Sites to See in Paraguay

Looking for interesting places to visit in Paraguay?

Paraguay is one of the hidden gems in South America and most famously known for being home to the Guarani culture and the religious ruins of Jesus (pictured) and Trinidad.

Paraguay is pretty much under the radar of most travelers but boasts a unique culture and vibe hard to match by its most popular neighbours Brazil and Argentina, Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru

If you’re looking for an undiscovered tourist destination in South America that still offers a feel of the 'Old World', Paraguay is the place for you.

Here it is a list of interesting places and things you can do while in Paraguay:

Asunción

Asuncion is the capital city of Paraguay and your most likely landing point in the country if you’re coming from overseas, as the main international airport is located here.

Asunción is  located easterly border of Argentina, which makes it an ideal place to base your vacation, if you’re planning to explore places in Argentina such as San Ramon Oran and Salta.

Asunción also boasts shopping malls and plenty of art galleries and world class museums such as the Godoi Museum and the Bellas Artes National Museum to keep you occupied.

Top 5 Things To Do In Paraguay

If you enjoy walking tours, Asuncion City Center is where you’ll find the Asuncion Cathedral and the National Pantheon of the Heroes – one of the most interesting places to visit in Paraguay - because of the changing of the guard ceremony.

Another place you must visit, it’s the House of Independence (Casa de la Independencia) which is now turned into a museum, and it’s the place where Paraguay’s independence from Spain was planned.

There are also many districts (or barrios) that you can explore such as Villa Morro where you’ll find shopping malls, boutiques, sidewalk cafes and restaurants.

Ciudad del Este

Ciudad del Este is located on the eastern side of Paraguay, right on the border with Brazil and Argentina, and it’s one of the smallest cities in the country.

Ciudad del Este is a popular spot to visit if you’re looking to buy cheap electronics and other goods cheaply, as the town boasts a tax-free market.

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Ciudad del Este is also on my list of interesting places to visit in Paraguay because of its close proximity to the Iguacu Falls and the amazing Itaipu Dam near the Brazilian city of Foz do Iguacu.

Villarica

Villarica is located roughly between Asunción and Ciudad del Este, and it’s one of the most important cultural cities in Paraguay.

Villarica boasts many theatres, performing arts schools and the famed Camara Orchestra.

Another reason, I added Villarica to the list of interesting places to visit in Paraguay is because of the Fermin Lopez Museum, which boasts an interesting collection of Paraguayan artifacts such as coins, old photos and weaponry.

Encarnacion

Encarnacion is located in southern Paraguay by the Parana River, which acts as a border from Argentina.

Encarnacion is another great place to base your vacation in Paraguay if you intend on exploring Argentina, especially since Encarnation is linked by a bridge to the Argentinian city of Posadas.

Encarnation is also on the list of interesting places to visit in Paraguay because of Encarnacion Carnival, held in mid February.

Encarnation Carnival is definitely one of the most popular carnivals in South America that you don't want to miss, and one of the most flamboyant ones, along with Sao Paulo Carnival and Rio Carnival in Brazil.

Conception

The port town of Conception is located in northern Paraguay, and it’s a popular base for boat trips to the Paraguayan Pantanal and back-country trips to the Chaco region.

If you’re not planning to explore El Pantanal or El Chaco, the town of Conception is itself an amazing place and worth adding to the list of interesting places to visit in Paraguay.

In one hand, you have the lovely Spanish colonial architecture and, in the other, you have the Guarani people who are some of the most charming people you’ll ever meet in Paraguay.

Conception is worth checking out on a day trip from Asunción if you’d like to experience a different culture and soak in traditional Paraguayan culture.

To get to Conception from the capital, you can either take the 6-hour bus ride from Asunción, or the much longer boat trip along the Paraguay River.

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Peru is divided into twenty-five regions and the province of Lima whose capital city is also the capital of Peru.

Must do things in Peru

If you’re looking for things to do in Peru and are planning a trip to Peru for the first time, you need to be aware of the country’s regions.

Peru is divided into three geographic regions with three different climates:

Coast Region

The weather around the Coastal area of Peru is characterized by moderate temperatures, moderate humidity and not much rain.

