22 essential tips for traveling to El Salvador

Boasting 200 miles of coastline, over 170 volcanoes, numerous archaeological sites with Maya ruins, and a thriving coffee and cacao farming culture, El Salvador is a paradise for surfing, adventure, and relaxation.

Sadly, years of instability and violence have tarnished the country's reputation internationally. However, recent improvements in safety, road infrastructure, and investments in hotels and flight routes have opened the door for a revitalized tourism scene, giving this tropical destination a fresh chance.

You can truly enjoy your time in El Salvador, and we encourage you to explore it yourself. What will enhance your journey? Check out the planning tips and precautions listed below.

Here’s everything you need to know before embarking on your trip to El Salvador.

Planning your journey to El Salvador

1. Experience both urban and coastal getaways

El Salvador spans approximately 8,000 square miles (21,000 square kilometers) – about the same size as the neighboring Central American country of Belize – but boasts remarkable ecological diversity.

This itinerary allows for a five-night adventure that includes the capital city of San Salvador and the nearby Pacific coast, just a 45-minute drive away.

Make the most of your time in San Salvador by exploring its architectural and cultural gems, such as the National Palace, the Art Museum of El Salvador, and the stunning El Rosario church. On the coast, La Libertad’s fishing port has gained popularity for surfing and its beachfront accommodations.

2. Be sure to explore volcanoes, forests, and ancient ruins

A national park featuring three volcanoes (El Boquerón), a historical forest reserve (Cinquera), the charming cobblestoned town of Suchitoto, and “the Pompeii of America” (Joya de Cerén) could entice you to extend your stay in El Salvador to a full week or more.

While El Boquerón is just a half-hour trip from San Salvador and can be done in a day, Suchitoto requires a 90-minute drive in the opposite direction from the coast. This cobblestoned town boasts colonial architecture and is a fantastic place to spend a night or two.

3. Expect higher costs during peak seasons

Domestic travel tends to surge during winter holidays, New Year’s, Holy Week (Easter), and the first week of August. If you plan your visit during these periods, be prepared for increased hotel rates and larger crowds at museums and parks.

4. Consider the rainy season in your planning

For optimal hiking conditions and clear skies, aim to visit during the dry season, which runs from November to April. If you choose to embrace the rainy season (May to October), be sure to pack a rain jacket, quick-drying clothes, and extra socks.

Keep in mind that not all roads in El Salvador are paved. Heavy rainfall can lead to flooding, resulting in road closures and longer travel times.

5. No need for currency exchange

If you use US dollars at home, there’s no need to exchange currency, as the USD has been El Salvador's official currency since 2001.

However, it's wise to carry some small bills. Most places will accept a $20 bill, but $50s and $100s may be harder to change. ATMs are common in commercial areas and usually offer English as a transaction option.

In an unexpected development, El Salvador introduced a second official currency in 2021: Bitcoin. While the government mandates that all businesses accept this digital currency, only about 20% actually do, meaning you'll likely be using US dollars for most transactions.

6. Consider hiring a driver for trips across multiple cities

Most hotels can help you arrange airport transfers or taxis to local destinations. However, for traveling between cities, it's highly advisable to hire a driver or tour operator.

Navigating traffic in San Salvador can be daunting. Many rural roads are unpaved and filled with potholes, often narrowing to single lanes that can be challenging for foreign drivers to manage.

A tour operator can suggest popular tours or help design a personalized itinerary. Luckily, the country’s tourism ministry lists recommended tour operators on their website for your convenience.

7. Don’t forget your passport and tourist card

US citizens need a valid passport for entry and must purchase a $12 tourist card (valid for 90 days) upon arrival at the airport; no visa is necessary.

Travelers from countries such as Australia, Canada, and the UK only need a valid passport for entry—visas are not required for stays under 90 days. However, these travelers must also buy the tourist card at the airport upon arrival. Always check with your embassy for specific entry requirements.

Understanding Etiquette in El Salvador

8. Refresh your basic Spanish skills

Spanish is the official language, and while you’ll likely encounter English speakers in restaurants and hotels in tourist hotspots, it’s polite to know a few greetings en español.

Basic and handy phrases like hola (hello), buenos días (good morning), buenas tardes (good afternoon), and buenas noches (goodnight) are great starting points.

