Cerro Verde National Park
Majestic cloud forest park with hiking trails on dormant volcanoes, offering stunning views and cool mountain air.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Cerro Verde National Park
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Majestic cloud forest park with hiking trails on dormant volcanoes, offering stunning views and cool mountain air.
"The Santa Ana volcano hike is a must-do, rewarding you with incredible crater lake views!"
Book Santa Ana Hike Early
The 9 am tour from Cerro Verde is the only official one. Arrive early or book a private guide beforehand!
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Crucial for the Santa Ana volcano hike; avoid shoes like Yeezys as they can be uncomfortable. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Santa Ana Volcano Hike
Santa Ana Volcano
Conquer El Salvador's highest volcano for breathtaking crater lake views and a rewarding sense of accomplishment.
Izalco Volcano Views
Cerro Verde National Park
Gaze upon the active Izalco volcano, a dramatic peak offering stunning vistas from the park's vantage points.
Cloud Forest Ambiance
Cerro Verde National Park
Immerse yourself in the cool, misty cloud forest ecosystem, a unique natural wonder with rich biodiversity.
Sunset Over the Volcanoes
Cerro Verde National Park
Witness spectacular sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the volcanic landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Volcano Hike
What to Pack for Cerro Verde
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Santa Ana Hike Early
The 9 am tour from Cerro Verde is the only official one. Arrive early or book a private guide beforehand!
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Crucial for the Santa Ana volcano hike; avoid shoes like Yeezys as they can be uncomfortable. :athletic_shoe:
Altitude Sickness Preparedness
Altitude sickness is real on the Santa Ana hike. Stay hydrated and consider acclimatizing if possible. :droplet:
Bring Cash for Extras
Carry small bills for entrance fees, private guides, and even popsicles at the volcano summit! :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Santa Ana Hike Early
The 9 am tour from Cerro Verde is the only official one. Arrive early or book a private guide beforehand!
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Crucial for the Santa Ana volcano hike; avoid shoes like Yeezys as they can be uncomfortable. :athletic_shoe:
Altitude Sickness Preparedness
Altitude sickness is real on the Santa Ana hike. Stay hydrated and consider acclimatizing if possible. :droplet:
Bring Cash for Extras
Carry small bills for entrance fees, private guides, and even popsicles at the volcano summit! :moneywithwings:
Enjoy the Views from Casa 1800
This cafe offers stunning volcano views and good food, a perfect spot to relax after a hike. :coffee: +1
Consider a Private Guide
For more flexibility and a personalized experience, hire a guide before entering the park. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cerro Verde National Park for its stunning volcanic landscapes, particularly the Santa Ana volcano hike with its rewarding crater lake views. The cool climate and cloud forest ambiance are also highlighted as major draws. However, some find the entrance and tour fees a bit high, and the hiking trails can get crowded, impacting the overall experience.
"Hiked the Santa Ana volcano. If you’re planning on starting from the cerro verde park, it’s a bit longer than the hike from one of the private tour guides before you enter the park.
I thought the tours ran from 9 am on, but there is only 1 tour leaving from cerro verde promptly at 9 am, otherwise you should just stop before you reach cerro verde and hire a private guide.
Altitude sickness is a thing on this hike but can be managed. Get there early and hire a private guide to go at your own pace. Private guide is $40 but then you still need to pay an entrance fee of $3 for tourist at cerro verde. Where we got our guide, required an additional $3 for parking and $0.50 per person for accessing private property 🙄. I paid it…
You will pass by areas that are shaded, open air, and then sunny and rocky. Wear good walking shoes, being repellant, and sunscreen and a hat.
Officials only let you up there for 30 mins once you arrive to the top and stop letting anyone to the top around 12:30 pm so plan accordingly. It’s worth the hike. We got views of the other volcano and of the lake on our way. It took us 2.5 hours to hike up and then 1.5 to hike down.
Bring $2 for the popsicles at the top of the volcano."
Sil Via
"Very nice Park, is one of the locations to head out to Volcano’s Santa Ana or Izalco 💪🏾 both active volcanos. They have nice coffee and a very nice restaurant “Casa 1800 Cerro” also a Hotel & Boutique under that name."
Joel G. Lopez Mejía
"The parking and the entry seems a bit expensive but people are friendly. The playground for the kids is nice and the view definitely worth it!
The hike for the cero itself was not super nice too many people, to many groups, I was pushed because I was at the back of our group helping someone that had difficulty to climb, by another guide that was not happy . She overtakes our group several times but she was pushing her group so much that they had to take more break and each time we reached them so in the end we arrived there with two other groups which means a lot of people on top not that enjoyable!"
Waffelsworldtour Anaïse Et Nico
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cerro Verde National Park is about a 1.5-hour drive from San Salvador. You can rent a car or hire a taxi. Public transportation is also an option, involving buses to Santa Ana and then a local bus or taxi to the park.
The roads leading to Cerro Verde are generally well-maintained, making driving a convenient option. Parking is available within the park, though fees may apply.
Yes, you can take a bus from San Salvador to Santa Ana, and then transfer to a local bus or taxi that goes directly to Cerro Verde National Park.
The most common starting point for the Santa Ana volcano hike is within Cerro Verde National Park. Alternatively, you can arrange a private guide before entering the park, which might offer a different starting point.
