Often skipped by travellers in a rush between Guatemala and Nicaragua, El Salvador is the wild, underestimated heart of Central America; and that’s what makes it so special. For the adventurous backpacker, it offers volcanic landscapes, black sand beaches, colonial towns, and a raw, unfiltered charm.

It’s the smallest country in Central America, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in variety. San Salvador, the capital, is a chaotic but fascinating intro to Salvadoran life. But the real magic lies in the countryside: hike to the rim of Santa Ana Volcano for views over the emerald crater lake, or explore Ruta de las Flores, a scenic highland route dotted with colourful towns, waterfalls, and weekend food festivals.

The Pacific coast is a dream for surfers and sunseekers. El Tunco, El Zonte, and Las Flores have become backpacker havens — affordable, friendly, and brimming with surf culture and digital nomads. You’ll find yoga, smoothies, pupusas, and parties, all wrapped up in a landscape that still feels wild and real.

El Salvador is also steeped in history; from its indigenous roots to the shadows of civil war; and its people are among the warmest in the region, proud to show a different side of their country to curious travellers.

There’s still a sense of discovery here; fewer tourists, fewer polished experiences, and more of the raw adventure that makes backpacking so addictive.