Volcanoes in El Salvador: Which to Visit and How

El Salvador has several volcanoes you can visit. The best known are Santa Ana, Izalco and Boquerón (San Salvador). This guide helps you choose and prepare.

Santa Ana Volcano (Ilamatepec)

Santa Ana is the country's highest and one of the most visited. The climb to the crater is on foot (several hours); from the top you see the crater with its green, sulfurous lake. You usually go with a guide; there are checkpoints at the base and sometimes restrictions due to activity. Bring water, hiking shoes, hat and sunscreen. Start early to avoid the strongest sun and clouds that often cover the summit by midday.

Izalco Volcano

Izalco sits next to Santa Ana and was long a "lighthouse" due to its eruptions. Activity is now low. You can climb it in a day or combine with Santa Ana depending on trail conditions and park rules. Check before you go; access is sometimes closed for safety.

San Salvador Volcano (El Boquerón)

On the outskirts of San Salvador is El Boquerón: the crater of the San Salvador volcano. Access is a short drive and there's a trail around or down into the crater. Ideal if you have little time or want to combine nature with a capital visit. There are viewpoints and sometimes fruit and snack vendors.

General Tips

• Local guide: at Santa Ana and Izalco it's usually required or strongly recommended. Hire at the official starting point.
• Fitness: the climbs are demanding; wear proper shoes and be in decent shape.
• Weather: start early and check the forecast; in rainy season trails can be slippery or closed.
• Water and protection: bring plenty of water, hat and sunscreen.

The volcanoes are one of El Salvador's strongest experiences. To pair with more nature and towns, Ruta de las Flores and one-week itinerary.