El Salvador travel advice

Risk level

Safety and security

Emergency measures

In March 2022, the government of El Salvador implemented a “state of exception” (emergency measures), resulting in the suspension of key constitutional rights and massive arrests of suspected criminals.

Although the security situation has significantly improved throughout the country, the state of exception remains in effect. As a result, security forces have increased rights to conduct searches, seizures, and detain persons of interest, including foreign citizens.

Local authorities have detained foreign citizens, sometimes in a reportedly arbitrary manner. Individuals imprisoned under the state of exception do not have access to due process such as a fair or timely trial. Prison conditions can be harsh, and consular assistance can be delayed under the current circumstances.

If you're in El Salvador:

• be aware that you may be subject to searches by security forces
• expect a heightened security presence, including on roads, in public spaces, and in residential neighbourhoods
• always carry valid identification and be prepared for various checkpoints
• monitor local media for the latest information
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• respect all local laws including road safety laws, which include a zero-tolerance approach to drinking and driving
• remember that drugs, including cannabis, are illegal and penalties for possession, use or trafficking are severe

Crime

Since 2022, gang activity in El Salvador has been severely disrupted, resulting in a major reduction in violent crime and homicides. Despite this progress, risks of petty and violent crime remain.

Petty crime

Theft occurs frequently, particularly on public transportation. Thieves may target tourists.

Thieves also break into cars parked in public places.

During your trip:

• avoid displaying signs of affluence in public
• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a secure place
• avoid walking alone at night
• be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy tourist areas
• do not carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs
• choose supervised parking lots, if available, and do not leave valuables in your car

If you're robbed, go to a police station and report the crime immediately. Most police officers don’t speak English or French.

Lost or stolen belongings abroad

Violent crime

Violent crime occurs sometimes, namely:

• armed robberies
• burglaries
• assaults, including sexual and physical assaults

Armed robbery

Armed robberies occur with weapons such as guns and knives, especially on public transportation. Robberies by thieves on motorcycles occur.

During your stay:

• always be aware of your surroundings
• stay at hotels that have robust security measures
• if you’re robbed, hand over your cash, electronic devices, and valuables without resistance
• avoid eye contact with the perpetrators

Sexual assault

Incidents of sexual assault occur, including on public buses and at beaches.

• Avoid travelling alone, with informal guides or with strangers, even if they appear friendly and helpful
• Avoid public buses and large crowds on the street
• Exercise caution at nightclubs and beaches

If you are a victim of sexual assault, report it to the police and contact the Embassy of Canada in San Salvador. In addition, consider seeking immediate medical attention.

Greater San Salvador Area

In the city of San Salvador, the downtown area can pose risks to tourists due to petty crime. However, the Centro Histórico is much safer due to the dedicated efforts of local authorities. This area consists of a few blocks in downtown San Salvador where several places of historical and cultural interest are located:

• the Metropolitan Cathedral
• the National Palace
• the National Theatre
• Plaza Barrios
• Plaza Libertad
• Plaza Morazán

Border crossings

Border areas often see higher criminal activity and violence, including in rural areas.

El Salvador lies along well-established Central American trafficking routes. Criminal groups smuggling people, guns or drugs can be violent. There have been incidents of travellers being attacked near border crossings, particularly on the Guatemalan side of the border.

Some border crossings occasionally close without warning.

If you plan to cross land borders in El Salvador:

• do so early enough so you arrive at destination before dark
• use official border crossings only
• avoid exchanging currency
• avoid displaying money or valuable items such as jewellery and electronic equipment

Fraud

Credit card, ATM and Bitcoin e-wallet fraud occurs. There have been reports of identity theft and failed transactions, especially involving credit cards and Chivo, a local Bitcoin e-wallet.

When using debit or credit cards or Bitcoin e-wallets:

• pay careful attention if others are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Online activities

Salvadoran authorities have arrested people over social media posts. Avoid commenting on local or political events on your social media.

Harassment

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Harassment and acts of violence are sometimes committed against 2SLGBTQI+ persons.

