Tecapa

Volcano Stratovolcano with hot springs and crater lake

Cerro Tecapa in Usulután features a volcanic crater lake-Laguna de Alegría-known for vivid green water; hikers reach the rim for crater views and birdwatching.

Main image

Tecapa is a volcanic summit and volcanic complex in the Usulután Department of El Salvador characterized by a summit crater that contains a notable crater lake. The site is a local geographic landmark with volcanic and geothermal features.

The principal highlight is the crater lake at the summit, which occupies the volcanic crater and is a distinctive landscape feature. The immediate area shows geothermal activity and volcanic geomorphology rather than urban development.

The volcano formed as part of El Salvador’s central volcanic chain; the summit crater and lake are the most visible products of its activity and have been the focus of local interest and visitation. Detailed eruption history and recent activity records are specialized subjects and not summarized here.

Situated in southeastern El Salvador, Tecapa sits within Usulután Department near the municipality of Alegría and is accessed from nearby towns on roads that climb into the volcanic highlands.

  • Crater lake: The summit contains a crater lake commonly called Laguna de Alegría or Laguna de Tecapa, noted for its striking coloration and geothermal character.
  • Access: A road reaches close to the crater rim and the site is commonly visited from nearby towns in Usulután Department.
Tecapa
Tecapa volcanic area, Usulután Department, El Salvador
13.4833, -88.5167

How to Get to Tecapa #

Tecapa is accessed from the Usulután area. Local roads and guided treks depart from nearby towns; 4×4 or sturdy transport is often required for mountain roads.

Tips for Visiting Tecapa #

  • Tecapa is an accessible volcano-local guides lead safe hikes to crater viewpoints and can arrange transport.
  • Hike early in the morning to avoid midday heat; cloud cover increases later in the day and can obscure views.
  • Check local advisories for volcanic and seismic activity before planning a visit.

Best Time to Visit Tecapa #

The dry season provides the clearest views and safe trail conditions for crater visits and hikes.

Dry season
Nov-Apr · 20-30°C
Clearer skies and better visibility for crater views and landscape photography.
Wet season
May-Oct · 22-28°C
Frequent rain and cloud can obscure views; trails may be muddy and slick.

Weather & Climate near Tecapa #

Climate

Tecapa's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 13°C to 26°C. Abundant rainfall (1998 mm/year), wettest in September with a pronounced dry season.

Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
26°
Warmest Month
13°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions

January

January is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 13°C. The driest month with just 3 mm.

Comfort

19°
Feels Like Mild
19°C
Temperature
13° 24°

Weather

3 mm
Rainfall
3.8 m/s
Wind
Light Breeze

February

February is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 13°C. Almost no rain.

Comfort

19°
Feels Like Mild
19°C
Temperature
13° 25°

Weather

6 mm
Rainfall
3.7 m/s
Wind
Light Breeze

March

March is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 14°C. Light rainfall.

Comfort

20°
Feels Like Mild
20°C
Temperature
14° 26°

Weather

10 mm
Rainfall
3.4 m/s
Wind
Light Breeze

April

April is the warmest month with highs of 26°C and lows of 15°C. Moderate rainfall (45 mm).

Comfort

21°
Feels Like Mild
21°C
Temperature
15° 26°

Weather

45 mm
Rainfall
3.1 m/s
Wind
Light Breeze

May

May is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 16°C. Heavy rain (220 mm).

Comfort

20°
Feels Like Mild
20°C
Temperature
16° 25°

Weather

220 mm
Rainfall
2.4 m/s
Wind
Calm

June

June is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 16°C. Heavy rain (347 mm).

Comfort

20°
Feels Like Mild
20°C
Temperature
16° 23°

Weather

347 mm
Rainfall
2.1 m/s
Wind
Calm

July

July is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 16°C. Heavy rain (296 mm).

Comfort

20°
Feels Like Mild
20°C
Temperature
16° 24°

Weather

296 mm
Rainfall
2.6 m/s
Wind
Calm

August

August is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Heavy rain (286 mm).

Comfort

19°
Feels Like Mild
19°C
Temperature
15° 24°

Weather

286 mm
Rainfall
2.4 m/s
Wind
Calm

September

September is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 15°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (418 mm).

Comfort

19°
Feels Like Mild
19°C
Temperature
15° 23°

Weather

418 mm
Rainfall
2.0 m/s
Wind
Calm

October

October is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 15°C. Heavy rain (297 mm).

Comfort

19°
Feels Like Mild
19°C
Temperature
15° 23°

Weather

297 mm
Rainfall
2.2 m/s
Wind
Calm

November

November is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm).

Comfort

19°
Feels Like Mild
19°C
Temperature
14° 23°

Weather

61 mm
Rainfall
2.8 m/s
Wind
Calm

December

December is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 13°C. Almost no rain.

Comfort

18°
Feels Like Mild
18°C
Temperature
13° 23°

Weather

9 mm
Rainfall
3.4 m/s
Wind
Light Breeze

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