The Best Combo Tour of El Salvador with Volcanoes & Mayan Sites
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9h
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About this experience
Experience a breathtaking climb at 2,035 meters through verdant cloud forests at Cerro Verde National Park. Admire the vistas of Santa Ana, the biggest volcano in the area, and Izalco dubbed the "Lighthouse of the Pacific." Giant agaves and other plants can be found in this unusual dwarf forest. Admire the expansive splendor of the volcanic Coatepeque Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Experience the "Pompeii of the Americas," Joya de Cerén, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn about Mayan civilization in the afternoon. Proceed to the San Andrés ruins, a prominent ceremonial and political hub featuring historic buildings and an indigo mill buried by El Playón's eruption in 1658.
Available options
The Best Combo Tour of El Salvador with Volcanoes & Mayan Sites
Pickup included
What's included
Certified bilingual tour guide
Entrance fee to Cerro Verde National Park & archeological sites of Joya de Ceren and San Andres
Private transportation for the group
Detailed itinerary
1
After picking up all our guests, we will head to Cerro Verde National Park where we will begin our wonderful adventure that mixes nature and the history of a great civilization that also settled in this site, the Maya.
2
Stop 2
Explore the ecological pathways on a panoramic tour of Cerro Verde National Park. With 500 hectares of natural space at an elevation of 2035 meters, it boasts a stunning cloud forest. Savor expansive vistas of the Santa Ana Volcano, the biggest in the region, and the Izalco Volcano, also referred to as the "Lighthouse of the Pacific," since sailors were guided by the reddish glow of the lava to approach the port of Acajutla. This dwarf forest is home to a variety of plants, including huge magueys, low-lying shrubs, and grasses. Unmatched in Mesoamerica, the scenery is well worth a visit. Proceed to the Mayan sites after that. On the way you will have a panoramic view of the volcanic lake “Coatepeque”, ranked among the most beautiful in the world.
3
Stop 3
Explore the intriguing Mayan culture in the afternoon with a visit to Joya de Ceren, the well-known archaeological site also referred to as the Pompeii of America. In 1993, UNESCO designated Joya de Ceren as a World Heritage Site in recognition of its significant contribution to the everyday lives of the Mayan predecessors. The journey continues with a visit to the remains of San Andres, a significant ceremonial and political hub that housed a number of buildings utilized by the ruling class of that era. The ruins of an indigo mill that was buried by El Playón's eruption in 1658 can be found at this significant location.
4
At the end of our tour, we will head back to the hotel where we picked you up. We are sure that this is an adventure that you will carry in your heart for a long time.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
During the rainy season (May to October) the cloudy weather could reduce the visibility of the volcanoes.
The tour starts and ends at your hotel
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, hat, sunglasses, and sun protection. Bring extra water
For lunch, you will have different restaurant options at your fingertips. The cost of the meal will depend on the option you choose.
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
Instant confirmation