2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to El Salvador.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Spiked food, drinks and other items

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Hiking

Access to volcanoes may be restricted due to volcanic activity or high winds, especially:

• Izalco volcano
• Santa Ana, also known as Ilamatepec, volcano
• San Miguel, also known as Chaparrastique, volcano

If you intend to go hiking:

• never do so alone and always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• ensure that you’re properly equipped and that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• ensure that you’re well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back
• know the symptoms of acute altitude sickness, which can be fatal
• obtain detailed information on routes before setting out and do not venture off marked trails

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous, even for experienced swimmers. Riptides and undertows are common. Several drownings occur each year.

Some beaches are unsupervised. Lifeguard services don’t always meet Canadian standards.

If you plan on swimming or surfing:

• consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe areas
• follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities or lifeguards
• avoid isolated beaches
• monitor weather reports, especially during the rainy season, as prolonged periods of rain can cause the height of waves to increase along beaches

If you plan on participating in boating activities, such as whale-watching:

• choose a well-established and reputable company that has insurance
• make sure the vessel you are boarding is carrying appropriate safety equipment and that life jackets are provided for all passengers and accessible at all times
• do not board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy

If in doubt concerning the safety of the facilities or equipment, don’t use them.

Water safety abroad

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur sometimes. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

El Salvador’s constitution prohibits political activity by foreigners. Participating in demonstrations or political activities may result in you being detained or deported.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Roads

Road conditions and road safety vary greatly throughout the country. Serious accidents are common.

Road conditions

Many rural roads are unpaved and some rural areas are accessible only by four-wheel-drive vehicle.

Roundabouts are common.

Driving can be dangerous due to:

• dangerous curves in roads
• poor road markings and signage
• poor lighting at night
• potholes and missing manhole covers
• construction sites
• roaming livestock
• pedestrians on the shoulder of highways
• slow-moving, overloaded or poorly maintained vehicles

Driving habits

Drivers don’t always respect traffic laws.  They can be aggressive and reckless, and frequently overtake on both the right and the left.

Bus drivers and motorcyclists in particular can be aggressive or unpredictable.

Narrow lanes and heavy traffic offer little courtesy for cyclists. Most Salvadoran cyclists have a car that follows them on their journeys for safety reasons.

If you choose to drive:

• always drive defensively
• plan your trip ahead of time, especially if you plan to visit a rural area
• use caution when entering a roundabout
• avoid road travel at night between cities
• avoid stopping at isolated viewpoints
• keep your car doors locked and the windows closed at all times
• avoid hitchhiking, which is not a common practice in El Salvador

Checkpoints

Police traffic checkpoints are common across the country. Officers will often ask to see your valid documents and your mandatory safety equipment. They may also be checking for impaired drivers or gang members. Tattoos may be considered an indication of gang affiliation.

• Do not drink any alcohol before driving
• Always cooperate with military and police officers
• Always carry valid identification

Public transportation

Buses

Buses are often unreliable. They are poorly maintained and the site of petty theft, armed robbery and sexual harassment.

• Do not use local or intercity public buses
• Use only reputable tour operators and international coach services

Taxis and ridesharing services

Taxis are widely available but vary in quality. Major hotels work with executive transport companies.

When travelling to the airport, you may pre-arrange your transportation with your hotel prior to your departure. Authorized airport taxi drivers wear easily identifiable identification badges.

If using a taxi in El Salvador:

• do not board taxis at taxi stands
• do not hail taxis in the street
• negotiate fares in advance

Ridesharing services are available in much of greater San Salvador. If you use a trusted ridesharing app, confirm the driver’s identity and the licence plate before getting in the car.

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Salvadoran authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules. 

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid at the time of entry to El Salvador. It must also be in good condition and have at least one blank page.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 180 days
Business visa: not required for stays up to 180 days
Student visa: not required for stays up to 180 days

To extend your stay in El Salvador beyond 180 days, you must depart and re-enter El Salvador by air, land or sea.

