Exercise increased caution in El Salvador due to crime and COVID-19. 

Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel.   

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 Travel Health Notice for El Salvador due to COVID-19, indicating a moderate level of COVID-19 in the country.   Your risk of contracting COVID-19 and developing severe symptoms may be lower if you are fully vaccinated with an FDA authorized vaccine.  Before planning any international travel, please review the CDC's specific recommendations for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers.  Visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 and related restrictions and conditions in El Salvador.

Country Summary: Violent crime, such as murder, assault, rape, and armed robbery, is common. Gang activity, such as extortion, violent street crime, and narcotics and arms trafficking, is widespread. Local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents.

Read the country information page.

If you decide to travel to El Salvador:

• See the U.S. Embassy's web page regarding COVID-19.  
• Visit the CDC’s webpage on Travel and COVID-19.   
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Avoid walking or driving at night.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Be extra vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Engage local guides certified by the national or local tourist authority when hiking in back country areas.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Crime and Safety Report for El Salvador.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Last Update: Reissued with updates to COVID-19 information.