Introducing Eastern El Salvador
El Salvador's eastern interior is the least explored of all of its regions. Though San Miguel is the country's second-largest city (and an important commercial and transportation hub), the area has no hook - no national parks, no surfing spots, no phenomenal museums. But what eastern El Salvador does have is pockets of possibilities - a vibrant nightlife in San Miguel, appealing mountain towns, challenging volcano ascents, and artisan communities whose wares are sold throughout the country. The east is a historically vital economic and agricultural zone, with cotton, sugarcane, cattle and, of course, coffee.
Most people visit the eastern interior on their way to or from areas with more obvious tourist appeal, like Morazán and the Pacific coast. And there's nothing wrong with that. So as you're flying by on that painted Blue Bird bus, consider stopping to smell the flowers in Alegría or watch artists at work in Ilobasco. Heck, even sitting in the plaza in Sesuntepeque is a nice way to spend an afternoon after a week of beach-hopping.
Activities in Eastern El Salvador
San Miguel
San Miguel, one of El Salvador's largest cities, is the main hub for the eastern half of the country.
Perquín
Perquín, at 1117m, was the FMLN headquarters during the war – its leftover bunkers and bomb craters are evidence of the former guerrilla presence.
Eastern El Salvador destination guides
Morazán
Morazán Department, occupying the northeast corner of the country, has always been poor, at least monetarily speaking.
Hotels in Eastern El Salvador
Guesthouses and B&Bs in Eastern El Salvador
Apartments in Eastern El Salvador
Carretera del Litoral
Need to know
Entertainment in Eastern El Salvador
La Unión
La Unión is a hot and seedy town that is engulfed by blocks of drab, chaotic market stalls, which exude an air of menace at night.
Shopping in Eastern El Salvador