EO NJ Forum 2026:
The El Salvador Experience

Nov 10-15, 2026

For years, El Salvador remained one of Central America's hidden gems…

…A country often overlooked by travelers but cherished by those fortunate enough to experience it. Today, a new generation of visitors is discovering a destination filled with dramatic volcanoes, lush coffee-growing mountains, colorful villages, incredible food, and some of the warmest hospitality in the Americas.

Created especially for the EO NJ Forum, this experience blends business, culture and adventure. You will meet as a Forum, connect with local entrepreneurs and gain firsthand insight during a private visit with a Salvadoran coffee plantation owner. Between meaningful conversations, you will hike Santa Ana Volcano, dine overlooking Lake Coatepeque, relax in naturally heated thermal waters and explore the colorful villages of the Ruta de las Flores—a rare opportunity to strengthen your Forum connections while discovering El Salvador from the Pacific surf to the volcanic summit.

This is more than a business retreat—it’s an immersive journey that brings leadership, culture, adventure and meaningful connections together in one of Latin America’s most exciting destinations.

MEET YOUR GUIDE: ALFREDO ALVARADO

With more than 19 years of professional guiding experience, Alfredo Alvarado is one of El Salvador’s most highly qualified and respected tourism professionals. He is a triple-licensed guide certified by the Ministry of Tourism of El Salvador, specializing in:

• Salvadoran history and culture

• Archaeology and ancient Maya sites

• Volcanoes and guided hiking

• Gastronomy and local traditions

• Sustainable tourism

• Authentic cultural exchange

Alfredo’s extensive professional training includes certifications from:

• The Salvadoran Tourism Corporation

• The Central American Tourism Integration Secretariat (SITCA)

• The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)

• Aquila Training Center in Canada

Beyond his impressive credentials, Alfredo is known for creating engaging, educational and highly personalized experiences. Whether guiding you across volcanic landscapes, introducing you to local entrepreneurs, uncovering hidden cultural treasures or discussing the remarkable transformation of modern El Salvador, he brings the country’s history, people and stories to life in an informative and approachable way.

His deep local connections, commitment to guest safety and passion for sustainable tourism make him an exceptional companion for anyone seeking more than a traditional tour. With Alfredo as your guide, you will experience El Salvador through the eyes of a true local expert while gaining a deeper understanding of its culture, communities and people.

Want to know more about Alfredo? Check out the FAQ section at the bottom of your webpage!

Where does El Salvador make it’s money?

El Salvador’s largest economic engine is the service sector, which includes commerce, banking, telecommunications, transportation, hospitality and tourism. Services generate roughly two-thirds of the country’s economic output.

However, the country’s largest source of money arriving from abroad is family remittances—money Salvadorans living overseas, primarily in the United States, send home. In 2025, remittances were equivalent to approximately 27.5% of El Salvador’s GDP, making them enormously important to household spending and the broader economy.

For exports, textiles and apparel are among the country’s leading industries, particularly clothing manufactured for the United States. Other important sectors include food and beverage production, plastics, chemicals, electrical components, coffee and sugar. Coffee is historically and culturally significant, but it is no longer El Salvador’s single largest income producer.

So, the clearest answer is:

• Largest part of the domestic economy: Services

• Largest external source of income: Remittances

• Leading manufactured export: Textiles and apparel

• Most iconic traditional agricultural export: Coffee

This could make for a particularly interesting conversation at the coffee plantation: coffee helped shape El Salvador’s economy and land ownership for generations, but today it operates within a far more diversified—and heavily remittance-supported—economy.

Choose Your Private
Business Conversation

On this trip, you’ll will have the opportunity to meet directly with a Salvadoran business owner for a candid conversation about entrepreneurship, economic change and operating a business in El Salvador. Each option offers a different—and rarely accessible—perspective:

• Tourism with Alfredo Alvarado: Go behind the scenes of El Salvador’s rapidly evolving tourism industry with one of the country’s most respected guides. Alfredo will discuss how the country’s transformation has affected tourism, international perceptions and opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

• Coffee with a Plantation Owner: Meet privately with a local coffee producer to explore the industry that once shaped El Salvador’s economy, landscape and social structure. Learn how today’s owners are responding to changing markets, labor challenges, sustainability concerns and coffee’s evolving economic role.

