One of the highlights of our El Salvador adventure was hiking Volcán Santa Ana, the country’s highest volcano at 7,812 feet!
Since everyone is required to hike with a guide, we opted for a private one so we could take our time and enjoy the experience at our own pace. And what a great decision that was!
Our guide, Carlos, from The Little Tour Company, was fantastic. Along the way, he shared stories about growing up as the youngest of 11 children in a country once gripped by gang violence. His family’s story was heartbreaking, including the tragic murder of his oldest brother, a police officer who was killed for protecting their sister from the gangs. It was a sobering reminder of just how much El Salvador has changed.
But back to the hike! The trail takes you from lush green cloud forest to an almost otherworldly volcanic landscape. And the reward at the top? A spectacular turquoise sulfur lake bubbling away inside the crater of this active volcano. Absolutely surreal!
At 45–60°C, that beautiful blue-green lake is definitely not somewhere you’d want to take a dip! 😳
Santa Ana last had a major eruption in 2005, so standing on the rim and looking down into that steaming crater was a pretty incredible reminder that this volcano is very much alive.
A challenging hike, breathtaking views, a fascinating guide, and a whole lot of perspective along the way. Another unforgettable Central American adventure! ❤️
