Hike to the Turquoise Ilamatepec Lagoon

8 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English and 1 more

Ilamatepec, better known as the Santa Ana Volcano, is El Salvador's highest volcano and home to one of its most extraordinary natural sights: a crater lagoon of vivid turquoise water, colored by the volcano's mineral and sulfuric activity.

The trail begins in Cerro Verde National Park, where lush vegetation and birdsong set the tone before the real ascent starts. From there, the path climbs steadily up Ilamatepec's slopes, the terrain shifting from forest to open volcanic ground as you gain altitude.

As you climb, the views expand in every direction: the black lava fields of the neighboring Izalco Volcano, the deep blue of Lake Coatepeque below, and on clear days the plains stretching toward the Pacific Ocean. The true highlight waits at the top reaching the crater rim, you're with the turquoise waters of the lagoon itself, framed by the volcano's rocky walls, releasing faint traces of sulfur that are a reminder this is still an active volcano.

What's Included

Private transportation
Certified hiking guide
Admission fee
Lunch
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Gratuities
Personal hiking gear

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Our driver and team will be waiting at the hotel pick-up point, which is the entrance of the listed hotels. Our team will wear branded shirts. If you can't find us, please call via WhatsApp and we will come to you.

What to expect

A challenging hike across solidified black lava slopes that culminates at a summit with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Lake Coatepeque and neighboring volcanoes.

Additional info

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by Gray Line

Tags

Day Trips
Extreme Sports
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Adventure Tours
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Show more
from per person
Was {{formatPrice(summaryFromPriceBeforeDiscount, currency, 2)}}