GPS navigation is reliable for reaching Cerro Verde. Follow signs for Santa Ana and then look for directions to Parque Nacional Cerro Verde.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for foreign tourists is typically around $3 USD. This fee may or may not be included in the cost of guided tours.
Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance to the park. However, for popular hikes like Santa Ana volcano, it's advisable to arrive early or book a guided tour in advance to secure your spot.
The park is generally open daily, but specific hours for attractions like the Santa Ana volcano hike are limited. The last ascent to the Santa Ana volcano summit is usually around 12:30 pm.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for the park, and additional fees may apply for guided tours or access to specific trails like the Santa Ana volcano hike. Private guides might also charge their own fees.
It's best to carry cash, especially for smaller fees, private guides, and any purchases within the park. Credit card acceptance can be inconsistent. :moneywithwings:
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
The most popular hike is to the summit of the Santa Ana volcano, offering stunning views of its crater lake. Hiking to Izalco volcano is also an option, though access might vary.
The hike up the Santa Ana volcano can take approximately 2.5 hours, with the descent taking about 1.5 hours. This can vary depending on your pace and whether you have a guide.
The hike is considered moderately challenging, involving around 1,300 steps and significant elevation gain. Altitude can also be a factor.
For the Santa Ana volcano, a certified guide is mandatory. You can hire one at the park entrance or arrange for one beforehand. Independent hiking is generally not permitted on the main volcano trails. 
Expect breathtaking panoramic views of neighboring volcanoes like Santa Ana and Izalco, as well as Coatepeque Lake. Sunsets here are particularly spectacular.
Yes, there are restrooms available. Casa 1800 Cerro is a popular restaurant and cafe within the park offering food and drinks with a view.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Santa Ana volcano offers incredible shots of the crater lake. The viewpoints throughout the park provide stunning vistas of the surrounding volcanoes and landscapes, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Early mornings and late afternoons, especially during golden hour, offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. Sunsets are particularly renowned. +2
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for closer shots of the volcanoes. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures during sunset. :camerawithflash:
The view of the crater lake from the Santa Ana summit is a must-capture. Also, look for opportunities to photograph the unique cloud forest ecosystem and the dramatic volcanic peaks.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with park authorities or local regulations before flying a drone to ensure compliance and avoid any issues. :aerial_tramway:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds, making the experience more relaxed for everyone. The presence of amenities like restrooms and the option to dine at Casa 1800 also adds to the convenience for families. Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water for the little ones. :familywithggs:
💰 Budget Travelers
While guided tours for the Santa Ana volcano hike have a cost, they are generally reasonable, especially when compared to similar activities in other countries. Bringing your own snacks and water can also help save money on food expenses within the park.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1 Consider a guided hike up the Santa Ana volcano for a shared challenge and the reward of stunning panoramic views, including the vibrant crater lake. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the misty cloud forest, hand-in-hand, or find a quiet spot for a picnic with a view. Dining at Casa 1800 Cerro Verde provides an opportunity for a romantic meal with an unforgettable backdrop.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking the Volcanoes: Santa Ana & Izalco
The Izalco Volcano is another prominent peak within the park. While not as frequently hiked to the summit as Santa Ana, its imposing presence offers dramatic views from various points within Cerro Verde. The park's unique cloud forest ecosystem provides a lush and misty environment, adding to the mystical atmosphere of these volcanic giants.
+1Important considerations for volcano hikes:
* Guided Tours: A certified guide is mandatory for the Santa Ana volcano hike. Tours typically depart at 9 am from Cerro Verde.
* Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or shoes are essential due to the varied terrain and steps.
* Timing: The Santa Ana volcano trail often closes to new ascents around 12:30 pm, so plan your hike accordingly.
* Fees: Be prepared for park entrance fees and potential additional costs for guides and private property access.
The Magic of Cerro Verde's Cloud Forest
+1The cool, humid climate of the cloud forest is a stark contrast to the warmer lowlands, offering a refreshing escape. Walking through the park's trails, you'll be surrounded by towering trees draped in moss and epiphytes. The air is crisp, and the sounds of nature are amplified by the dense foliage. It's an ideal setting for leisurely walks, picnics, and simply immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature.
Key aspects of the cloud forest experience:
* Atmosphere: Expect cool temperatures and frequent mist, contributing to a magical ambiance.
* Biodiversity: Keep an eye out for unique flora and fauna that thrive in this specific ecosystem.
* Activities: Perfect for nature walks, photography, and enjoying a peaceful picnic amidst stunning scenery.
Culinary Delights and Views at Casa 1800
Visitors rave about the stunning vistas from Casa 1800, making it a prime location for photography, especially during sunset. The ambiance is often described as serene and awe-inspiring, providing a unique backdrop for a meal. Whether you're enjoying a coffee or a full meal, the combination of delicious food and panoramic views is a significant draw for many visitors to Cerro Verde.
Why visit Casa 1800:
* Spectacular Views: Enjoy unparalleled vistas of the volcanoes and surrounding landscape.
* Dining Options: Savor local dishes and refreshing drinks in a beautiful setting.
* Photography Hotspot: An ideal location for capturing stunning sunset photos.
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