Top 50 things to do and attractions in San Salvador (2024)

El Boquerón National Park is a volcanic complex situated at the top of San Salvador volcano, offering excellent hiking trails that lead to the rim of El Boquerón crater. The park provides a refreshing experience away from the heat and showcases beautiful local plants and animals within its vicinity. It is recommended to tour the Centro Historico in the morning before visiting El Boquerón National Park in the afternoon.

Cool experience if you’d like to do some outside exploringIf you’d like to go down into the crater, please ask for a guide and make sure you have snacks and water cause you’ll need energy to return

Savannah — Google review

The hike took about an hour to complete. It is a wonderful ecosystem with many different flowers and fauna. The hike is not too strenuous and it's definitely kid friendly. The view from the top of the volcanic crater is stunning. On your way down the hill, there are many fruit vendors on the side of the street selling many wonderful fruits and veggies. Please stop by to buy something before you leave.

Carl E — Google review

Siempre bonito visitar. Limpio, parqueo seguro y han mejorado bastante. Ya tienen más personas cuidando y atendiendo. La vista es preciosa y realmente es un excelente lugar para pasar una tarde. Si estás visitando El Salvador pues no debes faltar está parada. Al igual, si vives aquí pues una tarde libre o una cita aquí no cae mal.(Translated by Google)Always nice to visit. Clean, safe parking and they have improved a lot. They already have more people caring and assisting. The view is beautiful and it really is a great place to spend an afternoon. If you are visiting El Salvador, you should not miss this stop. Likewise, if you live here, a free afternoon or a date here doesn't hurt.

John V — Google review

Great views. Go on weekdays. Locals say weekends gets full and parking is limited.Next time I'll the the tour down to the bottom on the volcano, which is about 4 hrs down and 5 -6 up. Visibility is usually poor because it's almost always cloudy or foggy. Overall, awesome experience. Trails to the lookout places is not that bad. Just take your time and enjoy the views.

Armando C — Google review

The “hike” to the crater takes about 5 minutes, so no need to get all geared up like my crew did. For the more avid hikers, it certainly left something to be desired. There is a delicious coffee shop at the top. Nice lookout that allows you to see San Salvador, Lake Ilopongo and San Vicente Volcano. Very clean restrooms are available on site.

The A — Google review

A nice place to visit and be refresh from the heat. It would be nice for a tour guide to share about the local plants and animals that can be found in the area.

Susan R — Google review

My first time here was November 14th and I do not regret it. First off, I would like to say how refreshing the cool weather was in this area. I mean Wow, I could see myself living in an area like this! I was instantly put at ease because the last this I really wanted to do walk trails and climb stairs in high heat. I believe I payed a $3 entrance fee as a foreigner, not bad. The beautiful weather in this lush national park made exploration a breeze. There are several vendors along the way just in case you need refreshments. The scenic views of volcanoes and exotic vegetation are sights to behold. Do yourself a favor and visit this beautiful park.

Man 1 — Google review

Lugar accesible para llegar por la calle que esta en buen estado, el valor de la entrada es económico, luego de entrar podemos encontrarnos que tiene parqueo, seguridad y también guias que acompañan el recorrido para llegar a los diferentes miradores.Hay un centro de información que detalla historia y demás datos sobre la erupción del volcán.Les recomiendo llevar repelente para insectos y bloqueador solar.El clima es fresco y vemos variedad de plantas que si queremos comprar algunas hay dos o tres puestos de venta y además tienen golosinas.El lugar es limpio y con buen mantenimientoLo mejor de todo es la vista al boquerón, es impresionante.Los senderos para llegar a los miradores están bien formados aunque no tiene acceso para personas que utilizan silla de ruedasEn la salida del lugar están varios lugares donde poder comer y ventas de artesanías(Translated by Google)Accessible place to arrive by the street that is in good condition, the value of the entrance is cheap, after entering we can find that it has parking, security and also guides that accompany the tour to reach the different viewpoints.There is an information center detailing history and other facts about the eruption of the volcano.I recommend bringing insect repellent and sunscreen.The weather is cool and we see a variety of plants that if we want to buy some there are two or three stalls and they also have sweets.The place is clean and well maintained.The best of all is the view of the boquerón, it is impressive.The paths to get to the viewpoints are well formed, although they do not have access for people who use wheelchairs.At the exit of the place there are several places where you can eat and sell crafts

L M — Google review

Beautiful views of the caldera just a short 10 minute hike from the parking lot. Very nice views of San Salvador from a tower in the parking lot as well.The hike to the Volcano viewing area has some very steep steps. Those with limited mobility may not be able to make it.

