If you’re wondering whether it’s safe to travel to El Salvador in 2025, you’re not alone. El Salvador has long been known as the murder capital of the world due to headlines about gang violence, political instability, and crime. But in recent years, that story has started to change. In fact, El Salvador is now becoming a rising destination for curious travelers seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty in a less-touristed part of Central America.
In this post, I’ll explore how safe it is to travel to El Salvador in 2025, what areas to avoid, what safety tips you should know, and how my trip shaped my view of the country. If you’re planning a visit, be sure to check out my El Salvador Travel Guide for everything you need to know—from where to stay and what to wear, to how to get around and my full 5-day itinerary. Together, these resources will help you feel confident, informed, and ready to enjoy the journey.
As of 2025, El Salvador is safer than it has been in decades, especially for tourists. The country has undergone major changes under President Nayib Bukele’s administration, including a massive crackdown on gang activity and crime. The result? Homicide rates have dropped dramatically, and tourism is steadily increasing.
However, like traveling anywhere in Central America—or the world, for that matter—safety depends on how you travel. Staying informed, using common sense, and following local advice are essential for a smooth and safe trip.
Crime Rates in 2025: The Shift in Safety
El Salvador has historically ranked among the most dangerous countries in the world due to gang violence and high homicide rates, particularly in urban and marginalized areas. However, things have changed rapidly.
Between 2021 and 2024, the government launched a controversial anti-gang campaign that resulted in tens of thousands of arrests. By 2025:
- Homicide rates have fallen to historic lows.
- Gang presence in tourist areas has largely disappeared.
- Public perception of safety among locals and visitors has improved dramatically.
This doesn’t mean crime is gone. Petty theft, pickpocketing, and isolated incidents still occur—especially in bus terminals or crowded markets—but violent crime affecting tourists is now rare.
Safe Places to Visit in El Salvador
Most travelers visit a handful of destinations that are widely considered safe and tourist-friendly:
San Salvador – Stick to neighborhoods like Zona Rosa, Escalón, and San Benito. These areas have upscale hotels, embassies, cafes, and art museums.
El Tunco & El Zonte – Popular beach towns on the Pacific Coast with strong surf culture and chill vibes.
Santa Ana – A colonial city with a beautiful cathedral and access to Santa Ana Volcano and Lake Coatepeque.
Suchitoto – A peaceful, artsy town with cobblestone streets and a vibrant local scene.
[INSERT PERSONAL EXPERIENCE PROMPT]
Mention a place where you felt especially safe or welcomed. Did locals go out of their way to help you? Was there a town or moment that completely flipped your expectations?Areas to Avoid
While most tourist hotspots are safe, it’s best to avoid certain areas where gang activity or poverty-related crime may still exist. Avoid traveling between cities at night, especially on rural roads where visibility is low and emergency services may be limited. