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San Salvador Volcano: A Crater Oasis

Explore El Salvador's iconic volcano: Hike to the crater rim for stunning views of the capital city and surrounding landscapes.

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The San Salvador Volcano, also known as El Boquerón, is a dominant feature of El Salvador's landscape, rising above the capital city. Its massive crater, formed by a violent eruption centuries ago, now hosts a unique ecosystem and offers panoramic views, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to San Salvador Volcano

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Local tips

  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the trails can be steep in some areas.
  • Bring water, especially if you plan to hike around the crater.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change quickly.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From San Salvador, the most convenient way to reach San Salvador Volcano is by car. Take the Pan American Highway towards Santa Tecla. Turn right at the second traffic light in Santa Tecla and follow the road up the mountain. The drive takes approximately 25 minutes, and parking is available near the park entrance. Parking fees may apply.

  • Public Transport

    To reach the volcano via public transport, take bus route 101-B from San Salvador to Santa Tecla. Alight at San Martín Park in Santa Tecla, then walk a few blocks to find pickup trucks that will take you to El Boquerón National Park. The bus fare is approximately $0.20, and the pickup truck ride costs around $1.50. From the park entrance, it's a short walk to the crater.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in San Salvador. A one-way trip to El Boquerón National Park typically costs around $7-$10, depending on traffic and your exact location. This is a convenient option for those who prefer a direct and comfortable ride.

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Discover more about San Salvador Volcano

San Salvador Volcano, or Volcán de San Salvador, is an iconic stratovolcano that looms over El Salvador's capital city, San Salvador. The volcano's main edifice, called El Boquerón (meaning "big mouth" in Spanish), was formed between 700 and 1,000 years ago. Around 800 years ago, a violent explosion created the present-day crater, which is 1.5 km in diameter and 500 meters deep. The volcano's most recent eruption occurred in 1917, causing significant changes to the landscape. The eruption created a smaller crater within the larger one, known as Boqueroncito, and led to the disappearance of a lagoon that once occupied the main crater. Today, the crater is a lush oasis, with vegetation blanketing its slopes. Visitors can explore El Boquerón National Park, located within the volcano's crater, and enjoy hiking trails that lead to various viewpoints. From these vantage points, you can see the city of San Salvador, Lake Ilopango, and the surrounding volcanoes. The park is easily accessible from San Salvador, making it a popular destination for a quick escape into nature. The trails are well-maintained, and the hike to the crater rim typically takes around 20-25 minutes. The volcano's proximity to the city means that any geological activity could pose a risk. However, its iconic status and natural beauty make it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting El Salvador.

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