IziVisas
🇸🇻El Salvador
Central America· Updated 06/03/2026
Information
Capital
San Salvador
Population
6,370,000
Currency
United States Dollar (USD $)
Languages
Espagnol
Continent
Central America
Calling code
+503
Timezone
America/El_Salvador
Area
21,041 km²
Government
Presidential Republic
National day
September 15 - Independence Day
Internet domain
.sv
About
El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America, located on the Pacific coast. With a population of 6.37 million and a GDP of $35.36 billion in 2024, the country experiences moderate annual economic growth of 2.6%. The current government, led by President Nayib Bukele, has implemented drastic security measures that have significantly reduced homicides.
Safety
Risk level :Moderate to high risk. Although homicides have significantly decreased since 2019, reaching a historic low in 2024, the country has maintained a state of emergency since March 2022 with documented human rights violations.
Risk areas
San Salvador (certain neighborhoods) - Crime, gangsSanta Tekla - Organized crimeBorder areas - Drug trafficking, crime
Crime(Medium)
- Avoid nighttime travel outside tourist areas
- Do not display signs of wealth (jewelry, expensive electronics)
- Use official taxis or trusted transport services
- Remain vigilant in public transportation
Terrorism(Low)
- No major terrorist threat currently documented
- Stay informed about local news
Transport
- Prefer official taxis or private transport services
- Avoid public transportation late at night
- Rent a car from reputable agencies
- Respect speed limits
Natural risks(Earthquakes, active volcanoes, tropical storms, and possible floods)
- Familiarize yourself with evacuation procedures in case of an earthquake
- Follow weather alerts during the rainy season (May to October)
- Consult local authorities for volcanic risk areas
Health(Limited healthcare system. Private medical facilities are better than public ones. Vaccinations recommended for certain tropical diseases.)
- Yellow fever vaccination recommended
- Hepatitis A and B vaccination advised
- Prevention against dengue and Zika (mosquito repellent)
- Tap water not potable - drink bottled water
- International health insurance strongly recommended
- Consult a doctor before departure for preventive treatments
Practical tips
- Register your passport and important documents
- Keep copies of identification documents separately
- Avoid political demonstrations and gatherings
- Respect the current state of emergency and government restrictions
- Maintain constant vigilance in public spaces
- Keep emergency contacts handy
Cost of living
Accommodation
Studio city center520.00
1-bedroom apartment in the city center690.47
1-bedroom apartment in the suburb520.00
3-bedroom apartment in the city center1,200.00
3-bedroom apartment in the suburb900.00
Food
Inexpensive restaurant meal3.50
Meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant15.00
McDonald's menu6.00
Local beer (0.5L)1.50
Cappuccino2.00
Water (1.5L)1.00
Bread (500g)1.20
Milk (1L)1.50
Eggs (12)1.50
Chicken (1kg)3.50
Apples (1kg)2.00
Bananas (1kg)0.50
Transport
Public transport ticket0.25
Monthly transport subscription20.00
Taxi ride (start)3.00
Taxi (per km)1.00
Gasoline (1L)1.20
Leisure
Fitness membership (monthly)30.65
Tennis court (1h weekend)19.22
Cinema5.00
Theater10.00
Health
General practitioner consultation20.00
Dentist consultation30.00
Antibiotic medications10.00
Cold medications (6 days)15.00
Others
High-speed internet (60 Mbps+)30.00
Mobile plan (calls + 10GB)20.00
Public services for 85m² apartment100.00
Jeans (Levis 501 or similar)40.00
Nike sports shoes60.00
International primary school (monthly)300.00
Practical information
Electricity
Voltage110V
Frequency60Hz
Plug typesType A, Type B
Emergency numbers
Police911
Ambulance911
Fire department911
Practical information
Driving side
Right
Tap water
Unsafe
Tipping
10% in restaurants, optional in taxis