El Carmen Estate

Western El Salvador


The ubiquitous Cafe Ataco brand hails from this charming finca, which has been operating since the 1930s. The original house, La Casona, has been converted into a luxurious boutique hotel, set in lush gardens and with several elegant common areas including a library and bar. A second building, Quinta el Carmen, is a fabulous option for families with plenty of room to run around.

Interesting tours of the coffee plantation are followed by a tasting session and there's also a popular restaurant (mains US$4 to US$11). The estate is signposted opposite the turnoff to Ataco.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Western El Salvador attractions

2. Plaza Concordia

3.76 MILES

Green gardens and palms make Plaza Concordia an agreeable spot to catch a breeze. The kiosk occasionally holds concerts and free events.

3. Finca Santa Leticia

4.53 MILES

Finca Santa Leticia is a coffee farm, hotel and restaurant just south of Apaneca. The highlight here is the small on-site archaeological park (admission…

4. Parque Nacional El Imposible

7.81 MILES

Edging Guatemala, the mostly primary forest of Parque Nacional El Imposible shimmers with rivers and beautiful waterfalls. Hiking can get muddy and steep,…

5. Tazumal

14.13 MILES

In the K’iche’ language Tazumal means ‘pyramid where the victims were burned.’ Archaeologists estimate that the verdant 10-sq-km Tazumal area – much of…

6. Casa Blanca

14.64 MILES

Across the highway from Chalchuapa town center and the Tazumal site sits Casa Blanca, home to some Preclassic Maya ruins set in attractive woodland. An…

7. Parque Nacional Los Volcanes

15.29 MILES

Alongside volcanoes in triplicate, Parque Nacional Los Volcanes has hectares of lush forest that provide sanctuary for hundreds of migrating bird species,…

8. Iglesia El Calvario

21.3 MILES

El Calvario has undergone numerous hardships and catastrophes since its initial construction in the early 19th century. Today it's an imposing place that…