DECAMERON EXPLORER EL SALVADOR Explore The Mayan Route
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DECAMERON EXPLORER Decameron Explorer stands out as a Destination Management Company with a successful history in the tourism industry in South and Central America with over 20 years of experience. Decameron Explorer is your local on site partner to operate and supervise the successful outcome for services rendered to individuals, incentive groups, tour-operator services, conventions, V.I.P. services, charter flights, tailormade programs, transportation services. Decameron Explorer is the direct link to the best chain of AllInclusive Hotels and Resorts of Central and South America, Decameron Hotels. Decameron Explorer offers the best programs in each destination including excellent options in transport and tour guide services in the most convenient category and budget for each client. At the airport in each destination, Decameron Explorer has its own-operated offices where dedicated personnel welcome the arriving passengers with special permits to enter the international dock, immigration and customs areas. Thanks to this infrastructure, Decameron Explorer, with the support of professional tour guides, can organize group baggage identification to speed up the process of distribution to hotel rooms and manage pre-registrations in order to expedite the check-in process at the hotels. Currently Decameron Explorer has offices in Panamá, El Salvador, Ecuador, Colombia, Haití and Peru. Among the personnel who work for Decameron Explorer there are professionals experienced in groups, incentives and conventions management, who are always available starting at the quote through to its execution. SERVICES Among the services Decameron Explorer (DMC) offers: • • • • •
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Commercial airline reservations and sales Charter flight management and logistics Transfers of individuals and private groups Eco-touristic, cultural, historical, adventure, fishing and scuba diving excursions Roundtrip programs in Panamá (in combination with San Blas, Bocas del Toro, Darién jungle and Chiriquí highlands), El Salvador (encompassing the Mayan World including Guatemala and Honduras), Ecuador (the breathtaking Galápagos islands, historical and colonial Cuenca, Guayaquil, Quito), Peru (in combination with Lima, Punta Sal, enchanting Cusco, magical Machu Picchu, Trujillo, Chiclayo and Chachapoyas) and Colombia (with the Caribbean in destinations such as San Andrés and Providence Islands, the unequaled and historic Cartagena, the Panaca Theme Hotel and the exotic Amazon) Specialty programs for groups, incentives and conventions (personalized for each client) with options for lodging, meals, transfers, entertainment, water sports, etc. Educational Programs Decameron Es-Cool Give Back community programs Personalized service at each Sales and Hospitality counter 7 days a week
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TRANSPORT INFRAESTRUCTURE A complete fleet of vehicles, boats and planes assure excellent service in all our excursions, eco-tours and transfers. HUMAN RESOURCES We offer a team of organizers, coordinators and professional guides with more than 10 years of experience in handling cruises and charters, who can direct tours to the most interesting places in each country, with fluency in several languages (Spanish, English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Russian). HACCP HEALTH & SAFETY PROGRAM Decameron Explorer actively participates in Health & Safety programs. A team of Health & Safety Coordinators, trained to achieve the standards and regulations on Food Safety are INCLUDED in Decameron Explorer´s staff. HACCP is a food handling and operating approach that promotes food safety by identifying food hazards and applying and monitoring appropriate control measures at points, critical to safety, reducing the risk of food associated illness in guests, and thereby reducing the number of claims. This team audits all tours and restaurants included in Decameron Explorer´s portfolio, providing basic health & safety procedures training to our food & beverages suppliers.
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SALINITAS, EL SALVADOR
ROYAL DECAMERON SALINITAS Decameron Explorer El Salvador invites you to get acquainted with and explore the most spectacular and important sites in El Salvador. A fantastic tour of the Mayan world where you can admire traces of one of the most important civilizations in the history of humanity: the Mayan culture. Enjoy the best gourmet coffee in the country in a magical place, walk along pathways full of pure air mixed with the sound of exotic birds until you reach the crater of majestic volcanoes and dive in its natural lagoons full of legends and traditions belonging to each pueblo. On the coast, beaches perfect for water sports, like surfing, contrast with the city where we find discount outlets of famous brand designers. All this and much more is El Salvador and Decameron Explorer invites you to get acquainted with it.
