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Cerro Verde National Park: A Volcanic Oasis

Explore El Salvador's Cerro Verde National Park: Hike volcanic trails, discover cloud forests, and enjoy panoramic views of stunning landscapes.

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Cerro Verde National Park, an extinct volcano in El Salvador, offers stunning views, hiking trails, and a refreshing escape into nature. Part of the Los Volcanes National Park, it's a perfect spot for family outings and birdwatching.

A brief summary to Cerro Verde National Park

  • Lomas de San Marcelino, SV

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes and layered clothing, as the weather in the park can be unpredictable.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking the trails.
  • Visit early in the morning for the best views and lighting conditions for photography.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for a more informative and educational experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From San Salvador, take route 205 to Sonsonate. At the Sonsonate Terminal, transfer to route 209, which goes directly to Cerro Verde's entrance. Alternatively, take route 20 to Santa Ana, then route 209 to Cerro Verde. From Santa Ana, a direct bus leaves from 'Sala de Espera y Abordaje' on 11 Valle Sud at 7:30 am (USD 0.70). The bus will drop you off on the highway next to Cerro Verde National Park.

  • Driving

    From San Salvador, drive on the highway to Sonsonate (CA-8) and take the Desvío El Congo. Follow the signs to Cerro Verde, also known as Desvío “El Pacún”. The drive is approximately 1 hour and 17 minutes. Parking is available at the park for USD 1.00 for light vehicles.

Unlock the Best of Cerro Verde National Park

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Discover more about Cerro Verde National Park

Cerro Verde National Park, or Cuntetepeque, is located in the western region of El Salvador, within the departments of Santa Ana and Sonsonate. This extinct volcano, whose last eruption occurred approximately 25,000 years ago, rises to an elevation of 2,030 meters. The eroded crater is now a lush cloud forest, offering a refreshing contrast to the volcanic landscape. The park features three well-marked interpretive trails: the "Mysterious Flowers," the "Window to Nature," and the "Old Mountain Hotel" trails. These trails wind through dense forests, providing opportunities to observe diverse flora, including numerous orchid species, and fauna, with around 127 species of birds. Keep an eye out for the Motmot, considered one of the world's best songbirds. Several viewpoints along the trails offer panoramic vistas of Lake Coatepeque, the nearby Izalco and Santa Ana volcanoes, and surrounding towns. For those seeking more challenging adventures, Cerro Verde serves as a starting point for hikes to the Izalco and Santa Ana volcanoes. These climbs offer a test of physical ability and even more spectacular views. Within the park itself, the relatively easy Cerro Verde Crater Trail is a popular option, taking about 45 minutes to complete and offering beautiful views. The park is an ideal location for picnics, relaxation, and enjoying the fresh mountain air.

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