Size: Approximately 21,041 square kilometers.

Topography: Two parallel mountain ranges running east to west divide country into two regions: mountains and central plateau, and coastal plains (Pacific lowlands). Southern mountain range made up of more than twenty volcanoes. Eruptions rare, but earthquakes frequent because of location at conjunction of three geologic plates. Rio Lempa only navigable river. Numerous volcanic lakes in interior highlands.

Climate: Tropical climate with pronounced wet and dry seasons rainy season (winter) from May to October, dry season (summer) from November through April. Temperatures vary with elevation and show little seasonal change. Pacific lowlands uniformly hot central plateau and mountain areas more moderate.

Data as of November 1988