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BIRD WATCHING NATIONAL PARK CERRO VERDE
For those nature lovers, we offer you the most exciting experience available in this region, from the Santa Ana volcano to the Cerro Verde National Park. This area has been recognized for its diverse flora, fauna and biological richness. The Park includes more than 164 bird species such as: Torogoz (national bird of El Salvador, whose colorful feathers represent a symbol of family unity), Crested Eagles, Hawks, Hummingbirds, Blue jays, Green billed Toucan, among others. Cerro Verde is an inactive volcano located at an altitude of 2.035Mts/6.676 ft. above sea level, with a longitude of aprox.500 hectares/ 1,235.5 acres of tropical forest and temperatures that run between 12ยบ C to 18ยบ C. We can also enjoy a walk through beautiful trails, from where we can observe the majestic Izalco volcano, the neighborhoods of Sonsonate, Salcoatitรกn, the Port of Acajutla in the Pacific Ocean and the highlands of the Sierra of Apaneca. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: II Minimum: 8 persons Maximum: 8 persons Weather: Not available during the months May to October Included: land transportation, English speaking tour guide, entry fees, binoculars and beverages. Recommendations: light clothing (green or blue colors), running or comfortable walking shoes, light sweater or long sleeve shirt, long pants, insect repellent, hat, and sun block. Departure: 6:00 AM Return: 11:00 AM
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BUGGIES SAFARI
A very exciting Buggy mountain tour. At the heart of the Route of the Flowers, where you can enjoy incredible views, lakes, and other natural wonders of the Apaneca-Ilamatepec range. You will initiate the tour in Apaneca, a picturesque plateau at 4,920 ft. (1,550 meters) above sea level from where you can observe the exuberant landscape of the zone. Your first stop would be at Laguna Verde, located six kilometers from Apaneca. This water source is located at the upper part of El Aguila hill, about 5,576 ft. (1,700 meters) above sea level. Its name derives from the color of its water, which gives you a peaceful sensation. The lagoon resembles a watercolor painting where hundreds of surrounding cypress reflect. Continuing with the tour you will reach Laguna de las Ninfas a 1,968 square ft. (600 square meters), which despite its volcanic origin it contains minimum sulfur quantities and that is why it has abundant bulrush vegetation and other water plant species, in addition to beautiful nymphs that give the name to the lagoon. Here you will enjoy a snack and return to Apaneca. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: IV - V Minimum: 8 persons Maximum: 10 persons Minimum Age: 18 years old Maximum Weight: 200 lbs. per person Note: Driver's license required Included: Land transportation, English speaking tour guide, beverages, local guide and safety equipment. Recommendations: running or comfortable walking shoes, sun block, comfortable clothing, sun glasses. We will not accept pregnant women and participants under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 12:00 M Departure: 1:00 PM Return: 5:00 PM
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CANOPY APANECA
Canopy is a new option of adventure in our country, which offers a unique activity and an extreme ecological experience. From high altitude (1,600 mt/5,247ft above sea level), amazing landscapes can be contemplated from the hills of Apaneca, (Ahuachapรกn). Harness, gloves, and pulleys with steel wire provide the necessary safety throughout the route. In order to begin, it is necessary to walk a few minutes to arrive to the first platform, where all the equipment is found. This stroll helps you become familiar with the natural atmosphere. In each platform, you can take a break and enjoy taking wonderful pictures of the mountain scenery. The distance covered is around 30 to 280mts/ 98 to 918ft of this panoramic view. The 12 stations of the trip make you feel like a master of this adventurous sport. The first six are in a short distance to help you feel more comfortable with the equipment and be prepared for the next level. The height and speed are predominant in the last part. Two hours and a half are enough to enjoy each detail of the adventure. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: I - II Minimum: 8 persons Maximum: 25 persons Minimum Age: 12 years old Maximum Weight: 250 lbs. per person Included: land transportation, safety equipment, English speaking tour guide, local professional instructor and beverages. Recommendations: running shoes or hiking boots, long sleeve shirt, long pants, hat, sunblock, sunglasses. We will not accept pregnant women and participants under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 12:00 M
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CERRO VERDE VOLCANIC COMPLEX (PANORAMIC TOUR)
