Jiquilisco Bay

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve · El Salvador

Our Expeditions

Every tour is led by a certified local naturalist. Every booking funds conservation in Central America's largest mangrove system.

Bay Boat Tours
Easy

The classic Jiquilisco experience

Bay Boat Tours

3–4 hoursMax 8 guests$45 per person
  • Navigate the bay's labyrinthine channels aboard a traditional panga
  • Spot nesting sea turtles, crocodiles, and migratory shorebirds
  • Visit remote fishing communities accessible only by water
  • Watch the sun set over the mangrove canopy

Included

Local naturalist guide · Life jackets · Bottled water · Binoculars

Schedule

Daily departures at 6:00 AM and 3:00 PM

Mangrove Kayaking
Moderate

Paddle into the heart of the forest

Mangrove Kayaking

2–3 hoursMax 6 guests$55 per person
  • Paddle silently through ancient mangrove tunnels
  • Observe the hidden ecosystem beneath the canopy
  • Encounter juvenile fish, crabs, and roosting herons up close
  • Reach areas no motorboat can access

Included

Kayak and paddle · Naturalist guide · Life jacket · Dry bag

Schedule

Morning departures at 6:30 AM (best light and wildlife activity)

Wildlife Watching
Easy

Over 300 species in one reserve

Wildlife Watching

4–5 hoursMax 6 guests$60 per person
  • Guided birding with a certified ornithologist
  • Spot migratory species from North America and beyond
  • Observe sea turtle nesting sites (seasonal)
  • Learn to identify mangrove species and their ecological roles

Included

Ornithologist guide · High-power binoculars · Field guide · Bottled water

Schedule

Dawn departures at 5:30 AM for peak bird activity

Multi-Day Expeditions
Challenging

Full immersion in the biosphere

Multi-Day Expeditions

3–7 daysMax 6 guestsFrom $280 per person
  • Camp inside the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
  • Combine boat tours, kayaking, and wildlife tracking
  • Night walks to observe nocturnal species
  • Participate in sea turtle monitoring with local conservationists

Included

All meals · Camping equipment · Expert naturalist guide · All transport · Park fees

Schedule

Departures every Monday — custom dates available for groups

ATV Beach Rides
Easy

Tear across the sands of Punta San Juan del Gozo

ATV Beach Rides

1–2 hoursMax 6 riders$35 per personPunta San Juan del Gozo
  • Ride along the wild Pacific shoreline of Punta San Juan del Gozo
  • Explore remote beach stretches inaccessible on foot
  • Watch waves crash against the volcanic sand at full throttle
  • Sunset rides available — golden hour on the peninsula

Included

ATV and helmet · Safety briefing · Local guide · Fuel

Schedule

Morning and afternoon rides daily — sunset slots available on request

Every Tour Funds Conservation

10% of every booking goes directly to the Jiquilisco Bay Biosphere Reserve conservation fund — supporting mangrove restoration, sea turtle monitoring, and local community programs.

Before You Go

Common Questions

What should I bring?

Light, quick-dry clothing in neutral colors, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), insect repellent, and a camera. We provide all specialized equipment.

Is the bay safe for swimming?

The bay is home to crocodiles and strong currents in some channels. Swimming is not part of our tours, but we can recommend safe spots for independent exploration.

How do I get to Jiquilisco Bay?

The bay is approximately 2.5 hours from San Salvador by road. We can arrange transport from the capital for groups of 4 or more.

Are tours suitable for children?

Boat tours and wildlife watching are suitable for children 6 and older. Kayaking is recommended for ages 12+. Multi-day expeditions are best for ages 14+.

What is your cancellation policy?

Full refund for cancellations 48+ hours before departure. 50% refund within 24–48 hours. No refund within 24 hours, but we will reschedule when possible.

Ready to Explore?

Small groups. Expert guides. An ecosystem unlike anywhere else on Earth.