Things to do in Cerro Verde National Park
Discover the best attractions and experiences Cerro Verde National Park has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the western highlands around Cerro Verde by visiting landmark buildings and ancient sites that echo El Salvador’s past.
Santa Ana Cathedral
Dominating Santa Ana’s skyline, this grand cathedral blends Gothic and Neoclassical elements and is the region’s architectural symbol.
Tazumal Archaeological Site
One of El Salvador’s most important Maya ruins, with pyramids, a ballcourt and well-preserved stairways.
Teatro de Santa Ana
A historic theater in the city center with ornate interiors and cultural events.
Museums
Discover local history and culture through a small cluster of regional museums in Santa Ana and surrounding towns.
Museo Regional de Occidente
A regional museum in Santa Ana showcasing local history, archaeology and cultural artifacts.
Casa de la Cultura Santa Ana
Cultural center with rotating exhibits and community displays reflecting the region’s heritage.
Religious Monuments
Religious landmarks in and around Cerro Verde offer architectural merit and insights into local faith traditions.
Santa Ana Cathedral
A major religious landmark in the city, known for its soaring towers and spiritual significance.
Iglesia de Juayúa
A striking church in Juayúa, central to the town’s religious life and heritage.
Iglesia de Ataco
Historic church in Ataco set amid hillside streets and colorful murals.
National & Theme Parks
Venture through volcanic landscapes, crater lakes and scenic viewpoints that define the Cerro Verde region.
Cerro Verde National Park
A volcanic panorama with crater views and lush trails linking three volcanoes, including Izalco and Santa Ana.
Izalco Volcano
The Lighthouse of the Pacific, a dramatic cone offering impressive viewpoints and a memorable hike.
Lago de Coatepeque
A stunning crater lake fringed by cafes and viewpoints, perfect for sunset strolls and photography.
Neighborhoods
Explore the vibrant towns and historic cores that surround the park and add flavor to your visit.
Santa Ana Centro Histórico
The lively historic heart of Santa Ana with colonial-era buildings, plazas and shops.
Juayúa
Colorful town on the Ruta de las Flores, known for its Sunday food fair and market atmosphere.
Ataco
Picturesque hillside town famed for murals, coffee culture and artisan markets.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the region without an entry fee by soaking in views, nature and local life around Cerro Verde.
Hike the Cerro Verde trails
Explore volcanic landscapes on self-guided or small-group hikes with expansive valley views.
Sunset viewpoints over Lago de Coatepeque
Find a lookout along the lake’s edge to watch the sun dip below the water.
Birdwatching in Cerro Verde National Park
Spot endemic birds and other wildlife along easy trails.
Gastronomy
The western highlands showcase Salvadoran flavors—from street snacks to coffee-fueled experiences.
Pupusas con curtido
Sample El Salvador’s beloved stuffed corn tortillas with pickled cabbage slaw.
Coffee tastings in Ataco or Juayúa
Sip freshly roasted regional coffee and learn about local cultivation.
Quesillo and tostadas
Enjoy a soft cheese quesillo wrapped in tortilla with crema and toppings.
Nightlife
Evenings around the cities offer relaxed bars and plazas with music and local vibes.
Evening strolls in Santa Ana center
Casual walks through lit plazas with street musicians and vendors.
Live music bars in Santa Ana
Enjoy local bands and a laid-back atmosphere after sunset.
Seasonal night markets along Ruta de las Flores
Seasonal markets with crafts, bites and gentle nightlife energy.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and lively festivals add color to the Western Highlands.
Teatro de Santa Ana shows
Cultural performances and concerts in the city’s historic theater.
Juayúa Food Festival (Feria Gastronómica de Juayúa)
A celebrated weekend festival featuring a variety of regional dishes.
Cultural festivals in Ataco
Local dances and artisan markets during town fiestas.
Sports
Active travelers can hike, kayak and explore wildlife around Cerro Verde and the lake.
Hiking Cerro Verde National Park
Trails range from easy walks to dramatic crater rim routes with panoramic views.
Kayaking on Lago de Coatepeque
Paddle on the blue waters and enjoy lakefront scenery.
Birdwatching and nature walks
Spot hawks, toucans and other wildlife on easy to moderate trails.
Off the Track
Go beyond the main routes to discover coffee farms, scenic byways and rural life.
Ruta de las Flores scenic drive
A winding route through pastel-painted towns with markets and coffee farms.
Coffee plantation visits near Ataco
Explore farms, learn about processing and sample fresh brews.
Rural village walks in Juayúa and Ataco
Immerse in local life, crafts and markets away from the crowds.