This is a natural protected area which includes Cerro Verde, the Santa Ana Volcano and the Izalco Volcano. It covers an area of 4,500 hectares of state, municipal and private lands. Elevations oscillate between 500 and 2,381 meters above sea level. With an agreeable climate, it has very pretty interpretative paths, shaded by the most diverse species of plants and trees. The flora of this zone has been identified as a vegetable formation because of its misty forests and very exuberant cold vegetation, always green due to the high humidity of the ground and air, product of the constant fog and frequent rains. It has a wonderful orquidarium, spectacular lookout points from which you can admire the majesty of the Izalco and Santa Ana (Ilamatepec) Volcanoes as well as Lake Coatepeque, one of the ten most beautiful lakes in the world. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: I-II Minimum: 8 persons Maximum: 25 persons Weather: During the months May to October Included: land transportation, English speaking tour guide and beverages. Recommendations: light clothing, shorts, running or wet shoes, insect repellent, sunblock, sunglasses, hat and bathing suit. Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 2:00 PM
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CITY TOUR AND NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ANTROPOLOGY
Upon arriving in the capital city of San Salvador, we will take you to “El Arbol de Dios” an Arts and Gallery store; fantasy and magic embodied by Don Fernando Llort , Master and pride of our country. We will continue to visit the Plaza Salvador del Mundo. After this, we will visit the Plaza Morazán where we will begin a walk through the historic center of San Salvador, where we find structures dating from the early XX century as the National Theater, Metropolitan Cathedral and the crypt of Archbishop Romero, an icon of the living history of El Salvador and a jewel of architectural beauty and cultural, La Plaza Libertad, El Rosario Church, Plaza Gerardo Barrios. We will enter the National Palace, a place renowned for its legacy of history and politics of this country. We cannot leave without visiting the Craft Market where a wide range of folk memories worked in wood, fiber, fabric and other materials made by skillful hands of men and women from all communities of El Salvador which are waiting for you. This Tour also includes a visit to the National Museum. It is a museum that houses a valuable collection of archaeological pieces from the pre-classical era (1500 a.C.-250 d.C.). Also, relics belonging to the colonial era and the different elements that have constituted the Salvadoran civilization throughout history. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: I – II Minimum: 8 persons Maximum: 50 persons Included: land transportation, English speaking tour guide, entrance fees, lunch and beverages. Recommendations: hat, running or comfortable walking shoes, sun block, sunglasses, insect repellent, cash for souvenirs. Note: Not available on Monday, cultural sites are closed. Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 6:00 PM
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CITY TOUR AND SHOPPING (HALF DAY)
A short but interesting panoramic tour of our capital city, visiting the important historical and political sites of our country, jewels of architectural beauty and culture, such as the Savior of the World Monument, Liberty and Gerardo Barrios Square, the National Palace. There will be a short visit to the Metropolitan Cathedral and Monsignor Romero´s tomb, which are icons of the living history of El Salvador. We will continue our tour to the Handcraft Market, where you can find a wide range of typical souvenirs made of wood, fiber, cloth and other materials, all made by the skilled hands of men and women from different parts of El Salvador. Do not miss the opportunity to go shopping to the many stores and shops in the city of San Salvador. We will visit “Multiplaza”, a modern and elegant shopping mall where you can find well- known stores such as Lacoste, Kenneth Cole, Benetton, Puma, Sears, Tommy Hilfiger, Guess, Levi’s, Tous, among others, which offer great discounts year around. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: I – II Minimum: 1 person Maximum: 50 persons Included: land transport, English speaking tour guide and beverages. Recommendations: running or comfortable walking shoes, sun block, light clothing, hat, sun glasses, cash for souvenir shopping Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 2:00 PM
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CITY TOUR AND SHOPPING
Upon arriving in the capital city of San Salvador, we will take you to “El Arbol de Dios” an Arts and Gallery store; fantasy and magic embodied by Don Fernando Llort, Master and pride of our country. We will continue to visit the Plaza Salvador del Mundo. After this, we will visit the Plaza Morazán where we will begin a walk through the historic center of San Salvador, where we find structures dating from the early XX century as the National Theater, Metropolitan Cathedral and the crypt of Archbishop Romero, an icon of the living history of El Salvador and a jewel of architectural beauty and cultural, La Plaza Libertad, El Rosario Church, Plaza Gerardo Barrios. We will enter the National Palace, a place renowned for its legacy of history and politics of this country. We cannot leave without visiting the Craft Market where a wide range of folk memories worked in wood, fiber, fabric and other materials made by skillful hands of men and women from all communities of El Salvador which are waiting for you. Do not miss this opportunity to save money by going shopping to the different stores in San Salvador. We will visit “Multiplaza” a modern and elegant Shopping Center where you can find several stores like Lacoste, Kenneth Cole, Benetton, Puma, Sears, Tommy Hilfiger, Guess, Levi’s, Tous, amount many others that offer products at low prices at all times of the year. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: I – II Minimum: 8 persons Maximum: 50 persons Included: land transportation, English speaking tour guide, entrance fees, lunch and beverages. Recommendations: hat, running or comfortable walking shoes, sun block, sunglasses, insect repellent, cash for souvenirs. Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 6:00 PM
