Salto de Malacatiupan (Thermal Waterfalls) in El Salvador: Is it worth it?

Are you thinking of visiting Salto de Malacatiupan in El Salvador but wondering if it’s worth it? Well, in this blog post I will provide you with essential information to help you decide whether you should add this waterfall to your must-see list.

My Trip to Salto de Malacatiupan

In 2020, I traveled to El Salvador. I knew El Salvador had a ton of volcanoes due to the collision of tectonic plates beneath the country. But I had no idea that it was home to so many beautiful waterfalls. These waterfalls include, but are not limited to Los Chorros de la Calera, Tamanique Waterfalls, and Salto de Malacatiupan. 

During my stay in Juayua, El Salvador, I visited both Los Chorros de la Calera and Salto de Malacatiupan. Prior to visiting Salto de Malactiupan, I couldn’t find much information about the waterfall but after visiting a hot spring in Costa Rica, I was determined to see what it had to offer. Now that I’ve gone, I can comfortably say that it was definitely worth visiting. Here are a few things you should know in considering whether to visit the hot spring waterfalls.

What is Salto de Malacatiupan and Where is it Located 

Salto de Malacatiupan is a collection of thermal waterfalls—or hot spring waterfalls—heated from volcanic activity. It’s located in Atiquizaya, El Salvador, about 20 minutes (and 12 km) from the center of Ahuachapan. So while traversing Ruta De Las Flores you can easily take a quick detour to this hidden gem.

The thermal waterfalls are also about an 1 hour and 30 minutes (or 66 km) from Santa Ana Volcano, which makes them the perfect place to relax after a long day hiking the volcano. 

How to get to the Salto de Malacatiupan

The best way to get to Salto de Malacatiupan is by car. But when you come from town you will have to drive a few kilometeres down rugged terrain. So if you don’t take the trek with a tour company, make sure you have the right type of vehicle to make the drive.

Here is how you get to the Waterfalls from the center of Ahuachapan  

Here is how to get to to the Waterfall from Santa Ana Volcano

What Time Does Salto de Malacatiupan Waterfall Open 

Salto de Malacatiupan does not have any set open hours. It is open 24 hours, 7 days a week. In fact, camping is permitted which allows you to sleep underneath the stars as you listen to the crashing sound of the waterfalls. I didn’t do it. But it’s definitely worth looking into if you are the camping type. I would advise going with a group or as part of a tour for safety purposes.

How Much Does it Cost to Park at the Waterfalls

Salto de Malacatiupan is located on private property. When you arrive, you’ll park near the side of the road, as there is no parking lot. Parking to the falls is free. But to be safe, I recommend bringing a few dollars in case the owner decides to charge a fee.

How Much Does it Cost to Visit Salto de Malacatiupan

Admission to the waterfall is free. But again, I recommend bringing a few dollars in case that changes.

Are there Bathrooms at the Waterfalls

Salto de Malacatiupan is in its natural state, so when I visited the falls there were no bathrooms or other amenities. Thus, I suggest emptying your bladder before you arrive or prepare to pop a squat in the case of an emergency.

What to Wear and Bring to the Waterfall

To enjoy the waterfall, wear swimwear under your clothing (remember there are no restrooms to change). Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a towel, and water shoes. Although I didn’t have any issues with mosquitos when I visited Salto de Malacatiupan, I still recommend bringing mosquito repellent. It’ll be difficult to enjoy the fall if you’re being eaten alive.

Because the climate and waterfalls are hot, be sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. If you plan on staying for an extended period, don’t forget to pack a small snack/lunch. And please remember to pick up all of your trash before you leave. 

How Hot are the Waterfalls at Salto de Malacatiupan

The waterfalls are over 100ºF or 37ºC. It’s comparable to the temperatures you would express in a jacuzzi or hot tub. 

The Best Time to Go to the Waterfalls

Because the temperature in El Salvador is generally quite warm, I recommend visiting the falls early in the morning before the hottest part of the day, or late in the afternoon when the temperature is beginning to drop. I went to the falls after a hiking expedition in Jauyua (around 5:30 pm) and stayed for two hours. It was perfect. 

Swimming in the Salto de Malacatiupan Waterfalls

Swimming in the pools beneath the waterfalls will take a bit of athleticism and dexterity. There are three options to get down to the falls. Once you’re on the property, proceed down the dusty dirt path. To your right, you’ll see a natural river pool. Continue down the path to the left of the natural river pool until you pass the waterfalls. In just a minute, the path will make a right turn down to the fall where you will see a large stone to climb down into the large thermal pool. Be super careful as the rocks are slippery. 

Another option to enter the hot spring is to proceed down the dusty path and right to cross the natural river pool. Once you are on the other side of the natural river pool, look for a spot in the far corner to climb down the rocks beside the waterfalls. Remember to exercise caution as it’s very slippery. Once you climb down, you will see two or three smaller waterfalls and pools where you can relax or sunbath. Alternatively, you can try making your way down to the larger pool. To do this, you will have to jump down to the waterfalls, or walk until you see the rope that allows you to climb down. If you’re afraid to climb down, you can always relax in the river pools above the waterfalls. Here is a short video different views at Salto De Malacatiupan.

Side note: Do not go into the current of the waterfalls even if you’re a strong swimmer because it does pose a danger.

Is Visiting Salto de Malacatiupan Hot Spring Waterfalls Worth it?

I wouldn’t suggest traveling more than 2 hours to take a trip to Salto de Malacatiupan, but if you’re in the area, then I highly recommend going. The thermal waterfalls offer an excellent means to relax the mind and body.

So what do you think? Are you going to add this thermal waterfall to your must-see list? Let me know down in the comments.

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