Private hike to active Izalco and Cerro Verde volcanoes. 2 volcanoes in one day!
Description
Izalco is one of the youngest volcanoes in the world (and still active). Reaching its crater is a rewarding but challenging experience! Be prepared to walk on steep slopes, lush cloud forests, uneven ground and (when Mother Nature's in the mood) stunning views. Called "The Lighthouse of the Pacific" by ancient sailors, this young fella was in a constant eruption since late 1700s, spewing lava flows and debris until it reached an elevation of near 2000 m (6400+ ft). Near the crater you can still see fumaroles and, from the top, the solidified lava fields spewed during recent eruptions. As well the steep slopes of Cerro Verde waiting for us again. 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. NOTE: this is a challenging hike, proper gear required for safety. Hiking boots/shoes, hydration, sun/rain protection and a good physical shape is a must. Trekking poles highly recommended.
Tour Options
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Note: Departures from different locations (e.g. Airport, international borders, international/domestic bus stations, outskirts or outside San Salvador city, etc. a supplement may apply.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
- 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.
Reviews(7)
Hiking the volcanos require a guide and I could not be happier that we chose to spend a bit more money to go privately with Ueli. The day was extremely windy and the summit of Santa Ana had been closed, but Ueli adjusted plans to bring us up Izalco so we still had a great experience. As an indigenous Mayan, his knowledge of the area, the significance of the volcanos and the land, and so much more made the entire day feel very special. I couldn’t recommend them all more!
Leo was an excellent tour guide! I would recommend to anyone. Beautiful volcano and well maintained trail. Excellent view from the top!
After having a disappointing experience trying to arrange this hike through another company (the only other one), I was so grateful to find this team. From the very beginning, they were communicative, punctual, and professional—everything I needed after a stressful start to my trip. My guide Francisco was knowledgeable, patient, and truly passionate about the region and the volcano itself. I felt safe, supported, and taken care of the entire time. The Izalco hike is no joke—it's steep and exposed—but the views are absolutely worth it, and having a guide who clearly cared made all the difference. This is experience is also much better than Santa Ana--because who loves crowds (not me) We then had lunch at the Lake afterwards They handled transportation, logistics, and timing flawlessly. I only wish I had booked my entire itinerary through them from the start. Highly recommend this team to anyone—especially solo travelers—looking for a reliable, respectful, and empowering experience.
We really appreciate your kind words. We like to know our team reached your expectations and, above all, you enjoyed your experience. We're here to serve. All the best to you. Alfredo PS: I will share your review with Francisco ;-)
Spent outstanding 2 days with Alfredo. First day, we did Izalco, second, Santa Ana. He’s responsible, knowledgeable, service oriented, with great English. Highly recommended.
Always glad to serve, my friend. Looking forward when we make more volcano hiking. Stay well
I hired Alfredo Avalos (alfredo@exploreelsalvador.com) who was an excellent and knowledgeable guide who took me on a 2-day hiking tour of El Impossible National Park, Santa Ana volcano (at Sunrise) and Izalco volcano. He provided camping gear and was fun to hang out with. I highly recommend his services!
Thanks for such nice words Ryan. Were 2 great days of great hiking and even better company. Thanks for calling me hoping the rest of your journey in El Salvador was great too! Sunsets, sunrises, 3 volcanoes in one day (a personal record for me), beautiful trails and views... Cheers body! Let's do it again! Yours,
Alfredo helped us with everything in Izalco. First of all, we took a breakfast at Subway cause we didn’t have enough time to take it at our hotel. The journey was amazing, we were delighted with every minute from the 4 hours trekking trip. We hope to come back to Izalco.