Highlands Region

The highlands region enjoys much cooler temperatures and less humidity than both the Amazon and coastal areas, although it does rain frequently during the summer months.

Amazon rain forest Region

The Amazon area is a region of extremes so expect high temperatures, heavy downfalls and high humidity.

If you’re unsure where to begin your tour of Peru, three of the most popular regions amongst first time visitors include Lambayeque, La Libertad and Arequipa.

All of these three mentioned regions offer plenty of opportunities for outdoors pursuits, walking tours, and enjoying a bit of shopping at one of the weekend markets.

Vacation Spots in Peru: Top 3

1. Trujillo

Trujillo Peru is one the most popular vacation spots in Peru for travelers looking to enjoy beach activities.

You can enjoy surfing at the nearby beach, explore the wildlife at the nearby reserve, and explore pre-Columbian ruins and temples, just outside of the city.

2. Arequipa

If you are a true outdoors enthusiast, the city of Arequipa Peru is within driving distance of hiking and climbing areas such as the Salinas Reserve. The reserve is home to an extinct volcano which offers challenging hiking trails.

3. Chiclayo

If you’re a history buff and are interested in pre-Columbian culture, the city of Chiclayo Peru is home to the Tucume Archeological Site where you can find over 20 adobe pyramids.

This site also features an outdoor museum where you can see indigenous artifacts on display.

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Cochabamba is the third largest city in Bolivia and it is famed for being home to the largest religious statue in the world.


If you are traveling to Cochabamba Bolivia for the first time, the city is known for its good food, beautiful surroundings and for having the nicest climate in the country.

Cochabamba is a fascinating place with a strong Spanish heritage. Here it's the list of cool things to do:

Things to do in Cochabamba Bolivia: Natural Attractions

There are a few National Parks located in the area around Cochabamba Bolivia. Two of the most popular ones are the Carrasco National Park and the Toro Toro National Park:

Carrasco National Park

Hiking & Bird Spotting

Carrasco National Park, located 60 miles east of Cochabamba Bolivia, is a great place where you can enjoy beautiful mountain and waterfall scenery, caves, Inca Ruins and lush vegetation.

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The Park features over 5000 different species of plants and you can spot Jaguar and the Andean Bear amongst other animals. Also, if you are a bird enthusiast, the park is home to hundreds of bird species such as the famed Guacharo (Oil bird), which nests in caves around the park.

Fishing & Camping

The park doesn’t require any kind of fishing permit so, if you love fishing, there are natural pools where you can enjoy trout fishing.

South of Carrasco National Park, in Sehuencas, you can find around 5 camping areas but they’re not shops nearby, and the area tends to flood.

The best bet for overnight accommodation, it’s to head to Villa (Village) Tunari where you can find plenty of hotel accommodation, camping areas and plenty of shops.

Wildlife Sanctuary

Carrasco Park is also home to a Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located just 6 miles from Villa (village) Tunari.

If you are planning to visit the Wildlife Sanctuary during the week, you need to let the Sanctuary know in advance when you’re planning to be there, as they only let tourists in on weekends and holidays.

The Sanctuary also only allow in thirty people per day, and the entry fee is roughly US$2.50. The entry fee also includes a free guided tour of the Repechon Caves.

Toro Toro National Park

Toro Toro National Park is located 45 miles south of Cochabamba Bolivia and it is Bolivia’s smallest national park but a fascinating one.

The park’s landscape consists of amazing rock formations and caves (over 20 caves) where you can explore dinosaur prints, fossils, and Inca paintings.

Bird Spotting

Apart from amazing rock formations, Toro Toro Park is a bird paradise for bird enthusiast and it is home to different types of parrots such as the red-fronted macaw.

Caving

Toro Toro Park is also a popular spot for underground caving, and it’s home to the Cueva (Cave) Humajalanta, which is a partially underwater cave where you can explore the beautiful stalactites and stalagmites formations.

Town of Toro Toro

Not far from the town of Toro Toro, you can find the El Vergel canyon with beautiful waterfalls from where you can get amazing views.

Near the town of Toro Toro you can also find the Llama Chaqui archaeological site where you can see amazing Inca paintings.

