The 7 Best Waterfalls In El Salvador

Central America is known for having incredible nature, and waterfalls are a big part of this! El Salvador may be small, but there are endless amounts of beauty in this underrated country. We've traveled from North to South to find the best waterfalls in El Salvador to share with you, and we can promise you that you'll fall in love!

One thing to keep in mind when visiting these, is that El Salvador is still not very developed in the tourism sector. The beauty of this, is that unlike Costa Rica for example, nature is untouched. You won't find giant signs, commercialized restaurants, or tons of locals trying to sell you things.

This makes each spot more pure, and much less crowded. On the other hand, this means you will need to be prepared, as most won't offer bathrooms, seating, or food & or drinks. Now, without further ado- let's jump into the best waterfalls in El Salvador to add to your bucket list!

Best Waterfalls in El Salvador #1: Cascadas de Tamanique

These falls are located just outside of one of the tourist hot spots in El Salvador. But despite its proximity to El Tunco, it still seems to be pretty under the radar. 

Cascadas de Tamanique are located in the town of Tamanique, just 20 minutes inland from the beach. They can be reached most easily by tours from El Tunco, or you can discover Tamanique Falls on your own like we did. 

Hike through the jungle and find various sets of falls that you can climb or jump into. We definitely suggest spending a day here to fully enjoy all that this great place has to offer. Just make sure to take your own lunch, and clean up after yourself.

Want to sign up for a tour to Tamanique Falls? We've provided a few links below:

Want to know how to get to Tamanique on your own? We've written a full guide to get you there without a tour!

Best Waterfalls in El Salvador #2: Salto de Malacatiupan (The Hot Spring Waterfall)

Tamanique Falls may have been one of our favorite waterfalls in El Salvador, but Salto de Malacatiupan is hands down the best one. Why? Because this waterfall isn't just a ordinary waterfall, but a hot spring waterfall!

Located all the way in the north of the country, this is a true hidden gem. The river is naturally heated from the surrounding volcanos. The water runs through rocks creating nature made jacuzzis, and finishes into a set of falls that you will need to experience to believe.

This is one you'll need a rental car for, so we're giving you a site that use for most of our rentals:

Want to know exactly how to get here? Well, we've written a full guide to get you here.

Best Waterfalls in El Salvador #3: Siete Cascadas

Siete cascadas is definitely one of the best waterfalls in El Salvador. This is because it is not just one, but a set of seven different (and unique) falls. 

You can find these set along the Ruta de Las Flores, just outside the center of Juayua. Tours are definitely recommended, and usually cost from $15-20 per person. Why you ask? Well, guides will bring ropes so that you can actually climb up one of the falls! So get ready for a full adventure of hiking, swimming, and even mud bathing.

Want to learn about the full experience? Check out our full article below.

Best Waterfalls in El Salvador #4: Los Chorros de La Calera

Los Chorros de La Calera are some of the most famous waterfalls in El Salvador. Normally visited by those on a trip along La Ruta de Las Flores, the information about these falls is actually quite confusing. We read a blog article stating that they were part of the hike of "Siete Cascadas", when in reality, they are not.

Don't have time to read the whole article and want to save it for later? Just pin it!

The road to Los Chorros de La Calera is actually right outside of the center of Juayua, and can be walked to from Siete Cascadas. However, it is private property, and special permission is needed in advance to visit these.

Best Waterfalls in El Salvador #5: Cascadas de Don Juan

This is one of the best waterfalls in El Salvador for those who don't want a big adventure. Cascadas de Don Juan is conveniently located just 10 minutes off the highway of La Ruta de Las Flores. Right between Apaneca and Concepcion de Ataco, there is a small lot where you can park. The entry is $3 and it's open from 9 am to 5 pm.

They have a small shop, gardens, and bathrooms on site. The path to the falls is located right across from the lot, and is just a few minute walk. This is definitely a great quick stop to make while in la Ruta de Las Flores.

The gates were locked when we arrived, and were unable to visit them. However, we flew our drone down and got to see just how impressive they are! So if you can speak with a local to get the hook up for you, we definitely think it would be awesome to check out in person.

Best Waterfalls in El Salvador #6: Cascada Los Tercios

Cascada los tercios is another of the most unique waterfalls in El Salvador. It reminds us a lot of Prismas Basalticos in Mexico, and is definitely worth a visit. This waterfall flows along basalt columns, which are formed from volcanic activity. Head to this waterall in Suchitoto, and it will make you feel as if you've actyually teleported to Iceland.

Please note: This is one of the few waterfalls that cannot be accessed publicly. The entrance to here is open Wednesday to Sunday from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. The best time to visit is during the wet season when the flow is heavier.

Want to book a tour to Suchitoto? Here are a few options:

Best Waterfalls in El Salvador #7: Cascada de La Golondrinera

We didn't actually make it to this waterfall because we were short on time. Cascada de La Golondrinera is a great day trip, as it does take a few hours to hike. After the long trail there is a cave, where you will find the water. It definitely looks like a cool spot to check out if you are not short on time like we were!

We suggest visiting here if you are spending a few days along La Ruta de Las Flores.

El Salvador really is perfect for those who love to chase waterfalls, as there are really some unique ones! Make sure to add some of these to your itinerary to escape the heat, and see some of the best nature of El Salvador.

Traveling through the country and want to see some other cool spots? We have plenty of other guides for enjoying this tiny underrated country!

Looking to plan a trip? Let us help! With Scratch Your Mapa Travel Planning we're dedicated to help you plan the perfect getaway, and spend less in the process! Want to learn more? Take a look at the different travel planning packages that we have.

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