El Salvador Itinerary

Nov 10: Welcome to El Salvador

6:29pm - 10:47pm: Flight to El Salvador

11pm: Transfer to hotel

SUGGESTED GRATUITIES PER PERSON:
Driver: $5 + $2/bag

Self-Arranged flights:

Newark, NJ (EWR) to San Salvador (SAL)
United Airlines 1425

Newark, NJ (EWR) → El Salvador International Airport Saint Óscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez (SAL)
Depart 6:29 PM | Arrive 10:47 PM

Bienvenidos a El Salvador!

Your journey begins as five members of the EO NJ Forum depart Newark for El Salvador. Upon arrival, your private driver will be waiting to welcome you and transport you along the Pacific coast to Playa El Zonte.

After approximately one hour, you will arrive at the beautiful Garten Hotel, where the sound of the ocean and warm Salvadoran hospitality offer the perfect welcome.

After checking in, settle into your accommodations, unwind and rest before the experience ahead.

November 11: Pacific Beauty and Salvadoran Flavors

Free Day at the beach!

(Your guide is available to take you out for a waterfall hike and swimming hole experience and/or salvadorian beer tour)

Today is entirely yours to design. Spend the day relaxing beside the pool or soaking up the sun at Garten Hotel’s beautiful beachfront setting—or venture out to experience more of El Salvador’s Pacific coast.

Your group does not have to choose just one plan: some may prefer a peaceful beach day, while others explore the laid-back surf communities, restaurants and shops of nearby El Zonte or El Tunco.

If you are feeling adventurous, travel just 30 minutes down the road for a scenic hike to the spectacular Tamanique waterfall and natural swimming hole. You may also join Alfredo to discover some of the country’s best Salvadoran craft beers and learn about the people and businesses behind them.

Start and end times can be arranged in advance or left open until later—the choices are completely yours.
This will be your only time along the coast, so make it as relaxing, adventurous or spontaneous as you would like.

November 12: Forum, Fellowship and a Journey into the Highlands

9am- 12pm: EO NJ Forum meeting

1pm: Checkout of hotel

1pm-3pm: Transfer to Casa 1800 Cerro Verde

SUGGESTED GRATUITIES PER PERSON:
Driver: $5 + $2/bag

Your morning begins with a private EO NJ Forum meeting at Garten Hotel.
Breakfast will be served as you gather in a dedicated meeting space, creating an inspiring environment for thoughtful conversation, meaningful exchange and connection.

Following your meeting, you will check out and begin the journey from El Salvador’s tropical Pacific coast into the country’s volcanic highlands. As the road climbs toward Cerro Verde, watch as the landscape transforms—from palm-lined beaches and coastal villages to coffee-covered mountains, cool forests and towering volcanoes.

You will arrive at Casa 1800 Cerro Verde, a distinctive mountain retreat surrounded by some of El Salvador’s most extraordinary scenery. With sweeping views of the volcanoes and clouds drifting through the forest, this beautiful setting will offer you an entirely different perspective on the country.

Note regarding your Forum meeting location at the Garten Hotel:

Your private Forum meeting can take place in Garten Hotel’s beautiful open-air restaurant, offering inspiring ocean views and high-speed Wi-Fi. Breakfast is included for each guest and will be served during your meeting. For complete privacy, the restaurant will be reserved exclusively for your group throughout the event.

November 13: Volcanoes, Crater Lakes and Healing Waters

9am - 12:30pm: Santa Ana volcano hike

1pm - 2pm: Lunch overlooking Coatepeque Lake (at your own expense)

3pm - 4:30pm: Hot springs in Caluco, Sonsonate

6:30pm*: Estimated return to hotel

SUGGESTED GRATUITIES PER PERSON:
Driver: $10
Guide: $15-30

Today, you will experience an unforgettable immersion into El Salvador’s volcanic landscape.

