Lake Coatepeque is a stunning volcanic lake located in El Salvador, and it offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking for a peaceful getaway, there’s something for everyone at Lake Coatepeque. In this article you’ll find the best things to do in Lake Coatepeque!
One of the most popular activities at Lake Coatepeque is watersports. Visitors can go kayaking, sailing, paddle boarding, and even jet skiing on the lake’s crystal-clear waters. If you’re not a fan of water activities, there are plenty of other things to do, such as hiking or enjoying a relaxing picnic on the shore.
Another great thing about Lake Coatepeque is its abundance of natural beauty. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and towering mountains, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll definitely want to add Lake Coatepeque to your list of must-visit destinations.
Water Activities
If you’re looking for some fun in the sun, Lake Coatepeque has plenty of water activities to offer. Here are some of my favorites:
Kayaking
Kayaking is a great way to explore the lake’s calm waters. You can rent a kayak from one of the lakeside hotels; I rented one for $10. Paddle around the lake and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the lake’s resident and migratory birds.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Stand-up paddleboarding, or SUP, is another popular water activity at Lake Coatepeque. It’s a great workout and a fun way to explore the lake. Rent a board from one of the lakeside hotels and paddle around at your own pace. You’ll get a great view of the lake and the surrounding landscape.
Jet Ski
For those looking for a little more excitement, jet skiing is a great option. You can rent a jet ski from one of the lakeside hotels and zoom around the lake. It’s a thrilling way to experience the lake and get your adrenaline pumping.
Land Excursions
If you’re looking for some land-based activities to do around Lake Coatepeque, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few of my favorite options:
Visit the town of Santa Ana
Santa Ana is the second largest city in El Salvador and it’s located 15 milles to the North-East of Lake Coatepeque. If you want to visit the city from the lake, you can either take the public bus or a taxi/Uber. Mind you that public buses only run during the day, so make sure to take the bus back to your hotel before sunset.
What to do in Santa Ana:
- Visit the cathedral
- Santa Ana National Theatre
- Mariano Mendez School of Fine Arts (the remaining of an abandoned school of art)
- Eat pupusas
Santa Ana Volcano
The Santa Ana Volcano is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area, and for good reason. The hike to the top of the volcano is challenging but rewarding, with stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside from the summit.
Hiking Santa Ana volcano is definitely one of the main highlights of every trip to El Salvador. You can find all the information as regards how to get there, prices and what to expect on this article.
Hiking Trails
There are several hiking trails around the lake that offer stunning views of the water and surrounding mountains. One popular trail is the Santa Ana Volcano hike, which takes you up to the summit of the volcano for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding countryside. Another great option is the Cerro Verde hike, which takes you through a cloud forest and offers views of both the Santa Ana and Izalco volcanoes.
Biking Around the Lake
If you prefer to explore the area on two wheels, there are several bike rental shops in the area that offer bikes for rent by the hour or day. You can ride around the lake on the paved road that circles it, stopping at scenic overlooks and lakeside restaurants along the way. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as it can get hot and sunny out on the road.
Cultural Experiences
Mayan Ruins Tour
As a history buff, I highly recommend taking a tour to one of the Mayan ruins near Lake Coatepeque: Joya de Ceren or Tazumal. These ancient ruins offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Mayan people, and the knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the significance of each structure.
Try the Local Cuisine
No trip to Lake Coatepeque is complete without sampling the delicious local cuisine. From pupusas to yuca frita, the food in this region is bursting with flavor and sure to tantalize your taste buds. Be sure to try the traditional Salvadoran dish of pupusas, which are thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, or meat.
Artisanal Market Shopping
For a unique shopping experience, head to the artisanal markets near Lake Coatepeque. Here, you’ll find a variety of handcrafted items, including pottery, textiles, and jewelry. The local artisans take great pride in their work, and you can feel good about supporting the local economy while picking up a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
Chilling Spots
When I visited Lake Coatepeque, I loved to take some time to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery. Here are some of my favorite spots to unwind:
Lakefront Restaurants
One of the best ways to relax by the lake is to enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many lakefront restaurants. These restaurants offer a variety of cuisine options and often have outdoor seating with beautiful views of the lake.
Public Parks
If you’re looking for a more casual spot to relax, there are several public parks around the lake that offer shaded areas and picnic tables.
Thermal Springs
For a truly relaxing experience, I recommend visiting the thermal springs near Lake Coatepeque. The thermal waters are said to have healing properties and can help soothe sore muscles and joints. Some of the most popular thermal springs in the area include Las Cascadas de Tamanique and Santa Teresa.
Overall, Lake Coatepeque is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of El Salvador. Whether you prefer a leisurely meal by the lake or a soak in the thermal springs, there are plenty of relaxation spots to choose from.
How Many Days are Enough for Lake Coatepeque?
I would say that 2 days are the perfect amount of time to spend around Lake Coatepeque. For sure you should use one day to visit Santa Ana volcano, one of the best things to do in El Salvador. On the second day, you can relax around the lake, enjoy some water sports or visit the town of Santa Ana.
Find the perfect one-week El Salvador itinerary here!
Conclusion to the best things to do in Lake Coatepeque
Many people visit Lake Coatepeque during their stay in Santa Ana, but in my opinion, it’s better to just stay at the lake. Not only it’ll give you the opportunity to truly immerse in El Salvador’s nature, it’s also closer to the famous Santa Ana volcano.
When planning your trip to El Salvador, including Lake Coatepeque in your itinerary is a must-do and I’m sure it’ll become one of your favorite spots in the country.
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