La Puerta del Diablo is a place surrounded by an incomparable beauty, mysticism, and a unique legend that dates back a little over 100 years. A tourist destination for nationals and foreigners who want to do adventure tourism in El Salvador, and today we show it to you.
It is a rock formation in one of the highest peaks of this country. It is Cerro Chulo, which after being closed for months, now is open the way for people from all over the world to enjoy its landscapes.
PUERTA DEL DIABLO - Natural Parks. Photo by Gerson Rodriguez at Pixabay.
And yes, it is a natural viewpoint from which you can see the San Vicente Volcano to the Pacific Ocean. If you want to venture out and perform extreme outdoor activities, the Puerta del Diablo is the ideal destination for it.
Puerta del Diablo Facts
| Country: | El Salvador |
|---|---|
| Department: | San Salvador |
| Category: | Natural Parks |
| Formation: | 1762 |
| Advice: | Ideal for flora and fauna lovers. |
| Municipality: | Panchimalco |
Location of the Puerta del Diablo
Origin and history of Puerta del Diablo
According to Jorge Lardé y Larín, a renowned historian, the Puerta del Diablo formed on October 8, 1762, due to the heavy rains that fell that day. So much water came down on the surface of Cerro El Chulo that it undermined the earth.
The rock there rolled and split with the impact of the fall. This forme a crack in the form of a mouth or entrance. Over the years, he told many stories, but it was Raúl Contreras who gave it the name of Puerta del Diablo (Devil’s Gate) in one of his poems.
On the other hand, the locals give a different origin to this rock formation, a story that has become a legend and is still told to tourists who wish to know what this mysterious place hides.
According to mythology, the daughter of Rosendo Renderos, Maria de La Paz, had enamored Satan himself with her beauty. When Satan saw that she didn’t reciprocate his love, he decided to kidnap the young woman.
Only found a scapular she wore around her neck during the search. But, the father did not want to leave everything like that and, together with other landowners, went out searching for his daughter. When he was about to catch Satan, he fled out of fear and, with one blow, collapsed a rock, breaking it in three.
Nobody knows if the young woman has been found; however, the formation has been known as the Puerta del Diablo since then.
Climate, Flora and Fauna
Being located over 1,000 meters above sea level, the climate at the Puerta del Diablo is very cool. Depending on the time of year and time of day, you can see great mist on its summit. It makes it possible to acquire a green color, a diversity of vegetation, and a perfect habitat for wildlife throughout the year.
Therefore, it has a diversity of flora consisting of more than 70 plant species of incredible beauty, typical of a tropical forest. Among these are found shade trees and fruit trees. There is an abundance of medicinal plants, roses, orchids, ceiba, cypress, bamboo, and much more.
The natural environment is optimal for many animal species thanks to the climate and flora. In this sense, the fauna comprises mostly birds, cotuzas, butterflies, squirrels, rabbits, and reptiles.
Unfortunately, many species have ceased to inhabit the area due to the hunting activities that took place in the area; for example, crows, deer, and wild cats, among others.
Activities we can perform
The activities that can do in Puerta del Diablo are ideal for those who love eco-tourism and adventure tourism. The first of these is hiking, observing from the lookout point, and climbing.
Nearby, there are rappelling, paragliding, canopy, and zip-lining areas. Undoubtedly, you can have an adrenaline-filled experience, and you don’t need to bring equipment because you can rent it there.
Prices and schedules
Given the type of activities that can do at Puerta del Diablo, each one has a different cost per person and for groups. You can find these prices directly at the Natural Park because they vary according to the year’s season. Apart from the activities, you have to pay for the entrance and parking of vehicles; these are:
- General entrance fee: in the high season, the entrance fee is $1.50 (USD), while for the bullet season, it is $1.00 (USD).
- Parking: this service has a single price of 1$ (USD) and applies to any vehicle.
Nearby places to visit
If, in addition to mountain tourism, you wish to visit other important areas near the Puerta del Diablo, you can enter the Salarrué Museum. Open from Tuesday to Sunday, and admission is free.
You can approach the town of Panchimalco, just 8 kilometers away, a place with enormous cultural and natural charm.
Further, you can find the entrance to Balboa Park and finally reach your destination at Cerro Chulo. In short, a one-day tour that you will enjoy without any problems.
