Typical programme for a visit to El Tular:

• • Visiting the community of El Tular, probably spending one or two nights there, meeting with their Wellsprings committee and various groups, eg young people, women's group, Parish council. Experiencing life as they live it and getting to know these lovely people!

  • Visiting the NGO Balsamo (our partner organisation) to learn about their work and visit other projects they are involved in

  • Tourist activities, eg places associated with Oscar Romero, other martyrs and the disappeared, relaxation at the beach, maybe also hills and lakes, art and craft galleries, shops, possible trips to a coffee or indigo plantation

  • Learning about the social, environmental and political situation in El Salvador

  • Worship with a congregation in San Salvador or El Tular

Please read the information below, and contact us if there is anything else you would like to know.

Cost

We expect the cost per delegate to be around £1,700, about £1,000 of which is the air fare and £700 in-country expenses (accommodation, meals, local travel), payable by the delegate. However, if the cost is the only thing stopping you coming, please speak to us – there may well be Wellsprings supporters who cannot come themselves and would like to help others experience El Salvador.

Accommodation

In San Salvador accommodation is normally in shared rooms and has ranged from a simple guest house with fans and cold showers, to a small hotel that had air conditioning units, ensuite bathroom, pool, restaurant and bar.

In El Tular sleeping is often in hammocks set up outside, or on a most recent visit accommodation was staying with a family who provided a small bedroom with beds or hammocks in their living space. Sanitation and wash areas are very basic, with no running water. Food is home-made and wholesome, with tortillas being the main staple of every meal.

Climate

El Salvador is hot. The temperature is unlikely to go below 20°C at any time of the day or night. Daytime temperatures are expected to be around 30°C, but in March (normally one of the hottest months) can reach around 38°C. San Salvador, where most nights are spent is a bit cooler. The rainy season is from May to October, though most of the rainfall is at night and drought is becoming more frequent. There may be some spectacular lightning displays.

Language

The language of El Salvador is Spanish. Bálsamo provides translation for all formal parts of the programme, so knowledge of Spanish is not necessary but would enhance the experience. Many of the younger people in El Tular now have a good grasp of English.

Travel advice from UK government

Check https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/el-salvador for advice on health (including health precautions and vaccinations), passports, safety and security. Regarding security, the NGO host Balsamo provides all transport, travels with the group at all times and provides advice on any risks. Consideration would be made of other factors such as the state of the economy, stability of the country and Covid levels or restrictions. Read the section on Money for advice on the BitCoin.

Insurance

It will be expected that all participants arrange their own comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. Some vaccinations may be necessary.

To find out more: Click here to ask questions