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CLIMBING THE IZALCO VOLCANO
This is a crater located approximately 1900 mt/6.233ft above sea level. The Izalco Volcano is one of the natural marvels found in El Salvador. This tour of the colossus not only includes the ascension to the top, but also the sight of the Cerro Verde Park, from where you can enjoy an impressive view of the place. This is a perfect route for those that enjoy sport activities and contact with nature. After a three-hour hike from Cerro Verde you will arrive to the crater of the “Pacific Lighthouse� (el Faro del Pacifico), as it was baptized by the seamen active at that time, due to the incandescent lava that could be observed for many miles from the sea. On this route, you will find a trail with approximately 1500 steps and resting sites. During the entire you will enjoy a natural beauty, and the chirping of the birds such as the Torogoz, declared the national bird of El Salvador. At the skirts of the Volcano, after at least 45 minutes of walking, we start the ascent of approximately 2 hours. As we ascend, the freshness of the air is more intense and the panoramic view gets even more spectacular. Once you get to the top, you will encounter a crater of 275sqmts/2960sqft in DAY meter and 27 mt/88.5ft in depth that will suddenly convert itself in a natural observatory. You can observe to the north the Santa Ana Volcano; to the south, a wooded stretch of cultivated land and the Pacific Ocean, to the west the mountains of the neighboring country of Guatemala and to the East the San Andres Valley. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: V Minimum: 6 persons Maximum: 80 persons Minimum Age: 18 years old Maximum Weight: 200 lbs. per person Weather: Not available during the months May to October Duration of the hike: 5 hours approximately Included: land transport, English speaking tour guide, fruits, snacks, beverages, entrance fee, park guides, and the companion of a forest ranger. Recommendations: long sleeve shirt, jeans or long pant, running shoes or hiking boots, long socks, insect repellent, sun block, sunglasses, hat and binoculars. We will not accept pregnant women and participants under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 5:00 PM
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CLIMBING THESANTA ANA VOLCANO
It comprises one of the most beautiful landscapes of El Salvador. Ilamatepec also known as Santa Ana Volcano is located in the department of the same name and it is the tallest of the Pacific range at 7,727 ft. (2,356 meters) above sea level and it is also the largest one. You will begin your tour with a 20-minute walk in Cerro Verde National Park. you will reach San Blas Plateau, a volcanic plain from previous eruptions. From here you will begin an hour and a half climb through paths. You will go from abundant vegetation to arid environment. Upon reaching the crater, whose DAY meter is 8,200 ft. (2,500 meters) and a depth of 948 ft. (289 meters). At its summit, you can appreciate an impressive view of most of El Salvador's landscape, such as Lake Coatepeque, Izalco Volcano, and Acajutla Port among others; you will also enjoy a nice weather and can observe the magnificent sulfur Lagoon which is found in its crater. With this memorable adventure, not only you will witness 100 % of mother's nature but also many other things. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: V Minimum: 6 persons Maximum: 80 persons Minimum Age: 18 years old Maximum Weight: 200 lbs. per person Weather: Not available during the months May to October Duration of the hike: 5 hours approximately Included: land transport, English speaking tour guide, fruits, snacks, beverages, entrance fee, park guides, and the companion of a forest ranger. Recommendations: long sleeve shirt, jeans or long pant, running or hiking boots, long socks, insect repellent, sun block, sunglasses, hat and binoculars. We will not accept pregnant women and participants under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 5:00 PM
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COPAN RUINS, HONDURAS