Things to do in Cochabamba Bolivia: Places of Interest

Mariscal Santa Cruz Park

If you are traveling to the city with the family, visiting the Mariscal Santa Cruz Park is one of the most popular things to do in Cochabamba Bolivia.

Mariscal Park serves as an amusement-type park and features kid’s play areas, picnic areas, a swimming pool, and a lake where you can hire paddle boats.

San Pedro Hill

San Pedro Hill is home to the Cristo De La Concordia, which is, undoubtedly, one of the most famous landmarks in Cochabamba Bolivia.

This landmark, located in Pedro Hill, is a massive statue of Jesus Christ, which is similar to the one found in Rio De Janeiro Brazil.

San Sebastian Hill

On San Sebastian Hill you can find the famed Coronilla Heroines landmark, which was built to commemorate the bravely of a group of Bolivian women who resisted the Spanish armies in 1812.

Martín Cárdenas Botanical Garden

The Martín Cárdenas Botanical Garden, located on Avenue 23rd of March, is a lovely place to stroll by and marvel at beautiful plants.

The Botanic Garden features an arboretum, a cactarium, a herbarium and Martin Cardenas house museum.

September the 14th Square

The September the 14th Square (Plaza 14 De Septiembre‎), along Esteba Arze Street, is where you can find the beautiful Cathedral, where you can marvel at 16th century paintings.

Colon Square

Colon Square (Plaza Colon), located on Venezuela Street, is another beautiful square and a very important one, as it is the place where protesters gather around.

House of Culture Center

The House of Culture Center (Casa De La Cultura), located near the Santa Clara convent, is an interesting place where you can learn more about indigenous cultures of Bolivia such as the Inca through interactive exhibitions.

Things to do in Cochabamba Bolivia: Shopping

If you are visiting the city for the first time, exploring the city’s traditional markets would be one of the highlight of your vacation.

Just like the rest of Bolivia, shopping at one of the traditional markets for hand made items is one of the most popular things to do in Cochabamba Bolivia.

La Cancha, San Antonio and Calatayud markets are the most popular ones and there are all found in the Sudoeste neighborhood, near the Bus Terminal.

La Cancha, held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, is the most popular as it features a variety of vendors selling anything from foods to handmade goods.

If you can’t make it to La Cancha Market, the next best place for souvenir shopping, it’s the San Antonio Market, located along Tarata Street.

At this market, you can find pretty nice handmade items such as bags, small guitars and so on.

Things to do in Cochabamba Bolivia: Nightlife & Entertainment

If you are looking to enjoy clubbing, Cochabamba Bolivia has a vibrant nightlife boosted by the University students. Apart from discos, there are plenty of restaurants and bars offering live entertainment.

Places such as La Recoleta, nearby the Cine Center, feature plenty of bars and restaurants.

Another nightlife hotspot it’s between Avenue Ayacucho and Avenue Heroinas where you can find more bars and restaurants.

Things to do in Cochabamba Bolivia: Events & Festivals

If you are traveling to Cochabamba Bolivia for the first time, it’s a good idea to travel during one of the city’s yearly religious festivals to soak in Bolivian culture.

For instance, the Virgen De La Candelaria Festivity, the San Jose Festivity and the San Isidro Festivity are celebrated in February, March and May respectively.

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Arequipa, located south of Peru near the border with Bolivia, is along Trujillo Peru and Chiclayo Peru, one of the most popular holiday destinations in Peru.


If you are traveling to Arequipa for the first time, the city is within driving distance of the Colca Valley, where you can enjoy water rafting and explore the Colca Canyon, which is twice the size of the Arizona Grand Canyon in the United States Of America.

Things to do in Arequipa: Outdoor Activities

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, the National Reserve of Salinas and Aguada Blanca is one of the best places near Arequipa where you can explore Peru’s natural scenery and enjoy fun outdoor activities.

Hiking & Climbing

If you love hiking, the Salinas Reserve is home to the active volcano El Misti, which stands at over 2000 meters.

The El Misti (located 8 miles north east of Arequipa) features slopes that are quite steep so if you area an inexperienced hiker, you may want to hike along the base of the volcano. Otherwise, you can hike up the El Misti slopes to get marvelous views of the area around.