Accompanied by Alfredo, a specialized mountain guide for Los Volcanes National Park, you will hike to the summit of Santa Ana Volcano—the tallest volcano in El Salvador. Along the trail, Alfredo will bring the landscape to life through stories about its geology, ecology, history and importance to the surrounding communities.

Reaching the summit will reveal one of the country’s most extraordinary natural wonders: a vividly colored crater lake surrounded by rugged volcanic walls. Panoramic views stretch across neighboring volcanoes, valleys and Lake Coatepeque, offering you a powerful perspective on the natural forces that have shaped El Salvador.

Following your descent, you will enjoy lunch overlooking Lake Coatepeque, a spectacular volcanic caldera filled with brilliant blue water. Your afternoon continues in Caluco, where naturally heated thermal waters provide a restorative conclusion to the day.
Surrounded by tropical vegetation, you can relax, reflect and experience another way in which El Salvador’s volcanic landscape influences everyday life.

Please Note: The estimated return time to your hotel is approximate and may vary. Factors such as traffic, weather conditions, the pace of the hikes, and the amount of time spent enjoying each stop can all affect the day's schedule. The return time shown is based on average travel times and typical time spent at each activity, but your guide will adjust the day as needed to ensure the experience feels enjoyable rather than rushed.

November 14: The People, Villages and Businesses Behind Salvadoran Coffee

9am - 12:pm: Ruta de las Flores

12pm: Stop for lunch (at your own expense)

2pm - 4pm: Tour and discussion with Coffee Plantation owner

5pm*: Estimated return to hotel

SUGGESTED GRATUITIES PER PERSON:
Driver: $10
Guide: $15-30

Today, you will travel along the Ruta de las Flores, one of El Salvador’s most scenic and culturally rich regions. Winding through forested mountains and coffee-growing countryside, the route connects a collection of colorful villages known for their murals, markets, artisan traditions, architecture and distinctive local identities.

With Alfredo providing insight along the way, you will gain a deeper understanding of the communities that have shaped this region. This is your opportunity to look beyond the beautiful scenery and explore how history, agriculture, tourism and entrepreneurship intersect in modern El Salvador.

After lunch, you will receive special access to a local coffee plantation for a private tour and conversation with its owner. Your experience will trace coffee from the land to the finished cup while examining the business behind one of El Salvador’s most important agricultural products.

More than a traditional plantation visit, this will be a meaningful exchange between business leaders. You will have the opportunity to ask questions about family ownership, leadership, labor, production, sustainability, distribution, changing consumer expectations and the opportunities and challenges of operating a business in El Salvador. It is a chance to build knowledge, exchange perspectives and connect through the shared experience of entrepreneurship.

*Please Note: The estimated return time to your hotel is approximate and may vary. Factors such as traffic, weather conditions, the pace of the hikes, and the amount of time spent enjoying each stop can all affect the day's schedule. The return time shown is based on average travel times and typical time spent at each activity, but your guide will adjust the day as needed to ensure the experience feels enjoyable rather than rushed.

November 15: Depart for home

10am: Airport Departure Transfer

2:50pm: Flight home

SUGGESTED GRATUITIES PER FAMILY:
Driver: $10 + $2/bag

Self-Arranged flights:

San Salvador to Newark
United Airlines 1468

El Salvador International Airport Saint Óscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez (SAL) → George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
Depart 2:50 PM | Arrive 6:00 PM

2 hr 16 min layover Houston (IAH)

United Airlines 1444

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) → Newark, NJ (EWR)
Depart 8:16 PM | Arrive 12:45 AM

Enjoy one final morning surrounded by the forests and volcanoes of Cerro Verde. After breakfast and checkout, you will meet your private driver for the journey to El Salvador International Airport.

