It is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO’s guidance on foreign travel insurance.

Most visits to El Salvador are trouble free. However, El Salvador has one of the highest crime rates in Latin America so you should take extra care. Take particular care in downtown San Salvador and on roads outside major towns and cities, especially at night. Avoid wearing expensive jewellery or displaying valuable items. Safeguard your passport, mobile phone and cash against pickpockets. See Crime

The rainy season runs from June to November and extreme weather events can lead to loss of life, damage to roads, property and infrastructure, and disruption to supplies, services and utilities.

On 9 October, Tropical Storm Julia struck El Salvador causing widespread damage and some loss of life. The Government of El Salvador has imposed a State of Emergency to facilitate response to the consequences of the storm. Some roads have been closed and travel disrupted. Continuing rainfall could cause further problems. You should exercise extra caution if travelling and follow the advice and instructions of local authorities. See Rainy season

A State of Exception (Emergency) introduced in response to a sharp rise in the number of murders in late March 2022 remains in place, although the number of murders has since fallen drastically. See Safety and security

Political tensions in El Salvador remain high. The El Salvador Constitution prohibits political activities by foreign nationals, and participation in demonstrations may result in detention and/or deportation. You should avoid large gatherings or demonstrations and exercise caution in public areas.

On 15 September 2021, San Salvador saw significant public protests over political issues; although the protests were peaceful and there were no injuries there was significant damage to property. On 31 January 2021 in San Salvador gunmen opened fire on activists from one of El Salvador’s main opposition parties, killing two people, and injuring five other people.

There are a number of potentially active volcanoes in El Salvador. You can get up to date information and advice about volcanic activity on the website of the Directorate General of Civil Protection (in Spanish). See Natural disasters

Although there is no recent history of terrorism in El Salvador, attacks can’t be ruled out. See Terrorism

You can contact the emergency services by calling 911.

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission.

If you would like to make the British Embassy in San Salvador aware of your presence in the country please email stay in contact El Salvador