La Paz

Birthplace of figures who shaped Salvadoran history, holder of many beaches and cities full of traditions, La Paz is one of the central-zone departments that awaits you with open arms.

Its name in Nahuatl means: the dwelling of the little fish, which is why it has many tourist sites with water springs, such as Ichanmichen Water Park. Its capital is Zacatecoluca and its inhabitants are known as viroleños.

Among its attractions are volcanic-sand beaches, which are very popular; one of the most famous is La Costa del Sol, located near El Salvador International Airport San Óscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez, which lies in the same department.

The airport is a departure point for visiting different tourist places, such as the pineapple farms in Santa María Ostuma, where the Pineapple Festival is celebrated year after year. A mandatory stop is Olocuilta, a district renowned for its delicious rice pupusas, and where every second Sunday of November the National Pupusa Day is celebrated.

La Paz has festivals that have managed to endure over time, such as the patron saint feast in honor of the Virgin of the Assumption, celebrated from August 15 to 18, the dances of El Tigre and El Venado, Los Toros de Ascensión and Las Palancas de la Santa Cruz.

Another of the most striking destinations for nationals and foreigners is the Estero de Jaltepeque, which once a year becomes the setting for the International Marlin Fishing Tournament, an event that gathers participants and tourists from El Salvador, the United States, Costa Rica and Guatemala.

Impressive rivers and rock formations also form part of the scenic beauty of this department, such as those located in San Antonio Masahuat, just 20 minutes from the Ruta Panorámica, with a breathtaking view of Lago de Ilopango, Volcán de San Vicente and San Salvador; lookouts, cafés, restaurants and nurseries await you in this area.

As you can see, La Paz has a solid tourism development, where the hotel offer adapts to different budgets and the dining options you can enjoy will depend on the place you choose.