Your flight home marks the end of a journey filled with dramatic landscapes, meaningful conversations, local flavors and personal connections. You will leave with more than photographs—you will return home with a deeper understanding of El Salvador, its culture and the entrepreneurial spirit of its people.

Thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey.

Wishing you safe travels, a smooth flight home, and many wonderful stories to share with family, friends and colleagues for years to come.

TRAVEL DETAILS

Beach accommodations:

Set directly along El Salvador’s dramatic Pacific coastline, Garten Hotel El Zonte offers an elevated beachfront retreat where you can unwind after your journey. Luxurious accommodations, attentive service, ocean views, swimming pools, spa treatments and direct access to Playa El Zonte create a relaxing introduction to the beauty and hospitality of El Salvador.

The hotel’s location also places you near the restaurants, shops and lively surf culture of El Tunco while providing a more peaceful setting away from the crowds. Whether you are relaxing beside the pool, enjoying fresh coastal cuisine or watching the sun set over the Pacific, Garten Hotel delivers the perfect balance of comfort, privacy and connection to the destination.

Villas are equipped with:

• Private kitchen

• Two full bathrooms

• Comfortable living room

• Dedicated dining area

• Private swimming pool

Mountain Accommodations

Perched high in the cool forests of Cerro Verde, Casa 1800 offers a breathtaking mountain retreat surrounded by some of El Salvador’s most dramatic scenery. From the property, you can take in remarkable views of the surrounding volcanoes while enjoying spacious accommodations, peaceful natural surroundings and a refreshing change from the tropical Pacific coast.

Its privileged location places you near Santa Ana Volcano, Cerro Verde National Park and Lake Coatepeque, making it an ideal base for exploring El Salvador’s volcanic highlands. After each day’s adventures, return to the quiet mountain atmosphere to relax, reconnect and watch the clouds drift across one of the country’s most unforgettable landscapes.

REGISTRATION FORM

PLEASE TYPE CAREFULLY! INACCURATE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN TRAVEL DELAYS AND/OR CHANGE FEES.

(PLEASE SUBMIT ONE REGISTRATION FORM PER HOUSEHOLD)

Pricing details

All pricing & availability is subject to change until completed through the booking process. If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport, as well as 2 blank visa pages.. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable you have a criminal background; you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense.

package price:

$2843/pp

INCLUDEd IN THE QUOTE

• Ground Transportation

  • All Round Trip Airport Transfers

  • Tour transportation

• Hotel Accommodations

  • Breakfast included daily

• Tours included in the daily itinerary above

• Most taxes and fees

  • Service fees and commissions (NON-REFUNDABLE)

NOT INCLUDED

• Round Trip flights

• Ground transportation not listed in the itinerary

• Add-on Tours/Experiences/Activities

• Food and beverages not included in the itinerary above

• Gratuities

• Incidental charges 

• Local Tax

• 4% processing fee per payment (only if paying w/debit or credit card)

• Optional Travel Insurance

Registration

A completed registration form is required to move forward with this booking.

FINAL PAYMENT

• Payments not received on time will result in reservation cancellation without refund.

• Additional bookings after the final payment deadline may result in higher prices, less availability and additional administrative fees.

• Fee amounts imposed are at the discretion of Zone Travel.

CANCELLATION

Cancellation in writing must be received by Zone Travel 90 days prior to departure for appropriate refund on the land tour cost minus the following fees:

• Commissions, Planning Fees and Travel insurance are non-refundable.

Zone Travel LLC and its cooperative destination incur unrecoverable charges preparing for your trip therefore, no refunds if cancellations occur less than 90 days before departure. Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure are based on individual group bookings per the outlined confirmation document you receive.

We sell a variety of travel related products from different suppliers and service providers ("Suppliers"). Each Supplier has its own terms and condition that are applicable to your particular arrangements in addition to our general terms and conditions, and you should make sure you understand them.

Zone Travel is acting as intermediary or a "Booking Agent" for products and services that are not directly supplied by us (e.g., air carriage and ground transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, tours, cruises, etc.). We are not a co-vendor of such products and services. You will be entering into a separate contract with such Suppliers in connection with such products and services.

