El Salvador

El Salvador is the smallest country in mainland Central America and one of the most densely populated countries in the region. It lies on the Pacific coast, between Guatemala to the west and Honduras to the north and east. Unlike several other Central American countries, it has no Caribbean coastline. Its capital and largest city is San Salvador, located in an inland valley surrounded by volcanic landscapes.

The country covers about 21,000 square kilometres and is divided into 14 departments. Its position between the Pacific Ocean and the mountains gives it a varied geography, with coastal plains, valleys, highlands and numerous volcanoes. Several major rivers cross the territory, while Lake Ilopango and Lake Coatepeque are among its best-known lakes. Volcanic activity has played an important role in shaping El Salvador's landscape.

The country lies along the Central American volcanic arc, where tectonic processes have produced a chain of volcanoes and areas of geothermal activity. Santa Ana, San Miguel and Izalco are among its best-known volcanoes. Earthquakes are also frequent because the region is affected by the movement of tectonic plates. The climate is generally tropical, with a rainy season and a drier season, although temperatures and rainfall vary with altitude and location.

Agriculture remains important, particularly the cultivation of coffee, sugar cane and other crops, while services, manufacturing and remittances also contribute significantly to the economy. El Salvador is therefore a small country whose geography is strongly influenced by its Pacific setting, volcanic terrain and active tectonic environment.