Risk level(s)

Safety and security

Crime

Violent crime—including homicide, armed robbery, carjacking, rape and kidnapping—is a serious problem throughout El Salvador and is escalating dramatically. A contributing factor to this increase in crime is the presence of organized criminal gangs. Gang culture has spread throughout much of the country; however, the problem is most critical in urban centres, especially in greater San Salvador. Typical crimes carried out by violent, organized street gangs (maras) include extortion, mugging, highway assault, home invasion and car theft.

While gang violence is rarely targeted at foreigners, incidents of violent assault against tourists have taken place. Maintain a high level of vigilance and personal security awareness at all times. Be discreet and avoid travelling alone, especially if you are a woman. Sexual assault is a serious concern. Assume many Salvadorans are armed. Public shootouts are common.

El Salvador has one of the highest murder rates in the world. Homicides frequently occur on public buses, on roads, in soccer fields and on farms and in private residences. The departments of La Libertad, La Paz, La Unión, Santa Ana, San Miguel, San Salvador, San Vicente, and Sonsonate have the highest homicide rates in El Salvador.

Armed robberies (involving the use of guns, knives and other dangerous weapons) often occur on public transportation and in tourist areas, including national parks and scenic spots, and pose the greatest threat to foreigners. Passengers on buses are frequently robbed en route, at roadblocks and at bus stops. The bus stops located on Alameda Roosevelt Street and in the area surrounding del Mundo Square in San Salvador are particularly dangerous, especially on weekdays between the hours of 4 p.m. and 11 p.m. Please note that the Embassy of Canada to El Salvador is located in this area.

The majority of victims are women. Avoid taking any form of public transportation. If you are threatened by armed criminals, stay calm and cooperate with them. Do not resist, as gang members are quick to engage in violence. Avoid eye contact with the perpetrator.

Petty crime, including bag snatching and pickpocketing, is common. Avoid displaying signs of affluence in public, particularly when landing at the El Salvador International airport, as wealthy-looking tourists are more likely to be targeted by criminals. Ensure that your personal belongings, passports and other travel documents are secure at all times in a hotel room safe or hotel safety deposit box. Carry only a copy of the identification page of your passport and sufficient funds for the day. Avoid walking after dark, including in the capital city of San Salvador. Travel in groups if possible. Remain extremely vigilant and exercise caution at all times.

Be particularly discreet when using automated banking machines (ABMs). Choose ABMs in controlled areas only, such as in banks or hotels, and stay alert to your surroundings when using them. Criminals have been known to observe, follow and then rob victims who have made withdrawals. Credit card skimming is on the rise.

Express kidnappings by armed motorcyclists (moto ratas) can occur day or night. Victims, generally selected on the basis of perceived wealth (including driving late-model cars), are identified at such places as shopping centres, gas stations, restaurants, night clubs, banks and parking lots. One or two robbers, riding on motorcycles, follow their victims and stop them at gunpoint. In most cases, victims are taken to ABMs and forced to withdraw money.

Carjackings also occur. There are occasionally reports of armed criminals following travellers from the airport to private residences or secluded stretches of road, where they carry out assaults or robberies. Criminals can become violent and shoot if victims do not cooperate immediately.

Gangs are often behind extortion threats against individuals and businesses. Gang members do not hesitate to use deadly force if the extortion money is not paid. Attacks have occurred in open-air markets, restaurants, police stations, public buses and clinics. The attacks are unpredictable and often harm or kill innocent bystanders.

San Salvador

The historic downtown of San Salvador (especially from Parque Simón Bolivar to Plaza El Zurita, and from Alameda Juan Pablo II to Boulevard Venezuela) is dangerous as criminals often hide in crowds and attack without warning. Gangs and individuals who specialize in mugging, extortion and murder operate in these areas. Other neighbourhoods that pose the highest risk to travellers in San Salvador are Soyapango, Apopa, Nejapa, Ilopango Mejicanos and Tutunichapa. The number of assaults in Avenida Olímpica, which is located within the vicinity of the Embassy, has increased. Be very cautious, especially on paydays, as many victims have been assaulted when withdrawing money from banks in the surrounding area or while travelling home, with their pay, on public transportation.

There is a large discrepancy in the distribution of wealth across neighbourhoods in San Salvador, even within the same neighbourhood. Some neighbourhoods are considered safer than others. Avoid crossing a neighbourhood that is a known criminal stronghold to get to a safer neighbourhood. No matter where you are, maintain heightened vigilance and be on the alert. Hotels, especially international hotels, in the neighbourhoods of Escalón (Crowne Plaza), San Benito (Hilton and Sheraton) and Santa Elena are generally safe options.

Borders with Guatemala and Honduras

The regions bordering Guatemala can be dangerous because of drug turf wars. While Canadians are not specifically targeted, you risk being in the wrong place at the wrong time if you travel in areas near the border.