The city Santa Rosa of Copan is a beautiful small town with cobblestone streets and adobe houses whitened with lime stone and red tiled roofs.... giving it a harmonic and historic flair. It is located close to the border with Guatemala, which is the best proof of the existence of one of the greatest American PreColumbian culture. The Ruins of Copan were declared by UNESCO as patrimony of humanity in 1980. It is a quiet antique cultural oasis, with sublime nature, located in the eastern part of Honduras. For many years the Copan Ruins have been popular for its Mayan architecture and millenary heritage. We will escalate and descend staircases to be able to see the principal parts of the center of the ruins, from where we will be able to see the Great Plaza where we find the “steles”, the ball court and the staircases with the hieroglyphics. It is a place that offers picturesque panoramas surrounded by lush green mountains. The climate is pleasant due to the variety of pines and abundant vegetation. The Archeological Park shows a variety of “steles” that enclose the mystery of our indigenous forefathers. The Copan Ruins are considered today as the Paris of the Mayan World. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: I – II (includes climbing the steps) Minimum: 8 persons Maximum: 50 persons Included: Land transportation, English speaking tour guide, entrance fees, lunch, beverages, snack and entrance fees to Honduras. Recommendations: Comfortable walking or running shoes, sun block, hat, sunglasses, light clothing, passport, El Salvador tourist card. Note: Visa to Guatemala and Honduras is required for some nationalities. Departure: 6:00 AM Return: 8:00 PM
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CULTURE AND CRAFTS
This route is specially designed for those interested in crafts. On the way between the City of Sonsonate to Ahuachapán there is a series of towns with a lot of cultural traditions. The first town will be Nahuizalco, characterized for having strong pre-Columbian traditions. This is one of the country most important indigenous and hand crafts makers. Baskets and Furniture made from natural fibers such as “Tule” and Wicker that colored the streets. Its colonial church and the market are an attraction. In the heart of the route we find Salcoatitan with white colonial church in front of the Central Plaza is one of its main attractions. It was here where the first coffee tree was planted, a profitable product that supports the local economy. We continue our tour towards Juayúa, famous for its Black Christ church with coffee tradition and an extraordinary climate and nature and from the verandas we can observe the natives picking up the coffee beans. We will also visit the town of Apaneca where we will find flowers grow in abundance and the constant breeze expels pine and coffee scents all over the village. We will finalize our trip at Concepcion de Ataco, a pre-Columbian town established by the Pipiles tribe and located in the heart of the mountain where its cobblestone streets and lanterns take us back in history. Enjoy the serenity of a town in the mountains where locals elaborate colorful textiles in traditional pedal looms amongst their variety of hand crafts and musical string instruments. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: I – II Minimum: 1 person Maximum: 100 persons Included: land transport, English speaking tour guide and beverages Recommendations: running or comfortable walking shoes, sun block, light clothing, hat, sun glasses, cash for souvenir shopping Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 2:00 PM
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CUTURE AND CRAFTS & HOT SPRING
Join us to the most exquisite tour of the Western Zone of El Salvador, La Ruta de las Flores, towns filled with cultural traditions and crafts hand made with natural products of the zone such as fibers, wood among others. Nahuizalco, Juayua and Conception de Ataco are undoubtedly the best legacy of the colonial era. After this tour, we will enjoy a delicious lunch surrounded by exotic flowers and coffee plantations in one of the best restaurants in the area. In the afternoon, we head to an exclusive sanctuary especial for relaxation and health care, located in the mountains of Ahuchapan/Apaneca: Thermal waters of Santa Teresa. These thermal waters are known for over 100 years for its multiple healing and medicinal properties thanks to its mineral content such as potassium, magnesium, iron and calcium in addition to their low levels of sulfur. The water temperature is between 33 º C to 36 º C (91.40 º F - 96.80 º F). These special features help to relax the body and maintain active cells. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: I – II Minimum: 8 persons Maximum: 50 persons Included: land transportation, English speaking tour guide, beverages, lunch and entrance fees. Recommendations: Clothes and comfortable walking shoes, sun block, sun glasses, hat, insect repellent, bathing suit, wet shoes, beach towel and extra clothing. We will not accept pregnant women and participants under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 5:00 PM
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GOURMET COFFEE
This beautiful and magical place is located in the Apaneca-Ilamatepec mountain range, in the municipality of Apaneca, department of Ahuachapรกn. We will tour coffee plantations through trails, which are among 92 hectares of different farmlands at an altitude between 1,400 up to 1,700 meters above sea level. You will enjoy and admire the relevant aspects in the production of the famous gourmet coffee, produced in this region. Enjoy a walk through the trails where different stages of growth and variety of coffee plants can be appreciated. Explanations of all the labor and aspects involved from the bean till you obtain of delicious cup of coffee will be offered. We will also visit a nearby coffee mill where we can appreciate the drying and selection of the beans. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: I - II Minimum: 8 persons Maximum: 25 persons Harvest: Not available during the months May to October Included: Land transportation, English speaking tour guide, beverages, entrance fee and visit a coffee mills. Recommendations: comfortable clothing, running shoes or hiking boots, hat, bug repellent, cash for souvenir shopping. Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 2:00 PM