If you are an experienced climber, the El Misti's summit can be climbed in a day, although most people do camp along the way and make it a two day affair.

Animal Spotting

If you love flora and bird spotting, Salinas Reserve is home to the Salinas Lake, which features a variety of vegetation and wildlife such as Llamas, Flamingos and more.

The Salinas Reserve is also home to the beautiful plains of Pampa Canahuas where you can observe the Vicugna (type of camelid similar to llama).

Water Rafting

If you are traveling to Arequipa between spring and Christmas time, you can enjoy a river rafting trip in the Colca Valley, along the Colca River.

One of the best ways to do a water rafting trip, it’s with an organized tour, as it’ll include the rafting gear, itinerary and transportation.

However, if you have your own kayaks and prefer to venture out in the Colca Valley for a water rafting trip, the town of Huambo is where you need to head.

The drive from Arequipa to Huambo is a few hours (4 to 5 hours), and once you get to the town, you can hire out donkeys to travel the remainder of the trip, which would take a 5 hour hike to the Colca Valley

Also, if you are expert rafter, the Colca Canyon sections have rapid grades between 3 and 5 suitable for experienced rafters..

Colca Valley Trekking Tour

If you are traveling to Arequipa with the intention of exploring the majestic Colca Canyon, I would suggest an booking an organized trekking tour. In Arequipa, you can book a Colca Canyon trek with one of the many tour companies there.

A typical Colca Valley trekking tour can last between two and five days and can include a trek to the Colca Canyon, as well as a trek of the entire Colca Valley.

Beach Activities

If you are looking to enjoy some time at the beach, the beach town of Mollendo is only a couple of hours drive along the Carretera Interoceanica (highway 30).

Also, while in Mollendo you can visit the National Sanctuary of Mejía Lagoons, which is just a short drive from Mollendo beach town.

The Mejia Sanctuary is home to over 100 different species of birds that include local and migratory birds.

Things to do in Arequipa: Places of Interest

Monastery of Saint Catalina

If you are into architecture, the Monastery of Saint Catalina, located in the Historic Center district on Zela Street, is a great example of early 16th century colonial architecture.

You can tour the monastery for around $10 and see the many alleys and rooms such as a restored period kitchen.

Monastery of La Recoleta

The Monastery of La Recoleta, adjacent the Ministry of Education, is another monastery open for public viewing.

Along with the Monastery of Santa Catalina, La Recoleta offers you a glimpse into the missionary activities of nuns and monks during colonial times.

You can walk inside the rooms and explore the items there. In particular, the famed La Recoleta library is an attraction of its own as it features thousands of old books.

Arequipa Cathedral & Plaza De Armas

Visits to both Arequipa Cathedral & Plaza De Armas are two of the most popular things to do in Arequipa.

Plaza De Armas (Main Square) is actually surrounded by the cathedral of Arequipa and three beautiful granite portals.

The Main Square feature lovely tropical trees as well as a beautiful bronze fountain crowned by the statue of a soldier.

The Cathedral is free to explore, and once inside you can see an amazingly imposing altar with a beautifully carved pulpit as well as a Belgian organ.

Complex of San Francisco

The Complex of San Francisco, located nearby the Santa Catalina Monastery, features a small park, a 16th century church, a convent and the Cimientos de Fierro building, which houses a museum and a small market.

Andinos Sanctuary Museum

The Andinos Sanctuary Museum (Museo Santuarios Andinos), adjacent the Plaza De Armas (Main Square), is another popular cultural attraction in the city.

The museum features Inca mummified human remains found in Peru’s volcanoes such as the ones found in El Misti volcano.

Things to do in Arequipa: Shopping

Just as popular Panama Hats are in Cuenca Ecuador, Alpaca and Vicuña woolen and leather goods are the most popular items to shop for during a vacation to Arequipa Peru.

Shopping is, indeed, one of the top things to do in Arequipa and the Historic Center district is where you can find many of the high scale boutiques such as Patio del Ekeko‎, which one of the best places where you can find high quality Alpaca goods.

