About the Santa Ana Volcano Tour
The Santa Ana Volcano Tour takes you up Santa Ana (Ilamatepec), El Salvador’s highest volcano at 7,811 feet. The trail climbs through cloud forest, then agave scrub, then bare volcanic ground to the rim of a crater with a turquoise lagoon inside. After the hike we stop at Lake Coatepeque for lunch with a view.
The Santa Ana volcano hike
On this tour we pick you up early in San Salvador or El Tunco and drive to the foot of Cerro Verde National Park, where the trail starts. The hike takes about 4 hours in total, 2 up and 2 down. You don’t need hiking experience, but a good fitness level makes the climb easier.
Three kinds of forest on the way up
The first part of the trail runs through cloud forest, shaded by thick vegetation. Higher up, the trees give way to shrubs and agaves. The last stretch is bare, eroded ground with nothing blocking the view across the Salvadoran countryside. The volcano last erupted in 2005.
The crater
From the rim you look down at a turquoise lagoon at the bottom of the crater. On a clear day you can also see the Pacific Ocean, Izalco volcano and Lake Coatepeque. Then we hike back down to the park.
Lake Coatepeque
The last stop is Lake Coatepeque, known for turning turquoise at least twice a year. You can have lunch with a view of the water (lunch is not included). Coatepeque means “Snake Hill”, and locals still tell a legend about the lake.
See all 18 photos
Highlights
- Reach the top of the highest volcano in El Salvador
- Look down at the sulfur lagoon inside the crater
- Walk through a misty cloud forest
- See Izalco volcano, Lake Coatepeque and the Pacific from the rim
- Lunch and a swim at Lake Coatepeque
- No previous hiking experience needed
Santa Ana Volcano Tour itinerary
Hotel or Airbnb pickup
Your guide will be waiting at your hotel or Airbnb, ready to start the day. If you’re staying at El Tunco beach, pickup is at 5:30 a.m.
Start the hike
We start the trek to Santa Ana volcano. Get your sunscreen and water ready and follow your guide’s instructions. The climb takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Enjoy the contact with nature and let the landscapes surprise you.
Santa Ana crater
Standing at the rim of Santa Ana feels like touching the heart of the Earth. Below your feet, a turquoise crater lake shimmers, surrounded by rugged lava walls and sweeping views of Lake Coatepeque and the Pacific.
Lake Coatepeque
Arrival at our last stop, Coatepeque, the most beautiful lake in El Salvador. Enjoy lunch with a spectacular view of the lake and a swim in its refreshing waters. Lunch is not included.
Return
We head back to your hotel in San Salvador, about an hour and a half, or 2 hours if you’re staying at El Tunco beach.
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 tour guide
- All entrance fees
- Small group
Not included
- Lunch and snacks
- Drinks and bottled water
- Tips (optional)
Prices
| Group size | Per person |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $135 |
| 2 people | $85 |
| 3 to 6 people | $74 |
| 7 to 10 people | $64 |
Traveling solo? The price drops to $85 if other travelers join your date.
Santa Ana Volcano Tour: common questions
How difficult is the hike?+
Moderate. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to go up and about the same to come down. No previous hiking experience is needed, but a basic level of fitness is recommended.
Is it good for kids or older travelers?+
Yes. We recommend it for children 8 and up and adults with good mobility. We always adjust the pace to the group.
Is transportation included?+
Yes. Free pickup and drop-off at hotels and Airbnbs in the San Salvador area and in El Tunco beach.
What time does the tour start?+
Around 6:00 a.m., depending on your pickup location. Starting early avoids the midday heat and the crowds and gives the best views. Pickup at El Tunco beach is around 5:30 a.m. Just confirm your location when booking.
Is the entrance fee included?+
Yes, the tour price includes the entrance to Santa Ana Volcano.
How do I book and pay?+
You can book through our website and pay by credit or debit card.
Are there restrooms on the trail?+
There are restrooms at the park entrance before the hike starts. There are none on the trail or at the summit.
What if the weather is bad?+
Safety comes first. If the weather or the park authorities close the hike, we reschedule or offer an alternative, such as the Flowers Route.
Can I join if I’m traveling solo?+
Absolutely. We’ll add you to an existing group. Send us a WhatsApp with your date.
Before you go
- Hiking shoes or sneakers with good grip
- Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
- 1 to 2 liters of water and snacks
- A light jacket, it can be windy at the top
- Swimsuit if you want to swim in the lake
- A poncho in the rainy season
What travelers say
“We had an amazing experience on this trip to Santa Ana Volcano!”
- “Best last day :)”
- “Professional Driving Skills”
- “A beautiful experience”