**Scroll down to see our day-to-day itinerary**
The educational experience spanning 7 days and 6 nights is presented by Working Capital for Community Needs (WCCN), with coordination and facilitation handled by Naturally Smart Travel.
When arriving at Comalapa International Airport in San Salvador, one of our trusted drivers will be waiting to greet you as you exit the airport doors, bringing you directly to our hotel.
Once settled in, we enjoy a quick siesta before our Bienvenidos Dinner where we meet fellow guests and prepare for our week of adventures ahead. The following morning, we begin our journey by exploring San Salvador better to understand communities in and the history of El Salvador.
Joined by WCCN’s Executive Director, Will Harris, and a local guide we continue our travels, embracing an immersive experience of meeting with local lending partners and learning about local culture and delicious traditional fare.
Along the way, we also experience:
Heading to San Miguel, we continue our journey, meeting our second local lending partner as well as small business owners. We also enjoy some downtime, explore beautiful Granada, and connect with the birthplace of WCCN.
Finally, our trip concludes along the Pacific Coastal town of La Libertad for a day of culture and reflection before we celebrate our adventure at our Despedida dinner.
For over 35 years, Working Capital for Community Needs (WCCN) has created opportunities for access to microfinance and services to support low-income entrepreneurs in Latin America. As one of the first social impact funds in the United States, we have invested more than $150 million, reaching an average of approximately 21,000 end borrowers each year.
WCCN supports individuals, families, and communities by sustaining partnerships with microfinance organizations and agricultural cooperatives in Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Peru.
As an investor or donor of WCCN, you can personally make this life-changing work happen.
6 nights Hotel Stay
From airport arrival to drop off, you'll have private transportation coordinated with carefully vetted and trusted drivers during your time in El Salvador.
Spanish being the official national language, your local tour guide will accompany you every step of the way, while your host ensures a smooth experience behind the scenes.
From welcome dinner to our “Feliz Viaje!” celebration, we’ll enjoy authentic local fare, as well as cross-cultural staples.
Our Naturally Smart team coordinates and facilitates payments for all local fees and gratuities, so your only priority is living your best impact life abroad.
Leading up to your departure date, you'll receive weekly emails to help you prepare for your trip including culture points, what to pack, what to expect each day, and more.
Guests will be added to a group chat using the application WhatsApp, so they're able to receive all the important information needed before and during the tour
A portion of proceeds offsets the carbon footprint from our trip.
A portion of proceeds contributes to scholarships for education and capacity building.
Guests arrive to a collection of locally-sourced goodies that will serve them along the adventure.
International airfare not included
Alcoholic beverages are purchased by guests
Travel insurance is a requirement for booking
For guides, drivers, or captains
Once arrived at the airport, one of our trusted drivers will be waiting. Your first stop is to our hotel, where you'll be checked in and given a brief orientation of the town.
Guests who need to visit the ATM or other vendors, simply let your guide know and they'll offer assistance.
Should you arrive early in the morning and would like us to coordinate a day of exploration, let us know and we will make it happen!
After a quick siesta, we will enjoy a welcome happy hour before our “Bienvenidos” dinner to indulge in a delicious menu of a local favorite with scenic views of the town. Meanwhile, you will meet your guide and host, as well as mingle with fellow travelers and tour guide! After a day of travel, we'll focus on getting to know one another in prep for the exciting week ahead.
As we embark on our day in San Salvador, we start by visiting local lending partner ASEI-Asociación Salvadoreña in the morning. There, we learn about their unique approach to meeting community needs.
After, we enjoy lunch with the ASEI leadership team before an afternoon of immersing ourselves in the city's historical charm along a walking tour of San Salvador's center. We begin at Plaza Libertad, where you'll feel the pulse of the city and unravel its fascinating history. Next, visit the Metropolitan Cathedral, a beacon of grandeur that narrates tales of resilience and faith. Then, step into the Palacio Nacional, now a museum that preserves the essence of El Salvador's governance and evolution.
As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner feast for the senses as you savor the flavors of San Salvador and unwind in the relaxing ambiance.
This day promises a blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and gastronomic delight, making it a memorable journey through the heart of El Salvador.
On Day 3 of your journey, the morning unfolds with a heartfelt visit with ASEI loan recipients. We engage in conversations and connect with the local community, gaining a deeper understanding of their experiences and aspirations.
As the afternoon approaches, embark on a unique adventure at Hacienda Los Nacimientos. We indulge in a quick lunch on the go before immersing ourselves in the world of natural indigo farming. Witness a captivating dye demonstration that unveils the ancient art of dyeing with indigo, blending history with craftsmanship.
As the day transitions into the evening, reflect on the enriching encounters and discoveries of the day over a cozy dinner as we prepare to continue our journey into the south of El Salvador.
On Day 4 of our tour through El Salvador, we embark on a scenic drive to San Miguel, a charming city known for its vibrant culture and welcoming atmosphere.
In the morning, the journey begins with a leisurely 2.5-hour drive to San Miguel, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Once we arrive, we join the Padecom team for a delightful lunch, where we savor local cuisine and engage in fascinating conversations with the team members.
After, we visit the Padecom office in San Miguel. Here, we have the opportunity to interact with the team, learning about their initiatives that aim to make a positive impact in the community.
As the afternoon comes to a close, we have some free time to explore San Miguel at own pace, while those who wish to dine together meet to enjoy an optional group dinner to share stories and experiences from the day in an authentic setting.
Our morning begins with a visit to Padecom loan recipients, where we witness firsthand the positive impact of our support on the local community. After a morning filled with inspiration and connection.
After lunch, we embark on a scenic drive towards the Pacific coast, where the breathtaking beauty of the ocean meets the rugged charm of the coastline. The three-hour journey offers panoramic views of the azure waters and lush landscapes that frame our path.
As the sun sets, we arrive at a picturesque coastal town known for its serene beaches and volcanic vistas. The evening invites us to unwind and indulge in the fresh seafood delights at one of the inviting beachfront restaurants with the hues of the sunset painting the sky.
The early morning brings us the opportunity to participate in a unique activity - the release of baby sea turtles into their ocean home. Witness these adorable creatures take their first steps towards the sea, a symbolic gesture of hope and conservation.
As the sun reaches its peak, the afternoon unfolds with a leisurely ambiance, offering a variety of activities to suit every preference. Whether you choose to bask in the sun on the golden sands of the beach, dive into the refreshing waters of the Pacific for a rejuvenating swim, or meander through the charming shops and cafes nearby, the afternoon promises moments of relaxation and serenity.
As evening is welcomed, we gather for a heartfelt farewell dinner that will leave a lasting impression on our taste buds. Surrounded by the camaraderie of newfound friends and the vibrant energy of the Pacific, we reflect on the memories made and the adventures shared during our time together.
All good things must come to an end, but it doesn't mean you can't take a part of El Salvador with you. We'll be sharing a (bonus) folder of candid pictures from throughout our trip along with a special thank you message.
Please confirm your departure date and time with us so we can coordinate your transportation to Comalapa International Airport for a safe return home.
