Los Tercios Waterfall Guide
Nature's Sculpture: The Basalt Columns of Los Tercios Waterfall Guide
Los Tercios Waterfall is a unique and captivating natural attraction located near the charming colonial town of Suchitoto, El Salvador. Unlike typical waterfalls that cascade over smooth rock faces, Los Tercios features a dramatic curtain of water flowing over towering hexagonal basalt columns. This geological formation creates a visually stunning and unforgettable experience. The basalt columns of Los Tercios are the result of ancient volcanic activity. As molten lava cooled and contracted, it fractured into these distinctive hexagonal shapes. Over time, erosion by the river carved away the surrounding rock, exposing the columns and creating the waterfall. This geological process took millions of years, making Los Tercios a testament to the power of nature. Visitors to Los Tercios can hike down to the base of the waterfall for a closer look at the basalt columns and the cascading water. Swimming in the pool at the bottom is possible during the dry season when the water level is lower and the current is less strong. The hike down can be steep and slippery, so appropriate footwear is recommended. Suchitoto offers a variety of dining options where you can sample traditional Salvadoran cuisine, such as pupusas (stuffed flatbreads) and sopa de pata (cow's foot soup).
Transportation
To reach Los Tercios Waterfall from Suchitoto, you can take a local bus (ruta) heading towards Cinquera. Ask the driver to drop you off at the turn-off for Los Tercios. From there, it's a short walk (approximately 15-20 minutes) down a dirt road to the waterfall. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or tuk-tuk in Suchitoto for a direct ride to the entrance of the waterfall.