10 Things to Do in Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site, San Marcos El Salvador
The Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site in San Marcos El Salvador is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a unique insight into the history of the region. The site is an ancient pre-Columbian agricultural village that was buried under a layer of ash during the eruption of the Loma Caldera volcano in 600 AD. It is considered to be the best preserved pre-Columbian village in Mesoamerica and provides visitors with an insight into the daily lives of the ancient inhabitants. Here are 10 things to do in Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site, San Marcos El Salvador.
1. Explore the Ruins: The ruins of Joya de Cerén are a great place to explore and learn about the history of the area. There are several structures still standing, including two residential complexes, a small temple, and a kitchen. Visitors can walk through the ruins and get a sense of what life was like in the village.
2. Take a Guided Tour: The Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site offers guided tours of the ruins, which are a great way to learn more about the history of the site and the people who lived there. The tours are offered in both English and Spanish.
3. Visit the Museum: The Joya de Cerén Museum is located near the site and offers visitors a chance to learn more about the history of the area. The museum houses a variety of artifacts from the ancient village, including pottery, tools, and other items.
4. Go Hiking: The Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site is located in the middle of a lush rainforest, so there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring the area. There are several trails that lead to the site, and visitors can take in the beautiful views of the surrounding forest.
5. Go Bird Watching: The area around Joya de Cerén is home to a variety of birds, including macaws, parrots, and toucans. Visitors can take a guided bird watching tour to get a closer look at the local wildlife.
6. Visit the Local Markets: The nearby town of San Marcos El Salvador has several markets where visitors can buy local produce, crafts, and souvenirs. It is a great way to get a taste of local culture and learn more about the people of El Salvador.
7. Go Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is a popular activity in El Salvador, and visitors can take a guided tour of the area on horseback. The tours usually include a stop at Joya de Cerén, giving visitors a chance to explore the ruins from a different perspective.
8. Go Kayaking: The nearby lake of Suchitlan is a great place to go kayaking and explore the area. There are several kayak tours available, which take visitors through the lake and its surrounding mangroves.
9. Visit a Coffee Farm: El Salvador is known for its delicious coffee, and visitors can take a tour of a local coffee farm to learn more about the process of growing and harvesting coffee.
10. Take a Cooking Class: El Salvador is known for its delicious cuisine, and visitors can take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes. The classes usually include a visit to a local market to buy ingredients, followed by a cooking demonstration.
Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site is a great place to explore and learn about the history of El Salvador. With its ruins, museum, and nearby attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day of exploring the ruins or an adventure filled with activities, Joya de Cerén has something for everyone.