Cabañas is El Salvador's youngest department, founded on February 10, 1873. Traditional customs and charming crafts offer insight into the country's rich cultural legacy. The wide-open landscapes make it popular among ecotourism enthusiasts.

A distinctive tradition known as Los Fogones takes place every December 7 starting at 6:00 p.m. on the eve of the Feast of the Virgin of the Conception. The streets glow from dry leaf piles burning at designated spots throughout the town.

Cabañas food is flavorful with delicious variety. Enjoy the local pupusas, marquesotes, and tamales. Sample leche cruda con tortilla and riguas, corn patties dipped in fresh milk. The department is known for its strong dairy tradition.

Cerro La Cruz is one of many natural attractions in Cabañas, standing 921 meters above sea level. Find an even better vantage point on Cerro Ocotillo at 1,014 meters. You can also explore the Lempa River, running 88 kilometers through the department. See impressive constructions like the 5 de Noviembre hydroelectric dam and the expansive reservoir of the Cerrón Grande dam.

Cabañas is known locally and internationally for traditional crafts, especially the clay figurines and pottery made in the town of Ilobasco, where visiting local workshops is essential. In the town of Cinquera, you can watch traditional artisans hand roll cigars and produce local leather goods. In Victoria, you can observe how traditional palm-leaf brooms are made.