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JUAYUA CASCADES
With generosity nature gives us back the appreciated WATER. In El Salvador, in the heart of the Culture and Crafts Tour and thanks to the protection of the forests and the careful handling of the coffee plantations, water flows from the cracks between volcanic rocks, in small mountains full of a colorful tropical flora characteristic of the 1000 mt/3,280ft. above sea level. In the municipality of Juayua; as a “Rain of pearls” between beautiful songs of Magpies, Torogoz, Doves, Hummingbirds, among other birds, fruit trees and tropical forest you will find "The Cascades of La Calera", treasure of mother nature. In a walk of approximately 30 minutes on a path of fertile lands through coffee plantations, you will have a beautiful sight without equal. In this ecological adventure, natural small wells are found where you can take a refreshing bath between rocks and cracks filled with myths and legends that invited you to jump in the water. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: IV – V Minimum: 8 persons Maximum: 25 persons Minimum Age: 12 years old Maximum Weight: 200 lbs. per person Weather: Not available during the months May to October Duration of the walk: 1 hour approx. Included: land transportation, English speaking tour guide, beverages, local guide. Recommendations: light clothing, shorts, running or wet shoes, insect repellent, sunblock, sunglasses, hat and bathing suit. We will not accept pregnant women and participants under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 2:00 PM
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PASEO EL CARMEN
Paseo El Carmen is located in Santa Tecla historical center on the outskirts of the capital City. On weekends, the street becomes a pedestrian avenue where bars and cozy restaurants make up the scene in a secure suburban area where tourists and local crowd gather and enjoy the cool evenings. At first glance, the bell tower of the Church Parroquia Nuestra Seùora del Carmen establishes it´s iconic status since 1914. And located just a few steps from the church, we find the Municipal Palace of Fine Arts. Soon, Paseo el Carmen gets animated and the street becomes a large dining area where bars and restaurants set up the upcoming ambiance for the evening. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: I Minimum: 8 persons Maximum: 25 persons Included: land transportation, English speaking tour guide, beverages. Recommendations: Comfortable clothes and shoes, sweater and cash for souvenirs. Note: Available only on Saturday Departure: 4:00 PM Return: 11:59 PM
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LA ANTIGUA GUATEMALA
We invite you to visit La Antigua Guatemala also called the city of Santiago de Los Caballeros in colonial times. A fascinating place rich in history and to enjoy it in all its glory. This city was partially destroyed by the earthquakes of Santa Marta in 1773. In 1965 Antigua was declared a "Colonial Monument of America by UNESCO. You will go back 300 years in time, walking down cobblestone streets. You begin our tour in the church La Merced impressive towers and steeples; The Mercenaries were the first to found a monastery of men in the city. Then we will walk to the Arco de Santa Catalina, undoubtedly this arc gives a unique touch to this city that highlights the colonial style and in this very place gives a feeling of stepping back centuries. You may not miss a visit to the home of the Lions, built before the earthquake of 1,717, a beautiful mansion with several decorative elements of stone, a living example of the architecture of the colonial era. You will continue with a visit to the Convent of the Society of Jesus; Built in 1690, where came the flower of society in the city of Santiago de los Caballeros. In addition you will visit the Plaza Mayor where is located the only source Sirens representing fertility built in 1739, then City Hall Palace built in the seventeenth century. The tour will appreciate the Colonial Architecture from Central Park, the Old Royal Square where bullfights and traders gathered near the Cathedral. City of La Antigua, Guatemala has a large number of ruins and restored colonial buildings, which is a fraction of the magnificent colonial architecture of the city without missing the Cathedral, which has undergone changes in its structure over time. Baroque facade with Mannerist and Renaissance details, in addition to its imposing height and number of images that can be seen on itself, You will also have the opportunity to visit the Jade factory and crafts market where it is typical to find Guatemalan variety of folk art in different ways; stone, gold, wood, wax, glass, silver, textiles, etc. These items, handmade mostly found in many shops, markets and street vendors. Departure of the tour depends on these conditions: Difficulty level: I - II Minimum: 8 persons Maximum: 50 persons
