Background

El Boquerón National Park: A Volcanic Oasis

Explore El Salvador's volcanic heart at El Boquerón National Park: breathtaking views, lush cloud forests, and a tranquil escape near the capital.

4.6

Perched atop the San Salvador Volcano, El Boquerón National Park offers stunning panoramic views from a massive volcanic crater. A short drive from El Salvador's capital, the park provides an easy escape into a lush cloud forest with diverse flora and fauna and a glimpse into the country's volcanic past.

A brief summary to Parque Nacional El Boquerón

Local tips

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the park's peaceful atmosphere.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on potentially slippery trails.
  • Bring layers of clothing, as temperatures can change with altitude.
  • Stay on marked trails and follow safety guidelines provided by park staff.
  • Take advantage of the viewpoints for stunning panoramic photos.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From San Salvador, take bus #101-B from the eastern end of Parque Cuscatlán towards Santa Tecla. Get off at San Martín Park in Santa Tecla and walk three blocks north on 3a Avenida Sur, then one block west on 3a Calle Oriente. From there, find pick-up trucks that will take you to El Boquerón National Park. The bus to Santa Tecla costs approximately $0.20. The pick-up truck to the park entrance is about $1.50, or $1 if you walk the last 750 meters.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From downtown San Salvador, a taxi or ride-share to El Boquerón National Park will take approximately 30-40 minutes, covering about 17 km. Expect to pay around $15-$25 for the ride, depending on traffic and the specific service.

  • Driving

    From San Salvador, take the CA-1 highway west and exit towards Santa Tecla. Merge onto Boulevard de Los Héroes, then turn left onto Calle Los Andes, following signs for Parque Nacional El Boquerón. Parking is available at the park for a fee of $2. Be aware that parking can be limited.

Unlock the Best of Parque Nacional El Boquerón

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Parque Nacional El Boquerón

El Boquerón National Park, also known as Parque Nacional El Boquerón, is a natural haven situated atop the San Salvador Volcano in El Salvador. Rising to 1,800 meters (5,905 feet) above sea level, the park's main attraction is the impressive crater, approximately five kilometers in diameter and 558 meters deep. This natural wonder was formed during a powerful eruption in 1917, which also affected nearby towns such as San Salvador, Nejapa, and Quezaltepeque. The eruption left behind a smaller cone within the main crater, called 'Boqueroncito'. Today, El Boquerón National Park is a protected area boasting a cool, temperate climate throughout the year. Visitors can explore well-marked trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints, offering spectacular sights of the crater and the surrounding landscapes. The park is home to a variety of plant species, including ornamentals like cartuchos, hydrangeas, wild sultanas, and begonias. Wildlife includes armadillos, raccoons, deer, and foxes. Birdwatchers will find the park particularly rewarding. The park provides various facilities, including a visitor center with exhibits about the local history and geology of volcanoes. Near the entrance, local vendors offer traditional Salvadoran food and crafts. El Boquerón is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, seeking a peaceful retreat and connection with nature.

Popular Experiences near Parque Nacional El Boquerón

Popular Hotels near Parque Nacional El Boquerón

Select Currency