🌋 Santa Ana Volcano Hiking Guide | El Salvador 🌋
For an unforgettable volcano adventure, Santa Ana (Ilamatepec) is Central America's must-hike active giant! 📍 Essentials • Location: Near Santa Ana city, western El Salvador • Height: 2,381m (highest active volcano in El Salvador) • Crater: 1.5km-wide with a turquoise acid lake✨ • Last eruption: 2005 (currently dormant but steamy!) 🚶♂️ Hike Details • Start: Cerro Verde National Park (parking/visitor center) • Distance: 6km round-trip (~4-5 hours) • Difficulty: Moderate-strenuous (steep, rocky trails) • Guide: Mandatory ($5-10, includes park fee) 🎒 Pack Smart • Clothing: Light layers (windy & chilly at summit!) • Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots (loose rocks everywhere) • Must-haves: 1.5L water 💧 Energy snacks (nuts/chocolate) Sun protection (hat, SPF50+, sunglasses) Camera—views are INSANE 📸 🌄 Why It’s Epic Crater Lake: Vivid green against black volcanic rock. Panoramic Views: Spot Pacific Ocean + 4 other volcanoes on clear days! Wildlife: Keep eyes peeled for rare birds/coatis. ⏰ Best Time to Go • Season: Nov-Apr (dry, less cloudy) • Time: Depart at 7AM—beat heat + see lake without fog! ⚠️ Safety Tips Stay with your guide (trails can be confusing). Pack out all trash (this ecosystem is fragile!). Descend carefully—gravelly paths = slippery! #SantaAnaVolcano #HikeElSalvador #VolcanoAdventure #CentralAmericaTravel