Attacks and robberies have been reported at border crossings, particularly on the Guatemala side. The crossing at Las Chinamas is particularly hazardous, with many reports of highway robberies and carjackings, especially targeting vehicles with licencse plates issued by a country other than Guatemala. Armed robbers have been known to dress as Guatemalan police and to erect roadblocks to stop buses with Salvadoran licence plates heading into Guatemala. They then rob the driver and passengers. When crossing the border into Guatemala, drive with your car doors locked, do not stop for street or roadside vendors, and avoid travelling after dark. Instead, use one of the other three border crossings (La Hachadura, San Cristóbal or Anguiatú) if possible.

Gang activity is increasing in the areas along the northern and eastern borders with Honduras, with reports of gang members taking advantage of porous borders to move back and forth with ease to conduct illicit activities on both sides of the border. To enter Honduras, use the border crossing at El Amatillo during daylight hours and as early as possible.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations, sit-ins and protest marches may occur at any time, especially on San Salvador’s main access roads and around the Salvador del Mundo monument (Plaza Las Americas), where most protests and marches begin and end. The Canadian embassy is located a few metres from Salvador del Mundo. Monitor local media reports to learn about planned demonstrations and avoid large gatherings as these may turn violent without warning. Criminality is a factor, and often a large number of protestors are inebriated. The El Salvador Constitution prohibits political activities by foreigners. Do not participate in demonstrations or you may be detained and/or deported.

Road safety

Driving in El Salvador can be hazardous because local vehicles are often overloaded and poorly maintained and local drivers often ignore traffic rules. Streets tend to be narrow, with poor signage and inadequately lit. Minor roads are not lit at all. Urban streets are crowded with vendors, whereas rural roads are hazardous because of wandering livestock and pedestrians. Always drive defensively because other drivers may be impaired by drugs or alcohol.

Bandits, carjackers, kidnappers and other criminals may assault travellers on rural roads. Avoid driving after dark. Travel in a convoy rather than alone on rural roads because there are fewer police in rural areas and roadside assistance is rarely available. Keep your vehicle doors locked and windows closed at all times. Safely store personal belongings, including handbags, out of sight. Avoid stopping at scenic points. Rural areas may be accessible only by four-wheel-drive vehicle.

Most land border crossings remain open 24 hours a day, but some have been known to close without warning. Plan to cross the border early enough so you arrive at your destination before dark.

Public transportation

Use only reputable tour operators. Do not use local or intercity public buses as vehicles are often mechanically unreliable and passengers are frequently robbed, often at knife- or gunpoint.

Taxis are widely available. Use a reliable company recommended by a major hotel chain and negotiate fares in advance. Do not board taxis at taxi stands, and do not flag taxis in the street.

Air travel

The Government of Canada does not assess foreign domestic airlines’ compliance with international aviation safety standards. See Foreign domestic airlines for more information.

Hiking

Tourists have been robbed while climbing volcanoes and hiking in remote locations. Travel only with reputable tourist organizations or persons familiar with local conditions. Never walk alone on remote trails. Ensure personal belongings and travel documents are secure at all times.

Tourist police

The tourist police (POLITUR), a special division of the National Civilian Police, provide a security presence in tourist areas and urgent first response assistance to tourists. Consult the POLITUR website (in Spanish) for more information.

General safety information

Swimming in the Pacific Ocean is risky because of strong currents and undertows. Few, if any, lifeguards are on duty on the beaches, which increases the risk. 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 as well as flooding and landslides.

Cellular telephone service is generally reliable. Cell phones are available locally for a modest sum at any retail kiosk for a major telephone company. These phones provide the added advantage of having a local number for emergencies.

If you are robbed, go to the police station. Do not expect assistance in your preferred language, as most Salvadorans do not speak English or French.

Entry/exit requirements

It is the sole prerogative of every country or territory to determine who is allowed to enter or exit. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry or exit requirements. The following information has been obtained from the Salvadoran authorities and is subject to change at any time. The country- or territory-specific entry/exit requirements are provided on this page for information purposes only. While every effort is made to provide accurate information, information contained here is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, express or implied. The Government of Canada assumes no responsibility, and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided. It is your responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Republic of El Salvador or one of its consulates for up-to-date information.

Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.

Passport

Canadians must present a passport to visit El Salvador, which must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of expected departure from that country. Prior to travelling, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Temporary passport holders may be subject to different entry requirements. Check with diplomatic representatives for up-to-date information.

Visas

Tourist visa: Not required
Business visa: Not required
Student visa: Not required

Tourist card and entry/exit stamps

To enter El Salvador, you must purchase a tourist card, which costs US$10 and is valid for 30 to 90 days. The precise period is determined by local officials. The tourist card is not a visa but it is a mandatory requirement when you enter through El Salvador International Airport or one of the four land border points. Keep the receipt you receive when you buy the tourist card with your passport. You will not be required to re-pay if you exit and re-enter El Salvador (for a brief side trip to Honduras, for example), as long as you show your receipt and your tourist card remains valid.

