COFFEE ROUTE « El Salvador Travel – Sitio Oficial de Turismo de El Salvador:: Official Tourism Web Site of El Salvador

COFFEE ROUTE

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This innovative route is one of the new ideas being sponsored for tourist visiting El Salvador.

The idea is to offer an ecological route with green and forested scenarios, coffee plantations, cool climate, cultural and historical attractions and above all, El Salvador’s gourmet high altitude coffee.

You may also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, bird watching (migratory and local), biking, among other active sports.

There are 22 municipalities that are part of the new Coffee Route: Comasagua, Talnique, Jayaque (department of La Libertad), Candelaria de la Frontera, Chalchuapa, El Congo, Coatepeque (Department of Santa Ana) Juayúa and Izalco (Department of Sonsonate); Ahuachapán, Jucuapa, Moncagua, Alegría, Berlin and the area around Complejo Los Volcanes.

• Finca San Ernesto (Comasagua, La Libertad)

Just 20 minutes from San Salvador, this coffee plantation is situated along the Cordillera del Balsamo. The property has fascinating views, overlooking the Pacific coast and the mountains that surround it. There is an early nineteenth century Victorian style house that serves as a gathering place.

The finca has several hiking trails with views to San Vicente Volcano (Chichontepec) and also so the beach. You may practice biking, horseback riding and motorcycle tours.

Currently the facilities are used for social events or tours (with prior notice). At Finca San Ernesto you may enjoy creative dishes that use coffee as a seasoning element. They also experiment with new flavors and 100% organic ingredients like the begonia flower, which is served in salads.

You may buy local grown gourmet from US$ 6.50 USD per pound.

More

- Contact: Luis Ibarra

- Phone: (503) 2223-2686

- Contact email: ventas@fincasanernesto.com

- Available on Facebook and Twitter as Finca San Ernesto

Satellite Location

Elevation 3736 feet

N 13 ° 39,935 ‘

W 89 ° 21,342 ‘

• El Mirador de la Giralda (Talnique, La Libertad)

Their main feature is the high-level gourmet style food, along with the impressive scenery that surrounds this little restaurant. The mountains that can be appreciated from here complement the lush natural ambiance. Some of them include: Cerro Montecristo at Santa Ana and Miramundo at the northern province of Chalatenango.

Within the range of activities offered are the hiking trails (3-4 hours) and there is also falconry, horseback riding and bird watching (migratory and local) from US$ 50.00 an hour or packages from US$ 100.

Where to eat

The specialty of the house is Swiss, Mediterranean and fusion food. However you may also have delicious pupusas with original ingredients like the “Tuscan” and “Sicilian” they are prepared with Swiss cheese. You may also enjoy an exceptional “Raclette” and entrees like cheese and salami dishes from US$ 9.95. Main dishes vary from US$ 2.50 to US$ 20.00.

Where to stay

This place is ideal for social events and you may also stay at their private cabin for US$ 75.00 plus tax (2 guests).

This unique place at Talnique, province of La Libertad, will surprise you. You will be attended in English or French, and you may enjoy pleasant live music featuring the owner: Miguel Araujo.

More:

- Contact: Miguel Araujo

- Phone: (503) 2533-6195

- Available on Facebook: El Mirador de la Giralda

- Payment options available: cash and credit cards

- Directions: Located at Kilometer 13 ½ of the road to Comasagua, La Libertad.

Satellite Location

Elevation 4180 feet

N 13 ° 39,256 ‘

W 89 ° 22,946 ‘

• Finca La Esperanza (Jayaque, La Libertad)

As part of the Coffee Tour in El Salvador, Jayaque is an interesting destination located in the mountains at the province of La Libertad.

Just an hour away from the capital, and 1100 meters above sea level; Finca La Esperanza is a coffee farm with lush vegetation that provides cool and pleasant climate for all visitors. This is an excellent place to relax from the hectic pace of the city.