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Included: Land transportation, tour escort and local guide, entrance fees, lunch, refreshments and snack. Recommendations: Sneakers or comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hat, passport, tourism, light clothing. Note: Guatemala visa isrequired for some nationalities. Departure: 6:00 AM Return: 7:00 PM
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MAYAN ARCHAEOLOGICAL MAYAN (HALF DAY)
We will begin our tour in the archaeological site of San Andres, ceremonial center where we can appreciate several structures (pyramids) semi-discovered, some mounds and its historical museum We will continue our visit to the city of Chalchuapa, where the archaeological site of El Tazumal is located, we will hear about the history of its inhabitants and we will have the opportunity to tour the pyramid, also to see the archaeological remains in the museum of the site. Outside of the archaeological site we will find replicas of high quality Mayan ceramics and jewelery made by local artisans. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: I Minimum: 8 persons Maximum: 50 persons Included: land transportation, English speaking tour guide, entrance fees and beverages. Recommendations: running or comfortable shoes, sun block, insect repellent, hat, sunglasses and cash for shopping. Note: Not available on Monday archeological sites are closed. Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 2:00 PM
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MAYAN ROUTE
We will first visit the archaeological site of San Andres, a ceremonial center where semi-discovered structures (pyramids), some mounds, and its historical museum can be appreciated. Afterwards, we will be transported to the city of Chalchuapa where we will visit the archeological sites of El Tazumal and Casa Blanca to admire their pyramids, as well as listening about the history oftheir inhabitants, including the opportunity to see archeological remains in the museums. At El Tazumal we can tour the pyramids and right outside of the site, we will find replicas of Mayan ceramic of great quality as jewels elaborated by local artisans. Casa Blanca is also known for its processing of indigo dyeing. Visitors can participate in the dyeing process. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: I (includes climbing the steps) Minimum: 8 persons Maximum: 100 persons Included: land transportation, English speaking tour guide, beverages, entrance fees and lunch. Recommendations: running or comfortable shoes, sun block, insect repellent, hat and sunglasses. Note: Not available on Monday archeological sites are closed. Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 4:30 PM
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SAN SALVADOR VOLCANO AND COATEPEQUE LAKE
Exit towards the Capital of El Salvador, on a panoramic highway from where it will be possible to appreciate the Pacific coast of El Salvador. Arrival to the Volcano of San Salvador that is located to the west of the city and is a complex bulk that includes the peaks: El Picacho (1.967m/ 6.453ft and El Jabali (1.397 mt/4.583ft). The crater (the big hole) has a DAY meter of 1,500 meters/1.6145sqft and it with an altitude of 1.800 mt/5.905ft above sea level. We will make a long walk around the edge of the crater, where we will be able to appreciate the beauty of the wild life, in addition to a variety of many species of violets in the trunks of the trees. This volcano destroyed the capital several times from 1671 to the last eruption in 1917 that destroyed San Salvador almost completely. Afterwards, a panoramic ride takes us to the Coatepeque Lake, formed by the sinking of the ashes of two volcanic cones that gave origin to the lake, whose name comes from the Nahuat tongue that means “Snake Hill”. It is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in El Salvador, and considered one of the ten most beautiful lakes of the world. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: II – III (Walking around the crater) Minimum: 8 persons Maximum: 100 persons Included: land transportation, English speaking tour guide, lunch and beverages. Recommendations: light clothing, sun block, insect repellent, running or comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, hat, cash for souvenir shopping. Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 5:00 PM
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THE CHOCOLATE TOUR
Come with us to discover the wonderful history of one of the most appreciated delicacies in the world: chocolate. We will begin our visit in the city of San Juliรกn, Sonsonate Department, visiting the agroindustrial farm La Sierra, where the cocoa tree is grown, in Nahuat language it means "cacahoat"; Its fruit is a cob that looks like a melon with about 40 seeds inside. We will take a refreshing walk in the cocoa plantation where we will observe the cocoa breeding area, its different varieties and its harvest, we will also appreciate its cloning and grafting types and the importance of its clonal garden for the preservation of the creole variety of cocoa. During the walk we can see other cultures such as balm and coffee. Once the fruits are harvested, the seeds are extracted, fermented and dried to obtain the cocoa beans. The natives of America believed cocoa was "the food of the gods". As a result, cocoa and its derivatives are one of our favorite delicacies ... CHOCOLATE! Departure of this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of difficulty: I - II Minimum: 8 pax Maximum: 25 pax Weather: not available during the months of September and October. Included: land transportation, guide, entrace fees, beberas and visit to the La Sierra farm. Recommendations: comfortable clothes, comfortable shoes, hat, insect repellent, cash for souvenirs. Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 2:00 PM
