CONQUEST THE SUMMIT OF THE MIGHTY SANTA ANA VOLCANO

Tour overview

At a glance
Distance walked: ~22 Km / 14.3 Mi
Actual walking time: ~6h (+/- 30m)
Elevation gain: 1275 m / 4183  ft
Elevation at start: 1580 m / 5183 ft
Top elevation: 2382 m / 7815 ft above sea level

Off the beaten track, way more challenging than the “tourists route of San Blas Sector” and heading to the summit of Santa Ana Volcano,  the tallest in El Salvador. This isn’t the typical touristy hike; we’re taking the less traveled path through the Northern entrance for an epic experience.
Forget the usual route to the rim – we’re pushing the limits by trekking nearly three times the distance and gaining twice the elevation. It requires serious stamina, but you have my word, it’s absolutely worth it. You’ll be bragging about this achievement for years to come!

Our hike kicks off with a walk along a dirt road, passing through small rural communities and coffee plantations. We cross recent pyroclastic flows and traditional corn fields known as “milpas.” The views from the bends are breathtaking, with the stunning Coatepeque caldera lake and the fertile Zapotitán valley in sight.

After approximately 7 kilometers (4+ miles), we’ll reach the Park Ranger’s station at the Northern entrance. There are just a few formalities before we continue our journey. Get ready to walk in an almost pristine cloud forest, where the air is crispy and the forest teems with life. Towering cypress trees, inwild orchids, and endangered wildlife will surround you.

Take a deep breath and embrace the serenity of nature, but stay cautious of your steps. The trail becomes steeper as we ascend the final section to the summit.
Behold the enormous crater, with its awe-inspiring geological features such as “The Amphitheater”, a massive plateau halfway between the rim and the bottom. You might even spot steaming fumaroles and the mesmerizing turquoise sulphuric-acid lake.

Congratulations! You’ve conquered the mighty Santa Ana Volcano, El Salvador’s tallest. Take a moment to revel in your accomplishment and soak in the surrounding beauty.

Highlights:

• Off the beaten track route, away from the tourist crowds.
• Experience a perfect blend of captivating countryside landscapes, breathtaking views, and an unforgettable journey through the tropical cloud forest.
• Escape the hustle and bustle of the crowded routes and enjoy a more intimate and personal hiking experience.
• By choosing this route, you directly contribute to supporting the local economies of the small communities that surround the volcano. It’s a win-win situation, where you get an unforgettable experience while making a positive impact on the livelihoods of the locals.

NOTE:
– THIS ROUTE IS MORE STRENUOUS THAN THE ONE USING THE SAN BLAS (“EL TIBET”) ENTRANCE. FOR DETAILS CHECK HERE
– IF YOU’RE INTERESTED IN AN ALTERNATIVE, EVEN MORE CHALLENGING HIKE, TAKE A LOOK TO MY TRILOGY AT LOS VOLCANES NAT. PARK.

Please consider to bring:

• Plenty of hydration,
• Sun, wind and rain protection,
• Adequate footwear with good grip (forget the new shoes),
• Some snack for the walk,
• Trekking poles and gloves are convenient.
• A light jacket or wind breaker,
• An extra set of dry clothes.

Check a short video of the view from the top here.