The ultimate guide to: El Salvador

El Salvador, a country known for its rich culture, stunning landscapes and complex history, has been a silent protagonist in numerous films, books, and TV shows. This compact Central American nation has served as a captivating backdrop, offering an array of unique settings that have been beautifully captured on screen. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll journey through El Salvador’s cinematic locations, from the bustling streets of its capital, San Salvador, to the serene beaches along its coastline. We’ll also explore the country’s rich literary history, delve into local folklore, and provide practical tips to ensure a memorable trip.

10 Famous Films Shot in El Salvador

El Salvador’s natural beauty and vibrant culture have caught the attention of many filmmakers. Let’s delve into ten films that have captured the essence of this intriguing nation:

1. Romero (1989): This biographical film portrays the life of Archbishop Oscar Romero, a prominent figure in El Salvador’s history. Various locations across the country were used to authentically depict the era.
2. Innocent Voices (2004): This war film was shot in various parts of El Salvador, showcasing both the country’s scenic beauty and the harsh realities of its past.
3. Salvador (1986): Oliver Stone’s political drama was partially filmed in El Salvador, capturing the intensity of the civil war era.
4. El Salvador: The People Will Win (1980): This documentary feature was shot on location during the early stages of the Salvadoran Civil War, providing a raw insight into the country’s turbulent history.
5. Cadejo Blanco (2018): This Salvadoran horror film showcases local talent and utilizes the country’s landscapes to create a chilling atmosphere.
6. The Precocious and Brief Life of Sabina Rivas (2012): Although primarily set in Guatemala, key parts of this film were shot in El Salvador, adding to its Central American authenticity.
7. Seeds of Gold (2015): This documentary explores El Salvador’s coffee industry, featuring stunning shots of the country’s coffee plantations.
8. La Palabra de Pablo (2018): This psychological thriller was entirely shot in El Salvador, providing a glimpse into the country’s upper-class society.
9. Quien Paga La Cuenta (2013): This romantic comedy showcases the lighter side of El Salvador, featuring various landmarks in the capital city of San Salvador.
10. Guerrero (2017): This short film was shot in El Salvador, showcasing its beautiful landscapes and local talent.

5 TV Shows Set in El Salvador

El Salvador’s unique blend of urban and rural landscapes, coupled with its rich history, provides an ideal setting for TV shows. Here are five that have captured the spirit of this Central American country:

1. The Path (2016-2018): This American drama series features scenes set in El Salvador, highlighting the country’s religious diversity and vibrant culture.
2. Locked Up Abroad (2007-present): This documentary series includes episodes recounting the experiences of individuals in El Salvador, providing an insight into the country’s penal system.
3. Gangland (2007-2010): El Salvador’s gang culture is explored in this American documentary series, offering a stark contrast to the country’s serene landscapes.
4. Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations (2005-2012): The El Salvador episode of this travel and food show presented an authentic culinary journey through the country.
5. Destination Truth (2007-2012): This reality series explored the folklore of El Salvador, delving into the local legends and myths that make the country culturally rich.

5 Animated Films Set in El Salvador

Although El Salvador may not be the first location that comes to mind when thinking of animated films, the country’s vibrant culture and intriguing folklore have inspired a few animated shorts:

1. The Jetsons Meet the Flintstones (1987): Although primarily set in the futuristic Orbit City and prehistoric Bedrock, this animated crossover film includes a scene where the Flintstone family vacations in El Salvador.
2. The Legend of the Nahuala (2007): While this Mexican animated film is not set in El Salvador, it explores the legend of the Nahuala, a folklore tale that is also prevalent in Salvadoran culture.
3. Cadejo Blanco (2018): This Salvadoran animated short film delves into the local legend of the Cadejo, a mythological creature of Central American folklore.
4. The Zwickys (2014): This film, although not fully animated, incorporates animation to illustrate the fantastical elements of the story. It was partly filmed in El Salvador, reflecting the country’s commitment to developing its film industry.
5. The Tangerine Bear (2000): In this animated film, the central character, Tangie, dreams of escaping to El Salvador, indicating the country’s reputation as a tropical paradise.

