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Port of La Union

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Historical site
—°2
Port of La Union (El Salvador)

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The Port of La Unión, historically known as Puerto Cutuco, is one of the most strategically significant maritime locations in the Gulf of Fonseca, El Salvador. The port's economic history dates back to the colonial era, when it served as the primary trade gateway for the eastern region of the country and neighboring Honduras and Nicaragua. In 2010, a modern deep-water port was inaugurated, designed to be the most advanced in Central America for handling large container ships. Despite operational challenges, the port remains a cornerstone of the national development strategy, particularly for agricultural exports and the establishment of industrial free zones. Geographically, La Unión benefits from its sheltered position in the bay, providing natural depths suitable for large-scale navigation. Historically, the port has been the site of numerous military and political events that shaped regional sovereignty. Its modern infrastructure includes specialized terminals for containers, bulk cargo, and passengers. Current initiatives focus on reactivating the port through international concessions and the development of the 'Tren del Pacífico' railway connection. Consequently, La Unión serves as a potential hub for interoceanic trade and regional economic integration.

Best time to visit & climate

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

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272829292827272726262626
Rain mm336351901991361862462164110

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The historic port is an outdoor area that is freely accessible. Some sections may be restricted due to modern use.
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Typical hours
The port is best visited during daytime. There are no set opening hours as it is a public area.
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Photography
Photography is allowed, especially the old quays and the sea provide great subjects. Be mindful of private properties.
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Time needed
A walk around takes about 30 to 60 minutes. Take time to soak in the historical atmosphere.
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Combine with
Combine the port visit with the nearby Museo de la Revolución. La Unión's town center is also worth a stroll.
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Getting there
The port is located on the edge of La Unión town. It is easily reached by car or taxi; parking is available.
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Insider tip
Ask locals for the best viewpoint over the port. The morning hours provide the nicest light for photos.

Geography

Coordinates
13.33250, -87.84330

Facts

  • The new deep-water port was officially inaugurated in 2010.
  • Total construction costs exceeded 200 million USD.
  • The maximum depth of the port is approximately 14 meters at low tide.
  • Strategically located in the Gulf of Fonseca, shared with Honduras and Nicaragua.
  • Linked to the historic Cutuco Port, which has operated since 1915.
  • Designated terminal point for the national 'Tren del Pacífico' project.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Conchagua Volcano ViewpointConchagua Volcano Viewpoint<1 km · SExplore →
Port of La UnionPort of La Union3 km · NExplore →
Conchagua Volcano WildlifeConchagua Volcano Wildlife3 km · SExplore →
Zacatillo IslandZacatillo Island5 km · NExplore →
Santa Rosa de LimaSanta Rosa de Lima5 km · SExplore →
Siguatepeque AgricultureSiguatepeque Agriculture5 km · EExplore →
Gulf of Fonseca MangrovesGulf of Fonseca Mangroves7 km · NExplore →
Playa El TamarindoPlaya El Tamarindo8 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Port of La Union (2)

Marcelino Imbers Stadium📍 landmark

Football stadium in La Unión, El Salvador, used for local sports events.

La Unión, El Salvador📍 landmark

City in eastern El Salvador, a port on the Pacific coast.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is the port of La Unión historically important?
La Unión was a central hub in colonial trade.
Can one visit the old facilities?
The historical architecture can be viewed freely from the town.
When should one come here?
Mornings are quietest for a walk.
Is admission free?
Yes, as it is a public urban area.
Are there museums nearby?
Local historical archives can be found at the town hall.
Port of La Union: where is it located?
Port of La Union is located in El Salvador.
Port of La Union: what is there to see?
Highlights include Marcelino Imbers Stadium, La Unión, El Salvador.
Port of La Union: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Port of La Union: why is it worth visiting?
The Port of La Unión, historically known as Puerto Cutuco, is one of the most strategically significant maritime locations in the Gulf of Fonseca, El Salvador.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
North America
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Nearby cities

Santa Rosa de Lima — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
Santa Rosa de Lima
A commercial city in the La Unión department, near the border with Honduras.
Playa El Tamarindo — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
Playa El Tamarindo
Playa El Tamarindo is a peaceful, estuarine beach known for its calm waters, perfect for families and boat tours.
Santa Rita — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
Santa Rita
A city in the Yoro department, an agricultural and commercial center.
La Lima — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
La Lima
Historically known as the 'Banana Capital', founded by the United Fruit Company.
San Alejo — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
San Alejo
A city in the department of La Unión.
Potrerillos — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
Potrerillos
A city in the Cortés department known for its industrial activity.
El Sauce — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
El Sauce
A municipality in the department of La Unión.
Choloma — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
Choloma
A rapidly growing industrial city in the Sula Valley, near San Pedro Sula.
Glover&#39;s Reef — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
Glover's Reef
Glover's Reef is a remote, partially submerged atoll known for its central lagoon dotted with hundreds of patch reefs and secluded island…
Cane — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
Cane
A small, picturesque municipality known for its pottery and Lenca culture.
La Paz — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
La Paz
The capital of the department of the same name, an agricultural center.
Pulhapanzak — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
Pulhapanzak
A spectacular 43-meter-high waterfall, considered one of the most beautiful in Central America.

History & landmarks

Pulhapanzak Waterfall — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
Pulhapanzak Waterfall
An impressive 43-meter waterfall near Lake Yojoa.
Estadio Olímpico Metropolitano — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
Estadio Olímpico Metropolitano
The largest stadium in Honduras, located in San Pedro Sula, a venue for football matches and concerts.
Ambergris Caye — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
Ambergris Caye
The largest island of Belize, famous for its beaches and water sports.

Nature

🗺️
Ulúa River
One of the largest and most economically important rivers in the country.
🗺️
Lake Yojoa
Honduras's largest lake with rich birdlife.

More places

Conchagua Volcano Viewpoint — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
Conchagua Volcano Viewpoint
A historic viewpoint that played a strategic role in the civil war and now offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Fonseca.
Port of La Union — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
Port of La Union
A major modern deep-water port on the Gulf of Fonseca.
Conchagua Volcano Wildlife — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
Conchagua Volcano Wildlife
A forested volcanic area with broad views over the gulf.
🗺️
Zacatillo Island
An inhabited island in the Gulf of Fonseca known for its fishing communities.
Siguatepeque Agriculture — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
Siguatepeque Agriculture
A regional center for forestry and agricultural products.
Gulf of Fonseca Mangroves — Port of La Union (El Salvador)
Gulf of Fonseca Mangroves
A shared coastal wetland zone with birds and mangroves.
🗺️
Cerro Azul Meambar
A protected mountain massif near Lake Yojoa.
🗺️
Conejo Island
A small, uninhabited island in the Gulf of Fonseca whose sovereignty is disputed.