The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARN) has announced the opening of 13 protected natural areas (NPAs) to the public during Holy Week, offering both Salvadorans and international visitors the opportunity to enjoy the country’s rich biodiversity in a responsible and sustainable manner.
With a total of 210 NPAs across El Salvador, only a select group of sites currently meet the necessary conditions to receive visitors. These 13 areas, which include iconic destinations such as the Santa Ana Volcano, Montecristo National Park, and Los Almendros Beach, will be accessible for eco-tourism activities during the holiday season.
According to MARN Tourism Coordinator Javier Chavarría, each site is equipped with trained guides, environmental interpretation centers, designated waste disposal areas, and well-maintained trails for exploration. “This ensures these spaces are preserved and remain free of trash and single-use plastics,” Chavarría noted. Visitors are encouraged to bring food in reusable containers and follow established guidelines regarding opening hours and visitor capacity.
The initiative seeks to raise public awareness about the importance of conserving natural ecosystems, many of which are home to endangered species of flora and fauna. Some of the most frequently visited areas include Los Cóbanos, Ilamatepec Volcano, El Imposible National Park, Barra de Santiago, and the El Zapatero Canal. These regions not only provide critical habitats for wildlife, such as white-tailed deer, gray foxes, and migratory birds, but also support local communities that rely on these ecosystems.
In the San Blas Protected Natural Area, for example, visitors can hike to the crater of the Santa Ana Volcano and observe a wide variety of native plant species along the way. This natural corridor is also a refuge for diverse animal species, reinforcing the need for strict conservation measures.
MARN reiterates its commitment to preserving El Salvador’s natural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism that educates and inspires. By opening these areas during Holy Week, the ministry hopes to foster a deeper connection between the public and the country’s unique ecological treasures.