La Palma is a Spanish island, one of the Canary Islands, known for its volcanic landscapes and lush vegetation. It's often called "La Isla Bonita" (The Beautiful Island) due to its diverse scenery, including the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, a large volcanic crater. The island is also known for its starry skies, dramatic cliffs, and beaches with dark volcanic sand.
November to March (Dry & Cool Season):
✅ Best weather for walking, hiking, and shopping
✅ Crisp mountain air and clear views
April to October (Wet Season):
🌿 Greenest landscapes, especially beautiful pine forests
🌧️ Light afternoon showers — great time for cozy mountain stays
🚗 By Car:
~2.5 to 3-hour scenic drive from San Salvador via CA-3 to Chalatenango, then north to La Palma
Roads are paved but winding through hills
🚌 By Bus:
Buses from Terminal de Oriente in San Salvador to Chalatenango, then transfer to La Palma (Route 125 or 509)
La Palma is the birthplace of El Salvador’s naïve art movement, popularized by artist Fernando Llort
Murals, painted signs, and buildings in bright, childlike patterns adorn the entire town
Visit artisan workshops to learn about painting, woodcraft, and ceramics
Take part in a painting or souvenir-making class
Small central plaza with cafés and souvenir shops
Church facade features a colorful mural in the signature La Palma style
Just 10 km from La Palma — highest point in El Salvador (~2,730 meters)
🌬️ Cool alpine climate, hiking trails, and pine forests
Great for stargazing and even frost sightings in winter months
Commemorates the 1984 peace talks held in La Palma during the civil war
Offers beautiful mountain views and historical significance
🛍️ Shop for hand-painted crafts, keychains, furniture, and Christmas ornaments
🎨 Take an art or wood painting class
🚶 Explore murals on a self-guided walking tour
🥾 Hike to El Pital or go birdwatching in the pine forest
📷 Capture the colorful streets and artistic walls
☕ Relax in a mountain café with a hot chocolate or local coffee
Hotel La Palma – comfortable and centrally located
Posada El Pital – rustic mountain charm with views
Cabañas Miramundo – simple cabins near the forest, great for nature lovers
Cabañas El Pital Highland – cozy wooden cabins, perfect for stargazing
Entre Nubes Glamping – luxury tents with firepits and mountain views
La Fonda del Llano – traditional Salvadoran food and mountain ambiance
Café La Casona – local coffee, pupusas, and snacks
Comedor El Mirador – casual dining with scenic views
El Pital restaurants – offer caldo de gallina india (chicken soup), grilled meats, and hot chocolate
La Palma's culture is deeply tied to art, community, and peace
Art is both economic lifeline and identity — families pass down painting skills
Annual events:
Festival del Arte – celebrating local crafts and performances
Peace commemorations in October
Strong connection to nature, sustainability, and rural life