A Total Access Boots-on-the-Ground Trip
El Salvador: Witnessing a Nation's Transformation
December 2-8, 2024
All slots have been sold out!
Contact us at [email protected] to be added to the waiting list.
We cannot be more thrilled to invite you to join us on a truly exceptional journey to El Salvador: a country in the midst of significant change.
This boots-on-the-ground trip will offer you all a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the transformation of a nation that’s rapidly redefining itself on the global stage.
Many of you probably know that under President Nayib Bukele’s leadership, El Salvador has gone through a number of bold reforms and implemented some truly innovative policies.
From becoming the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender to implementing aggressive crime reduction strategies, our CEO Viktorija herself has witnessed just a month ago how El Salvador is writing a new chapter in its history. And by joining Viktorija on this special trip, you’ll have an insider’s view of the process.
We can make such an authentic itinerary possible because of our exclusive network of local contacts, who will open doors that would normally remain closed to regular tourists visiting El Salvador.
But as you know by now, we don’t do ‘regular’. For our members, we go above and beyond, crafting itineraries filled with special experiences and opportunities not available to others.
On our next boots-on-the-ground trip, at the beginning of December, you’ll engage in frank discussions with El Salvador’s government officials about their vision for the country’s future.
Cryptocurrency pioneers who’ve made “Bitcoin Beach” their home will share insights into the realities of building a decentralized financial ecosystem. Local entrepreneurs will offer candid perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in this evolving business landscape.
But this journey isn’t solely about policy and economics.
El Salvador’s natural beauty is just as intriguing.
We’ll hike the slopes of ancient volcanoes, enjoying landscapes that span centuries of history. You’ll also have the chance to swim in pristine waterfalls hidden in lush forests. And for those seeking adventure on the waves, El Salvador’s Pacific coast offers world-class surfing opportunities.
Our carefully selected dining experiences will introduce you to the rich flavors of Salvadoran cuisine. From traditional pupuserias serving hearty comfort food to innovative restaurants pushing culinary boundaries, each meal will deepen your understanding of the country’s culture.
But above all, this trip will be yet another unique opportunity to build and strengthen the extraordinary bonds that unite our Total Access members.
This boots-on-the-ground trip continues our tradition of providing unparalleled access to countries at pivotal moments.
Just as our Uzbekistan trip in 2019 offered insights into a nation cautiously opening to the world, and our recent Cuban adventure peeled back layers of a long-isolated society, El Salvador presents an opportunity to observe a country actively reshaping its future.
And for those of you who might be wondering about safety in El Salvador, we can tell you firsthand that the old idea of it being a “dangerous” place is seriously out of date.
Over the course of Viktorija’s recent trip there, she was amazed at the changes. Thanks to Bukele’s recent policies, the country has gotten a major security upgrade. It’s totally changed daily life for the locals, and visitors like us can feel a huge difference too. It’s not the El Salvador you might have heard about in the past.
We cannot stress enough how this trip, similar to our other boots-on-the-ground explorations, is going to be so much more than your typical travel experience. In the case of El Salvador, it’s a chance to witness history in the making, to see firsthand how decisive leadership and innovative policies can reshape a nation’s trajectory.
You’ll also connect with visionaries who see opportunity where others once saw only challenges. So, join us for this exciting and enlightening journey. Experience El Salvador’s transformation firsthand, gain insights that go beyond the headlines, and form your own impressions of this country’s bold new direction.
Below, please find a detailed itinerary with more information about the upcoming trip.
Please note that this trip involves a moderate level of physical activity, including volcano hikes and treks through tropical forests to waterfalls. When considering signing up, ensure you’re comfortable with these activities to fully enjoy all aspects of the trip.
Please keep in mind that certain itinerary items, including activities and restaurants mentioned below, may change as the trip approaches.
Itinerary
Day 1: Check in at the Hotel, Welcome Drinks and Dinner at Monarca (Monday, December 2)
Upon your arrival in the capital San Salvador, meet your driver who will take you to your accommodations. Check-in at Hyatt Centric, a brand new and most conveniently located hotel in the city, where you will spend the first four nights of the trip.
The hotel offers comfortable, stylishly designed rooms, beautiful city views, and a lovely pool. After settling in, you can relax by the pool and take in the unforgettable vistas before dinner.
