Welcome to El Salvador

Go beyond the bad press and you’ll find much to appreciate about El Salvador, a land of stunning beaches, lush jungles, historic sites, art, culture, history, delicious food and friendly people.

The surfing is world-class, the coffee plantations gorgeous and the villages full of flower and vibrant murals. Come see a destination that deserves more recognition in international travel circles, for its geography, beauty and attractions both inland and along the sea.

Unique Facts

• While El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America, with an area of just over 8,108 square miles, it is the most densely populated country in the Americas, with a population of almost 7 million people.
• El Salvador is the only country in Central America that does not have a Caribbean coastline.
• There are five archaeological parks in El Salvador: Cihuatan, Joya de Ceren, San Andres, Casa Blanca and Tazumal.
• The highest volcano in El Salvador is Santa Ana Volcano, at 7,760 feet above sea level.
• El Salvador is famous for the Anil production, the plant that produces the blue dye known as indigo.

Language

Salvador’s official language is Spanish.

When To Go

The best time to go to El Salvador is during December, right after the rainy season. The best time to surf is from March to November.

Airports

El Salvador International Airport Saint Oscar Arnulfo Romero y Galdámez

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None required for stays under 90 days (must purchase a 90-day tourist card)

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccines for most travelers when visiting El Salvador: Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need Hepatitis B, Malaria, Yellow Fever and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types A and B. Standard voltage: 115V. Frequency: 60Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: United States Dollar

Getting Around

The major highways are among some of the best in Central America, though they are not up to US standards. Avoid driving at night.

Public transportation options include public buses, ferry service across Lago Suchitlan to Suchitoto and taxis.

Driver’s License

A valid US driver’s license is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy San Salvador
Final Boulevard Santa Elena Sur,
Urbanizacion Santa Elena,
Antiguo Cuscatlan, La Libertad
San Salvador, El Salvador
Telephone: +(503) 2501-2999
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(503) 2501-2999
Fax: +(503) 2278-5522
ACSSanSal@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

El Salvador Tourist Office
Blvd. de Hipodromo
508 Col. San Benito
San Salvador
El Salvador
Tel: 503-243-7835
corsatur@salnet.net

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 911

Safety and Security

The crime rate is high in El Salvador. Extortion, mugging, highway assault, home invasion and car theft are common.