About the Jiquilisco Bay tour
The Jiquilisco Bay tour is a full-day eco-adventure in one of El Salvador’s most important nature reserves, part of the country’s only RAMSAR wetland system. You explore the mangrove channels by kayak or boat, visit a protected spider monkey sanctuary and then relax with lunch at Puerto Barillas.
The mangroves of Jiquilisco Bay
Your day on the water starts with a kayak or boat ride through the mangrove forest. You glide quietly along narrow channels surrounded by thick vegetation and birdlife, while your guide explains how the mangroves protect biodiversity and support marine life.
The spider monkey sanctuary
The highlight of the tour is a visit to a protected sanctuary inside the bay, home to free-roaming spider monkeys. You watch them move through the trees from a respectful distance, a rare wildlife encounter in El Salvador.
Puerto Barillas
Afterwards, we return to Puerto Barillas, a quiet eco-marina in the forest. Lunch is included and served in a garden setting, and your day pass lets you enjoy the trails, gardens and facilities before the drive back.
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Highlights
- Kayak through the mangrove channels of Jiquilisco Bay
- See free-roaming spider monkeys at a protected sanctuary
- Birds, iguanas and crabs in the mangrove ecosystem
- Lunch included at Puerto Barillas
- Day pass at the eco-marina
- Pickup in San Salvador or El Tunco
Jiquilisco Bay tour itinerary
Hotel or Airbnb pickup
Your guide picks you up in San Salvador. If you are staying at El Tunco, pickup is at 5:30 a.m.
Puerto Barillas
All activities start at Puerto Barillas, an eco-marina in the heart of Jiquilisco Bay.
Mangroves by kayak or boat
Explore the calm mangrove channels while your guide points out birds, reptiles and native plants.
Spider monkey sanctuary
A guided visit to the sanctuary to watch the spider monkeys move freely through the trees.
Lunch at Puerto Barillas
Back at Puerto Barillas for lunch (included) and time to enjoy the gardens with your day pass.
Return
We drive back to San Salvador, about 2 and a half hours.
Route map
What’s included
Included
- Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or Airbnb in San Salvador or El Tunco
- Transport in a comfortable vehicle
- Professional guide
- Mangrove tour by kayak or boat, with life vests
- Spider monkey sanctuary visit
- Lunch and day pass at Puerto Barillas
Not included
- Drinks and snacks
- Tips (optional)
Prices
| Group size | Per person |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $330 |
| 2 people | $199 |
| 3 people | $157 |
| 4 to 5 people | $136 |
| 6 to 7 people | $122 |
| 8 to 10 people | $109 |
Traveling solo? The price drops to $199 if other travelers join your date.
Jiquilisco Bay tour: common questions
Where does the tour start and end?+
At Puerto Barillas Eco Marina in Jiquilisco Bay. Transport from San Salvador or El Tunco is included.
What animals can we see?+
Spider monkeys at the sanctuary, plus birds, iguanas, crabs and other wildlife in the mangroves.
Is lunch included?+
Yes. Lunch is included and served at Puerto Barillas.
Is it kayak or boat?+
The mangrove tour can be done by kayak or by motorboat. Both are guided and life vests are always provided.
How difficult is it?+
Easy to moderate. Most of the tour is on the water, with short walks on flat or slightly uneven ground.
Is it good for kids or older travelers?+
Yes, as long as they are in good health. Children must be supervised by an adult.
Are there restrooms?+
Yes, at Puerto Barillas, before and after the boat ride and the monkey visit.
How do I book and pay?+
You can book through our website and pay by credit or debit card.
Before you go
- Comfortable clothes and closed shoes
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen and a hat
- A reusable water bottle
- Swimsuit if you want to relax at Puerto Barillas
- A camera with zoom for the monkeys
What travelers say
“Rafa took us to so many places I never would’ve been able to do on my own. He was a perfect guide, able to answer any questions but also giving space to enjoy and have fun.”
- “Best last day :)”
- “Professional Driving Skills”
- “A beautiful experience”