For drinks and dinner, we will visit one of the most popular and unique restaurants of San Salvador, Monarca. Led by renowned Chef Fernando Arguedas, Monarca features signature dishes that are creative, innovative, and daring, taking you on an unparalleled gastronomic journey.
Accommodations: Hyatt Centric, San Salvador
Day 2: Exploring the National Library, Meeting Invest in El Salvador Reps, Airport Logistics Center Tour, Dinner on the Beach (Tuesday, December 3)
After breakfast, we will start our second day with a visit to a very special place – the new National Library of El Salvador (Binaes), the largest and most modern of its kind in all of Central America and probably in the world. This impressive facility is one of the most advanced libraries we’ve encountered and beautifully represents El Salvador’s vision for its future.
Following our exploration of the library, we’ll meet with representatives from Invest in El Salvador, an important local governmental organization. They’ll engage our group in a discussion about why El Salvador is an intriguing destination for both investment and lifestyle opportunities.
For lunch, we’ll dine at a highly recommended Italian restaurant located on the top floor of the library building with amazing panoramic city views. Afterward, we’ll head to El Salvador’s International Airport to continue our meetings with local entrepreneurs and visit a large logistics center.
To cap off the day, we’ll enjoy a relaxing evening of drinks aboard a private boat owned by a local businessman, followed by dinner at a lively beachfront restaurant on the beautiful Costa del Sol beach.
After dinner, we’ll make our way back to the Hyatt Centric in San Salvador, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s diverse experiences before resting up for another exciting day ahead.
Accommodations: Hyatt Centric, San Salvador
Day 3: Visit to American Industrial Park, Meeting Local Developers, Concepcion de Ataco, and Dinner at El Xolo (Wednesday, December 4)
Wednesday promises another day filled with exciting adventures, interesting meetings, and delicious culinary experiences.
After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll travel to Santa Elena to visit one of the most prominent companies in El Salvador in charge of developing a variety of very important projects.
We will meet the company executives for an informative meeting, and from there will head to The American Industrial Park, the largest free trade zone in El Salvador. This vast tech park boasts over 200,000 m2 of industrial buildings and hosts more than 26 international companies.
Next, we’ll head to Concepcion de Ataco, a charming town near a famous national park. Known for its cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, artisan markets, and views of nearby volcanoes and mountains, Ataco offers a picturesque setting for our lunch at a local restaurant.
Upon returning to San Salvador, you’ll have time to relax at the hotel before dinner.
Our evening meal will be at a very special venue – El Xolo. This is one of the top restaurants in Latin America at the moment, renowned for its innovative blend of Mesoamerican, Salvadoran, and Creole cuisine.
After dinner, we’ll return to the hotel for a good night’s rest. We recommend turning in early, as we have an early start planned to make the most of the following day’s adventures.
Accommodations: Hyatt Centric, San Salvador
Day 4: Santa Ana Volcano Hike, Chilling at a Lakeside Resort, Dinner at Brutto (Thursday, December 5)
We’ll start our day early, leaving from the hotel at 6 AM for an invigorating hike up the Santa Ana volcano. This early start will allow us to enjoy the breathtaking views and cooler temperatures during the hike.
From the top, you will have an amazing view of Lake Coatepeque, and from the summit, you can look down into the crater of Santa Ana Volcano to see the beautiful emerald green water of the crater lake.
This is a moderate difficulty hike of about 4 miles, which usually takes about 2-3 hours. Please ensure you’re in adequate physical condition to participate in this hike, and bring appropriate footwear for the hike.
After our hike, we’ll refuel with breakfast at Casa 1800, nestled in the picturesque Cerro Verde. This charming restaurant offers a blend of traditional Salvadoran cuisine with a modern twist, all set against the backdrop of lush, green landscapes.
From there, we’ll head to a serene lakeside retreat: a private residence of our local contact. Here, we’ll unwind and enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the water.
The setting will provide a perfect opportunity to relax, listen to some music, and engage in casual conversation with your fellow travelers. A catered lunch will be served, featuring a selection of local delicacies that showcase El Salvador’s rich culinary traditions.
In the late afternoon, we’ll return to the hotel, allowing you some time to refresh and change before our evening plans.
We’ll cap off this adventure-filled day with dinner at Brutto, one of San Salvador’s most exciting new restaurants.
