El Boqueron National Park: Discover a Small Crater inside of a Giant Crater
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4h
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About this experience
Although El Salvador is a small country, it has several fantastic tourist attractions, including the sleeping giant volcano known as San Salvador Volcano.
The volcano is part of El Boquerón National Park, which we invite you to visit. Climbing the volcano is a relatively simple activity that you can do in one day that is also quite entertaining and has breathtaking scenery.
Unquestionably, El Boquerón's enormous crater, from which the volcano gets its name, is its main draw. Within the primary crater lies a minor crater known as Boqueroncito.
The tour includes ascending the volcano, admiring its craters, taking in the scenery, and, if you'd like, eating some fruits that were gathered from the volcano. To round out the day, we'll visit a coffee farm and eat lunch at a restaurant that serves typical Salvadoran cuisine. We would also be pleased to take you shopping if you wanted to buy handicrafts.
Available options
El Boqueron National Park: Discover a Small Crater inside of a Giant Crater
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Entrance fee to El Boqueron National Park
Certified tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
This tour will start when we pick you up from your hotel lobby. The trip to the San Salvador Volcano will not take long as it is only 11 km away from the central area of the capital. We will arrive at El Boqueron National Park is approximately 30-40 minutes.
2
Quezaltepeque, which translates to Cerro de los Quetzales, is its name in Nahuat. This volcano is simple to climb because it has indicated pathways, steps with safety railings, and 4 viewpoints where you can take a little break to take the breathtaking scenery.
This stunning volcano rises more than 1800 meters above sea level, and El Boqueron, a massive crater with a diameter of 1.5 kilometers and a depth of 558 meters, is its main draw. Another oddity is that El Boqueroncito, a smaller crater, is located inside the enormous El Boqueron crater.
You can also take in the breathtaking views of the volcano's craters and learn about the local flora and fauna, including decorative plants like "Cartuchos," hydrangeas, begonias, and others, as well as armadillos, raccoons, deer, foxes, and other animals.
El Boquerón is a protected place with a cool mild environment all year long. However, we advise wearing a sweater because the wind increases at higher levels.
3
Coffee plantation: Another part of our tour will be to visit a coffee plantation. El Salvador is an excellent producer of high-quality coffee due to a large number of volcanoes in its territory. These provide a great amount of minerals and nutrients to the soil.
4
We will then make a stop for our lunch. We will visit a restaurant specializing in traditional Salvadoran dishes.
5
We will visit the Picnic Steak House so you can slide down the Rainbow Slide. Each slide has a cost of USD$5.00 which is not included in the tour, but it is definitely a fun experience you won't want to miss.
6
The last part of the tour will be to take you back to your hotel in San Salvador. We bet you will have an amazing day in this breathtaking location!
What's not included
Lunch
Gratuities
The Rainbow Slide - USD5.00 each slide
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About San Salvador
San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, colonial architecture, and bustling urban life. It offers a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm, with numerous cultural attractions and nearby natural wonders.
Top Attractions
El Rosario Church
A stunning example of modern religious architecture, known for its unique design and beautiful stained glass windows.
Religious/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free
National Palace
A historic building that once housed the government of El Salvador, now a museum showcasing the country's history and political heritage.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free
Jardín Botánico La Laguna
A beautiful botanical garden featuring a variety of plant species, a lake, and walking paths, offering a peaceful escape from the city.
Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate (around $2)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pupusas
Thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, or meat, and often served with curtido (a cabbage slaw) and tomato sauce.
Main Dish
Vegetarian options available (cheese and bean fillings)
Paste
A small, round bread roll filled with various savory fillings like pork, chicken, or beans.
Snack
Vegetarian options available (bean filling)
Yuca Frita
Fried yuca (cassava) served with curtido and a spicy sauce.
Side Dish
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in El Imposible National Park
Exploring Mayan ruins at Joya de Cerén
Visiting Jardín Botánico La Laguna
Enjoying a coffee at a local café
Guided tours of El Rosario Church and National Palace
Attending local festivals and events
Boat tours on Lake Suchitlán in Suchitoto
N/A
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the dry season, offering pleasant weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
22°C to 30°C
72°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
CST (UTC -6)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
San Salvador has improved in terms of safety in recent years, but it's still important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation. Violent crime, including armed robbery and assault, can also occur, particularly in certain neighborhoods and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Use common sense and stay alert in crowded places
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
Getting there
By air
- Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport • 45 km from city center
By bus
Terminal de Oriente, Terminal de Occidente
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They can be crowded and sometimes confusing for first-time visitors.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, TaxisAhora
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Colonia Escalón
Colonia San Benito
Downtown (Centro Histórico)
Day trips
Joya de Cerén
35 km from San Salvador • Half day
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a pre-Columbian Mayan village preserved under volcanic ash, similar to Pompeii.
El Imposible National Park
100 km from San Salvador • Full day
El Salvador's largest national park, offering diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and hiking trails.
Suchitoto
70 km from San Salvador • Full day or overnight
A charming colonial town with cobblestone streets, historic churches, and a beautiful lake view.
Festivals
Feria de Agosto • August
Fiestas Patronales de San Salvador • February
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
- Use app-based taxi services like Uber or TaxisAhora for safer and more transparent pricing.
- Explore the city's street art and graffiti, which can be found in various neighborhoods and offers a unique perspective on the city's culture and history.
- Visit local markets for authentic souvenirs and to experience the vibrant local culture.
- Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash to minimize the risk of theft.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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