It is your responsibility to obtain entry and exit stamps at border crossings.

If you wish to extend your stay in El Salvador beyond 90 days, you may apply to the immigration authorities to have your tourist card extended.

If you intend to work or study in El Salvador for longer than 90 days, you must apply for residence from inside the country. Salvadoran residence-documentation requirements are extensive, so organize all the documents you will need before you leave Canada.

Exit tax

A mandatory exit tax of US$32 is included in the price of the airplane ticket.

Central America-4 Border Control Agreement

Under the terms of the Central America-4 Border Control Agreement (CA-4), Canadian tourists may travel within any of the CA-4 countries – Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Guatemala – for up to 90 days, without having to undergo full entry and exit formalities at border immigration checkpoints. You must still check in at immigration counters when you enter or exit these checkpoints. The 90-day period begins at the first point of entry to any of the CA-4 countries. You will be fined if you exceed the 90-day limit. You may request an extension of up to 90 days once a year. You must request this extension and pay the required fee at El Salvador’s Immigration headquarters in San Salvador before your first 90-day limit expires. Immigration authorities will determine the length of the extension.

Children and travel

Children need special documentation to visit certain countries. See Children for more information.

Yellow fever

See Health to obtain information on this country’s vaccination requirements.

Health

Medical services and facilities

State-funded, public hospitals are located in large cities, mostly in San Salvador. There are few public hospitals, however, and the medical services they provide and their facilities tend to be substandard. Public clinics (“unidades de salud”) are located throughout the country, but their resources, hours of operation and services are limited.

Use private clinics and hospitals whenever possible. Hospital de Diagnóstico y Emergencias and the Hospital de la Mujer in the Colonia Escalon district of San Salvador offer good emergency and advanced care services. Doctors and other staff in clinics and hospitals may expect you to pay cash for the health services they provide. Private hospitals in San Salvador and other major cities such as Santa Ana and San Miguel accept credit card payments and may request a deposit if you must be hospitalized. In rural areas, you may be requested to purchase all consumables prior to your care. Most health care providers only speak Spanish.

Keep your travel health insurance up to date and sufficiently comprehensive to cover the costs of emergency care. Make sure you can easily access enough funds to cover the cost of medical treatment and medical evacuation by air ambulance if you need it.

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 & culture

You are subject to local laws. See Arrest and detention for more information.

Illegal drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences.

Laws

You must obtain approval from the El Salvador Department of Foreign Affairs to attend international conferences. If permission is granted, you may participate only as an observer, not as an activist or political lobbyist.

You need a permit to own or carry a firearm. Permits are issued in El Salvador. You could be jailed if you are caught carrying an unregistered firearm.

Driving

You must present Salvadoran authorities with your valid Canadian driver's licence along with your valid Canadian passport before you may drive a vehicle in El Salvador. Obtain an International Driving Permit if you plan to travel between countries. It is illegal for two men to ride together on a motorcycle.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in El Salvador. However, Canadian officials may be limited in their ability to provide you with consular services if local authorities consider you an El Salvador citizen. You should always travel using your valid Canadian passport and present yourself as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times to minimize this risk. You may also need to carry and present an El Salvador passport for legal reasons, for example to enter and exit the country (see Entry/exit requirements to determine passport requirements). Citizenship is determined solely by national laws, and the decision to recognize dual citizenship rests completely with the country in which you are located when seeking consular assistance. See Travelling as a dual citizen for more information.

Money

The official currency is the U.S. dollar (USD), not the colón (SVC), which is no longer in circulation. You must present your passport at major hotels and banks before you can exchange traveller’s cheques for USD currency. Ask for small denominations ($1, $5, $10), since $50 and $100 bills are not widely accepted and can expose you to a greater risk of robbery.

Canadian dollars (cash or traveller's cheques) cannot be exchanged in El Salvador.

Natural disasters & climate

Seismic activity and volcanoes

El Salvador is located in a highly active seismic zone. Tremors occur regularly, while major earthquakes occur intermittently. FAmiliarize yourself with the proper safety measures to take in the event of an earthquake.

On November 24, 2016, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck off the Pacific coast of El Salvador. Follow the instructions of local authorities and monitor local media.

The Sistema Nacional de Estudios Territoriales (in Spanish only) provides regular reports on the levels of activity of El Salvador’s active volcanoes. Pay close attention to all warnings, avoid restricted areas and follow the advice of local authorities if a volcano erupts.

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from May to November. This period is marked by the occasional tropical storm, as well as frequent flash floods and landslides, especially in the lower Lempa River area. Keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

Hurricane season

The hurricane season extends from June to the end of November. The National Hurricane Center provides additional information on weather conditions. Stay informed of regional weather forecasts, and follow the advice and instructions of local authorities.

Assistance

Local services

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the embassy of Canada in San Salvador and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

You may make a collect call to the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at 613-996-8885. To call collect, you must first dial the international carrier number of the phone company you are using, followed by 001, the area code and phone number you wish to call.