Known for its innovative approach to Asian-fusion cuisine, Brutto offers a creative menu, curated by acclaimed local chefs, featuring a modern interpretation of a variety of dishes, all prepared with locally-sourced ingredients.
Accommodations: Hyatt Centric, San Salvador
Day 5: OneTeam Paralympic Training Center, Surfing at Bitcoin Beach, Beachfront Dinner with Local Entrepreneurs (Friday, December 6)
We will start our day with a relaxed breakfast at the Hyatt Centric hotel, enjoying our last morning in San Salvador. You can then take your time to pack and check out, as we transition to the next exciting part of our trip.
Mid-morning, we’ll depart for “Bitcoin Beach”, Playa El Zonte. En route, we’ll make a special stop at OneTeam, El Salvador’s premier Paralympic Training Center. This visit promises to be a highlight of our trip, offering a unique and inspiring experience.
OneTeam is more than just a training facility; it’s a beacon of hope and determination. Here, we’ll have the privilege of meeting local Paralympic athletes and learning about their incredible journeys. You’ll witness the resilience and spirit that drive these amazing individuals as they prepare to represent El Salvador on the world stage.
We’ll enjoy lunch with the athletes and local entrepreneurs, providing an opportunity for intimate conversations and gaining insights into the challenges and triumphs of Paralympic sports in El Salvador.
After our inspiring visit to OneTeam, we’ll continue to Playa El Zonte, checking into the best facility in the area: Garten Hotel. The afternoon offers an optional surf lesson for those keen to ride the waves of this famous beach.
We’ll cap off the day with dinner at La Bonita Beach Club at the nearby Tunco Beach, where you can relax, reflect on the day’s experiences, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of El Salvador’s coast.
Accommodations: Garten Hotel, Playa El Zonte
Day 6: Tamanique Waterfalls Hike, Rum Tasting, Private Dinner with Local Chef (Saturday, December 7)
We will begin our final full day in El Salvador with a refreshing breakfast at the El Garten Hotel, preparing for an adventure-filled morning ahead.
We’ll then set out for a scenic hike to nearby Tamanique waterfalls, immersing ourselves in the lush natural beauty of the region. This hike is designed to be enjoyable rather than strenuous, but please note that you should be comfortable walking for a few hours on varied terrain.
The reward for our efforts will be the chance to swim in pristine, cascading waterfalls – a perfect way to cool off. Following our invigorating morning, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local spot, savoring regional flavors.
Returning to the Garten Hotel in the afternoon, we have a special treat in store. You’ll have the opportunity to meet the hotel’s owner, along with other prominent figures in the local crypto community. Over drinks, engage in fascinating discussions about Bitcoin Beach and the future of cryptocurrency in El Salvador.
As the afternoon progresses, we’ll indulge in a curated rum tasting session at the hotel, exploring the rich flavors and history of this quintessential Caribbean spirit.
To cap off our trip, we’ll arrange a special catered dinner at the Garten Hotel. An invited chef will prepare a memorable meal, showcasing the best of Salvadoran cuisine. This farewell dinner will be shared with our new friends from the crypto community, providing a perfect setting to cement connections and reflect on our El Salvador adventure.
Accommodation: Garten Hotel, Playa El Zonte
Day 7: Sunday, December 8: Departures Throughout The Day
On the last day of our trip, after breakfast at Garten Hotel, we’ll arrange private transfers to the El Salvador International Airport for everyone in the group, depending on when your flight departs.
Accommodations
Our journey begins with a four-night stay at the Hyatt Centric San Salvador, the newest hotel in town. It’s a modern oasis in the heart of El Salvador’s vibrant capital city. This stylish lodging will serve as the perfect base for our exploration of San Salvador and its surroundings.
Located in the upscale Zona Rosa neighborhood, the Hyatt Centric offers easy access to the city’s key business districts, shopping areas, and cultural attractions. The hotel’s contemporary design reflects the energy and spirit of San Salvador, blending comfort with local flair.
Rooms at the Hyatt Centric are thoughtfully decorated, featuring plush bedding, work areas, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the city or the nearby volcanoes. Modern amenities include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and spacious bathrooms with rainfall showers.
The hotel also boasts an outdoor pool on the 8th floor, providing a refreshing retreat after a day of exploration. There is also a well-equipped gym available 24/7.
