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El Salvador, known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture, is attracting more tourists each year. Its airports play a key role in ensuring convenient travel, whether for business or leisure. Major airports offer modern amenities, various airlines, and helpful services to enhance your journey. Additionally, there are must-see attractions near these airports, making it easy to explore the country’s charm right after you land. El Salvador truly offers a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.
Top Airports In El Salvador
You can reach El Salvador through its major airports, with the main international hub handling most of the country’s air traffic:
1. El Salvador International Airport / Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport
Photo: Kevin Paniagua / Wikimedia Commons
El Salvador International Airport, located 50 Km from San Salvador, is the country’s major and busiest airport. It has received over 2 million passengers every year since it opened in 1998. There are two terminals at the airport, one for international flights and the other for domestic flights. It allows direct flights to big global cities such as Miami, Mexico City, Madrid. It is one of the best Airports in El Salvador, also well equipped with all sorts of modern facilities, including foreign exchange banks, duty-free shops, and bona fide restaurants serving local delicacies.
Airlines: American Airlines, Avianca, Copa Airlines, Iberia, Spirit Airlines
2. Ilopango International Airport
Photo: Olivia Isabel Flores / Wikimedia Commons
Ilopango International Airport, just 12 km east of San Salvador, is a small but important private and regional air service base. Initially established as an airbase military facility during the 1940s, it was later converted for civilian use during the 1980s. Although relatively smaller than El Salvador International, Ilopango still counts as the primary airport for El Salvador when it comes to domestic flights and local air traffic. The airport is very important for travelling to eastern El Salvador and nearby tourist places such as the Gulf of Fonseca.
Airlines: Regional airlines / Charter flights
3. La Unión International Airport
Photo: Tanathip Rattanatum / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Situated in the eastern part of El Salvador, La Unión International Airport is a small airport that serves the growing need of international travellers aiming to visit the country’s coastal stretches and eco-tourism regions. It is also one of the vital airports in El Salvador. Operated in 2019, it was started to encourage tourism at the neighbourhood beaches of La Unión and the Gulf of Fonseca. The airport is also in the phase of development and has a modern terminal for passengers. Connecting with neighbouring countries, Honduras and Nicaragua, are flights from local airlines to La Unión.
Airlines: Regional Airlines:Honduras, Nicaragua
4. Comalapa Airport
Photo: Mariordo / Wikimedia Commons
Comalapa Airport, located near the Pacific coast of El Salvador, is a small regional airport primarily for domestic services. Located 40 km or so from San Salvador, it provides seamless access to coastal spots, which makes it a close base for surfers and lovers of sun, sand, and beaches. The small terminal offers limited services, waiting rooms, snack bars, and ground transportation to local hotels. Though roughly domestic, not a major International airport, this airport is crucial with Domestic links only, although it may be heading to La Libertad.
Airlines: Domestic Airlines: Avianca, TACA
Places To Visit In El Salvador
Whether you’re flying into El Salvador International Airport or another regional terminal, you’ll find plenty of exciting attractions nearby:
1. San Salvador Volcano
Photo: Daniel chavez castro / Wikimedia Commons
Only a short drive from the capital, San Salvador Volcano is a favourite among hikers. This dormant volcano has a challenging hike to repay visitors with far-scapes of the city of San Salvador and the surrounding lands. Throughout the hike, you will pass through afforested sections and observe sights and species of flora and fauna. The hike ends at the crater’s rim, and you can see the Crater Lake here. It is a must-visit for the lovers of nature and alike. Be prepared with good shoes on, as the ground is uneven, even more so in the rainy season.
Location: San Salvador
2. El Tunco Beach
Photo: Ale Cardenas.S / Wikimedia Commons
El Tunco is a lively beach town famous for its great waves for surfing. Situated some 37 kilometres from the capital, San Salvador, the beach is a magnet for surfers worldwide due to its reliable breakers. Besides surfing, El Tunco has a relaxed atmosphere with many beach bars, cafes, and restaurants where you can try the local food and drinks. The lively nightlife is a bonus to the town, appealing to young travellers and locals alike.
Location: 37 km from San Salvador
3. Ruta De Las Flores
Photo: feinteriano / Wikimedia Commons
Las Flores is a drive through the western highlands of El Salvador, a quintessential rural, stunning countryside of the country. This tour will pass through picturesque towns like Juayúa, Apaneca and Ataco, famous for their coffee farms, waterfalls and colonial architecture. On the other hand, tourists visiting this lovely destination will be provided with numerous things to do, from exploring the spectacular Salto de Malacatiupan waterfall to touring coffee-buying and selling plantations.
Location: Western El Salvador
4. Joya De Cerén Archaeological Site
Photo: Mariordo / Wikimedia Commons
Joya de Cerén is a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the “Pompeii of the Americas.” This ancient Maya pre-Columbian village stayed intact under volcanic ash after a volcanic eruption around 1400 years ago. The site provides a glimpse into what life was like for the Maya, with buildings such as houses, kitchens, and storerooms still standing. The archaeological site is supported by a museum, which houses artefacts found in the district.
Location: 25 km from San Salvador
5. Coatepeque Lake
Photo: JMRAFFi / Wikimedia Commons
Coatepeque Lake is one of El Salvador’s most beautiful volcanic crater lakes, which is located in the western part of El Salvador. Famous for its transparent water, it is a well-known place for kayaking, swimming, and relaxing in nature. Verdant hills encircle the lake, and there are numerous lakeside restaurants where one can taste fresh seafood. The area is also suitable for saddles, having trails, many of which make Mich, the panorama of the lake and the surroundings.
Location: Santa Ana, Western El Salvador
Where To Stay
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / pxHere / Image For Representation Only
El Salvador offers a range of accommodation options near its airports, catering to all travellers, whether seeking luxury or travelling on a budget. The Real InterContinental San Salvador, conveniently located near the international airport, provides excellent facilities and comfort for both business and leisure stays. For a relaxing beachfront escape, Hotel Bahía del Sol offers a laid-back seaside experience. Budget-conscious travellers might consider Hotel Villa del Ángel, offering affordable accommodation in a convenient location close to the capital.
Where To Eat
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / pxHere / Image For Representation Only
Whatever your taste in food, there is an option to satisfy your appetite, whether you prefer quick bites or fine dining. La Plata Argentina is a renowned steakhouse serving generous cuts of Argentine steak, perfect for meat lovers. For a traditional taste of El Salvador, Café de la Plaza offers delicious coffee and an authentic Salvadoran breakfast. Restless foodies will enjoy Bocadillos Compañía, where local favourites like pupusas and yuca are prepared with authentic flavour.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Patrickroque01 / Wikimedia Commons
The ideal time to visit El Salvador is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and exploring the country’s natural beauty. Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C, offering comfortable conditions for travel. The wet season, from May to October, brings occasional rain but also lush landscapes. Visitors can experience El Salvador’s rich cultural diversity through festivals like Fiestas Agostinas and Semana Santa.
Airports in El Salvador provide essential amenities for travellers, whether arriving in the capital, heading to the coast, or exploring the beautiful countryside. With modern facilities and convenient access to nearby attractions, your journey is sure to be smooth and enjoyable. Plan your trip to El Salvador today with TripXL and experience its breathtaking landscapes and rich culture!
Cover Photo: Pizzaking13 / Wikimedia Commons
