3

We will continue with our trip heading to the beautiful city of Panchimalco located 17 kilometers from San Salvador, on the way to Panchimalco, we will make a stop at the imposing mountain known as La Puerta del Diablo, where you will have a spectacular view of almost 365 ° with views towards the Pacific ocean, volcano of San Salvador and the lake of Ilopnago.

Once we reach this colorful city we will visit the famous church of Santa Cruz de Roma, dating from the time of the colony in the year of 1735. In a country like El Salvador it is a privilege to have a building of such a long life and that It is still in use. This city is full of art. You can enjoy the sculptural park, and the workshop of the painter Miguel Angel Ramirez. Recognized Salvadoran artist who has been responsible for introducing the youth of this town to art.

4

El Salvador International Airport.
We will leave you again at the international airport two hours before your next flight, with the security of having fallen in love with El Salvador and wanting to return for longer time.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified
Lunch
Gratuities
Airport/Departure Tax
Bottled water

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5
8 reviews
5★
5
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.5
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
Complete itinerary of arrival and departure is necessary to process departure tax exemption

Important notes

• Each traveler is allowed a maximum of 1 suitcase and 1 carry-on bag. Oversized or excessive luggage (e.g. surfboards, golf clubs or bikes) may have certain restrictions, please inquire with the operator prior to travel to confirm if your excess luggage is acceptable

About San Salvador

San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, colonial architecture, and bustling urban life. It offers a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm, with numerous cultural attractions and nearby natural wonders.

Top Attractions

El Rosario Church

A stunning example of modern religious architecture, known for its unique design and beautiful stained glass windows.

Religious/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

National Palace

A historic building that once housed the government of El Salvador, now a museum showcasing the country's history and political heritage.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Jardín Botánico La Laguna

A beautiful botanical garden featuring a variety of plant species, a lake, and walking paths, offering a peaceful escape from the city.

Nature 2-3 hours Moderate (around $2)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pupusas

Thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, or meat, and often served with curtido (a cabbage slaw) and tomato sauce.

Main Dish Vegetarian options available (cheese and bean fillings)

Paste

A small, round bread roll filled with various savory fillings like pork, chicken, or beans.

Snack Vegetarian options available (bean filling)

Yuca Frita

Fried yuca (cassava) served with curtido and a spicy sauce.

Side Dish Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in El Imposible National Park Exploring Mayan ruins at Joya de Cerén Visiting Jardín Botánico La Laguna Enjoying a coffee at a local café Guided tours of El Rosario Church and National Palace Attending local festivals and events Boat tours on Lake Suchitlán in Suchitoto N/A

Best Time to Visit

November to April

This is the dry season, offering pleasant weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

22°C to 30°C 72°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Spanish
  • Widely spoken: English (limited)
  • English: Limited

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

CST (UTC -6)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

San Salvador has improved in terms of safety in recent years, but it's still important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation. Violent crime, including armed robbery and assault, can also occur, particularly in certain neighborhoods and at night.

Important Precautions:
  • • Avoid walking alone at night
  • • Use common sense and stay alert in crowded places
  • • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Getting there

By air
  • Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport • 45 km from city center
By bus

Terminal de Oriente, Terminal de Occidente

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They can be crowded and sometimes confusing for first-time visitors.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, TaxisAhora

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Colonia Escalón Colonia San Benito Downtown (Centro Histórico)

Day trips

Joya de Cerén
35 km from San Salvador • Half day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a pre-Columbian Mayan village preserved under volcanic ash, similar to Pompeii.

El Imposible National Park
100 km from San Salvador • Full day

El Salvador's largest national park, offering diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and hiking trails.

Suchitoto
70 km from San Salvador • Full day or overnight

A charming colonial town with cobblestone streets, historic churches, and a beautiful lake view.

Festivals

Feria de Agosto • August Fiestas Patronales de San Salvador • February

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
  • Use app-based taxi services like Uber or TaxisAhora for safer and more transparent pricing.
  • Explore the city's street art and graffiti, which can be found in various neighborhoods and offers a unique perspective on the city's culture and history.
  • Visit local markets for authentic souvenirs and to experience the vibrant local culture.
  • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash to minimize the risk of theft.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 10
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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