Los Volcanes National Park
El Salvador · Santa Ana · 2000 m
Description
Los Volcanes National Park (Parque Nacional Los Volcanes) is El Salvador's best known volcanic region and is home to the country's three most prominent volcanoes, Cerro Verde, Santa Ana (Ilamatepec) and Izalco. The forested Cerro Verde is covered in lush cloud forest that is home to orchids, bromeliads and a rich diversity of birdlife. Santa Ana, at 2,381 metres, is the country's highest peak and is renowned for its striking turquoise crater lake, while Izalco became known as the “Lighthouse of the Pacific” after centuries of frequent volcanic activity. The park's viewpoints offer sweeping views of Lake Coatepeque, which fills the caldera of a massive prehistoric volcanic eruption. Well maintained hiking trails and spectacular volcanic scenery make Los Volcanes one of Central America's most popular destinations for nature lovers and hikers.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 1 day)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – February
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Santa Ana Volcano (Ilamatepec) summit & turquoise crater lake
- Izalco Volcano
- Cerro Verde
- Santa Ana Volcano hike
- Izalco Volcano hike
- Cerro Verde cloud forest trails
- Lake Coatepeque viewpoint
- Cerro Verde viewpoints
- Birdwatching in Cerro Verde cloud forest
- Orchids and cloud forest flora
- Los Volcanes National Park Visitor Center
- Cerro Verde recreational area