By making payments to Zone Travel for this trip you are agreeing to all Terms and Conditions listed on the Zone Travel website.

Vendor Cancel policy: Each vendor has their own policies, which we have to apply. This information may vary and is listed in full detail on the contract signed for each vendor."

WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRAVEL INSURANCE

F.A.Q.

What is El Salvador’s largest source of income?

El Salvador’s largest economic engine is the service sector, which includes commerce, banking, telecommunications, transportation, hospitality and tourism. Services generate roughly two-thirds of the country’s economic output.

However, the country’s largest source of money arriving from abroad is family remittances—money Salvadorans living overseas, primarily in the United States, send home. In 2025, remittances were equivalent to approximately 27.5% of El Salvador’s GDP, making them enormously important to household spending and the broader economy. World Bank data

For exports, textiles and apparel are among the country’s leading industries, particularly clothing manufactured for the United States. Other important sectors include food and beverage production, plastics, chemicals, electrical components, coffee and sugar. Coffee is historically and culturally significant, but it is no longer El Salvador’s single largest income producer.

So, the clearest answer is:

• Largest part of the domestic economy: Services

• Largest external source of income: Remittances

• Leading manufactured export: Textiles and apparel

• Most iconic traditional agricultural export: Coffee

This could make for a particularly interesting conversation at the coffee plantation: coffee helped shape El Salvador’s economy and land ownership for generations, but today it operates within a far more diversified—and heavily remittance-supported—economy.

Is El Salvador safe?

Yes. El Salvador has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years and is now one of the safest countries in Central America for tourism. Throughout your trip, you'll be accompanied by trusted local partners and guides who know the destinations well. As with travel anywhere in the world, common-sense precautions are always encouraged.

Who will be our guide in El Salvador? Is he qualified?

Absolutely. Throughout your journey in El Salvador, you'll be accompanied by Alfredo Alvarado, one of the country's most highly trained, experienced, and credentialed professional tour guides. With more than 19 years of guiding experience, Alfredo specializes in El Salvador's history, archaeology, volcanoes, hiking, cultural tourism, and off-the-beaten-path experiences. His passion for sharing his homeland, combined with his professionalism and extensive training, has earned him a reputation as one of El Salvador's premier guides.

Some of Alfredo's professional qualifications include:

• More than 19 years of professional guiding experience throughout El Salvador.

• Triple-Licensed Tour Guide by the Ministry of Tourism of El Salvador and the Salvadoran Tourism Corporation, including:

  • General National Tour Guide (Guía Nacional)

  • Specialized Guide for the Historic Center of San Salvador

  • Specialized Mountain Guide for Los Volcanes National Park (Santa Ana, Izalco & Cerro Verde Volcanoes)

• Certified Tour Guide Training Program completed through Universidad Dr. José Matías Delgado, the Ministry of Tourism of El Salvador, and the Salvadoran Tourism Corporation.

• International Tour Guide Certification through Aquila Training Center (Canada).

• Certified by the Central American Tourism Integration Secretariat (SITCA).

• Certified in Sustainable Destination Management through the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

• First Aid Certified through the Salvadoran Red Cross.

• Completed Tourist Safety Training with the Tourism Police of El Salvador.

• Certified in Good Practices for Sustainable Tourism through Salvanatura and Smart Voyager.

• Certified in Accessible Tourism Techniques through Universidad Don Bosco.

• Participant in the Culture and Sustainable Tourism Congress hosted by Universidad Católica de El Salvador.

• Founder and active member of the Licensed Tour Guides Collective of El Salvador.

• Member of the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA).

Beyond his impressive résumé, what truly sets Alfredo apart is his enthusiasm for sharing his country with visitors. He is passionate about creating authentic experiences while ensuring every guest feels safe, informed, and welcomed. Whether you're hiking a volcano, exploring ancient Maya sites, wandering colorful villages, or learning about Salvadoran culture, you'll be in the hands of one of the most respected and accomplished guides in El Salvador.

