The Salto de Malacatiupán is one of the most important natural areas of El Salvador. Undoubtedly, its incredible view and its landscapes are a clear example of the majesty surrounding this country.
Besides the vegetation and the sounds surrounding this imposing place, the most impressive thing about this waterfall is its thermal waterfall of a little more than 12 meters high—a natural corner of the province of Atiquizaya that you can not miss and visit.
SALTO DE MALACATIUPÁN-Cascadas de El Salvador. Foto por ElSalvadorViajar.
So if you plan your next summer vacation, the Salto de Malacatiupán is the perfect place to have a few days of unparalleled adventure.
Salto de Malacatiupán Data
| Country: | El Salvador |
|---|---|
| Department: | Ahuachapán |
| Category: | Waterfalls |
| Municipality: | Atiquizaya |
| Advice: | Ideal for families |
| Height: | 12 meters y 3 waterfalls |
Location of Salto de Malacatiupán
Location and history of Salto de Malacatiupán
Salto Malacatiupán means in the Nahuatl language “The Round Temple,” and it is a waterfall located 82.7 km from San Salvador in the municipality of Atiquizaya, Ahuachapán province. This waterfall is located approximately 30 minutes from town.
It has a height of more than 12 meters and three waterfalls in total, giving life to the turquoise thermal water pool. This waterfall is the most important in the region and is fed by the Quiroz and Agua Caliente rivers.
Over the years, Atiquizaya has earned the name “City of Springs” since 28 springs flow through it between its forested and mountainous area in a naturally formed tributary.
According to the historical data of the region, they reveal that the Poqomam people used the Salto de Malacatiupán. There they performed various healing rituals and customs that disappeared with the arrival of the Spaniards.
But why does the waterfall have such warmth in its waters? The main river that feeds the Salto de Malacatiupán is Agua Caliente, which has a temperature of approximately 70°C, close to the boiling point.
On the other hand, the Quiroz River is the opposite, and its waters are frigid, preventing both cases that people can bathe. The union of the rivers results in a temperature between 30 and 35°C (86 and 95°F).
It is the exact point where the “Beso de Agua” originates the foundations of Puente Viejo. A building built in 1800 was used to transport and exchange supplies between El Salvador and Guatemala.
The water and the temperature it acquires at this point are preserved until reaching the Salto de Malacatiupán for the enjoyment of tourists and locals who visit the place.
Weatherte, Flora and Fauna
The climate, flora, and fauna in Salto de Malacatiupán comply with the characteristics of the municipality. Here are all the details.
Weather
The climate in Atiquizaya and Salto de Malacatiupán is classified into two seasons: stormy and hot. Generally, the temperature is around 17°C and 32°C, considering the time of the year. For example, rainy weather can rarely bring a decrease in temperature below 15°C or, in the summer, an increase above 33°C.
Flora
Most of the area consists of characteristic forest flora, emphasizing the diverse variety of shrubs, bushes, and trees. For example, the ámate, jícaro, maquilishuat and guachimol. As well as the endangered sincuya, zunza, chapín and zapotilla.
It should be noted that, depending on the area bordering the forests surrounding Salto de Malacatiupán, there will be more fruit trees and coffee plantations in private places to produce these crops.
Fauna
The fauna is abundant, given the mountain and forest vegetation is the perfect habitat for birds of various species. But also for deer, mountain cats, cusuco or giant armadillos, and rabbits. Among the rodents are the squirrels and cotuzas or Central American guaqueque.
Recommendations for the visit
Because of the environment, its location, and the climatic conditions of Salto de Malacatiupán, it is necessary that you follow some tips for your visit:
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
- Bring insect repellent, plenty of water, and your food.
- Request the services of a guide for the tour to the waterfall.
- Bring a container or bag to store your garbage.
- Avoid jumping from the highest waterfall if you have any experience.
Activities that can be done at Salto de Malacatiupán.
The Salto de Malacatiupán is the perfect place to do some ecotourism and enjoy its scenery. So the activities you can do are:
- Swimming in the pools that form at the foot of the waterfall.
- Mountain hiking.
- Mountain biking along the marked routes.
Nearby places to visit
Visiting and getting to know Salto de Malacatiupán will leave you wanting to return. The locals can tell you the stories surrounding this waterfall and its incredible legends, and that’s why you can’t miss the opportunity to take a complete tour of this picturesque town.
In addition, to cross the famous Old Bridge and walk a few meters to the first thermal pool before reaching the waterfall. The tour includes the Barraca del Amate, the Salto de la Periquera, and the Canton de Pepenance Mound, which made important archaeological findings. In short, a trip full of adventure and relaxation for you and the whole family.