Dining options at the Hyatt Centric cater to various tastes. The signature restaurant, 1,540 Bar & Restaurant, offers a menu that celebrates local and international cuisines. Meanwhile, the rooftop bar provides a trendy spot to unwind with cocktails while enjoying panoramic city views.
For the final two nights of our trip, we’ll transition to the laid-back coastal vibe of El Zonte Beach, also known as Bitcoin Beach. Our home here will be the Garten Hotel, an upscale boutique property that perfectly captures the essence of this innovative and surf-friendly community.
Garten Hotel offers a stark contrast to our city accommodations, providing an intimate, nature-centric experience. This boutique hotel is designed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings, offering stunning ocean views and direct access to the beach.
The rooms at Garten are thoughtfully designed with a minimalist aesthetic that emphasizes natural materials and local craftsmanship.
Each room features a private balcony or terrace, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the tropical setting. Despite its secluded feel, the hotel doesn’t skimp on modern comforts, offering air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and organic toiletries.
A highlight of the Garten Hotel experience is their exclusive villas, offering even more luxury and privacy. Each villa features a private pool, allowing guests to enjoy a refreshing dip while taking in breathtaking ocean views. Inside, the villas boast fully equipped kitchens, dining areas, and comfortable living spaces adorned with local art.
Useful Information
Entry Requirements
You’ll only need the following to enter the country:
- Valid passport
- Return ticket from El Salvador
- Tourist card (purchase upon arrival, $12), for US passport holders and some EU country passport holders.
Note that most people won’t need a visa to enter El Salvador – but citizens of certain countries are required to pay $12 for a “tourist card” upon arrival at the El Salvador International Airport. You can check the full list of visa-free and “tourist card” upon arrival countries, here.
Climate and Weather
In early December, San Salvador experiences pleasant and mild weather. The city’s elevation (658 meters or 2,160 feet above sea level) contributes to its comfortable climate.
Daytime temperatures typically range from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F). Nighttime temperatures usually drop to around 17°C to 20°C (63°F to 68°F).
Rainfall is minimal, as December marks the beginning of the dry season. You might experience occasional short showers, but prolonged rain is uncommon. Humidity levels are moderate, making it comfortable to walk around.
The weather at Santa Ana Volcano can be quite different from the capital due to its higher elevation (2,381 meters or 7,812 feet above sea level). Daytime temperatures at the base of the volcano are similar to San Salvador, but they decrease as you ascend.
At the summit, daytime temperatures typically range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). Early mornings and evenings can be quite cool, with temperatures potentially dropping to 5°C to 8°C (41°F to 46°F). Cloud cover is common in the mornings, often clearing by midday. Wind can be a factor, especially at higher elevations, so you should bring layers for the volcano hike.
El Zonte, located on the coast, experiences warmer temperatures and higher humidity compared to the inland areas. Daytime temperatures usually range from 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F). Evenings are balmy, with temperatures rarely dropping below 22°C (72°F).
The ocean breeze provides some relief from the heat and humidity.
Water temperatures are inviting, typically around 27°C to 29°C (81°F to 84°F), ideal for swimming and surfing.
Overall, early December in El Salvador offers generally dry and pleasant weather across these diverse locations. The variation in elevation from the coast to the volcanic regions provides an interesting mix of microclimates, so packing layers is a good idea to ensure comfort throughout your trip.
And don’t forget to bring mosquito repellent with you! While mosquitoes are less of a concern in December compared to the rainy season, it’s still wise to take basic precautions (like using a repellent or wearing longer sleeves and long pants in dawn/dusk) to ensure a comfortable trip.
Clothing
You will want to pack versatile clothing that can adapt to various activities and microclimates. Bring items that allow for easy layering and are suitable for both urban explorations and outdoor adventures.
Pack some lightweight, breathable shirts in both short and long-sleeve options. These can be paired with comfortable, quick-drying pants or shorts, depending on the day’s activities. For cooler evenings in San Salvador or at higher elevations, pack a light jacket or sweater.
Don’t forget to include swimwear for beach activities and waterfall hikes. Also, footwear is crucial for this trip. Bring a pair of sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots for the Santa Ana Volcano hike. Sandals or flip-flops are perfect for beach days and casual wear.
