The small Central American nation of El Salvador, sandwiched between Guatemala and Honduras on the Pacific Ocean, is a quiet nation full of natural beauty, with sweeping mountains and tropical beaches.

The smallest and most densely populated Central American country, El Salvador boasts 307km of coastline and a tropical climate, with a rainy season from May to October. The mountainous nation has a population of fewer than seven million people and is about the size of the US state of Massachusetts.

El Salvador achieved independence from Spanish occupation in 1821 and from the Central American Federation in 1839. The country became embroiled in a turbulent civil war for more than a decade until 1992, when the government and leftist rebels signed a peace agreement.

The bustling capital, San Salvador, lies in a valley and its lively streets play host to a number of markets selling brightly painted ceramics, handicrafts and textiles. The small, crowded city also some interesting bars and restaurants, the beautiful Teatro Nacional and lies at the foot of the San Salvador volcano. The second city of Santa Ana, also at the foot of a volcano, is older and more picturesque.

Away from the cities, El Salvador has a number of dramatic tourist sites, including the Mayan ruins of Tazumal, with a small part of the large settlement excavated. There are also still some Amerindian tribes in the more remote areas, some of which still speak the native language Nahua.

The mountains, with the towering Cerro El Pital (2,730m) the highest peak, are well worth a visit and guided tours and treks are available. The Montecristo Cloud Forest on the borders of El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala is a lush tropical region, with a host of rare species of flora and fauna under the dense canopy of trees, including orchids, spider monkeys, toucans and pumas.

El Salvador has a number of volcanoes, some of which are still active and a host of picturesque mountain lakes. The country also has a number of stunning white sand beaches and, as its tourist industry grows, seaside accommodation is starting to spring up.

The influence of the Roman Catholic church is apparent across El Salvador and many of the major Salvadoran towns have pretty churches. The country’s central plateau is home to much of the farming sector and its many plantations produce exceptional coffee.

The Republic of El Salvador has enjoyed relative peace since the 1992 accord, which heralded political reforms. However it is at risk from extreme weather and geological conditions, with frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity and the threat of hurricanes.

Travellers are warned to check conditions and predictions ahead of their journey. The official language of El Salvador is Spanish, with some English spoken in built-up areas, so it is worth knowing key phrases before setting off.

Flights to the country are relatively infrequent and can be pricey, though a limited number of companies offer tours. Tourist amenities are basic in most areas and there is little luxury accommodation available, though this is starting to change.

Many tourists still remember the bloodshed of the 1980s and opt for one of El Salvador’s better-known neighbours, but the country’s vitality, breathtaking scenery and natural treasures are hard to beat.