Central America-4 Border Control Agreement

Under the terms of the Central America-4 Border Control Agreement (CA-4), Canadian tourists may travel freely within any of the following CA-4 countries:

• El Salvador
• Guatemala
• Honduras
• Nicaragua

You can travel between these countries for up to 90 days without having to undergo entry and exit formalities at border immigration checkpoints. However, 90 days are not automatically granted. It is the immigration officer at your first entry point into the CA-4 region who will determine the exact length of your authorized stay.

You must still check in at immigration counters when you enter or exit these checkpoints.

Make sure you receive an entry or exit stamp in your passport each time you cross a checkpoint to avoid problems with immigration authorities and fines.

Salvadoran immigration authorities may grant you a stay of up to 180 days. However, other CA-4 countries only recognize the first 90 days. Keep this in mind when travelling within the CA-4 region to avoid problems with immigration authorities.

If you wish to extend your stay beyond 90 days within the CA-4 region, you must request an extension and pay the required fee at the designated immigration office in one of the other CA-4 countries before the 90-day limit expires. Immigration authorities will determine the exact length of the extension.

Once your total authorized stay expires, you must change your migratory status, leave the CA-4 region or return to El Salvador, where you may be granted a stay of up to 180 days. If you fail to do so, you will be fined and given 5 days to leave.

Once you leave the CA-4 region, you may attempt to return and restart the process without delay. However, the immigration officer could deny your re-entry.

If you get a new Canadian passport in El Salvador, you must obtain a new entry stamp from immigration authorities before exiting the country and travelling within the CA-4 region.

Immigration and Foreign Affairs – Government of El Salvador (in Spanish only)

Work or study

If you intend to work or study in El Salvador for longer than 180 days, you must apply for residence from inside the country. The documentation required to obtain Salvadoran residence is extensive.

Make sure you have all the required documents before you leave Canada.

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them:

• a return or onward ticket
• proof of sufficient funds to cover the cost of your stay.

Children and travel

A Canadian minor, under 18 years of age, living in or visiting El Salvador for more than one year is considered a resident of El Salvador.

To depart El Salvador, a minor resident needs written consent from any parent listed on the child’s birth certificate who is not travelling with the minor. The consent form must be:

• an original document (not a photocopy or a scan)
• notarized by either a Salvadoran notary in El Salvador or a Salvadoran consul abroad

Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections can spread directly from animals to people, like rabies or bird flu (avian influenza). Others don’t spread directly from animals but can infect people who visit areas animals have contaminated with their droppings or body fluids.

Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, their droppings, or their body fluids, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick:

• avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats.
• stay away from places where animal waste can build up, such as caves
• avoid eating undercooked meat

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• practise safer sex methods
  • use barrier protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is limited in availability.

There have been some improvements in recent years, but public medical services and facilities remain below Canadian standards. State-funded public hospitals are located in large cities, mostly in San Salvador. Public clinics are located throughout the country, but their resources, hours of operation and services are limited. Public hospital services are free for foreigners.

Private clinics and hospitals are often better staffed and equipped. The following hospitals offer good emergency and advanced care services:

• Hospital de Diagnóstico, Escalón, Santa Elena or Colonia Médica
• Hospital Centro Médico Escalón, formerly called Hospital de la Mujer

Private hospitals in San Salvador and other major cities, such as Santa Ana and San Miguel, may accept credit cards. However, you may have to provide upfront payment in cash to obtain private medical services elsewhere. They may also request a deposit if you require hospitalization. In rural areas, staff may ask you purchase all disposable medical supplies prior to receiving care.

Most health-care providers speak only Spanish.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Detention conditions may be below the standards of Canadian prisons.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs, including medical and recreational cannabis, are severe. You may be arrested on drug charges if you are with a person using illegal drugs. Border officials may also screen for drugs upon entry or departure. Convicted offenders can expect prison sentences.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Political activities

El Salvador’s constitution prohibits political activities by foreigners.

You may be detained or deported if you participate in demonstrations or other political activities.

Identification

You may be subject to identity checks during your stay in El Salvador.

Always carry valid identification such as a driver's licence or passport.

