Things to see and do Western Region

Close to Metapán, the lagoon of the same name will delight lovers of nature and soothe the excited. There is abundant fishing there: many carp (mojarras).

On the north-eastern border of El Salvador, this beautiful freshwater lake is both El Salvador and Guatemala. In the Salvadoran part of about 32 square kilometres, several islets exist: Teotipa, Cerro de Tule and Iguatepec. Excavations in 1924 discovered pre-Columbian ceramics and unknown archaeological remains such as Azacualpa, on Teotipa Island, or Igualtepec. Today, many birds can still be found including quetzal. The lake is surrounded by the extinct volcanoes Mita, San Diego and Cerro Quemado, which make up a picturesque landscape.

As the country's most visited national park, Montecristo was, on 18 November 1987, the first area in El Salvador to protect fauna and flora. On 1 973 hectares, affecting the borders of Honduras and Guatemala, the Montecristo National Park has an extension with the Trifinio biosphere reserve. In its midst, three mountains peak over 2 000 metres above sea level: Montecristo (2 418), Miramundo (2 394) and Brujo. The summit, El Trifinio, forms a natural border with neighbouring Guatemala and Honduras. Five guides (in Spanish) are downloadable on the Internet site: observation of birds, orchids, reptiles and amphibians, mammals, flora and fruit. The park hides a sublime orchid garden (approximately 80 species) named Jardín de los Cien Años, home in its nébuleuse forest tree over 30 metres, 275 species of endèmiques birds, mammals such as puma and snakes that are more or less dangerous. Caimans are found there, as are deer, squirrels, and tigrillos (ocelots). Many trails allow you to familiarize yourself with this superb environment. We will work along rivers and waterfalls, along with otters… Many viewpoints offer a beautiful view on the bottom. The bolder will climb at the peak of Cerro Montecristo at 2 400 metres altitude (it is essential to apply for a permit to the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources). The most adventurous hikers and tourists will be the angels by discovering this park. Camping will bring a touch of pure adventure to this stay in the heart of a truly preserved nature. Think of taking hot clothes, especially for the night. Due to altitude, temperatures are fresh, oscillating from 6 to 18 degrees!

The Interpretation Centre, at the entrance, is located in an old colonial house where indigo, iron and lime were worked. The Bucolic are at the disposal of visitors to accompany them and discover the park. Their remuneration depends on tips. We recommend a minimum of US $ 2. Although the procèdure is complicated to be able to visit it (like other national parks), it is worth it.

The Sapoapa park is a little gem just over a kilometer from Santa Ana's historic center (it's an easy walk). Streams of water feed natural pools that are popular with locals who come here for a swim or a workout. The banks are shady and wooded, the water is cool and pure, and you can admire the flora and fauna (especially the birds)...in short, it's a pleasant break, especially on the hottest days. Drinks and snacks available for purchase.