Joya de Cerén: The Pompeii of the Americas
Explore Joya de Cerén, El Salvador's 'Pompeii of the Americas,' a remarkably preserved Maya farming village frozen in time by a volcanic eruption.
Joya de Cerén, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique glimpse into the daily life of a pre-Columbian Maya farming village. Buried by a volcanic eruption around 600 AD, the site's remarkably preserved remains provide invaluable insights into the lives of ordinary Mayan people.
A brief summary to Parque Arqueológico Joya de Cerén
- Carr. San Juan Opico - Agua Escondida Km 32, SV
- +50324015782
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking around the site.
- Bring insect repellent, as the area can be warm and humid.
- Visit the on-site museum to learn more about the history and significance of Joya de Cerén.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby San Andrés archaeological site for a fuller experience of Mayan history.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From San Salvador, take the Ruta 201 bus (Seisabus) towards Santa Ana and get off at Puente Seco (Cd. Arce). From there, take a taxi or local bus the remaining distance to Joya de Cerén. The bus fare from San Salvador to Puente Seco is approximately $0.50 - $1.00. The taxi from Puente Seco to Joya de Cerén will cost around $5 - $10.
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Taxi/Ride-share
A taxi or ride-share from San Salvador directly to Joya de Cerén takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic. The cost is estimated to be between $15 and $25.
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Driving
From San Salvador, take the Pan American Highway (CA-1) northwest towards Santa Ana. Look for signs to San Juan Opico. After San Juan Opico, follow the signs to Joya de Cerén, which is located off the main highway. Parking is available at the site for a small fee: $1 for motorcycles and light vehicles, $3 for heavy vehicles.
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