If you are looking to enjoy a nit of retail shopping, along Ejercito Avenue you can find Saga Falabella Shopping Mall, Real Plaza Arequipa and Cayma Shopping Center. All three offering plenty of department stores and food courts.

For local produce shopping, on San Camillo Street you can find Central Market (Mercado Central), where you can purchase fruits, vegetables and that kind of thing.

Another popular market, it’s Antiquilla Market located on Antiquilla Street.

Things to do in Arequipa: Nightlife & Entertainment

Since Arequipa is a University town, the nightlife in the city has a lively atmosphere
with plenty of nightclubs and live music venues.

The Historic Center district, and the area around Plaza De Armas, it’s where you can find the bulk of bars, restaurants and discos.

The Main Theater (Teatro Minicipal), adjacent Topy Top, is one of the most popular places to hang out for a pleasant night of entertainment.

The theater features nightly entertainment where you can catch local folkloric groups performing traditional Peruvian dancing.

Things to do in Arequipa: Events & Festivals

Arequipa International Guitar Festival

The Arequipa International Guitar Festival, held in August, is a popular event that brings together the best guitarist in Peru.

Great Parade of Arequipa

The Great Parade of Arequipa, held in August, is one of the most important and most popular events in Arequipa.

During this time, the city features hundreds of floats and many beautiful parades, which are reminiscent of the carnival in Sao Paulo Brazil.

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San Pedro Sula is the second largest city in Honduras and it is the economic heart of the country due to its main industries of banana and coffee bean.

8 Tourist things to do in Honduras 

If you are visiting San Pedro Sula for the first time, the city center is the heart and soul of the City, and it’s here where you can find the upscale hotels, bars, restaurants and shopping malls.

Similar cities with Spanish heritage include: San Salvador El Salvador, San Jose Costa Rica, Trujillo Peru, Chiclayo Peru and Cuenca Ecuador.

Things to do in San Pedro Sula: Day Trips

Olancho Valley

The Olancho Valley is home to an important archeological site that includes the famed Talgua Caves, which were used as burial sites by pre-Columbian indigenous people.

One of the caves is opened to the public and you can walk along designated paths to marvel at calcified human burials, and beautiful stalactite formations.

At the archaeological site itself, you can also see small exhibition areas showcasing all kinds of ancient artifacts found at the site such as ceramic pots and arrow heads.

The Talgua caves are located 130 miles southeast of San Pedro Sula. One of the best ways to enjoy the caves it’s with an organized tour as it’ll include the transportation and a night stay in a nearby accommodation.

Copan

The Copan Ruins are one of the most popular archeological sites in Honduras, and they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Copan Ruins are home to some of the best preserved Mayan artifacts that include impressive Royal Steles with beautifully crafted inscriptions and decorations.

At the ruins, you can also see the famed ‘Escalinata Jeroglifica’ which is a step-pyramid temple which contains the longest ancient Mayan writings found to date.

The Copan Ruins are located 60 miles southwest of San Pedro Sula. To get there, take the Carretera Pavimentada Principal towards La Estanzuela.

Santa Cruz De Yojoa

Another side trip that you can add to your San Pedro Sula itinerary; it’s the one to Santa Cruz de Yojoa.

Near Santa Cruz de Yojoa, you can find the Los Naranjos Archeological Park located on the banks of Lake Yojoa.

Los Naranjos Park was created to protect the 3000 year old Lenca settlement, as well as the fauna and flora around Lake Yojoa.

The park features vantage points from where you can get amazing views of the area around, as well as a museum and a visitor center.

At the Los Naranjos Park Museum you can see on display highly crafted ceramic items.

Los Naranjos Park is located 30 miles south of San Pedro Sula. To get there, take the Carretera Pavimentada towards El Jaral.

Things to do in San Pedro Sula: Places of Interest

Museum of Anthropology and History

If you are a history buff, the Museum of Anthropology and History is a good place to get an insight into San Pedro Sula before and after the Spanish colonial rule.

Museum of Nature (Museo de la Naturaleza)

If you are a nature enthusiast, this museum features over twenty exhibitions on the environment, natural resources and biology of Honduras.

