Hiking Santa Ana Volcano is one of those experiences you simply can’t miss when visiting El Salvador 🌋. Known as the country’s most popular hike and for good reason, it offers incredible scenery, a rewarding summit, and a trail that feels accessible for most people with a moderate fitness level.

The hike takes roughly two hours up and about two hours down, starting through open landscapes and finishing through a beautiful forest section on the descent. At the top, you’re rewarded with the stunning turquoise crater lake, a surreal blue that feels almost unreal, along with views toward Izalco Volcano and the surrounding landscapes.

One of our favorite little details is that at the summit you can often buy local paletas (Salvadoran ice cream pops), which somehow taste even better after the climb.

If you want to make the most of the experience, we’ve done the research and found a trustworthy tour with great reviews, a good option if you’d like guidance and local insight along the way.

NOTE: If the weather is very windy, ask your guide whether the hike is still happening, as access to the top may be restricted if the wind is too strong. You don’t want to go only halfway.

Our top place to stay in this area is Los Naranjos Townhouses, and they’ve always helped arrange tours for us. They are not the operators themselves, but they can connect you with third-party local guides who run the tours.

Here is their number: +503 6959 3051. Say hi from us if you decide to message them 🤗