What is the weather like in November?

November is one of the best times to visit El Salvador, as the rainy season is ending and the drier season is beginning. You should still be prepared for an occasional shower—especially early in the month—but conditions are generally sunnier and more comfortable for touring and hiking.

At the beach: Playa El Zonte

Expect warm, tropical conditions:

• Daytime temperatures: approximately 85–90°F

• Evening temperatures: approximately 70–75°F

• Warm ocean water and moderate-to-high humidity

• Mostly sunny weather, with occasional brief showers

• Light coastal breezes, especially in the evening

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear, sandals, sunscreen, sunglasses and a light rain layer. Historical La Libertad climate data shows rainfall dropping substantially in November compared with September and October.

In the mountains: Cerro Verde

Cerro Verde sits at approximately 6,500 feet above sea level, so it will feel dramatically cooler than the coast:

• Pleasant daytime temperatures, generally in the 60s to low 70s°F

• Evenings and early mornings can fall into the 50s°F

• The Santa Ana Volcano summit can feel colder because of wind, clouds and elevation

• Mist or low clouds can move through quickly

• November normally brings improving visibility and considerably less rain

Bring long pants, closed-toe shoes, a sweater or fleece and a light wind- and water-resistant jacket. For the volcano hike, dressing in removable layers is best: you may feel warm while climbing but chilly and windy at the summit. November is generally considered an excellent month for the hike because the dry season brings better visibility and a lower chance of rain. El Salvador’s Ministry of Environment climate records show notably cool November conditions at the elevated Los Andes weather station near the volcanic region.

What should we pack?

Pack for two very different environments: a warm Pacific beach and the cool, breezy volcanic highlands.

Clothing

• Lightweight, breathable shirts and shorts

• Comfortable casual clothing for dinners and touring

• Long pants or jeans for cooler mountain evenings

• Sweater, fleece or light jacket for Cerro Verde

• Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella

• Sleepwear and undergarments

• Swimsuit and cover-up

• One slightly elevated outfit for a special dinner

Shoes

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sturdy hiking shoes or trail sneakers with good traction

• Sandals or flip-flops for the beach and pool

• Optional dressier shoes for the meeting or dinner

Avoid wearing brand-new shoes for the volcano hike.

For the Santa Ana Volcano hike

• Small daypack

• Refillable water bottle

• Hat and sunglasses

• High-SPF sunscreen

• Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing

• Light jacket or windbreaker

• Hiking shoes with good traction

• Optional trekking poles

• Electrolyte packets

• Small towel or bandana

Dress in removable layers. The hike may feel warm, but the summit can be cool, cloudy and windy.

Beach and hot springs

• Swimsuit

• Sandals or water shoes

• Sunscreen

• Sunglasses and sun hat

• Waterproof pouch for your phone

• Dry change of clothing

• Optional rash guard

• Small wet bag for damp swimwear

• Towel

Personal essentials

• Passport

• Prescription medications in original containers

• Copies of prescriptions

• Insect repellent

• Basic pain reliever and stomach medication

• Personal toiletries

• Hand sanitizer

• Chargers and portable battery

• US dollars in smaller denominations

• Credit or debit card with travel notice completed

El Salvador uses the same Type A and Type B electrical outlets and 110–120V power as the United States, so most US travelers will not need an adapter.

Recommended packing style

A medium suitcase and small daypack should be sufficient. Pack lightweight clothing for Playa El Zonte, but do not underestimate how cool Cerro Verde may feel after sunset. The most important items are comfortable hiking shoes, breathable clothing, swimwear and a warm layer for the mountains.

How physically active is this trip?

TThis trip has an overall activity level of moderate, with one notably more strenuous experience: the Santa Ana Volcano hike.

Most days involve comfortable touring, short walks, vehicle transportation and time to relax. Exploring the Ruta de las Flores and coffee plantation may include uneven pathways, steps and periods of standing. The hot springs may also have wet or slippery surfaces, but these activities can generally be enjoyed at a comfortable pace.