Keep photocopies or digital copies of the following, in case of loss or seizure of the original:

• the identification page of your passport
• your birth certificate
• your Canadian citizenship card
• your driver’s licence

Keep originals and copies in separate safe locations.

Photography

It’s illegal to photograph:

• military installations and equipment
• schools when minors are present

Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially in areas with Indigenous presence.

Imports and exports

Salvadoran authorities require permits for the import or export of firearms, plants or animals. If you purchase an antique in El Salvador, keep your receipt in case you are asked to prove ownership at the border.

Investments

If you plan on buying property or making other investments in El Salvador, seek legal advice in Canada and in El Salvador before making any commitments. Disputes related to properties could take time and be costly to resolve.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in El Salvador.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of El Salvador, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and El Salvador.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in El Salvador, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Salvadoran court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in El Salvador to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Driving

You can drive with your valid Canadian driver’s licence for the first 90 days authorized for your stay in the country.

After 90 days, you must apply for a Salvadoran driver’s licence using a copy of your valid Canadian driver’s licence that has been apostilled by the Embassy of Canada in San Salvador.

Driving with any detectable amount of alcohol in blood or breath is strictly prohibited. Violators face immediate arrest and prison sentences.

In the event of a car accident, as required by Salvadoran law:

• remain at the scene
• call the police
• take pictures and move the vehicle to a safe nearby location to avoid obstructing traffic until the authorities arrive

Some accidents may attract a crowd that could turn hostile. If you feel unsafe:

• ensure your windows and doors are locked
• leave the area
• report the accident to the police and your insurance company as soon as possible

If you plan to travel between countries, you must carry an international driving permit.

Useful links

• International Driving Permit
• Authentication of documents

Money

The U.S. dollar (USD) is the official currency in El Salvador.

Canadian credit and debit cards are generally accepted. However, Canadian dollars cannot be exchanged in El Salvador.

When exchanging money before your trip, ask for small denominations. Bills of $50 and $100 are not widely accepted and increase the risk of robbery.

Natural disasters and climate

Climate change

Climate change is affecting El Salvador. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

El Salvador is located in a highly active seismic zone. Tremors occur regularly and major earthquakes occur from time to time.

Tsunami warnings may be issued after a strong earthquake. A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you’re staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region’s evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

In the event of an earthquake:

• monitor local media to stay informed of the evolving situation
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Useful links

• Earthquakes – What to Do?
• Latest Earthquakes – U.S. Geological Survey
• Information on seismic activity – General Directorate of the Observatory of Threats and Natural Resources (in Spanish only)
• Tsunami alerts – U.S. Tsunami Warning System
• Information on tsunamis – General Directorate of the Observatory of Threats and Natural Resources (in Spanish only)

Volcanoes

Volcanoes pose a significant risk to the population in El Salvador.

Although there has been a decrease in volcanic activity in recent years, several volcanoes remain active. Authorities issue warnings about volcanic activity when appropriate, especially at the San Miguel/Chaparrastique volcano.

If you intend on visiting a volcano area:

• hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• monitor levels of volcanic activity through the local media
• pay close attention to all warnings and avoid restricted areas
• be prepared to modify your travel arrangements or even evacuate the area on short notice
• follow the advice of local authorities

Useful links

• Daily volcano forecast – General Directorate of the Observatory of Threats and Natural Resources (in Spanish only)
• Volcanoes of El Salvador – General Directorate of the Observatory of Threats and Natural Resources (in Spanish only)

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from May to November. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges may be damaged.

Check local weather forecasts daily in the rainy season for severe weather events.

Hurricane season

Hurricanes usually occur from mid-May to the end of November. During this period, even small tropical storms can quickly develop into major hurricanes.

These severe storms can put you at risk and hamper the provision of essential services. You could face serious safety risks during a hurricane. You should carefully consider these risks when planning a trip during hurricane season.

If you decide to travel to a coastal area during the hurricane season despite the risks:

• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities

Useful links

• Severe storms outside Canada
• Large-scale emergencies outside Canada
• Active storm tracking and hurricane watches and warnings – U.S. National Hurricane Center