Cherie E — Google review

Very nice national park. Bring water. There are over 2 stairs to climb. The view is one of a kind. I recommend you come with sneakers and bring your family for support. Parking is about 2 dollars, and the entrance is 1 dollar a person.

Melbin M — Google review

$2 entrance fee. Several look out points. Doesn't take long to get to the summit.. Try to go on a clear day.

Patsy G — Google review

A very beautiful place. Recommendable to visit. It's nice to walk and take some air. Relaxing. Don't go to the restricted area it's too dangerous. Bring some water because it's exhausting to go up. Put a comfortable shoes as well.

Enelyn U — Google review

Es un lugar muy bonito y donde se respira aire fresco, siendo extranjera mi entrada me costo 2 dólares. Puedes llegar en automóvil propio o en mi caso uber. El sendero está muy bien señalizado y para mi las mejores vistas son desde el mirador 1 y el 4. Lleva tu botella con agua porque si no estás acostumbrado a la actividad física te sentirás cansado. Me encanto la experiencia aunque la hice sola.(Translated by Google)It is a very beautiful place where you can breathe fresh air. Being a foreigner, my entrance cost me 2 dollars. You can arrive by own car or in my case uber. The trail is very well signposted and for me the best views are from viewpoints 1 and 4. Bring your bottle of water because if you are not used to physical activity you will feel tired. I loved the experience even though I did it alone.

Ruth Q — Google review

Well worth the visit to El Boqueron National Park! Came here with a tour guide who helped explain how the crater was formed. Fun climb to the top and great views of the caldera! A lot cooler even when hot and humid at San Salvador!

Steffan D — Google review

Very lovely. Easy to hike. Definitely a must see while in El Salvador, especially the glass overhang. Great views of the mountains and vistas of the area!

Michael C — Google review

What a wonderful place to visit! Being among the nature transfers you to a whole new place in El Salvador.It's remodeled and it's still being remodeled. It's stunning and I highly recommend taking your time. Enjoy the nature, the flowers, the trees, smell the fresh clean air and check out the crater. It's quite an impressive experience. A nice little getaway from the city.

Debbie G — Google review

The road is narrow. Not enough parking, but the park has been renovated and very nice and easy trails.When we arrived there was no water in the toilets or drinking water. I hope they fix this soon.

Carlos M — Google review

Parque Nacional El Boquerón in El Salvador is a breathtaking destination located at the summit of the San Salvador volcano. The park offers stunning views of the massive volcanic crater, surrounded by lush greenery and cool mountain air. The well-maintained trails make it easy to explore the area, and the lookouts provide perfect photo opportunities. It’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and hikers looking to experience the beauty of El Salvador's volcanic landscapes.

Alejandro — Google review

Interesting natural place.You can go walking to the top of volcano El Boqueron, and see the 1.5 km volcano crater.Pedestrian access roads to the top are being renovated. New viewpoints are being built. For SAFETY, in the so-called MIRADOR DE CRISTAL be attentive, for safety reasons there cannot be more than 15 people on the platform.

Pedro C — Google review

Visited in Aug ‘24 and had a great time. It doesn’t take very long to get through the whole park and there are so many good view points into the crater. On a clear day, they said you can see out to the ocean and other nearby volcanoes. Would recommend visiting if you’re in San Salvador.

Jose T — Google review

Amazing. easy day trip to the very top of a dormant volcano! A few steps make it a slight workout, a perfect trip with children.The access at the top is narrow and parking is difficult and limited. There a several tourist shops and restaurants at the top and needless to say that the views of the capital are breathtaking! ❤️🇸🇻

Frederic R — Google review

About 6 different views of the same volcano. Cool history behind it, but quite a lot of driving back and forth to take the 10-15 min hike. Vendors selling water at the entrance can be a bit much of annoyance.

