Tamanique Falls hike and El Tunco beach from San Salvador

Four miles of jungle trail, three waterfalls with cold pools, then an afternoon at El Tunco's beach and shops

This tour from San Salvador combines a moderate hike to Tamanique Waterfalls in La Libertad with an afternoon at El Tunco beach. You hike roughly 4 miles round trip through mountain terrain to reach three waterfalls, each with natural swimming pools, then travel to El Tunco for free time to walk the village, visit shops and restaurants, or watch surfers. Private minivan pickup from selected hotels is included, with a 7:45 a.m. departure and 2 p.m. return.

Step-by-step itinerary

Hike Tamanique Falls and visit El Tunco

• Depart from San Salvador at 7:45 a.m.
• Hike 4 miles round trip to Tamanique Waterfalls
• Swim in natural pools at waterfalls
• Travel to El Tunco beach
• Free time to explore El Tunco village
• Return from El Tunco at 2:30 p.m.

The experience

The day starts early with hotel pickup and a drive to Tamanique, where the hike begins. The trail descends from the mountains into a canyon, covering roughly 4 miles round trip, and requires moderate physical effort and sturdy footwear. You'll pass through jungle terrain on the way down to the three Tamanique Waterfalls, each one feeding into a natural pool of cold water where you can swim. The hike is the main physical commitment of the day. Once you've had time in the water, the group heads back up the trail.

After the hike, you'll drive to El Tunco, one of El Salvador's best-known beach villages. From roughly midday until the 2 p.m. departure, you have free time to explore on your own. Walk the village streets, browse local shops, eat at a restaurant, or simply sit on the beach and watch the surfers. The beach itself changes with the tide (during high tide, the sandy area shrinks), so swimming conditions vary depending on when you arrive. The minivan returns you to your hotel by mid-afternoon.

What’s included

• Private air-conditioned minivan transportation.
• hotel pickup and drop-off from selected hotels.
• a Spanish-speaking guide for the full day.

Before you book

Days and timesMonday, Tuesday and SaturdayDeparts at 07:30

Book up to2d before

AgesAdult (13 to 90 years) · Child (3 to 12 years) · Infant (1 to 2 years)

GroupUp to 10

Live guideSpanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 6 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Inter Tours

Is this one for you?The early 7:45 a.m. start and 4-mile hike demand a moderate level of fitness and comfort with sustained walking on uneven terrain. The day works best for travelers who want both a physical adventure and beach time, rather than a leisurely pace.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 12 years); Infant (1 to 2 years).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How difficult is the hike to Tamanique Falls?

The trail is moderate and covers roughly 4 miles round trip, descending from the mountains into a canyon with stairs and uneven terrain. You'll need sturdy hiking shoes and a reasonable level of fitness. The hike involves sustained walking and some steep sections, but it's not technical climbing.

Can I swim at Tamanique Falls?

Yes. Each of the three waterfalls has a natural pool of cold water where you can swim. Bring a change of clothes or a swimsuit, and plan to spend time cooling off in the pools once you reach them.

What is there to do at El Tunco?

El Tunco is a beach village with shops, restaurants, and a strong surf culture. During your free time there, you can walk around, eat, browse local vendors, watch surfers, or relax on the beach. The village is small and easy to explore on foot.

What time does the tour depart and return?

Pickup from your hotel begins at 7:45 a.m., and the minivan returns you by 2 p.m. The early start gets you to the waterfall trail before the heat builds and allows time for both the hike and the beach visit.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes, private minivan pickup and drop-off are included for selected hotels in San Salvador. Confirm your hotel is on the pickup list when you book.