Lake Ilopango, Volcanic crater lake in central El Salvador.
Lake Ilopango sits inside a volcanic crater in central El Salvador, with water in places reaching depths of 230 meters (755 ft). The lake spans roughly 8 by 11 kilometers (5 by 7 mi), making it the country's second largest body of water.
Between 410 and 535 CE, a major eruption caused the caldera to collapse and scattered volcanic material across Central America. This cataclysm reshaped the landscape of the entire region.
Fishermen work the waters using methods passed down through their families, forming the backbone of lakeside communities. This heritage shapes daily life along the shores.
The lake is accessible from San Salvador through several entry points, with the towns of Asino and Ilopango offering water activities and local services. Plan your visit during the dry season for more stable weather conditions.
The Islas Quemadas are lava dome islands that emerged during an 1880 eruption, dramatically altering the lake's water levels at that time. Today they stand as distinctive features rising from the waters.
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