El Salvador

Advisory Summary U.S. government employees working in El Salvador are allowed to travel throughout the country during daylight hours. However, due to road conditions, hilly terrain, possible landslides during the rainy season, and general lack of streetlights, U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling bet

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Advisory Summary

U.S. government employees working in El Salvador are allowed to travel throughout the country during daylight hours. However, due to road conditions, hilly terrain, possible landslides during the rainy season, and general lack of streetlights, U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling between cities or departments (the Salvadoran equivalent of states) at night. Gang activity has decreased dramatically since 2022, causing a drop in violent crime and murders.

There are exceptions. U.S. government employees are allowed to travel at all hours between San Salvador and:

• El Salvador’s international airport
• La Libertad department

U.S. government employees are prohibited from using public buses.

• Review our travel guidance for El Salvador to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

State of Exemption

In March 2022, the Government of El Salvador declared a “State of Exception” in response to an increase in gang murders:

• The State of Exception allows local authorities to arrest anyone they think is involved in gang activity.
• It suspends several constitutional rights. This includes the normal protections of criminal procedure, such as the right to a speedy trial and access to counsel.
• Tens of thousands of people are currently in prison under the State of Exception, all awaiting trial.

Several U.S. citizens have been detained under the State of Exception. They have yet to face trial. The State of Exception is still in place.

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for El Salvador.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for El Salvador.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.
• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• You are subject to local laws when traveling abroad. The U.S. government cannot guarantee your release when you are detained or arrested abroad.
• Visit our page regarding Arrest and Detention Abroad for more information on what happens when you or a loved one is arrested abroad.
• El Salvador has zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol. You can be detained for having any level of alcohol while driving. Do not drink and drive.
• Always use major highways and roads.
• Minimize travel outside of major cities at night.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• When possible, travel in pairs or in groups.
• Do not hitchhike.
• Ensure you have multiple forms of communication when traveling and the ability to charge your devices.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Stay alert when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Engage local guides certified by the national or local tourist authority when hiking in backcountry areas.
• Use caution when swimming near El Salvador’s beaches. Follow water condition warnings (such as red and black flags) and be aware of riptides. Use extra caution when visiting beaches that do not have the flag warning system. When in doubt, stay out of the water.