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Lee Siebert CC BY-SA 4.0 Wikimedia Commons

Tecapa

Volcano

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.

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In this guide

Tecapa essentials

Address: Tecapa volcanic area, Usulután Department, El Salvador

About Tecapa

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.
Things to Do
When to Go

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.

Air Quality: AQI 61 Moderate
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
26°
Warmest Month
13°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January - 13° - 24° 19° 3 mm - - 3.8 m/s - -
February - 13° - 25° 19° 6 mm - - 3.7 m/s - -
March - 14° - 26° 20° 10 mm - - 3.4 m/s - -
April - 15° - 26° 21° 45 mm - - 3.1 m/s - -
May - 16° - 25° 20° 220 mm - - 2.4 m/s - -
June - 16° - 23° 20° 347 mm - - 2.1 m/s - -
July - 16° - 24° 20° 296 mm - - 2.6 m/s - -
August - 15° - 24° 19° 286 mm - - 2.4 m/s - -
September - 15° - 23° 19° 418 mm - - 2.0 m/s - -
October - 15° - 23° 19° 297 mm - - 2.2 m/s - -
November - 14° - 23° 19° 61 mm - - 2.8 m/s - -
December - 13° - 23° 18° 9 mm - - 3.4 m/s - -
Getting There & Around

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.