Famous Books Set in El Salvador: 3 Classic and 3 Contemporary

El Salvador’s complex history and vibrant culture have inspired numerous authors. Here are three classic and three contemporary books set in El Salvador that offer a literary exploration of the country:

Classic:

1. “One Day of Life” by Manlio Argueta: This novel provides a vivid portrayal of life in rural El Salvador during the civil war era.
2. “Senselessness” by Horacio Castellanos Moya: This novel delves into the horrors of the Salvadoran civil war, providing an unflinching examination of the era.
3. “Salvador” by Joan Didion: This non-fiction book offers a firsthand account of the author’s experiences in El Salvador during the early stages of the civil war.

Contemporary:

1. “The Farthest Home Is in an Empire of Fire” by John Phillip Santos: This memoir explores the author’s Salvadoran heritage, offering a personal perspective on the country’s history and culture.
2. “The She-Devil in the Mirror” by Horacio Castellanos Moya: This contemporary novel explores the aftermath of the civil war, seen through the eyes of a Salvadoran woman.
3. “The Sound of Things Falling” by Juan Gabriel Vásquez: Although primarily set in Colombia, key parts of this novel take place in El Salvador, providing a broader Central American context to the narrative.

Exploring El Salvador’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

For the film enthusiast, a trip to El Salvador offers the opportunity to explore some iconic filming locations. Here are some must-visit places:

1. San Salvador: The country’s capital has been used as a filming location for many movies, including local productions like “Cadejo Blanco” and international films like “Innocent Voices.”
2. Suchitoto: This picturesque colonial town served as a backdrop for “Romero,” offering a glimpse into El Salvador’s past.
3. Santa Ana: The country’s second-largest city is home to the Santa Ana Volcano, which has featured in several documentaries.
4. Coatepeque Lake: This stunning volcanic crater lake was showcased in “Seeds of Gold,” highlighting the country’s natural beauty.
5. Tazumal: These Mayan ruins in Chalchuapa have been featured in several documentaries, offering a rich historical context for any film.

Where to Sleep in El Salvador: Cheap and Luxury Options

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodation or budget-friendly options, El Salvador offers a range of places to stay:

Luxury:

1. Sheraton Presidente San Salvador Hotel: This luxury hotel offers top-tier service and amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and fine dining restaurant.
2. Barcelo San Salvador: This 5-star hotel in the heart of San Salvador offers spacious rooms, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
3. Los Almendros de San Lorenzo: This boutique hotel in Suchitoto offers a quiet retreat with beautifully decorated rooms and a pool.

Budget:

1. Hostal Cumbres del Volcan: This budget-friendly option in San Salvador offers clean rooms and a communal kitchen.
2. Hotel Tazumal House: This budget hotel offers basic amenities and is conveniently located in San Salvador.
3. La Zona Hostel: This hostel in Santa Ana offers dormitory-style rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

Where to Eat in El Salvador: Budget and Luxury Options

El Salvador’s culinary scene is diverse, offering a range of options to suit all budgets. Here are three budget-friendly and three luxury dining options:

Budget:

1. La Pampa Coatepeque: This lakeside restaurant offers affordable yet delicious seafood dishes.
2. Mercado Central: Located in San Salvador, this bustling market is the perfect place to try traditional Salvadoran street food.
3. Pupuserias: These small eateries are found throughout the country, offering the national dish, pupusas, at a very affordable price.

Luxury:

1. Faisca do Brasil: This high-end Brazilian steakhouse in San Salvador offers an all-you-can-eat dining experience.
2. Restaurante Hacienda Real: This restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a menu featuring local and international dishes.
3. La Ventana: This trendy restaurant in San Salvador offers creative fusion cuisine in a stylish setting.

