In short
- Wear sturdy trail shoes and bring a lightweight windbreaker.
- Carry a minimum of 1.5 to 2 liters of water per person.
- Bring small US dollar bills ($1, $5) to pay mandatory entry fees.
In this article
The guided hike up El Salvador's highest volcano takes 3 to 4 hours round trip. You will face a 1,532-foot elevation gain and strong winds at the crater rim. Proper gear and hydration keep you safe on the trail.
What shoes should I wear for the hike?
Wear sturdy trail shoes or hiking boots with good traction.
The 4.3-mile round trip trail is steep and rocky. Good grip is required for the 1,532 feet of elevation gain. Sneakers with flat soles can slide on loose volcanic rock.
What clothing is best for the volcano trail?
Bring a lightweight windbreaker or jacket and wear sun-protective clothing.
The trail is highly exposed to the sun. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are required. The 2,381-meter summit gets cold and very windy. Hold tightly to loose items at the crater rim.
How much water do I need to bring?
Carry a minimum of 1.5 to 2 liters of drinking water per person.
You cannot buy water once the hike begins. Purchase extra water at the Cerro Verde park entrance kiosks before your group departs. Dehydration is a major risk on this 4-hour trek.
Do I need to carry cash on the hike?
Yes, bring small US dollar bills ($1 and $5) for mandatory fees.
Foreigners pay $3.00 to $6.00 for park entry. You also need $1.00 to $3.00 for the mandatory guide fee. An extra $1.00 private land toll is sometimes charged on the trail.
What other gear is essential for the volcano hike?
Pack high-energy snacks and a camera with a secure strap.
You will need snacks to maintain energy during the 1.5 to 2 hours of climbing. The wind at the Santa Ana crater rim is strong enough to knock phones out of your hands. Secure your device before taking photos.
What should I pack for Lake Coatepeque?
Bring a swimsuit and a travel towel for post-hike water activities.
Many tours visit the nearby caldera lake after the hike. You cannot swim in the volcano crater lake because temperatures reach 45°C to 60°C. Save your swimming gear for the deep blue waters of Coatepeque.
Questions travellers ask
Can I buy food or water on the trail?
No. There are no facilities on the trail. You must buy extra water or food at the park entrance kiosks before the hike begins. Pack out all trash.
Do I need a heavy winter coat?
No. A lightweight windbreaker or jacket is sufficient. The lower trail is warm, but the 7,812-foot summit experiences strong, cool winds.
Can I swim in the crater lake?
Swimming in the Santa Ana crater lake is strictly prohibited. The highly acidic water temperature ranges from 113°F to 140°F.
