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Cerro Cacahuatique

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Mountain
—°2
Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)

Weather…

Cerro Cacahuatique is an imposing extinct volcano located in northeastern El Salvador, near Ciudad Barrios in the Morazán Department. Reaching an elevation of approximately 1,663 meters above sea level, it is one of the most prominent peaks in the country's eastern region. The name Cacahuatique is of Lenca origin, meaning 'Mountain of the Cocoa Gardens,' reflecting the ancient agricultural history of the site. Geologically, the mountain is an old volcanic complex whose original crater has been significantly altered by millions of years of erosion. Today, Cacahuatique is best known for the numerous telecommunications towers and antennas situated at its summit, which are critical for the nation's broadcasting infrastructure. The mountain's slopes are blanketed with extensive coffee plantations, famous for producing high-quality altitude coffee. In El Salvador's recent history, the peak was a highly strategic location during the civil war due to its commanding view over the Torola River valley. The remaining forest patches provide habitat for a rich variety of flora and fauna, including various birds of prey and wild orchids.

Best time to visit & climate

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

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C222325262523232323222121
Rain mm989361651931361772291834419

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The Cacahuatique mountain in the Morazan department is typically accessible via unpaved country roads that wind upwards from the surrounding rural communities.
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Best season
The dry season from November to April is the safest time for an ascent, as the paths are generally drier and the panoramic views are less likely to be obscured by clouds.
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Terrain & paths
The terrain consists of steep paths that frequently pass through coffee plantations and sparse woodlands, requiring a good level of stamina for the continuous climb.
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What to bring
Light but sturdy hiking boots, plenty of drinking water, and good sun protection are absolutely essential for the partially exposed sections of the mountain trail.
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Parking
Cars can mostly be parked in the lower-lying villages or directly at the trailheads, often after a quick friendly conversation with the local residents in the area.
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Safety
It is advisable to start early in the day to avoid the intense midday heat and to hire a local guide if there is any uncertainty about navigating the proper route.
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Time needed
A typical hike up this mountain and back often takes about half a day, depending heavily on the exact starting point and the individual walking pace of the group.

Geography

Coordinates
13.75000, -88.25000

Facts

  • The summit elevation is recorded at 1,663 meters.
  • The name Cacahuatique translates to 'Mountain of Cocoa Gardens'.
  • It is located in the Morazán Department near Ciudad Barrios.
  • The peak is a major hub for national telecommunications towers.
  • It was a key strategic point during the Salvadoran Civil War.
  • The mountain is an extinct volcano with highly fertile soils.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Río TorolaRío Torola<1 km · WExplore →
GuatajiaguaGuatajiagua2 km · NExplore →
El EspinoEl Espino3 km · SWExplore →
San Rafael OrienteSan Rafael Oriente4 km · SExplore →
Santa BárbaraSanta Bárbara4 km · EExplore →
AradaArada5 km · SEExplore →
Cerro El BaulCerro El Baul6 km · NExplore →
Sierra de la EsperanzaSierra de la Esperanza6 km · NEExplore →

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 Cerro Cacahuatique (2)

Ciudad Barrios📍 landmark

Town in El Salvador, an administrative and commercial center.

Ciudad Barrios prison📍 landmark

Prison in Ciudad Barrios, a detention facility in El Salvador.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What are the highlights at Cerro Cacahuatique?
The spectacular far-reaching views and cooler temperatures are the main attractions.
Is there gastronomy nearby?
In the surrounding villages you will find simple local snacks and cafes.
Is the summit popular with locals?
Yes, especially on weekends it is a popular spot for hikers and families.
Do I need special maps?
Digital offline maps are recommended as signage varies.
Are there parking fees?
Often small amounts are charged by residents for parking on private property.
Cerro Cacahuatique: where is it located?
Cerro Cacahuatique is located in El Salvador.
Cerro Cacahuatique: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ciudad Barrios, Ciudad Barrios prison.
Cerro Cacahuatique: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Cerro Cacahuatique: why is it worth visiting?
Cerro Cacahuatique is an imposing extinct volcano located in northeastern El Salvador, near Ciudad Barrios in the Morazán Department.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

San Salvador — Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)
San Salvador
The populous capital city and political center.
San Miguel — Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)
San Miguel
Important city in the east, famous for its November carnival.
Santa Ana — Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)
Santa Ana
Second largest city, known for its gothic cathedral.
Santa Tecla — Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)
Santa Tecla
Lively city near San Salvador, known for the Paseo El Carmen district.
La Libertad — Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)
La Libertad
Coastal town famous for its fish market and surfing.
Playa San Diego — Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)
Playa San Diego
Playa San Diego is a long, straightforward beach known for its proximity to San Salvador and uncrowded, wide sands.

History & landmarks

Devil&#39;s Door — Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)
Devil's Door
A striking rock formation offering panoramic views of the countryside.
Monumento al Divino Salvador del Mundo — Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)
Monumento al Divino Salvador del Mundo
A major landmark and symbol of the capital and the country.
El Boquerón National Park — Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)
El Boquerón National Park
A park located on the crater of the San Salvador Volcano with cool weather.
El Tunco Beach — Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)
El Tunco Beach
Famous beach with distinct rocks and excellent surfing conditions.
Cathedral of Santa Ana — Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)
Cathedral of Santa Ana
A beautiful neo-Gothic cathedral located in the city of Santa Ana.

Nature

Lempa River — Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)
Lempa River
The longest and most important river in El Salvador.
Cerron Grande Reservoir — Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)
Cerron Grande Reservoir
The largest body of water in El Salvador, crucial for hydroelectric power.
Lake Ilopango — Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)
Lake Ilopango
A large volcanic crater lake located near the capital city.

More places

🗺️
Cerro El Baul
A distinct hill in San Miguel.
Chaparrastique Volcano — Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)
Chaparrastique Volcano
A very active and well-shaped volcano in the east.
🗺️
Cerro Quilama
A peak in the eastern part of the country.
Tecapa Range — Cerro Cacahuatique (El Salvador)
Tecapa Range
A volcanic mountain area with hot springs.
🗺️
Cerro El Taburete
An extinct volcano.
🗺️
Cerro Tontol
A peak in the central region.
🗺️
Cerro El Mico
A peak near the coast.
🗺️
Cerro Coyolito
A mountain in the north of El Salvador.