Electricity

The electrical current in El Salvador is 120 volts, 60Hz. American-style flat two-pin plugs and a plug with a third round grounding pin are standard.

Language

Spanish is the official language.

Money

El Salvador's official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). British pounds are very difficult to exchange, so travellers should bring U.S. dollars, preferably in small denominations, as many shops won't accept $50 or $100 bills. These larger notes can be exchanged at banks. ATMs are widely available in cities, but visitors should notify their bank before travelling to avoid card blocks. Digital wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are accepted at many urban merchants, especially with BAC Credomatic or Banco Promerica cards, but it's wise to carry cash or cards as backups.

Tipping

Most restaurants include a 10 percent service charge, taxi drivers don't expect tips, and tipping hotel staff is optional based on service.

Health

There's a risk of mosquito-borne illnesses such as chikungunya and dengue, so travellers should consult a doctor before visiting. Medical care is best in San Salvador, while facilities elsewhere may be basic. Public hospitals can be under-resourced; private clinics are recommended when possible. As some may require proof of insurance or upfront payment, comprehensive travel health insurance and access to funds are essential. English may be limited among medical staff, so having some Spanish or a translation app is helpful.

Safety

Petty crime, scams, and occasional violent incidents can occur, so it's best to stay alert. Visitors should avoid walking alone, especially on remote trails, and they should keep valuables (especially passports) secure in a hotel safe when possible. When using ATMs, travellers should avoid withdrawing large amounts, and should steer clear of machines in poorly lit areas or those inside shopping centres. It's safer to withdraw money during the day and to exchange currency at official exchange bureaus rather than hotels or banks.

Local customs

The people are warm, welcoming, and friendly. However, etiquette in El Salvador can be formal in address. Visitors should always use the formal pronoun 'usted' with strangers and acquaintances, and use titles of respect. Greetings are common in shops and in passing on the street, and it is considered rude not to return a greeting. El Salvador culture is patriarchal and women traditionally show respect to men. It is considered rude for anyone to put their feet up on a chair or table, or to yawn without covering their mouth.

Doing business

The business dress code in El Salvador is conservative, with a lightweight suit being is the most appropriate attire for business meetings. Foreigners should expect to shake hands before and after their meeting, and should not use a person's first name until a relationship has been solidified. Spending time forming a personal connection before jumping into business discussions is highly recommended.

Duty free

Visitors to El Salvador may import the following goods: 200 cigarettes, 25 cigars or 250g of tobacco in any form, 12 litres of alcoholic beverages, 6 units of perfume and gifts valued up to USD 500.

Communications

The international dialling code for El Salvador is +503. Visitors can purchase local SIM cards and WiFi is available at many cafes and restaurants, and nearly all hostels and hotels in urban areas.

Passport & Visa

All foreign visitors to El Salvador must hold a return or onward ticket and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from or transiting through any yellow fever risk area. It's highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials may apply different rules than those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry requirements

US citizens must have a valid passport. No visa is required for a stay of up to three months.

British citizens must have a passport valid for six months on arrival. British passport holders do not require a visa for a stay of up to three months; unless their passports are endorsed 'British National (Overseas)', in which case a visa must be pre-arranged. British visitors will be required to buy a Tourist Card (fee: USD 10) upon arrival if they do not have a visa.

Canadian citizens must have a passport valid for six months on arrival in El Salvador. No visa is required for a stay of up to three months.

Australian citizens must have a passport valid for six months on arrival. No visa is required for a stay of up to three months.

South African citizens must have a passport valid for six months on arrival. A visa is not required for stays of up to three months.

Irish citizens must have a passport valid for six months on arrival. No visa is required for a stay of up to three months.

New Zealand citizens must have a passport valid for six months on arrival. No visa is required for a stay of up to three months.

Useful contacts

Tourist Information Center, La Union: www.elsalvador.travel/en

911 (General Emergency Helpline)