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Lake Suchitlán: El Salvador's Serene Reservoir

Discover Lake Suchitlán: El Salvador's scenic reservoir offering birdwatching, boat tours, and a tranquil escape in a historic setting.

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Lake Suchitlán, a large artificial lake in El Salvador, was created in 1976 with the construction of the Cerrón Grande Hydroelectric Dam. It's now a popular spot for fishing, birdwatching, and boat trips, offering stunning views and a peaceful escape.

A brief summary to Lake Suchitlán

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Local tips

  • Take a boat tour to explore the lake's islands and observe the diverse birdlife, especially during sunrise or sunset.
  • Visit the nearby colonial town of Suchitoto for its charming architecture, art galleries, and views of the lake.
  • Try local cuisine at restaurants in Puerto San Juan or Suchitoto, many offering stunning lake views.
  • Consider visiting during the dry season (November to April) for the best weather, but be aware it can get very hot.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From San Salvador, take bus 129 from Terminal de Oriente towards Suchitoto. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours and costs around $0.90 USD. From Suchitoto, you can take a local bus (USD $0.20) or a taxi to Puerto San Juan on the lake. Taxis from Suchitoto to the lake cost around $5 USD.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From San Salvador, a taxi or ride-share to Lake Suchitlán (Puerto San Juan) will take approximately 1.5 - 2 hours, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between $30 - $50 USD. This is the most direct option, offering door-to-door service.

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Discover more about Lake Suchitlán

Lake Suchitlán, also known as Cerrón Grande, is one of El Salvador's largest lakes, sprawling across 135 square kilometers. Created in 1976 by damming the Lempa River for the Cerrón Grande Hydroelectric Power Plant, it provides a significant portion of the country's electricity. The lake's name, given by filmmaker Alejandro Coto, means "Place of Flowers" in Nahuatl. Despite its artificial origins, Lake Suchitlán has become a vital ecological area and a popular tourist destination. Its waters are home to diverse fish and waterfowl, attracting birdwatchers, anglers, and kayakers. Numerous aquatic plants thrive along the shores, and migratory birds often rest here before continuing their journey south. Visitors can explore the lake by boat, discovering islands like Isla de los Pájaros (Bird Island) and Isla El Ermitaño. The "La Luna" ferry offers a unique experience, transporting vehicles and passengers across the lake, shortening travel distances. The surrounding area offers glimpses into El Salvador's history, with the colonial town of Suchitoto providing a charming base for exploration. However, the lake's history is also marked by displacement. The dam's construction flooded homes and farmlands, displacing over 13,000 people. Today, the lake faces environmental challenges due to pollution from sewage and wastewater. Despite these issues, local organizations and government agencies are working to promote sustainable tourism and protect the lake's ecosystem.

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