To protect against the strong tropical sun, pack a sun hat, and consider bringing a light scarf or shawl for additional sun protection or as an extra layer.
While December is generally dry, it’s wise to pack a light rain jacket or poncho for occasional showers.
Finally, don’t forget to pack one smart-casual outfit for dinners at nicer restaurants and more formal meetings.
You may want to choose light, neutral colors for cooler comfort and to avoid attracting insects, as well as quick-dry fabrics that are ideal for easy washing and reuse during the trip.
Electrical Outlets
El Salvador uses the same type of electrical outlets and voltage as the United States, which makes it convenient for U.S. travelers. The standard electrical outlets in El Salvador are Type A and Type B, featuring two flat parallel pins (Type A) or two flat parallel pins and a round grounding pin (Type B).
These are the same types commonly used in the United States and Canada. The voltage in El Salvador is 120V, and the standard frequency is 60Hz, also matching the U.S. system.
You may need a power plug adapter in El Salvador for sockets type A. Sockets type B can fit your plugs, but may not always be available locally, so it might be a good idea to pack a 3-to-2 prong adapter to fit your plugs B into sockets type A.
It might be useful to pack a small surge protector or power strip if you plan to charge multiple devices simultaneously, as the number of available outlets in hotel rooms can sometimes be limited.
Includes
LODGING + FULL BOARD
- 4 nights at the 5-star Hyatt Centric San Salvador (King Suite w/city views), inclusive of breakfast.
- 2 nights at 5-star luxury boutique Garten Hotel (Deluxe Suite or Villa), inclusive of breakfast.
- All dinners and lunches listed in the itinerary (inclusive of all drinks), including at world- famous restaurants such Monarca, Brutto, El Xolo.
- Catered lunch at a private lakeside residence.
- Private Chef’s Dinner with chef and reception at Garten Hotel in El Zonte.
ACTIVITIES
- Tour of the National Library with a guide, learning about the project and San Salvador’s most recent changes as a city in transformation.
- Private tour of the logistics center near El Salvador International Airport.
- Private guided tour of Concepcion de Ataco colonial town.
- Hike to Santa Ana volcano accompanied by a professional guide.
- Access to OneTeam Paralympic Training Center and meeting with the athletes.
- Guided hike to Tamanique waterfalls in El Zonte vicinity.
- Surf lesson with a professional instructor in El Zonte.
- Private rum tasting at Garten Hotel.
- Meetings with prominent figures in the “Bitcoin Beach” community.
- All entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary when visiting local attractions.
TRANSPORTATION
- Private transfer from El Salvador International Airport (SAL) to Hyatt Centric hotel in San Salvador.
- All required ground transportation while in San Salvador.
- Private ground transfer to and from Costa del Sol.
- Private ground transfer to and from Santa Ana volcano.
- Private ground transportation to Concepcion de Ataco town.
- Private ground transfer from San Salvador to El Zonte Beach, stopping at OneTeam Paralympic Training Center.
- Private ground transportation while in El Zonte (waterfalls, beachfront restaurants).
- Private transfers from Garten Hotel to El Salvador International Airport (SAL).
OTHER ITEMS INCLUDED:
- All tips at restaurants, tips to guides, drivers, etc.
Excludes
- International flight to/from El Salvador International Airport (SAL).
- Refreshments, bottled drinks and bar bills outside standard itinerary/scheduled meals.
- Alternative activities not included in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses and tips for hotel staff.
- Extra expenses in hotels: spa, laundry, minibar, telephone calls, etc.
- Tickets to tourist attractions not included in the itinerary.
- Any extensions before or after the trip.
Cancellation Policy
We are so excited to see the interest in this trip, and worked hard to negotiate the best price on all of these high-end experiences, exclusively for our members.
Please note that due to the nature of the trip and the size of the group, we can only allow cancellations if we can find a replacement for your spot.
Please remember to check your calendar first… Cancellations/refunds will only be issued if a replacement is found.
Price
The trip is scheduled for December 2-8 (7 days/6 nights).
The cost for individual attendees is $3995 per person (five Single-Occupancy slots are available).
The cost for double-occupancy slots is $6500 for two people (three Double-Occupancy slots are available).
Pricing is based on 12 attendees (Viktorija will be traveling with you).
Please also note that spots are sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
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