You may walk its hiking trails (40 minutes) and you will be amazed at the different views of El Salvador you will encounter: Zapotitán valley to the north, cordillera del Balsamo looking south, San Salvador volcano to the east and the majestic Santa Ana volcano to the west.

In addition, you can indulge your senses with the sound coming from the natural spring “El Cachal” running through the farm, the campgrounds and the cabins.

It should be noted that this area is privileged for coffee growing and it exports some of the best coffee beans from El Salvador. In 2005, the Rainforest Alliance awarded this farm with the prize “Best appearance for medium high altitude coffee”.

Where to eat:

Restaurant “El Portal del Café” offers visitors different options, with entrees starting at US$ 5.00, and natural drinks and homemade desserts priced from US$ 0.50 onwards.

Where to stay:

Finca La Esperanza offers accommodation in independent cottages (either around the restaurant area or the spring area). The cottages ha a capacity for two or three people. Prices per cabin vary from US$ 35 to US$ 45 per day.

How to get there:

If driving, take the road towards Ateos (highway to Sonsonate) turn left near the Texaco petrol station (return to San Salvador and Tepecoyo). Drive up to the village in the municipality of Jayaque. This takes approximately 20 minutes.

When you get into the central park (Jayaque), you must take the street “Hacia La Cumbre” (To the Summit). You may follow the signs from there.

More:

- Open to the public on Sundays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

- Midweek you may enter only with prior booking.

- Official Website: http://www.fincacafelaesperanza.com/

- Mail Contact: ebarrazaibarra@yahoo.com

- For reservations and inquiries: (503) 7840-3153

Satellite Location

Elevation 3551 feet

N 13 ° 29,990 ‘

W 89 ° 26,505 ‘

• El Carmel Garden Café (Jayaque, La Libertad)

This beautiful site is a natural paradise located at Jayaque. Its main attraction is a nineteenth-century house that was the home of the farm owners.

Along its 4 hectares you will find beautiful gardens and walking trails where you can appreciate orchids, exotic flowers and enjoy watching more than 40 species of migratory and local birds that stop at this property.

The imposing nineteenth-century family home, is made with stamped metal sheet imported from Belgium and furniture made with coffee trees. This house was declared a National Heritage Site by government entities and entrance is restricted.

As part of you tour will appreciate the kitchen for the coffee pickers. A traditional kitchen from the last century where you will get a glimpse at the lives of the farm workers of that era, you may appreciate food conservation methods used back then.

Sometime artistic activities are carried out at these facilities including, music, drama and social events.

Where to eat:

Here you will enjoy an exquisite coffee from US$ 0.50, pupusas, natural juices and desserts at varied prices.

More:

- Open Monday to Sunday

- Contact: Maria Elena Lima Chiurato

- Phone: (503) 7720-5788

- Contact email: cafejardinelcarmel@gmail.com

- Available on Facebook: The Garden Café Caramel

- Address: Final 2 ª Calle Oriente, Jayaque, El Salvador

- Payment options available: cash

Satellite Location

Elevation 3251 feet

N 13 ° 40,316 ‘

W 89 ° 26,263 ‘

• Cooperative Los Pinos (The Congo, Santa Ana)

Open to the public since 1999, Cooperativa Los Pinos is a unique destination where your senses will be overwhelmed by an spectacular view of Lake Coatepeque, while at the same time you will be surrounded by an impressive forest, coffee plantations and cool climate.

Coffee from this 333-hectare farm is “Bourbon” type and is considered high altitude mountain coffee since it is grown at 1,800 meters above sea level.

There are several trails (up to 2.5 km long) that lead to the rest areas located at Lake Coatepeque shore. Complete your visit with a boat ride to island Teopán situated on the lake where you will appreciate the beauty of this natural wonder.

Where to eat:

Cooperativa Los Pinos has restaurant service, both at their main event hall or by Coatepeque lake, you can order beef, soups, chicken, seafood cocktails all from US$ 4 to US$ 6 and the house specialty “Guapote” (Fish), accompanied by vegetables, rice, tortillas and other side orders to choose from at US$ 8.00 to US$ 10.00.