San Pedro Sula Cathedral

San Pedro Cathedral has been restored recently and it is a great example of 1950’s Spanish architecture.

The area around the Cathedral also features a lovely park where you can enjoy a nice stroll and seat at one of the park benches while enjoying some people watching.

Things to do in San Pedro Sula: Sports

Hondurans love the game of football (soccer) and are very expressive and passionate fans.

For football enthusiasts, and even if you’re not much into football, attending a football game is one of the most popular things to do in San Pedro Sula.

Apart from being very affordable (between $4 and $8 per game), you can see how locals interact with each other, soak in some culture and enjoy a great game in an electrifying atmosphere.

Things to do in San Pedro Sula: Shopping

One of the best places for souvenir-gift hunting, it’s at the Guamilito market, located between Street (Calle) number 6 and Avenue (Avenida) number 8.

Here, you can find all kinds of local handmade goods such as jewelry, bags and potteries, which you can haggle at the stall.

For retail shopping, two of the most popular shopping centers are Mall Multiplaza and City Mall located on Colonia Hernandez and Colonia Villa Eugenia respectively.

Things to do in San Pedro Sula: Nightlife & Entertainment

The nightlife in San Pedro Sula is one of the liveliest in Honduras and you can expect to find many bars, clubs and restaurants offering all types of live entertainment such as karaoke nights.

San Pedro Sula’s city center is the hotspot for finding nightlife. Popular streets include:

* Circunvalacion Avenue (Avenida)
* West Street (Calle Oeste)
* East Street (Calle Este)
* Sixth Avenue (6 Avenida No)
* Junior Avenue (Avenida)

Entertainment-wise, San Pedro Sula is home to cinemas and casinos such as the Casino Copan, where you can enjoy a game of Blackjack as well as slot machines.

Things to do in San Pedro Sula: Events & Festivals

National Art Exhibition

The National Art Exhibition, held at the Centro Cultural Sampedrano in March, is an annual art event that features the best Honduran art the country has to offer.

San Pedro Sula Feria Juniana

San Pedro Sula Feria Juniana, held in June, is a seven day celebration to commemorate Saint San Pedro.

During the celebrations the city is filled with street parades, live entertainment and stalls selling delicious Honduran dishes.

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The city of San Salvador is one of the biggest cities in Central America and it is located in the country of El Salvador, which borders Guatemala and Honduras.

Must Do Things in Central America

If you are traveling to San Salvador El Salvador for the first time, the city center is a mixture of rich and poor areas with buzzing street corners filled with vendors on the streets selling foods and all kinds of crafts.

Apart from the many things to do in San Salvador El Salvador, the city is ideal base for exploring other cities such as: Chalchuapa, where you can explore the impressive Mayan ruins of Tazumal, as well as San Jose, Cuenca, Trujillo and Chiclayo.

Things to do in San Salvador El Salvador: Outdoor Activities

Hiking & Swimming

If you are interested in the Great Outdoors during your stay in San Salvador El Salvador, the Cerro Verde National Park is within driving distance.

The park, located 20 miles west of San Salvador’s city center, is home to the extinct volcanoes of Santa Ana and Izalco.

You are allowed to hike the trails along the volcanoes but, for safety reasons, you can only do so in the company of a guide.

They only allow 300 people per day, and admission to the park is around $3. Before you head to the park you need to let them know through fax or e-mail when you’re planning to come. (Here it is Cerro Verde e-mail: informacion@istu.gob.sv)

The park is also home to Lake Coatepeque, which features a handful of hotels and guest houses by the lake shore. At the lake you can some swimming and boating activities.

El Roble Park

El Roble Park, located near the University of El Salvador, features recreational areas such as a basketball court and a BMX rump. Apart from these, you can enjoy an early morning jog along the paths as well as picnicking.

Cuscatlan Park

Cuscatlan Park is one of the largest urban parks in San Salvador El Salvador. The park features open green spaces with beautiful tropical trees.

The park, located adjacent Tin Marin Children’s Museum, features many opportunities for recreational outdoor activities, or simply a relaxing time on one of the park benches taking in the beautiful natural scenery.

