Background

Parque Arqueológico San Andrés: Echoes of a Mayan Capital

Discover El Salvador's Mayan heritage at San Andrés Archaeological Park, a captivating journey into the past.

4.5

Explore the ruins of San Andrés, a significant Mayan city in El Salvador's Zapotitán Valley. Once a regional capital (600-900 AD), the site features pyramids, an acropolis, and a museum displaying the area's rich history.

A brief summary to Parque Arqueológico San Andrés

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the extensive archaeological site.
  • Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the area is typically warm and sunny.
  • Visit the museum to gain a deeper understanding of the site's history and significance.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Joya de Cerén for a more comprehensive Mayan experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Bus

    From San Salvador, take the Ruta 201 bus towards Santa Ana. The bus will pass the entrance to Parque Arqueológico San Andrés after the turnoff to Opico. The journey from San Salvador takes approximately 1 hour. Bus fare is approximately $1-2.

  • Car

    From San Salvador, take the CA-1W highway towards Santa Ana. The archaeological park is located at kilometer 32 on the highway. The drive takes approximately 35 minutes. Parking is available at the site for a small fee; light vehicles $1.00, heavy vehicles $3.00.

Unlock the Best of Parque Arqueológico San Andrés

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Parque Arqueológico San Andrés

Parque Arqueológico San Andrés invites you to step back in time and explore the remains of a prominent Mayan city that thrived in the Zapotitán Valley. From approximately 600 to 900 AD, San Andrés served as a regional capital, exerting influence over smaller settlements in the area. The city's location is just 5 kilometers away from Joya de Cerén. The archaeological site reveals a complex of pyramids and structures spread across approximately 20 hectares. Excavations have uncovered an acropolis with pyramids and residences, as well as a large plaza to the north, potentially used as a marketplace. Most of the buildings were constructed using adobe bricks, with a few exceptions made of volcanic tuff. Visitors can explore the site's museum, which offers bilingual guides and detailed information about the layout of the acropolis and other structures. The museum enhances the experience, providing insights into the lives of the leaders, artisans, soldiers, priests, merchants, and farmers who once inhabited this vibrant city. The site is generally warm and sunny, so visitors are advised to wear appropriate clothing, including a hat. Picnic areas and a cafeteria are available, making it convenient to spend a day exploring the grounds. San Andrés experienced a rich history, starting as an agricultural community around 900 BC. The Loma Caldera volcano's eruption around 650 AD caused a temporary abandonment, but the area was reoccupied in the 5th century. The archaeological findings indicate strong connections with Copán and Teotihuacan civilizations, with trade reaching as far as present-day Guatemala and Belize.

Popular Experiences near Parque Arqueológico San Andrés

Popular Hotels near Parque Arqueológico San Andrés

Select Currency