Complete your meal with a delicious espresso coffee grown right on location for US$ 1.00 and a delicious apple or lemon pie at $ 1.50.

Where to stay:

As part of the rural tourism development, Cooperativa Los Pinos offers camping area close to the restaurant or by the lake at US$ 3.00 general fee, plus US$ 2 per person. Bring your own the camping gear.

How to get there:

Address: Canton Los Pinos, Km 55.5, Santa Ana to Sonsonate road. Cerro Verde, El Congo, Santa Ana

If driving from San Salvador head towards Cerro Verde (highway to Sonsonate) when you reach the diversion of the same name you should take the road on your right that goes along the rim above Lake Coatepeque. Drive to 55.5 km. Access is on the left side of the road.

If travelling by bus, take Route 209 bridge at El Congo. Cost of ticket is US$ 0.30.

More

- Hours: Wednesday through Sunday from 8:00 am to 6:00 p.m.

- Guided Walk US$ 3.00 per person (children under 7 years is free)

- Bourbon coffee bag US$ 3.00 (1 pound bag)

- Restaurant Phone (503) 2432-0254

- Office Phone (503) 2434-0038

- Official Website: http://www.cooperativalospinos.net/

- Mail Contact: cooplospinos_sv@yahoo.es

Satellite Location

Elevation 3594 feet

N 13 ° 51,271 ‘

W 89 ° 31,263 ‘

• The House of Mamapán

If you want to get away from the bustle of the city we suggest Mamapán House as one of the best and newest hostels options along the now famous “Ruta de las Flores”. It’s located in the historic center of Ahuachapán City and minutes from picturesque villages.

For just over a year, this small but beautiful hostel established on a 200 years old house, offers 5 rooms in a cozy atmosphere. Each room has private bath, hot water, fan, internet and cable TV. There are also large living areas with interesting decorations and comfortable environments.

Mamapán House is also known for its colorful murals painted on the outside walls by Salvadoran artists and Bruno Fabio Jimenez.

What to do:

In addition to a relaxing atmosphere, the House of Mamapán functions as a Cultural Café so you can enjoy a good late night conversations with owners, other guests or your accompanying party.

If you want to get in touch with nature, visit “Finca Santa Teresita” or “Mamapán Tropical Forest”, a 32 acres farm cultivated with coffee and just 3 minutes (drive) from the hostel. It is a good place for walking, jogging and mountain biking. In addition, you’ll see huge 100-year-old trees and a numerous butterflies. The climate is pleasant, since it is located at 900 meters above sea level.

You can drive your vehicle, is only 4 kilometers from the city, on the road that leads to Tacuba. Or take bus route 264, which goes from Ahuachapán to Tacuba, (only US$ 0.30). Another option is to ride on the or motorcycle taxis (Tuk Tuks) at US$ 3.00

Where to stay:

There are 5 double rooms available for lodging. Prices are US$ 30 to Us$ 40 per room (up to 4 people). There is no “check in” or “check out” and if you’re lucky and the rooms are not reserved you may extend your stay.

What to eat:

The Mamapán House offers excellent food choices specially sandwiches, paninis, salads and desserts. Their prices are very affordable, from Us$ 1.50 to US$ 3.00. Most products, especially coffee is bought with local suppliers and are 100% organic.

How to get there:

Mamapán House is right in the center of the city of Ahuachapán, next to the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, opposite to Concordia Park. (Central Park)

If you driving from San Salvador, take the road to Santa Ana and then the exit towards Chalchuapa, follow the directions towards the Guatemalan border. When you arrive in Ahuachapán, ask the police or locals for the central park. The colorful murals on the walls of La Casa de Mamapán will guide you.