In Cuscatlan Park, you can also find the Monumento a la Memoria y la Verdad (Monument to the Memory and Truth) Wall Memorial, which depicts the faces of those missing during the civil war.

Things to do in San Salvador El Salvador: Fun Family Activities

Tin Marin Children’s Museum

If you are traveling with kids, the Tin Martin Children’s Museum should be high in your itinerary.

The Museum, adjacent Cuscatlan Park, is an amazing place where you and kids can learn through fun and interactive activities such as the planetarium where you can learn about stars and constellations.

Mundo Feliz Amusement Park

If you looking for things to do with kids in San Salvador El Salvador, opposite Sykes El Salvador center you can find El Mundo Feliz (Happy World) amusement park where you can enjoy arcade games and bumper cars.

National Zoological Park

The National Park (Parque Zoologico Nacional) is another popular place where the whole family can enjoy some cultural attractions.

At the park, you can find the Saburo Hirao Japanese gardens, the National Zoo and El Salvador Natural History Museum.

Saburo Hirao Japanese Gardens

The Saburo Hirao Japanese gardens feature beautiful flora as well as kid’s playgrounds for the little ones.

The National Zoo

Apart from a collection of wildlife, the National Zoo serves as a sanctuary for the protection of animals in danger of extinction.

El Salvador Natural History Museum

At the El Salvador Natural History Museum, you can the fossils of a giant sloth among other species.

The National Zoological Park is located on Calle Modelo (Modelo Street) near Colonia Malaga neighborhood.

Things to do in San Salvador El Salvador: Places of Interest

University of El Salvador

The University of El Salvador (Universidad de El Salvador) is another landmark worth checking out. Here, you can stroll along the campus taking in the beautiful surroundings and explore the different buildings.

David J Guzman National Museum

If you are interested in ancient El Salvador, a visit to the David J Guzman National Museum is a must-add in your itinerary. The museum features a beautiful collection of Mayan artifacts that include ceramics and pottery items.

Cuscatlan Old Quarter

Cuscatlan Old Quarter (Antiguo Cuscatlan), home to the US Embassy, is where you can find the La Laguna Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanico).

If you love flora, the park is home to over 3,000 different types of plant species from around the world as well as native to El Salvador.

Things to do in San Salvador El Salvador: Shopping & Food

For retail shopping, head to the area between Colonia Miramonte and Colonia Terraza neighborhoods (along Boulevard De Los Heroes).

Here, you can find three shopping malls:

* Metrocenter shopping mall (Centro Comercial Metrocentro)
* Metrosur (Centro Comercial Metrosur)
* Metrogalerias (Centro Comercial Metrogalerias)

The neighborhood of Santa Elena (located in Antiguo Cuscatlan) is also home to a few malls where you can enjoy more retail shopping.

All of these malls are located along La Panamericana highway and they include:

* La Gran Via shopping Mall (Centro Comercial La Gran Via)
* Las Cascadas shopping mall (Centro Comercial Las Cascadas)
* Multiplaza shopping mall (Centro Comercial Multiplaza).

San Salvador is also home to many markets, where you can shop for local produce and handmade goods such as hammocks.

For instance, San Jacinto District is home to a few Mercados (markets) such as:

* Mercado Municipal San Jacinto
* Mercado Modelo
* La Despensa De Don Juan hypermarket.

Food

Trying out some of the popular dishes in San Salvador El Salvador is one of the popular things to do there. Popular dishes include:

* Purpusas, which are delicious handmade tortillas made out of corn or rice flour. They are usually filled with cheese, chorizo and vegetables.

* Yuca Fritas, which are deep fried cassava root topped with vegetables.

* Panes Rellenos, which are delicious sandwiches filled with turkey or chicken, and served with vegetables.

Things to do in San Salvador El Salvador: Nightlife & Entertainment

For a trendy night scene, head to Zona Rosa district. Here, you can find many luxurious hotels and upscale bars, restaurants and nightclubs, as well as the popular Gran Via Shopping complex which features plenty of bars, restaurants and cinemas.

Apart from bars and clubs, you can enjoy a night out at the theater. For instance the Presidential Theater (Teatro Presidente), near the Embassy of Chile, is home to the San Salvador National Symphony which performs here regularly.

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