Did you know that Chaparrastique Volcano is also called San Miguel Volcano? That’s right, and also, its name is of Lenca origin and means “land of heat.” Something that could not be different because it is one of the most active volcanoes in El Salvador.
However, although its great volcanic activity characterizes it, it is one of the most important tourist destinations in the country. This is because it is the third largest, and its view from the top is incredible.
Volcán Chaparrastique, San Miguel. Foto por El SalvadorViajar.
So if you are an adventure lover passing through the Department of San Miguel, you can not miss this imposing volcano and all its attractions.
San Miguel – Chaparrastique Volcano Data
| Country: | El Salvador |
|---|---|
| Department: | San Miguel |
| Category: | Volcanoes |
| Elevation: | 2.130 meters |
| Sierra: | Tecapa Chinameca |
| Crater: | 800 meters in diameter |
| Last eruption: | January 15, 2016 |
Location of the San Miguel – Chaparrastique Volcano
Activities we can do in Chaparrastique Volcano
Chaparrastique Volcano is one of the favorite destinations for those who love adventure and love to climb high peaks. So the ascent is a challenge for the bravest, considering they must have excellent physical condition.
Therefore, it represents a difficult ascent with a steep 45° in, which, in addition, can appreciate a significant temperature change. You can do some hiking in the surroundings for those who don’t have the conditions required for this adventure.
This way, you can also enjoy the scenery and great views and know all the biodiversity of the place. Regardless of the type of tour you want, it is essential to know that it starts in the coffee plantations of Placitas.
So it is quite a long way to be able to see the slopes of the volcano. The travel time varies; this will take all day if you want to make the ascent and descent.
Prices and visiting hours
Entering the area where the Chaparrastique Volcano does not have any price, and the entrance is from 4:30 or 5 am. All this considering the long trek to the volcano. It coincides with good daylight to get to the top and back.
Location, origin and history of the Chaparrastique Volcano
Chaparrastique Volcano has located 11 km from the city of San Miguel. The exciting thing is that it is the only elevation in 100 m2 of a hillside that shows behind it the Payacal Volcano, already extinct.
On the other hand, it is the 3rd highest volcano in El Salvador, with 2,130 meters above sea level covering 13 km2 of land and a crater of approximately 800 m. Additionally, it is within the active volcano category due to the numerous eruptions that have occurred in more than 300 years.
According to historical data, eight eruptions have been recorded after the Department of San Miguel’s founding. The most outstanding was the one in 1762, with a lava rain that put the city at risk.
Centuries later, there was the eruption of 1976 and the most recent, in 2016, which consisted of a rain of ashes. Although it has not presented more activity, it is still part of category 3 in explosiveness.
Climate, flora and fauna
The climate in Chaparrastique Volcano and San Miguel generally is Tropical Hot Savannah type with temperatures between 30°C and 40°C, with an average daily temperature of 36°C.
It makes it possible that there is a characteristic flora of subtropical and humid subtropical rainforests in the volcano area. Here you can find various species of trees, mosses, ferns, and orchids, among others.
As for the fauna’s variety has decreased due to forest fires and constant volcanic activity. However, you can still see reptiles of different types, as well as birds and deer.
Recommendations for your visit
Visiting the San Miguel – Chaparrastique Volcano requires excellent organization, as the area is difficult to access. In addition, access may be closed indefinitely if there is any volcanic activity. Therefore, the following is recommended:
- Contact the Chinameca police to request that an official be the guide and escort during the trip, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area.
- If you are traveling in a group, you should send and notify the number of people who will be on the trip duly identified.
- In the area of the volcano, there are no gas stations, restaurants, or other facilities. Therefore, it is imperative to bring plenty of water and food for the tour.
- Given the weather conditions, wearing a hat or cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, appropriate clothing, and shoes is mandatory.
- The vegetation is usually abundant and thick depending on the route to follow, so the use of sweatshirts is recommended.
- If you make the ascent to the volcano, carrying a flashlight or a head flashlight for the descent is essential, as this section coincides with the sunset. We are talking about a journey of approximately 8 hours.
Nearby places to visit
Do you want to spend a few days in the department of San Miguel to learn more about the region? After a day full of adrenaline in the Chaparrastique Volcano, the next thing to do is to swim, relax and enjoy an incredible natural landscape in the Olomega Lagoon.
Before ending your day, you can visit the Quelepa Ruins, just 8 km from the city. Where you will find 40 mounds with ceremonial structures, many still unexcavated. Stroll through the town and visit the Cathedral Nuestra Señora de la Paz dating from the eighteenth century.
And why not head to El Cuco Beach, where you will find more than 100 km of beach you can enjoy with the whole family. But if you don’t know which beaches you should visit, the best in the region are Las Flores Beach, Negras beach, and El Espino.
They stand out for the tranquility of the environment. They are ideal for fishing, surfing, and long walks along the shore. You will be able to enjoy the best sea and land dishes that only San Miguel can offer you. As you can see, you will have the opportunity to live an unforgettable experience.
