Plizio Visual Lab

Chinameca Volcano

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Mountain

Weather…

Chinameca Volcano, also known as Cerro El Pacayal, is a prominent stratovolcano located in eastern El Salvador near the city of San Miguel. It rises to an elevation of approximately 1,250 meters above sea level and is a key feature of the country's central volcanic arc. The volcano is characterized by a well-preserved central caldera measuring about two kilometers in diameter. The fertile volcanic soils on its slopes are extensively used for coffee cultivation, which is a cornerstone of the regional economy. Geologically, the volcano is primarily composed of basaltic and andesitic rocks, reflecting a complex eruptive history. Although there are no documented historical eruptions, the system is considered potentially active due to the presence of fumaroles and ongoing geothermal activity. The upper reaches of the mountain host remnants of cloud forest vegetation, which play a vital role in local watershed management. Hiking trails lead to the summit, providing expansive views over the San Miguel Valley and neighboring peaks such as the Chaparrastique volcano.

Location: El Salvador
Nearby: San Rafael Oriente (9 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	28	29	29	28	27	28	27	26	26	26	26
Rain mm	3	4	6	32	169	193	155	198	234	204	41	10

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Situated prominently in the eastern part of the country, access generally begins right from the nearby town of Chinameca. Local unpaved roads lead steadily upwards through expansive coffee plantations.

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Best season

The typical dry season, extending from November to April, is widely considered the absolute best time to visit. This drier period effectively minimizes the chance of the agricultural trails washing out.

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Terrain & paths

The extensive slopes of Volcán de Pacayal are generally heavily covered in lush tropical vegetation and working agricultural terraces. The hiking paths can be surprisingly steep, muddy, and rugged higher up.

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What to bring

Lightweight, breathable hiking attire and sturdy footwear with extremely good grip are generally essential here. Due to the intense tropical sun, bring a wide hat, sunglasses, and ample drinking water.

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Parking

Parking is generally quite informal, most often found in the main town or near the very start of the coffee estate trails. Always ask local workers or residents for explicit permission if parking on private land.

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Safety

Active or dormant volcanic terrain can frequently have loose, crumbly soil and unexpectedly steep drop-offs. It is generally wise to hike in a group and let someone in town know your exact planned route.

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Time needed

Casually exploring the lower volcanic slopes and returning to the base usually requires a full half-day commitment. A complete, strenuous ascent to the top may take considerably longer.

Geography

Coordinates

13.49000, -88.36000

Facts

The summit of the volcano reaches an elevation of 1,250 meters.
The central caldera has a diameter of approximately 2 kilometers.
Geologically, the volcano is assigned to the San Miguel volcanic group.
Significant geothermal power plants are located on its northern slopes.
There are no historically documented eruptions in written records.
The soil is mainly composed of Holocene lava and ash deposits.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Laguna El Jocotal<1 km · SWExplore →

Chinameca1 km · NExplore →

Piraera2 km · EExplore →

Lolotique2 km · SExplore →

Lenca Mountains3 km · NEExplore →

Chaparrastique Volcano3 km · NExplore →

El Níspero5 km · NEExplore →

Quimistán6 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Chinameca Volcano (1)

Chinameca, El Salvador📍 landmark

Town in San Miguel department at the foot of the namesake volcano, an agricultural area.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you climb the volcano?

Yes, but it is demanding.

Do I need a permit?

A local guide is often enough.

Are there marked trails?

Only partially, orientation is difficult.

What is the best equipment?

Good footwear and sun protection.

How is the weather at the top?

Often windy and cooler than below.

Chinameca Volcano: where is it located?

Chinameca Volcano is located in El Salvador.

Chinameca Volcano: when is the best time to visit?