The Santa Ana Volcano hike requires the most preparation. Expect several hours of walking on rocky, uneven and sometimes steep terrain at elevation. You should be comfortable walking uphill for an extended period and navigating loose gravel and steps. Regular walking or light cardiovascular exercise before the trip is strongly recommended. Anyone who does not wish to hike can enjoy an alternative experience in the Cerro Verde or Lake Coatepeque area.

How difficult is the Santa Ana Volcano hike?

The hike is considered moderate. The trail is approximately 4.5 miles round-trip and gains elevation steadily throughout the climb. Most active travelers and can comfortably complete the hike. The reward is one of the most spectacular volcanic crater views in Central America.

What currency is used in El Salvador?

The official currency of El Salvador is the U.S. Dollar, making travel especially convenient for American visitors. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, though carrying some cash for small purchases and local vendors is recommended.

Will we need to exchange money?

No. El Salvador uses U.S. Dollars as its official currency.

Do U.S. citizens need a visa?

At the time of travel, U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits to El Salvador. A valid passport is required and should be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Travelers should always verify entry requirements before departure.

What kind of food can we expect?

Salvadoran cuisine is flavorful, approachable, and family-friendly. You'll have opportunities to try local favorites such as pupusas, yuca frita, tamales, fresh tropical fruits, seafood, grilled meats, and locally grown coffee. International dining options are also available throughout the trip.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

In most cases, yes. Please notify us of any dietary restrictions, allergies, or food preferences in advance so accommodations can be arranged whenever possible.

Is the water safe to drink?

No.
We recommend drinking bottled or filtered water throughout the trip. Bottled water will be readily available during your travels.

Will there be Wi-Fi and cell service?

Most hotels, restaurants, and many attractions offer Wi-Fi. Cell service is generally reliable in cities and populated areas, though service may be limited in remote mountain or rural regions.

Why visit El Salvador now?

El Salvador remains one of the most authentic destinations in Latin America. Tourism is growing rapidly, yet many areas still feel undiscovered compared to neighboring countries. Travelers have the opportunity to experience the country's natural beauty, culture, and hospitality before it becomes a mainstream destination.

Can I pay by Zelle?

Yes!

We found this to be a fastest, easiest, and FREE way to pay!
For those who don’t know what Zelle is… it is very much like a wire transfer (but it is not a wire transfer).

Everyone’s bank is different, though, so you may want to call/go into your local bank and ask to have the maximum amount available to transfer every day.

Example: Some banks only allow $500/day transfer. Other banks will allow $1200/day.

Always be careful when making payments through Zelle to people that you do not know. There is no protection guarantee provided and you cannot reverse the fee.

The Pros for using Zelle:

• It is FREE (no processing fees)!

• It is instantaneous (funds will go directly to Zone Travel- so this is the absolute fastest way to make a payment)

The Cons for using Zelle:

• Every bank is different when it comes to maximum amount available to be transferred every day. So, this may mean that you need to make multiple payments to Zone Travel, multiple days in a row.

• It does require an app download onto your phone, and you need to set up your account with your bank information.

Can I pay by check?

Yes!

If you would like to avoid the 4%processing fees, you may pay by check.
It is very important that you pay in advance of the deadlines and allow ample time for delivery.

Payments received after the deadline could result in cancelation of your reservation or increased fees.

There are two ways to pay by check:

• Mail the check

• Deposit directly at a local branch

Travel Insurance Options

Travel insurance offers invaluable peace of mind by protecting you from unexpected events that can disrupt your trip. It provides financial coverage for a range of situations, including trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost or delayed luggage, and unforeseen travel delays. With travel insurance, you can avoid significant out-of-pocket expenses, especially in cases of medical emergencies abroad where healthcare costs can be high. Additionally, it ensures access to 24/7 assistance services, helping you navigate challenges like rebooking flights or finding medical care in unfamiliar destinations. Zone-Travel will be happy to provide you with options that best suits your needs and budget.