Safety in El Salvador

El Salvador is a vibrant and beautiful country, rich in culture and natural wonders. While it has had a history of safety concerns, the country has made significant strides in improving security for locals and tourists alike.

In recent years, El Salvador has seen a significant increase in safety due to major reforms in law enforcement and public security.  These efforts have resulted in a dramatic reduction in crime rates, making the country notably safer for both locals and visitors.

In fact, in 2023, El Salvador had the lowest homicide rate for all Central American and Caribbean countries (source: Statista). 

Tourist areas and popular destinations have especially benefitted from these changes, encouraging a resurgence in tourism.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you stay safe during your visit to El Salvador. Remember to also utilize resources from your home country to prepare for your visit. 

General Safety Tips

1. Stay Informed Before you travel, stay updated on current events and travel advisories. Register with your embassy or consulate and keep their contact information handy in case of emergencies.

2. Use Reputable Transportation

Opt for reputable transportation options. Use official taxis, ride-sharing services like Uber, or arrange transportation through your hotel. Public transportation service stops around 8-9 pm from Monday through Friday and until 8 pm on the weekends. Avoid hitchhiking or using unregistered taxis.

3. Keep Valuables Secure Keep your valuables secure and out of sight. Use a money belt or a secure bag to carry important documents, cash, and electronics. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash in public.

4. Avoid Certain Areas As with all destinations, some areas in El Salvador are more prone to crime. Crime in El Salvador rarely targets tourists, but if exploring on your own, ask your guides or hotel staff about areas to avoid.

5. Be Cautious at Night While many tourist attractions are open late and well-secured, still take general safety precautions at night. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Stick to well-lit, populated areas and use reputable transportation to get around after dark.


Health and Medical Safety

1. Drink Bottled Water Tap water in El Salvador is not recommended for drinking. Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth as well.

2. Stay Hydrated and Use Sun Protection El Salvador’s tropical climate can be hot and humid. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and use sun protection, including sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.

3. Be Prepared for Medical Emergencies In case of a medical emergency, dial 132. Major cities have hospitals and clinics with good medical services. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers health care. Carry a basic first aid kit with you, especially if you plan to explore remote areas.


Safety in Nature and Outdoor Activities

1. Respect Wildlife and Natural Areas El Salvador’s natural beauty includes diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Respect wildlife by observing from a distance and not feeding animals. Follow guidelines in national parks and protected areas.

2. Stay on Marked Trails When hiking or exploring, stay on marked trails and avoid venturing into unknown areas. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time.

3. Be Cautious in the Water If you’re enjoying water activities like swimming or surfing, be aware of local conditions and follow safety guidelines. Swim in designated areas and avoid strong currents.


Cultural and Social Safety

1. Respect Local Customs El Salvador is known for its warm hospitality and polite culture. Greet people with a friendly “Hola” and dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Respect local customs and traditions.

2. Learn Basic Spanish Phrases While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning basic Spanish phrases can help you communicate more effectively and navigate the country with ease.


Emergency Contacts

  • Police and Fire: 911 
  • Medical Emergency: 911
  • Tourist Police: +503 2511 8300
  • Your Embassy or Consulate: Have your embassy or consulate contact information readily available.


Final Thoughts

El Salvador offers a rich and rewarding travel experience with its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and friendly people. By taking a few precautions and staying aware of your surroundings, you can enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer safely and securely. Happy travels!