Jim M — Google review

A amazing place with great staff, it's $2 only cash, easy access and path to the volcano just a little difficult in the longest stair up otherwise it takes 30 minutes all together, there great souvenirs shops around that are super cheap and nobody is bothering you or asking you to buy anything, the atmosphere is relax, the volcano is really nice to see , plenty of benches and view point and even downstairs you have a view of the lake and this entire city and other volcano, on your way out there a few restaurants that accept cards and you can eat as little as $2 , the coffee is really good and the food is deliciousToday's vagabond way to see the volcano without spending too much if you are located in San Salvador:Uber to the site = 40minutes because of the tiny mountain roads it takes a while to get up there from Santa telca but very fun to explore and see, very tropical and beautiful with a high concentration on tourism you can find many attractions parks, hotels and restaurants on the way up to the national park.Cost $7.50Next pay your entrance fees: $2 cashEnjoy the view points and climb up the stairs to see the cratere and volcano or see the mini museum and buy souvenirs on your way outEat lunch: $3.50 with a coffee or sodaWith a volcano and lake viewWalk down for about 1.5miles and follow the autobus sign when you see it and there you are, just wait for the big chicken bus that says (Santa Telca) takes about a good 45minutes , runs very slow down the mountain and pick up many passengers, the views is great and cost=20 centsGet off by the Plaza in Santa telca and enjoy the mall then take the bus that says Metro Centro or San Salvador for 20cens back.Total cost $13.50That includes:Round trip from San Salvador+Entry to the park+buses to Santa Telca+ Lunch MealCompare to $50-90 Advertise tour trips that takes hours to pick up people and don't even include the park fee .If you exclude lunch it's $10 total or if you buy a souvenirs $15 maxIf you don't without the Uber on your way there it's : $6.50 totalIf you wanted to do it with Uber from Santa telca $18 total . You could take a Uber or taxi from the volcano to San Salvador but the cost is much higher from there and if you pay them cash it's around $20-30 one way witch I don't recommend.

Vanessa B — Google review

Parque Nacional El Boquerón is an absolute gem! The views from the top are breathtaking, offering a stunning panorama of the San Salvador volcano and the surrounding landscape. The hike to the crater is moderately easy and well-maintained, making it accessible for most fitness levels. The cool mountain air is refreshing, and the lush greenery adds to the serene atmosphere.The park is well-organized with clear signage, and there are several viewpoints along the trail that provide excellent photo opportunities. There's also a small visitor center with information about the volcano’s history, which adds to the experience.If you're in El Salvador, visiting El Boquerón is a must. It's a perfect escape from the city, and the natural beauty is simply awe-inspiring. Don’t forget to bring your camera and some water. Highly recommended!

Elias ( — Google review

There's a ton of construction happening, building infrastructure here. There's a nice little interpretative center, well developed trails, several restrooms and what will soon be snack stations. Great lookouts. Parking is limited and the road is narrowed with cars parked on one side as you near the park.

Michael G — Google review

This is one of the closest volcanos you can visit from the city center. It's a 28 minute drive from the city centre to the park entrance. Uber is available to take you there as well as pick you up and bring you back. Upon arrival you will pay Two dollars per person per admission. The Uber was nine dollars each way. There are lots of options for food and beverage as well as souvenirs. It's an easy ascent to the lookout where you have a glass floor and a great view of the Caldera.

Stephen S — Google review

Definitely a must visit when staying in San Salvador!It’s an easy 25 minute Uber ride from the city. I’d highly recommend negotiating a driver to stay and take you back since you’ll spend at most an hour here.It’s a short hike from the park entrance ($2 for tourists) and the views of the volcanic crater are spectacular. On a nice day, seeing the entire area and magnitude of it all is quite impressive. There are a few viewpoints to lookout from and even a small cafe near the top.If you’re looking for an easy daytrip out of town, would definitely add this to your list.

Andy N — Google review

It's absolutely amazing. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and make sure your phone is charged to take pictures. There is construction going on in the park itself, so be prepared to navigate around what's being worked on. The street up has plenty of street vendors, but be kind and tip those who help you park ($5 goes a long way). The park has parking, but more than likely, you'll park on the outside on the side of the road. The new construction is enhancing lookouts, but be careful with small children and dogs. There are lots of stray dogs. If you have water, be sure to share. Enjoy the views 😎

Maria C — Google review

Super incredible views! The weather ☁️ at that altitude is super cool very nice ( if bringing kids, it's a great idea to bring sweaters) I loved 😍 it. We took around 40 minutes to hike the entire trail.

Michael G — Google review

Finally went here and wow. My mind was blown and got some great pics with my drone. Drone friendly. They upgraded everything and it looks pretty. If you are not from El Salvador go with family so you can pay the non tourist price.

Tito M — Google review

Beautiful scenery, best hiking up to see the volcano. Lots of stairs, no wheelchair access.

NessMor_ L — Google review

Absolutely beautiful! It is a very winding road to reach the location. I Definitely recommend you add this location to your itinerary. It is a quick walk through the national park.

Karla M — Google review

Astonishing view of inside the San Salvador volcano. Guided visit if you need.All premises are clean. Ask for the service of drone video.

Juan L — Google review

Very pleasant place to spend an hour or two. More like a botanical garden, with cultivated gardens and walkways, than a true hike. Limited parking, but Uber worked fine.

Serafina B — Google review

Top 50 things to do and attractions in San Salvador (2024)
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