Lake Ilopango, El Salvador
The second-largest lake in the nation and a popular place for sci-fi fans who want to witness storied UFOs, this crater lake is tucked away in a picturesque volcanic caldera. One of the best things about Lake Ilopango is how easy it is to get there, only it's a short drive or bus trip from San Salvador, the country's capital.
By taking a boat tour, you can learn all about the different flora and wildlife as well as some lake history, making it the finest way to explore these islands.
Visitors can trek to the top of a nearby lighthouse for magnificent views of the breathtaking terrain El Salvador has grown to be known for or enjoy a cool swim in the crater lake. A day at Lake Ilopango is a peaceful retreat from city life, complete with campgrounds, soccer fields, row boats, and small cafés serving home-cooked, regional cuisine for the ideal lunch after a day outdoors.
Location: on the borders of San Salvador, La Paz, and Cuscatlán departments.