9. Expect to see a machete or two

While park rangers in the US might carry a compass and a drawstring hat, in El Salvador, the lush forests necessitate a different tool: a machete.

Don’t be surprised if your guide wields a machete to clear hiking paths, but definitely refrain from bringing your own.

10. Dress suitably for church

Like in many religious sites worldwide, it’s important to cover your legs and shoulders when entering the country’s Catholic cathedrals.

A knee-length skirt is acceptable if you prefer not to wear pants, and a scarf can easily wrap around your shoulders to cover a tank top.

11. Tip for good service

In restaurants and bars, it’s customary to leave a tip of around 10 percent. However, always check your bill first, as gratuity may already be included.

12. Familiarize yourself with the country’s recent history

Between 1980 and 1992, El Salvador was engulfed in a brutal civil war, and the repercussions of that era are still evident today. It’s likely that your tour guide or the bartender serving you a local Cadejo beer has personal ties to that tumultuous time.

Be considerate, as not everyone may wish to discuss their experiences. But if you encounter someone willing to share – like a former guerrilla fighter leading a Cinquera tour – express your gratitude for their story.

13. Embrace hot dishes, even in the heat

While the pupusa (stuffed corn tortilla) is perhaps the most iconic Salvadoran dish, soups and broths are also cherished, despite the generally warm climate.

Don’t be taken aback if your waiter suggests a hot bowl of seafood soup or sopa de pata (made from cow’s feet) even as you’re planning to hit the beach.

Additionally, Salvadoran coffee, a significant agricultural export since the 1800s, is a must-try. Also, be sure to sample atol de elote, a sweet hot corn beverage – but be warned: according to Maya folklore, it can turn bitter if touched by someone in a bad mood.

Health and safety considerations in El Salvador

14. Check your vaccination requirements

The only vaccination needed for entry into El Salvador is for yellow fever, applicable only if you are six months or older and coming from a high-risk area (specifically countries in South America, Africa, or Panama).

15. Avoid tap water

It's best to stick with bottled water and ice made from purified water; tap water may be contaminated.

16. Steer clear of walking or driving alone at night

In both urban and rural settings, it’s wise to avoid walking alone after dark. If you find yourself without a group, request a taxi through your hotel or a restaurant.

Similarly, if you rent a car, it’s advisable to refrain from driving at night. This not only reduces the risk of robbery but also improves visibility on poorly lit roads or those without lighting.

17. Recognize a safe taxi when you see one

Look for a taxi with an “A” at the start of its registration number to ensure it’s licensed. Additionally, since most taxis lack meters, make sure to agree on the fare with your driver beforehand.

18. Avoid certain neighborhoods in San Salvador

Unfortunately, gang violence continues to be an issue in El Salvador. While gangs usually don’t target tourists, it’s best to steer clear of Soyapango, Apopa, and Mejicanos in San Salvador to stay safe.

Conversely, the Centro Histórico in San Salvador, where many museums are located, is generally safer due to increased police presence.

19. Exercise caution as an LGBTIQ+ traveler

Reports from organizations like Human Rights Watch highlight discrimination and violence against the LGBTIQ+ community in El Salvador.

In light of this, same-sex couples should be mindful of public displays of affection. It’s also advisable to research hotels beforehand to find those that are welcoming to LGBTQ+ guests.

20. Remember these emergency numbers

For emergencies, dial 911. To reach the Politur, the National Civilian Police unit focused on tourist safety, call 2511-8300 or 2511-8302. They can provide safety tips and, if arranged, even offer escorts.

21. Be aware of hurricane season

Hurricane season generally runs from June to November. During this time, unpaved roads can flood when storms hit, which may change your travel plans or, in extreme cases, require you to stay in one place for a day or two.

If you're traveling during this period, consult your hotel and travel insurance about their hurricane policies. Additionally, keep an eye on weather forecasts and storm alerts in the days leading up to your visit.

22. Keep your edibles and CBD products at home

Cannabis and any cannabis-based items, including CBD, are prohibited in El Salvador, so make sure to remove any oils, creams, or lotions from your travel kit that could cause trouble.

Moreover, El Salvador enforces some of the strictest penalties in the world for drug possession, so this isn't the trip to try out any illegal substances either.