Tour overview

Part of a more numerous compound, Tecapa is an active volcano with a sulfuric-acid lagoon and water steam fumaroles into the crater. The turquoise-green crater lake is known as The Emerald of the Americas. The hike starts in the colorful village of Alegría (Spanish for Joy)  across coffee plantations, wild vegetation, basalt boulders around the rim of the crater until reaching the gap of the collapsed crater to get into it. A weird fact is this lake grows during dry season and shrinks during rainy season.

On a glance:
Distance walked: 10 Km / 6.2 Mi
Duration (actual walking time): ~ 4h
Ascent – Descent: 454 – 463 m / 1490 – 1519 ft
Elevation at start: 1158 m / 3800 ft
Top elevation: 1589 m / 5213 ft

Environment: First and last sections on cobblestoned roads. Coffee plantations, wild forest around the rim.
Highlight: The stunning emerald-green sulfuric lagoon in the center of the crater.

Mix and Match

If you stay overnight in Alegría or Berlín (seriously, a city called Berlín sits on the slopes of Tecapa volcano, surrounded by coffee farms)  you can take an extension to Jiquilisco bay for a nice day on the beach with alternative activities such kayaking in the mangroves, boat rides, deserted sandy beaches or a visit to the spider monkeys sanctuary.

Included

  • Private transport in vehicle with A/C
  • Licensed Tour Guide
  • Local guide
  • Guided hike
  • Admissions to protected area

Not Included

  • Meals or drinks
  • Tip for local guide
  • Personal expenses / Souvenirs