Private Tour

Santa Ana with a Local | History & Hidden Bar

Overview

Available languages

English

Spanish

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 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.

20 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

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.

20 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

What‘s Included

Special Gift

Bottled water

Guide

Gratuities

Options

Santa Ana with a Local | History & Hidden Bar

Reviews

5.00

18 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Marlon was very helpful with so much information about the history of Santa Ana.
kellyjo dunlap,,Feb 10, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Marlon was very patient and provided so much education about Santa Ana, in English and Spanish to make sure I understood.
Great tour with a...
Nejra L,,Dec 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Great tour with a wonderful Marlon, very knowledgeable and the perfect mix of history and authentic local experiences.
Super interesting walk
Tracy S,,Dec 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Our tour guide Marlon was great! It was so interesting to walk around the town at night and hear all about El Salvador history and specifically Santa Ana. It was a lot of fun and I would highly recommend.
This tour was great!...
Charlotte T,,Dec 15, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
This tour was great! Marlon is really nice and gives you plenty opportunity to ask questions. It’s a great tour to learn about the recent history of El Salvador. The bar at the ended is very cool and we definitely wouldn’t have found it otherwise.
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
5.00
We 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
5.00
An 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
5.00
The 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
5.00
Marlon 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
5.00
I 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
5.00
Marlon’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.