Plizio Visual Lab
Lake Suchitlán
Lake Suchitlán, formed in 1976 by the construction of the Cerrón Grande Dam, is the largest body of water in El Salvador. Despite being man-made, it has evolved into a thriving ecosystem and a vital wetland. The lake is a paradise for eco-tourists and birdwatchers, serving as a crucial habitat for resident and migratory bird species. Flocks of pelicans, herons, and ducks can be seen dotting the shores of the lake. Visitors frequently embark on relaxing boat tours navigating through water hyacinths and around the lake's many small islands. The nearby colonial town of Suchitoto is the primary gateway to the lake, providing remarkable panoramic views from its elevated position. The local gastronomy relies heavily on the lake's fresh catch, with eateries serving delicious fried fish. The lake is easily reached from Suchitoto, about an hour's drive from San Salvador. The dry season, from November to April, has sunny days excellent for boating. However, the wet season brings animated greenery to the hills, making the landscape incredibly photogenic.
- Location: El Salvador
- Nearby: El Rosario (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 26 | 24 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 22 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 9 | 8 | 9 | 32 | 152 | 186 | 151 | 189 | 218 | 174 | 43 | 18 |
Geography
Facts
- Largest body of water in El Salvador.
- Created by the Cerrón Grande Dam in 1976.
- Fed by the Lempa River.
- Designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance.
- Name means 'Place of Flowers' in Nahuatl.
- Home to a huge population of pelicans.
- Ferry service connects different communities.
- Suchitoto is the main tourist hub for the lake.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Lake Suchitlán (1)
Frequently asked questions
Lake Suchitlán: where is it located?
Lake Suchitlán: when is the best time to visit?
Lake Suchitlán: why is it worth visiting?
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