Good Time to Visit
Weather
El Salvador has a hot, subtropical climate that varies greatly with altitude. Coastal lowlands are particularly hot, with a single rainy season that runs from May to October. Upland areas have a more temperate climate. San Salvador on the central plateau has an average annual temperature of 23°C, and an average annual rainfall of 177 cm.
Visitors are advised to bring lightweight clothing for coastal areas, and warmer clothes for mountainous regions. Rainwear is recommended during the rainy season.
To find out more about Salvadorian weather, see Climate in El Salvador.
Festivals
Celebrations known as Samana Santa are held across the country in the week before Easter, and on other religious dates. On 4-6th August celebrations are held for the patron saint of El Salvador (Fiestas Patronales). Celebrations in the capital begin on 3rd August with a fair and large parade. Individual towns have their own festivals to honour their own patron saints.
Public Holidays
The following table shows the public holidays celebrated in El Salvador:
| Date | Holiday |
|---|---|
| 1 January | New Year's Day |
| March/April (variable) | Good Friday |
| March/April (variable) | Easter Day |
| March/April (variable) | Easter Monday |
| 1 May | Labour Day |
| 3 August | Fiesta de San Salvador |
| 4-6 August | Fiestas Patronales |
| 15 September | Independence Day |
| 2 November | All Souls' Day |
| 24-25 December | Christmas Day |
| 31 December | New Year's Eve |