Volcanoes, beaches and ruins beckon

Lake Ilopango is known for its wall and cliff diving. Lake Coatepeque hosts lots of marine life and is surrounded by hot springs. Visitors can also kayak or sail the lakes.

Hikers can join a guided volcano excursion in Cerro Verde National Park.

Hummingbirds and toucans flitter around the crater lakes.

Visitors can also tour coffee plantations to learn how it's processed and brew their own cuppas.

They can explore the "Pompeii of the Americas", Joya de Ceren, a UNESCO World Heritage Site buried under a volcanic blast in 600 AD.

The archeological site, rediscovered in 1976, showcases the everyday lives of the Mayan people through such artifacts as furniture, utensils and ceramics.

Tazumal, a pre-Columbian Mayan archeological site, contains ancient water-drainage systems, graves, pyramids and temples. There are also metal items from the eighth century.