Coffee exports account for over 90% of El Salvador's economy. However, in attempt to diversify the economy El Salvador established a manufacturing sector in its territory, and building trade and financial links with other countries.

El Salvador’s most notable dish is the “Pupusa,” a thick handmade corn flour or rice flour tortilla. In addition, tortillas, rice and beans are the main foods in El Salvador. Typically food is always eaten with utensils. 

National Park Cerro Verde in El Salvador houses over 500 different species of birds and a rare species of black hawk eagle. In addition, El Salvador has five national parks in the country; Montecristo, El Boqueron, Conchagua, El Impossible and Cerro Verde. 

El Salvador has over 20 volcanoes, two of which are currently active. This gives El Salvador the title of  "Land of Volcanoes". The Chaparrastique is considered to be the most active volcano in the region erupting over 26 times in the last 500 years.

In addition, it is the smallest country in Central America and the only one without a Caribbean coastline. 

El Salvador has only two seasons. The wet season runs from May to October, and the dry season runs from November to April.

No matter the season, El Salvador is one of the most popular surfing destinations in the world. Many surfing competitions are hosted every year.

Indigenous groups such as the Mayas and the Lencas inhabited El Salvador’s territory during pre-Columbian times.  However, the country was “conquered” when the Spaniards took control of the Kingdom of Cuzcatlan inhabited by the Pipiles (a group descending from the Aztecs). 

After reading all of these facts, you still have questions and want to hear from a former study abroad student what they experienced in El Salvador? Check out this page with students reviews!