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Offered languages
- English
- Spanish
Izalco is one of the youngest volcanoes in the world (and still active). Reaching its crater is a rewarding but challenging experience! Be prepared to walk on steep slopes, lush cloud forests, uneven ground and (when Mother Nature's in the mood) stunning views.
Called "The Lighthouse of the Pacific" by ancient sailors, this young fella was in a constant eruption since late 1700s, spewing lava flows and debris until it reached an elevation of near 2000 m (6400+ ft).
Near the crater you can still see fumaroles and, from the top, the solidified lava fields spewed during recent eruptions. As well the steep slopes of Cerro Verde waiting for us again.
After getting back to Cerro Verde’s Visitors Center you have been made two volcanoes in one day and can proudly say VENI, VIDI, VICI.
NOTE: this is a challenging hike, proper gear required for safety. Hiking boots/shoes, hydration, sun/rain protection and a good physical shape is a must. Trekking poles highly recommended.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Note: Departures from different locations (e.g. Airport, international borders, international/domestic bus stations, outskirts or outside San Salvador city, etc. a supplement may apply.
Meeting point outside San Salvador: "Bosques del Tibet", a small mountain lodge conveniently located on the road to Cerro Verde.
What to expect
The hike starts at Cerro Verde visitors center and takes you into the evergreen cloud forest, down the slopes of this extinct volcano to reach the break with the solidified lava flows.
After getting back to Cerro Verde’s Visitors Center you have been made two volcanoes in one day and can proudly say VENI, VIDI, VICI.
On a glance:
Distance walked: 7.2 Km / 4.5 Mi
Duration (actual walking time): ~ 3h 30m – 4h
Ascent / Descent: 691 – 676 m / 2267 – 2218 ft
Elevation at start (Cerro Verde): 2019 m / 6624 ft
Top elevation: 2019 m / 6624 ft
Environment: Cloud forest, tall trees and a shady trail on Cerro Verde’s side. Bare loose rock and lack of vegetation on Izalco’s side.
Steep slopes on both sides. Some scrambling in last sections of Izalco. On Cerro Verde you must walk down and up near 1,500 steps carved on the dirt.
Highlights: A challenging hike rewarded by stunning views to different volcanic belts and mountain ranges in three countries (on a clear day).
Additional info
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
- IMPORTANT NOTE: Minimum age for this hike is 12 years old
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Additional info
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
- IMPORTANT NOTE: Minimum age for this hike is 12 years old
- This departure is not operated by a company and/or agency but by an independent Tourist Guide.
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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