Detailed Itinerary: Day by Day in El Salvador

For those looking to explore El Salvador’s cinematic locations, here’s a detailed five-day itinerary:

Day 1: San Salvador: Start your journey in the country’s capital, visiting iconic landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace. In the evening, head to Zona Rosa, a district known for its vibrant nightlife.

Day 2: Suchitoto: Spend the day exploring this colonial town, visiting the Santa Lucia Church and Casa Museo de Alejandro Cotto. In the afternoon, take a boat tour of Lake Suchitlán.

Day 3: Santa Ana & Coatepeque Lake: Start your day in Santa Ana, visiting the city’s cathedral and the nearby Tazumal ruins. In the afternoon, relax by Coatepeque Lake.

Day 4: Ruta de las Flores: Spend the day exploring this scenic route, known for its colorful towns and coffee plantations. Visit towns like Nahuizalco and Juayíºa, and enjoy the local cuisine.

Day 5: La Libertad & El Sunzal Beach: End your trip by the sea, visiting the surfing spots in La Libertad and the tranquil El Sunzal Beach. Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities About El Salvador’s Film Industry

El Salvador’s rich folklore and the burgeoning film industry provide a wealth of intriguing lore and trivia. The country’s folklore is rife with cryptid tales, including the legendary El Cipitio and La Siguanaba, creatures that have inspired local filmmakers.

The Salvadoran film industry itself is relatively young, with a growing number of local filmmakers making their mark both nationally and internationally. Despite the challenges faced by the industry, Salvadoran films have been recognized at prestigious film festivals, signaling a promising future for cinema in the country.

Hidden Gems in El Salvador

Beyond its famous landmarks, El Salvador is home to numerous hidden gems waiting to be discovered by intrepid travelers:

1. Perquí­n: This small town in Morazán is known for its Museum of the Salvadoran Revolution, providing an insightful look into the country’s past.
2. El Imposible National Park: This remote park is home to a diverse range of wildlife and offers various hiking trails.
3. Los Chorros: These natural thermal pools located near Santa Tecla offer a relaxing escape from the city.

What to Pack for a Trip to El Salvador

Packing for a trip to El Salvador requires considering the country’s tropical climate and varied landscapes. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for the warm, humid weather. A rain jacket or umbrella is essential during the rainy season (May to October), and a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent are crucial year-round. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city streets and archaeological sites. Don’t forget your swimsuit for the country’s beautiful beaches and thermal pools!

Transportation Tips for Getting Around El Salvador

Getting around El Salvador is relatively straightforward, with a variety of transportation options available:

Public Buses: These are a cheap and authentic way to travel, although they can be crowded and routes can be confusing for first-time visitors.

Taxis: Taxis are plentiful in cities and are a convenient way to travel short distances. It’s recommended to agree on a fare before starting your journey.

Rental Cars: Renting a car offers the most flexibility to explore at your own pace. However, be aware that driving standards can be different from what you’re used to at home.

Tour Operators: For hassle-free travel, consider booking a tour with a reputable local operator. They can provide transportation and guide services, often with the option to customize your itinerary.

Travel Documents Needed for Visiting El Salvador

When planning a trip to El Salvador, ensure you have the following travel documents:

1. Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
2. Tourist Card: Upon arrival, you’ll need to purchase a tourist card for $10, valid for 90 days.
3. Return or Onward Ticket: You may be asked to show proof of an onward or return ticket.
4. Proof of Sufficient Funds: Although it’s rarely requested, you may need to prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.

Wrapping Up: Your Ultimate El Salvador Movie Tour Guide

With its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, El Salvador offers a unique travel experience that transcends the typical tourist trail. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a seasoned traveler, or a curious explorer, this Central American gem invites you to discover its cinematic locations and experience its captivating stories. So get ready to step into your favorite scenes, immerse yourself in El Salvador’s vibrant culture, and embark on your own cinematic journey!