Welcome to Santa Ana, a hidden gem in El Salvador that beckons travelers with its rich history, captivating landscapes, and warm hospitality. In this travel blog, we’ll take you on a journey through the top five things to do in Santa Ana, where ancient ruins, natural wonders, and local flavors await to be discovered. It’s a fairly easy ‘Chicken Bus’ ride from the countries capital and gives you a quaint village feel at the base of beautiful volcanos.
1. Hiking Santa Ana Volcano: Conquer Nature’s Majesty
Start your adventure with a hike up the majestic Santa Ana Volcano, one of the most active in the region. The hike is only accessible with a group tour, but it is pretty affordable and easy to find. Simply take bus 248 from a small bus station on the edge of old town for a few dollars to the trail head. From there you will meet plenty of other travelers and can easily make a group and split the tour guide fees. Trek through lush forests and rugged terrain until you reach the crater’s edge. From the summit, gaze into the azure blue lake that fills the volcanic crater, offering a breathtaking reward for your efforts. There was even a small man selling ice cream out of a makeshift cooler at the top which was very refreshing.
2. Rooftop of the Cathedral: Spectacular City Views
Climb to the rooftop of the stunning Cathedral of Santa Ana for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. The 18th century building is built on the grounds of a 15th century temple. The cathedral’s colonial architecture adds to the allure of the experience with beautiful, detailed, white spires. The climb is accessible from the back corner of the church and costs $3 to go up the stairs. Witness the sun casting its golden hues on the terracotta rooftops, and take a look at the Santa Ana volcano that looms over the small town.
3. Exploring Tazumal Ruins: Step Back in Time
Venture to the nearby Tazumal archaeological site with a 40 minute ‘chicken bus’, where ancient Maya ruins await to reveal stories of a bygone era. Explore the impressive pyramids, temples, and artifacts, marveling at the ancient craftsmanship and the city’s fascinating history. Most of the remains of the temple have unfortunately been cemented over in a very poor restoration effort, but nevertheless, I was impressed with the size of these Mayan ruins. I did not expect this scale of ruins in El Salvador. You can easily climb around the mounds and watch as massive iguanas dart around the ruins amidst the jungle backdrop.
4. Eating Pupusas at Local Shops: A Flavorful Delight
Delight your taste buds with El Salvador’s national dish, pupusas, at local eateries. These stuffed corn tortillas come with a variety of fillings, such as cheese, beans, and meat. Savor the delicious flavors and experience the authentic culinary delights of Santa Ana. Most pupusas are well under a dollar each and just a few of them make an incredible meal. My favorite spot to dine alongside tourists and locals with a variety of flavors was Pupuseria La Ceiba.
5. Admiring Colonial Architecture in Parque Libertad: A Stroll through History
Take a leisurely walk through Parque Libertad, a charming park flanked by colonial-style buildings. Admire the grand architecture and immerse yourself in the city’s history and culture. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon under the shade of trees or indulge in people-watching amid the vibrant ambiance. Some significant buildings to check out are the National Theater, Casino Santaneco, the City Hall, and of course the Santa Ana Cathedral.
Santa Ana, with its captivating mix of nature and history, promises an unforgettable journey through El Salvador’s soul. Embrace the warmth of its people, savor its traditional flavors, hike its luminous volcanos, and explore its ancient wonders. Let Santa Ana be your gateway to an enchanting adventure in Central America. Happy travels!
See how I experienced Santa Ana, El Salvador with my travel vlog:
