|
More tranquil than in the north, the rich landscapes of western El Salvador in many ways offer a perfect introduction to the country. Soft mountain chains edge back from the valleys, dominated by the vibrant green expanses of coffee plantations from which the area gains its wealth. Spared from the most violent hardships of the conflict of the 1980s, the friendly towns and cities here are more amenable to visitors than in many places, and a relatively well developed tourist infrastructure makes travelling easier than in other regions. The joy of this part of the country consists largely of soaking up the atmosphere. The mountain towns of Apaneca and Juayua , in the south of the region, and the nearby city of Ahuachapan are perfect for a few days' relaxation, and are conveniently situated near the border with Guatemala - Ahuachapan in particular is a great little place to acclimatize yourself to El Salvador. The larger city of Santa Ana is a mellow contrast to the capital, while the peaks of Cerro Verde, Volcan Santa Ana and Volcan Izalco , the sublime crater lake of Lago de Coatepeque , and the pre-Columbian site of Tazumal are all close by. In the north of the region, near the Guatemalan border, the accommodating little town of Metapan gives access to the Bosque Montecristo , where hiking trails weave through unspoilt cloudforest amid some of the most remote and perfectly preserved mountain scenery in this part of the world.
Your Tip for West
Help other backpackers! Write your own guides and backpacking tips to West - they will appear instantly on this page - Please only write a tip/guide to West - visit the main West forum to ask a question!
Please do not post links to your site here (they won't work) - please use the West webguide section below! Thanks.
| 