By bus, take Route 202 from San Salvador to Ahuachapan. Cost is US$ 1.50 to US$ 2.50. You can also take the route 210 from Santa Ana at US $ 0.75. At the bus terminal take a Tuk Tuk (US$ 0.50) that will take directly to this beautiful hostel.

More

Website: http://lacasademamapan.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/mamapan.ahuachapan

Email: mamapan-ahuachapan@hotmail.com

Phone: (503) 2413 – 2507 and (503) from 7218 to 1564

Payment: Cash Only

Satellite data

2593 feet

N 13 ° 55.137

W 89 ° 50.908

• Portezuelo Park (Juayúa, Sonsonate)

An amazing place, reaching for the sky is Portezuelo Park, located in Juayúa, Department of Sonsonate.

This place hosts more than 240 acres of premium coffee platations in the cloud forest, surrounded by hills Cuyanausul and Cerro de La Laguna Verde at 1, 800 meters above sea level.

All visitors can enjoy a cool climate year round and will appreciate the beauty of fog descending from the mountains. In addition, Portezuelo Park offers a variety of activities for both family and corporate groups among them:

• High altitude ropes: With more than 7 stations located at a height of about 7 meters. The aim is to test this obstacle and overcome the natural fear of height. This practice is open to both adults and children over 7 years. Fee: US$ 25 per person.

• Hiking to Laguna Verde cloud forest: from US$ 5 per person (one to three hours tour)

• Horseback riding: either at the coffee plantations or towards La Laguna Verde. From US$ 30 ( 1 to 2 hour tour)

• Horse Rent: at US$ 12 an hour to ride along the gardens.

• Donkey rent: at US$ 12 an hour.

• Mountain bike rental: from US$ 10 per hour

Where to stay:

• COFFEE CAMPING DECKS

This is an innovative accommodation for outdoor camping where the tents are located within elevated wood structures with tin roof. The tents include two mattresses and bedside table. There are outdoor showers. This site is located next to the original farm state and have majestic views of the Cerro de Cuyanausul also known as Magaña Mountain.

Rates per night:

- Double Camping Decks: from US$ 35 (price for double accommodation) up to four people. Additional person is charge US$ 10.00

- Family Deck: from US$ 65 (up to 6 people)

Additional person is charge US$ 10.00

- Individual Price (one person) US$ 15.00

• Traditional Campground

For those who like camping in a traditional manner, Portezuelo Park has a designated area under beautiful Araucaria Pine trees. Camping gear can be rented onsite.

This area has its own toilets, outdoor showers, barbecue and picnic area. The fee is US$ 5 per person.

• La Escondida Hotel

In this option you will find mountain style cabins equipped with TV, DVD, hot showers, campfire areas and dinning room for guests. Here you will have more privacy with terraces overlooking the gardens.

Rates per night:

- Suite: king size bed and single bed. Up to three persons from US$ 65.00

- Green Room: queen size bed and bunk bed. Up to four people from US$ 55.

- Yellow Room: queen size bed and bunk bed. Up to four people from US$ 55.

- Little Room: double bed and sofa bed. Two persons. From US$ 25.

- Backpacker Room (maximum two people) from US$ 25.

How to get there:

Address: 6 km old road to Ahuachapán, Canton San Juan de Dios, Juayúa, Sonsonate.

If driving take the road to Juayúa from Sonsonate, when you arrive in Juayúa there is a diversion you must take the road on the left towards Canton San Juan de Dios (Please check with locals). You should go up a cobbled street (be cautious because the street has some gutters). Access is on the right and is labeled as “Portezuelo Adventure Park.”

More:

Opening hours are restricted so book in advance.

Reservations (503) 2263-2211

Website: www.akwaterra.com

Contact Email: akwaterra@gmail.com

Additional information

• Additional fees

- Prices per night

- Hotel (13 people maximum) from US$ 210

- Price per person from US$ 18

- Family A (The Suite and small room) 4 to 5 people maximum, from US$ 100

- Family B (Green Room and Yellow Room) Maximum 6 persons from US$ 110