Private Tour
Santa Ana Historical Night Walk
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Ever wondered how El Salvador transformed so quickly?
Join Marlon, a local intellectual with a deep passion for history, culture, and finance, on a 2–2.5 hr night walk through Santa Ana’s historic streets. This tour feels like a conversation with an old friend, immersing you in local life as crime has dropped 99% since 2015, unveiling a safer city in the making. Through Marlon’s vivid tales of the Civil War, the fight against gangs, and El Salvador’s ongoing journey, you’ll connect to Santa Ana’s essence—blending nostalgia with the promise of a brighter future. It’s a cultural immersion that lets you live the city’s story. The tour ends at a special speakeasy bar, a proud local treasure where stories continue. Ideal for those seeking a meaningful connection, this walk is a rare treasure, a one-of-a-kind journey into a nation evolving where history whispers hope. Don’t miss this chance to feel Santa Ana’s heartbeat through a passionate local’s eyes.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Special Gift
Bottled water
Guide
Gratuities
What To Expect
Discover the spiritual heart of Santa Ana at the breathtaking Catedral de Santa Ana. We'll delve into the rich religious history of the city and uncover the fascinating story behind this neo-Gothic masterpiece. Although the cathedral will be closed, you’ll be captivated by its stunning exterior and the tales of faith and community that surround this iconic landmark.
Teatro Nacional de Santa Ana
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Santa Ana during the 19th and early 20th centuries at the magnificent Teatro Nacional. We'll explore the vibrant past of this cultural hub and then dive into the fascinating story of the theater itself. Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of this neoclassical treasure as our guide shares captivating tales of the era.
Options
Santa Ana Historical Night Walk
Reviews
14 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A lovely way to spend an evening learning about Santa Ana’s history and Marlon’s first hand experiences.
sophieeS9399AA,
Nov 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great evening with Marlon walking the old streets of Santa Ana. He was very knowledgeable about the history of the city and gave us an incredible insight into his life growing up there through difficult and more dangerous times. Would recommend to everyone
Choose to see Santa Ana at night with Marlon! You won’t regret it!
slaveki,
Nov 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00An amazing tour full of interesting stories and places marked by the town’s rich history. Marlon is a great guide and a lovely person. And Santa Ana at night is a marvel! You’ll be taken to places where you would not venture alone during the day only a few years ago, let alone at night, and you’ll listen to stories told by a someone who has experienced the most recent events first hand. Totally recommended!
Authentic insight into recent history of El Salvador
gian-marco h,
Oct 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour with Marlon gave us an incredible insight into how life in El Salvador has changed since gang violence has dissapeared. We had great conversations about everyday life and walked around the alleys of Santa Ana with no worries which would not have been possible a few years back. Thanks so much Marlon!
Marlon is the coolest guy...
Brandon C,
Jul 28, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Marlon is the coolest guy around. He is very knowledgeable of Santa Ana as he’s lived here his whole life.
Exceptional walking of Santa Ana
Menerie M,
Jul 18, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00I can’t recommend Marlon’s night tour enough!! Marlon made the trip to Santa Ana well worth it and his deep knowledge of the culture in Santa Ana brought the city to life. He is very engaging, connected, and answered all of our questions.
Local insights!
Nadia K,
Jun 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Marlon’s tour provided great insights into the history of El Salvador, Santa Ana and life for people here under the gangs. I found it all very interesting and recommend for any traveler in Santa Ana. We ended with a local beer in a very cool speakeasy.
The Most Authentic Night Walk ever, you'll learn about how Sta Ana recovered from gang violence
P5491REpaulk,
May 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Walking through Sta. Ana in El Salvador at night with Marlon feels almost unreal once you know what this place was like not long ago. Marlon’s a genuinely kind guy, easy to talk to, and he knows this city’s story inside and out. But what really hits you is how he connects the painful past with the hope that’s now growing here.... I got to hear firsthand from Marlon about growing up during the worst of the gang violence. Back then, the whole city wasn’t just dangerous-it was terrifying. Gunshots were part of everyday life, and families lived in constant fear. It’s hard to believe now, but not long ago, walking these streets at night would’ve been unthinkable. The violence left deep wounds on the community, with so many stories of loss and hardship. Today, though, the change is striking..... Crime has dropped so much that a peaceful night walk is actually possible. The streets feel calm, and Marlon’s warmth makes it easy to imagine a future where Sta. Ana isn’t defined by violence anymore! It’s like visiting Berlin right after the Wall came down-a city reclaiming itself, full of cautious optimism. If this progress keeps going, Sta. Ana will mark a turning point, a moment future generations will look back on as when everything changed. Tourism will blossom, businesses will blossom. Marlon’s kindness and openness make this walk more than just a tour-it’s a glimpse into a city healing and moving forward. There is hope and positivity after decades of violence and Marlon shows it!
good
178kimberlyc,
May 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Marlon it's very nice, friendly and knowledgable when knowing the history of the area, we enjoyed our conversations and walk as he showed us around. thanks again.
Great opportunity to learn more about Santa Ana and El Salvador
Alex N,
Apr 2, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great opportunity to learn more about Santa Ana and El Salvador from a local’s perspective - discussing history, recent events, overall life in the country, or any other topic you are interested in - on this private tour. I learned a lot and would highly recommend this tour with Marlon.
A night tour worth a visit
sachah628,
Mar 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Marlon has a great culture and knowledge of his city and country. It was a pleasure to travel the city with him and to perceive the calm of Santa Ana after dark. This is a great way to get in touch with the culture of Santa Ana and understand the history of the city. Marlon is a caring and curious guide!
Related Experiences
Operated by Marlon Zometa