Maps of El Salvador

El Salvador, often referred to as the "Land of Volcanoes," is situated in Central America. It is bordered by Honduras to the northeast and east, Guatemala to the northwest, and the Pacific Ocean to the south. Spanning a compact area of 8,124 square miles (21,041 square kilometers), El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America. Its varied geography is divisible into four main regions: the coastal lowlands, the central plateau and valleys, the northern mountains, and the eastern plains.

The coastal lowlands run parallel to the Pacific Ocean, stretching across the entire southern border of the country. This region includes the narrow coastal plain, characterized by sandy beaches, mangrove swamps, and estuaries. It provides excellent conditions for salt production. Moreover, it hosts several beach resorts, making it a significant contributor to El Salvador's tourism industry.

Inland from the coastal lowlands, the central plateau and valleys rise to an elevation ranging from 1,600 to 2,300 feet (500 to 700 meters). This region houses El Salvador's capital, San Salvador, and is the heartland of the country's agricultural activity, particularly coffee cultivation. The area is also known for its numerous volcanoes, some of which are still active. The capital itself lies at the foot of the San Salvador volcano. This volcanic activity has created rich, fertile soils that are ideal for farming.

Beyond the central plateau and valleys lie the northern mountains, a rugged terrain with elevations reaching up to 8,957 feet (2,730 meters) at the summit of El Pital, the country's highest point. These mountains are home to the cloud forests of Montecristo National Park. The northern region is also rich in mineral resources, including gold, silver, and copper.

The eastern plains of El Salvador are the fourth geographical region, and it consists of flatlands extending to the border with Honduras. It provides additional space for agriculture and cattle raising.

When it comes to bodies of water, El Salvador possesses several prominent features. The most significant is Lago de Coatepeque, one of the largest lakes in the country, formed as a result of a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. Another noteworthy lake is Lago de Ilopango, the country's largest crater lake located near the capital, San Salvador.

El Salvador's primary river, the Rio Lempa, originates in Guatemala, winds through the mountains of Honduras, and traverses the length of El Salvador before emptying into the Pacific Ocean. It plays a critical role in the country's agriculture, serving as a crucial water source for irrigation. The river also has hydroelectric dams that generate a significant portion of El Salvador's electricity.

Departments of El Salvador Map

El Salvador (officially, the Republic of El Salvador) is divided into 14 departments (departamentos, sing. departamento). In alphabetical order, the departments are: Ahuachapan, Cabanas, Chalatenango, Cuscatlan, La Libertad, La Paz, La Union, Morazan, San Miguel, San Salvador, San Vicente, Santa Ana, Sonsonate and Usulutan. These departments are further subdivided into 262 municipalities (municipios).

Covering a total area of 21,041 sq. km, El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America. It is also the most densely populated Central American nation. Located in the Valley of the Hammocks, on the Ace Chaute River is, San Salvador – the capital, the largest and the most populous city of El Salvador. It is also the administrative, cultural, educational, economic and financial hub of the country.

Where is El Salvador?

El Salvador is a small mountainous Central American nation. It is positioned in the Northern and Western hemispheres of the Earth. It is bordered by Honduras to the northeast; Guatemala to the northwest and by the Pacific Ocean to the south. Since El Salvador mostly occupies the western side of the isthmus; it is the only Central American nation without a coast on the Caribbean.

El Salvador Bordering Countries: Guatemala, Honduras.

Regional Maps: Map of North America