Santa Ana

El Salvador, Central America

Santa Ana, El Salvador's second-largest city, boasts captivating architecture and stunning landscapes, including the iconic Santa Ana Volcano. The city is known for its vibrant culture, colorful markets, and rich history, showcased in the beautiful Teatro de Santa Ana. Outdoor enthusiasts will find adventure in the Cerro Verde National Park, while the nearby Lake Coatepeque offers a serene escape. Santa Ana's mix of charm, nature, and cultural depth makes it an irresistible destination for curious travelers.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

El Salvador

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Santa Ana

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Santa Ana Volcano

Hike to the summit for breathtaking views and crater.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Santa Ana Cathedral

Admire stunning neo-Gothic architecture and rich history.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through Parque Libertad

Relax in the central park with vibrant local life.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the ruins at Tazumal

Discover ancient Mayan pyramids and history.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste local food at Mercado Central

Savor authentic Salvadoran dishes in a lively market.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Teatro de Santa Ana

Enjoy a cultural performance in a historic theater.

Booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a tour of the Coffee Plantations

Learn about coffee production and enjoy tastings.

Booking required
8

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike Cerro Verde National Park

Explore diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Museum of Art

Discover local art and cultural exhibitions.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a local festival

Experience vibrant culture and community celebrations.

No booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Botanical Garden

Walk through diverse plant species and natural beauty.

No booking required
12

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the local artisan shops

Shop for unique handmade goods and souvenirs.

No booking required
13

Est. 6 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a day trip to Suchitoto

Visit this charming colonial town near Santa Ana.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Included in bill

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-5 (#93 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

US Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Pupusa

VE

Thick corn tortilla with fillings. (National dish)

Yuca Frita con Chicharrón

Fried cassava served with pork.

Sopa de Pata

Beef tripe soup with vegetables.

Tamales

VE

Corn dough filled with various ingredients.

Empanadas de Leche o Frijol

V

Sweet or bean-filled pastries.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)