Embark on a challenging hiking tour to the active volcanoes of Izalco and Cerro Verde in El Salvador. Experience steep slopes, lush cloud forests, and stunning views while exploring the youngest volcano in the world. Proper gear and physical fitness required.
Embark on a challenging hiking tour to the active volcanoes of Izalco and Cerro Verde in El Salvador. Experience steep slopes, lush cloud forests, and stunning views while exploring the youngest volcano in the world. Proper gear and physical fitness required.
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Cerro Verde National Park - Departing early from our meeting point, we drive to Los Volcanes National Park. Along the road we cross through villages and the fertile Zapotitan valley (we can always make a stop for a coffee to go).
The hike starts at Cerro Verde visitors center and takes you into the evergreen cloud forest, down the slopes of this…
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Cerro Verde National Park - Departing early from our meeting point, we drive to Los Volcanes National Park. Along the road we cross through villages and the fertile Zapotitan valley (we can always make a stop for a coffee to go).
The hike starts at Cerro Verde visitors center and takes you into the evergreen cloud forest, down the slopes of this extinct volcano to reach the break with the solidified lava flows.
After getting back to Cerro Verde’s Visitors Center you have been made two volcanoes in one day and can proudly say VENI, VIDI, VICI.
On a glance:
Distance walked: 7.2 Km / 4.5 Mi
Duration (actual walking time): ~ 3h 30m – 4h
Ascent / Descent: 691 – 676 m / 2267 – 2218 ft
Elevation at start (Cerro Verde): 2019 m / 6624 ft
Top elevation: 2019 m / 6624 ft
Environment: Cloud forest, tall trees and a shady trail on Cerro Verde’s side. Bare loose rock and lack of vegetation on Izalco’s side.
Steep slopes on both sides. Some scrambling in last sections of Izalco. On Cerro Verde you must walk down and up near 1,500 steps carved on the dirt.
Highlights: A challenging hike rewarded by stunning views to different volcanic belts and mountain ranges in three countries (on a clear day).

- Private transportation
- Licensed Tourist Guide with specialization in trekking and adventure travel
- Local guide to adhere to park regulations
- Admission to Cerro Verde National Park included
- All fees and taxes covered
- Private, early-departure hike
- Enforced COVID-19 Safety Protocols
- Private transportation
- Licensed Tourist Guide with specialization in trekking and adventure travel
- Local guide to adhere to park regulations
- Admission to Cerro Verde National Park included
- All fees and taxes covered
- Private, early-departure hike
- Enforced COVID-19 Safety Protocols
- Bottled water
- Bottled water
Izalco is among the youngest and still active volcanoes globally. Reaching its crater offers a rewarding yet challenging adventure! Prepare to traverse steep slopes, lush cloud forests, uneven terrain, and, when nature permits, enjoy breathtaking views.
Dubbed “The Lighthouse of the Pacific” by ancient mariners, this youthful volcano has been erupting…
Izalco is among the youngest and still active volcanoes globally. Reaching its crater offers a rewarding yet challenging adventure! Prepare to traverse steep slopes, lush cloud forests, uneven terrain, and, when nature permits, enjoy breathtaking views.
Dubbed “The Lighthouse of the Pacific” by ancient mariners, this youthful volcano has been erupting continuously since the late 1700s, emitting lava flows and debris until it reached an elevation of nearly 2000 meters (over 6400 feet).
Near the crater, fumaroles are still visible, and from the summit, one can observe the solidified lava fields from recent eruptions, along with the steep slopes of Cerro Verde awaiting the return journey.
Upon returning to Cerro Verde’s Visitors Center, having conquered two volcanoes in one day, one can proudly declare VENI, VIDI, VICI.
NOTE: This is a demanding hike, requiring appropriate gear for safety. Hiking boots or shoes, hydration, sun/rain protection, and good physical condition are essential. Trekking poles are highly recommended.
- IMPORTANT NOTE: Minimum age for this hike is 12 years old
- This departure is not operated by a company and/or agency but by an independent Tourist Guide.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.