The Sumpul River is undoubtedly one of the most important natural monuments and the largest in El Salvador. The course of its waters is mostly between hills and forests, so almost nothing has been affected by man.
As a destination, it is the perfect place to do ecotourism and connect with nature differently. Of course, it has several access points, such as recreational tourist centers where you can do other activities.
SUMPUL RIVER - Rivers of El Salvador. Photo by Daniel chavez castro Wikimedia Commons.
If you are planning your next vacation and among the places you want to visit is the Sumpul River, you will find everything you need to have a great tourist experience here. Let’s get started!
Sumpul River Data
| Country: | El Salvador |
|---|---|
| Category: | Rivers |
| Source of the River: | San Ignacio |
| Outfall: | Lempa River |
| Length: | 77km |
| Basin area: | 44,5km² |
Location of the Sumpul River
Origin and history of the Sumpul River
The Sumpul River has the denomination of the natural border between Honduras and El Salvador. Its source is in the department of Chalatenango, right at the base of El Pital hill.
Its waters cover a distance of 77 km in 44.5 km2. The extension includes four zones of the neighboring country and 5 of the Salvadoran territory. In El Salvador, its course is located in the natural areas of Chalatenango until it flows into the Lempa River.
It has allowed its waters and surroundings to conserve their virginal aspect so that pollution is not seen on a large scale. On the other hand, the Sumpul River has witnessed significant historical events; the most remembered is the Sumpul Massacre.
It occurred in 1980 when hundreds of people were killed while crossing its waters, and it was one of the most tragic events of the civil war. Another event occurred in 2010 after the Agatha storm caused its level to rise.
The Sumpul River reached a height of 2 m, destroying almost all municipalities and beginning with the destruction of the San José Las Flores bridge. This natural event had not occurred since the 1970s.
Climate, Flora and Fauna
The type of climate in the Sumpul River is Tropical High Altitude with an average winter temperature between 10°C and 16°C. These data are calculated through the point where the river’s headwaters are. At lower elevations, temperatures can reach 16°C to 32°C, which coincides with the Tropical Savannah climate.
On the other hand, the Sumpul River, due to its location, is fed by other Salvadoran rivers, making the development of a diverse ecosystem possible. As for the flora, you can see tree species such as oak, oak, and pine.
These have decreased in quantity due to the flooding of the river. However, its terrain is ideal for growing pineapple, achiote, and other wild plants.
Finally, we find migratory birds, mammals, aquatic species, and reptiles among the fauna. The most common in the Sumpul River are crabs, guapote, hawks, owls, deer, and squirrels.
Given the ecosystem importance of this area, visitors must take some considerations for its use. Some of these are:
- Take waste bags with you. It is one of the rivers that provides the most significant benefits to nearby communities and all of El Salvador. Keeping it in optimal condition is the responsibility of all visitors, so avoid leaving garbage in your area.
- Beware of campfires. It is essential to follow the indications of the guides and respect the conservation areas. If you are going to light a campfire, do it only in the designated areas.
- Do not contribute to logging. If you need wood or sticks to light a fire, use the materials you can find on the ground. If another visitor sees you cutting down a tree or bush, they will do the same.
- Raise awareness. Teach your children how important it is to conserve the environment since everything in the Sumpul River represents life, development, and growth for El Salvador.
Other recommendations for the visit that we can give you are:
- You are in a natural environment surrounded by vegetation, so that you will see lots of mosquitoes and mosquitoes. Bring repellent and avoid serious bites.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, including a bathing suit, to enjoy the waters to the fullest.
- Wear sunscreen, a hat or cap, and sunglasses.
Activities we can do
One of the best things about the Sumpul River is that you can visit it any time of the year. To such an extent, more and more tourists spend a different day with their families every weekend.
And no wonder, because in this river you can take walks in the surroundings, horseback riding, swim in its waters, fish and more. But where exactly to do all this? Our recommendation is the Turicentro Rio Sumpul, a reservation with all the facilities prepared to receive its visitors.
Here you will find swimming pools, kiosks, cabins, parking, restrooms, playgrounds, and other services. You can request the services of a guide to walk around the area and stay as many days as you want.
Prices and schedules
If you want to enjoy all the attractions of the Turicentro Río Sumpul, here are the prices for entrance, lodging, and park hours.
- The entrance fee to the Turicentro for adults is 2.50 USD for adults, children 0.50 USD, and students 1.50USD.
- Parking per vehicle is 1 USD.
- Cabins at 15 USD for 12 h. 20 USD per night, and 35 USD for 24 h.
- Hours are from Sunday to Friday from 8 am to 4 pm. On Saturdays, the park closes at 9: 30 pm.
Nearby places to visit
Since you are visiting the Sumpul River, we could not stop inviting you to visit two places in Chalatenango that are ideal for hiking. The first one is El Pital hill, where this wonderful river is born.
Here you can have an incredible view of much of the Salvadoran territory. You can even see some areas of Guatemala and Honduras. It is 2,730 meters above sea level so the weather will be freezing so you should wear comfortable clothes and at the same time be warm.
On the other hand, there is Miramundo Hill, where you can enjoy a unique cloud forest. Temperatures here can be as low as 12°C so take your precautions. The most exciting thing is that in both hills you can camp without problems and see the best sunrise of your life.
