El TRAPICHE POOLS
Only 79 kms from San Salvador you may find El Trapiche Pools, a natural corner near the town of Chalchuapa.
This area holds the remains of one of the earliest human settlements found in El Salvador. The remains are dated to be 3, 200 years old, and are from Olmec and Mayan tribes migrating from Guatemala.
Today El Trapiche is a natural tourist destination. Natural springs that originate in the site feed continuously several pools that serve as entertainment for visitors.
Facilities received a major facelift in 2002. There are three main swimming pools. One Olympic size, one for children and the one who receives more visitors: a naturally occurring pool that is feed with fresh water by one of the springs.
There is a long time tradition that takes places at this site. It is the washing of the clothes for the image of Jesus of Nazareth. This happens just before the celebrations of eastern.
The pond where this event takes place, is in charge of the Brotherhood (Cofradía) of the Cross, who every Monday and Tuesday of the Holy Week wash the clothes of the image of Christ on this crystalline waters.
There is a public cloth-washing onsite for the Chalchuapa community. This is separate from the natural springs to minimize any possible contamination of the water.
During your visit to Chalchuapa plan a stop at the refreshing waters of El Trapiche, a green corner to share with family and friends.
Where to eat:
Within this turicentro (tourist centre) you may bring your own food and prepare it on site. There is no alcoholic beverages alowed. There are barbecue areas and small ranchos (palm roofed huts) for the whole family. You can also buy drinks and meals locally.
How to get there:
To get to Chalchuapa drive towards Ahuachapán, or the route towards Las Chinamas International Border. The road is well signposted.
Access to El Trapiche pools are located near the archaeological site of Casa Blanca. Access is thru a dirt road. You will see a memorial bust to Justo Rufino Barrios, continue 150 meters, the entrance will be on your left side. There is parking available.
More
Hours: Monday to Sunday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
NOTE: closed Tuesday for maintenance.
Rates:
- General admission: US$ 0.60
- Entry for children and seniors: FREE
- Parking for light vehicles: US$ 0.60
- Motorcycle Parking: US$ 0.35
Phone: (503) 2444-0298
AVISO
La información presentada en esta Ficha de Promoción de Servicios y Destinos Turísticos de El Salvador es una guía de referencia. Los precios, tarifas, promociones o detalles como el número de personas, horarios de atención, horarios de entrada o salida, tiempos de comida, ingredientes de platillos, duración de tours, sitios incluidos en tour etc. así como números de teléfono, sitios web o direcciones de correo electrónico y físicas, y otros datos pueden variar sin previo aviso de los hoteles, restaurantes, tour operadores, hostales y otros negocios de la industria turística contenidas en este catálogo digital. El Ministerio de Turismo y la Coorporación Salvadoreña de Turismo, así como su agencia de publicidad y cualquier otra empresa o persona natural subcontratada para el levantamiento y recolección de esta información no tiene responsabilidad por ninguna variación en los datos. Se sugiere siempre hacer las consultas respectivas para verificar.
