when to go to el salvador

El Salvador has two distinct seasons. The first is the dry season, and the second is the rainy season. The coldest month is December, and the hottest month is May, although generally there is little temperature variation between these seasons. Therefore the question of which season is best for travel is not a simple one. However November and December are excellent times to visit when the rainy season has just ended, the landscape is still green, and the air is clean and fresh.

Dry Season

November to April

Wildlife-watching is best in the dry season (except turtle-watching), especially since some parks, including Montecristo, are closed during the rainy season. Additionally, this is a great time for beginners to learn to surf as the waves aren’t so big. Finally, the country's predominately dirt secondary roads are easier to navigate when it is dry.

Wet Season

May to October

The wet season is the best time to surf, and to go turtle-watching as nesting takes place from May to November. El Salvador's environment is at its most lush and alive in this season too, and rainy season doesn't necessarily mean all-day downpours. In the lower elevations you can experience little more than daily afternoon showers.

Having said that some roads are impassable without a four-wheel-drive , and certain areas might be completely inaccessible so you will need flexibility in your itinerary. Additionally, the country's highest elevations receive daily rain and are often covered in a misty fog.

Other considerations

El Salvador's peak seasons are Semana Santa, the week preceding Easter Sunday; the month of August; and mid-December through to Christmas. Prices during these times can be higher and you will need to book well in advance. There will also be more crowds at these times.

Contact Destination Seekers to plan your El Salvador adventure