Duration: at least 2 days
Stay: Hotel y Restaurante Brisas del Golfo
Getting from Nicaragua to El Salvador can be quite a ride if you travel by bus via Honduras. Luckily we stumbled upon the most scenic and relaxed way to cross borders: A boat ride via Golfo de Fonseca. Golfo de Fonseca is a gulf on the Pacific coast bordering Nicaragua, El Salvador, and Honduras making it the most convenient way to cross borders between the countries (if the waters are calm). Golfo de Fonseca is home to a large number of islands, the majority of which are uninhabited. Isla del Tigre is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the gulf. Golfo de Fonseca is also an important fishing ground, especially for shrimp.
It is possible to leave Potosi in the morning and be in El Salvador by noon, a stop on Isle del Tigre is worthwhile!
Nicaragua has been fantastic. But we have long been excited to visit El Salvador. Even though we do not mind bus rides in Central America, going by public bus from Nicaragua to El Salvador seemed like a long journey.
Of course, we were excited to learn that there is a supposedly more effortless way to get from Nicaragua to El Salvador by boat via Potosi.
How to get to El Salvador from Nicaragua by boat
Chinandega - the hub to El Salvador& Honduras
Our first stop Chinandega surprised us with its liveliness and vibrant flair. Just about 2 hours outside of Léon, the city functions as a gateway to Honduras and El Salvador as well as beautiful landscapes of the northwest of Nicaragua. Chinandega may not be one of Nicaragua’s most popular travel destinations, but it startled us with its authenticity and lively market. You can visit the nearby Cosiguina Volcano National Park from Chinandega and enjoy various activities, such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
After strolling around the authentic town, we squeezed into the fullest chicken bus of our journey.
From Potosi, Nicaragua to La Union, El Salvador
Stacked over each other, we traveled to Potosi, a small village lying at the feed of the impressive volcano Cosigüina. A relatively easy hike of 3,5 hours rewards visitors with stunning views not just of the volcanic lake, but also of the Golf de Fonseca and the neighboring countries El Salvador and Honduras.
Our host advised us to just head to the border and wait there around 10 am. So, we did what we were told. The next morning we headed to the border. Unlike other Central and South American borders, the immigration office is nestled in a tranquil and idyllic location close to the sea.
We were the only people who seemed to be leaving or coming in. After getting our immigration papers, we waited by the sea.
We didn’t mind the wait. It was an excellent opportunity to dip into the ocean for the first time during this journey.
Isla Meguera
Isla Meguera is a small island located in the Golfo de Fonseca, and even though it has almost no touristic infrastructure, it is the most visited island in the Gulf. The former Lenca settlement offers incredible views of the gulf and the neighboring islands of Conchagüita and Zacatillo.
Best (and only) places to stay on Isla Meguera
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- Hotel La Joya del Golfo
- Homestay: Vicente Osorio (tel. 2648-0083)
Get ready to travel El Salvador
Costs of the border crossing
After talking to several other travelers, passing via Honduras by bus is not much cheaper, takes a lot longer and lacks the beautiful and relaxing vibes of crossing borders by boat. We paid 40$ per person plus some dollars for chicken buses. Our captains, Mario, and his father were so kind and helpful.
How long does the border crossing take?
Expecting a rough 5 hours ride to La Union, El Salvador, we were surprised by the calm sea surrounded by small volcanic islands. We were lucky: the ride took about 2,5 hours. It goes by way too quick. Add some hours for “waiting” though. The islands are worth a visit, so if you can bring some extra time
Exit and entry fees from Nicaragua to El Salvador
Nicaragua charges an exit fee of $2, so bring small bills.
Tap water
Do not drink tap water in El Salvador; bring your Lifestraw instead! While water from the national water company (ANDA) is generally safe, you never know the water source the restaurant, hotels, and so on may use.
Biggest challenge for the responsible traveler
Trash: As anywhere in Latin America, a lot of street food is served in plastic or one-way containers. Make sure to bring your foldable food container with you. Don’t forget to bring your Lifestraw, too.
Packing List Central America
Central America is super diverse and offers plenty of things to do. Check out our packing list, get ready for an incredible adventure!
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Places to visit in El Salvador
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Copan – a pleasant if not surprising stop in Honduras
We traveled to Central America a couple of times and had the chance to see several Maya sites along the way. Each impressive in its own way. Contrary to other Maya ruins across Central America. You’ll often have Copan to yourself. The mysterious archaeological site boasts remarkable hieroglyphics and sculptures. On top of that, the town of Copan itself is drop-dead charming.
Santa Ana – a volcanic crater lake and colonial charm
Excited for the last volcano for this journey was awaiting us tomorrow. Volcano Santa Ana’s incredibly impressive crater marks the highlight for many travelers coming to El Salvador for a good reason. We were left speechless (and breathless) when we first set our eyes on the turquoise crater lake.