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SANTA ANA HISTORICO
Santa Ana is a city with an air of history that possesses a rich atmosphere of images and ancient events that developed in its very streets, with magnificent buildings, picturesque park and different scenarios that bring back memories. We begin our tour at the Santa Ana City Hall which is the head of the municipal government built in 1874 and declared a National Monument one century later. After that we visit The Santa Ana Theatre, a project begun in 1889. Its construction was cause for boundless joy and expectation. It was officially inaugurated on February 27th 1910 with the opera “Rigoletto”. We follow our tour with a visit to the Santa Ana Cathedral, built in the XVI century and opened for service between the years of 1574 and 1576. In 1881 it lost its typical colonial façade until it was fully demolished and on January 21st 1906 in a solemn ceremony the first rock of the current building was placed. It was redesigned in a gothic byzantine style and was dedicated to Saint Anne; this cathedral is a pride for the locals. We end our tour in a small-town square where we find several crafts in wood, fiber, fabric and other materials; all of which handmade by the locals. Departure of this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of difficulty: I Minimum: 8 pax Maximum: 50 pax Includes: Land transportation, tour guide, entrance fees and beverages Recommendations: Hat, comfortable shoes, sun block and money to buy souvenirs. Note: not available on Sunday and Monday due to closure of places to visit. Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 2:00 PM
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SANTA TERESA HOT SPRING
These thermal pools are a unique opportunity to enjoy nature amid coffee plants, with a breathtaking view of the Apaneca and Chingo volcanoes. Let your body enjoy this rich heat of rejuvenating and healing effect of water coming from underneath the Earth. Enjoy this relaxing experience and energize yourself in this paradise. After a refreshing bath, we go to Concepcion de Ataco, a splendid village, full of life and lots of color that forms part of the main tourist routes of El Salvador. In Concepcion de Ataco, you can find a wide variety of handcrafts and textiles in particular. This is the place where you can buy typical souvenir of El Salvador for your family and friends. Come and enjoy this tour full of color and pleasure. Departure on this excursion depends of the following conditions: Level of Difficulty: I – II Minimum: 6 persons Maximum: 50 persons Included: land transportation, English speaking tour guide, beverages and entrance fees. Recommendations: Clothes and comfortable walking shoes, sun block, sun glasses, hat, insect repellent, bathing suit, wet shoes, beach towel and extra clothing. We will not accept pregnant women and participants under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Departure: 8:00 AM Return: 2:00 PM
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GENERAL INFORMATION Official Name: Republic of El Salvador Capital City: San Salvador Government: Democratic Population: 6.75 million Surface: 20.740 km2 Density: 325.81 inhabitants per km2 Currency: The US Dollar Language: Spanish Religion: Most of the population is Christian National Bird: Torogoz, also called Talapo (Eu Momota Superciliosa) National Flower: The izote flower (Yuccga Guatemalensis) National Free: The Maquilishuat (Tabebuia Rosea of the Dignodiageae family) Time: GMT-6 Electricity: 110 volts AC, 60Hz and 220 volts Airport: International Airport El Salvador (MonseĂąor Oscar Arnulfo Romero y GaldĂĄmez) Main Port:Acajutla Main Exports: Textiles, Coffee, Sugar Weather: Mostly Warm Entrance Requeriments: Valid passport and according to country of origin, a consular visa or touristic card valid for 90 days (USD $10) is necessary Communications: Telephone IDD available Country Code: 503. IDD is available for Europe and North America Outgoing international code: 00 Mobile Telephone: GSM 580, 900, 1900 and 1950 networks available Currency exchange: Visitors are advised to change currency at the reception of the hotel Credit and debit cards: All major credit cards are widely accepted USD Travelers Checks: These may be cashed at any bank or hotel, prior presentation of the passport Departure Tax: USD 32.14 Tapping: Its appropriate to give 10% tip in most restaurants and bars. Some places include the tip on the bill
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CONTACT DAVID CASTELLANO – OPERATIONS MANAGER E-mail: decameronexplorer@decameron.com DENYS SANTANA – GROUND HANDLING COORDINATOR E-mail: transfers@decameron.com Tel.: (503) 2429 9097 // Cel: 503 78594178
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