One does not simply go to El Salvador without climbing a volcano! :-)

Vacationing in El Salvador back in March 2010, I just had to live this awesome experience. Rising over 2800m above sea level, the Santa Ana is El Salvador’s highest volcano. For those who decide to attempt the climb, you will not only be rewarded with an amazing view of the surroundings once on top but you’ll also get the opportunity to see the volcanic lake residing inside it’s crater.

Pictured below (from left to right) is Izalco volcano, Cerro Verde and Santa Ana.

During the climb you will also get the chance to get a glimpse of the Coatepeque Lake:

Despite what it looked like on the first photo, the Izalco volcano is smaller than Santa Ana but I get the impression that it’s ascension is much more steeper. You will also have many occasions to view Izalco during the climb.

It may sound weird but during the first hour or so of the climb, we were actually going downhill. This was due to the fact that we were dropped off on Cerro Verde and had to climb down before starting our ascension of the Santa Ana. I suggest you bring along a good pair of hiking boots/shoes with good ankle support. Some parts of the climb are fairly easy and are almost like a walk in the park. You will however encounter many steep steps that are quite rocky. Also keep in mind that you will be taking the same path on the way back.

We did our excursion on a very cloudy day. Once on top, we literally had our heads in the clouds. Everyone is free to go wherever they want however we are reminded that it is at our own risk. Some parts of the volcano’s rim are quite narrow and possibly unstable. One false move would certainly lead you to your death.

At first I thought we would be able to walk all around the outer edge of the volcano but one you reach the top you will clearly see that it is impossible (or extremely difficult) and it would take a few hours to do so. The two people below give you an idea of the scale of things once you reach the top.

The crater lake that sits in Santa Ana’s crater is composed of very acidic waters. The greenish color is characteristic of these types of lakes.

Depending on your physical condition, the climb down can be quite easy or a bit challenging. If your knees and ankles are week from the climb up, be careful when taking your footing. The rocky paths can be quite treacherous at times and an ankle is easily twisted. The climb itself could take 2 or 3 hours depending on your physical condition (possibly a bit more). You have some free time once atop and this is where you will have your lunch brake. We had sandwiches and fruits. The climb down will take less time but keep mind that during all this time… there are no bathrooms/toilets/wc on the way. As you can see, there aren’t a lot of trees to hide behind either so make sure you take care of business before you start the climb. ;-)

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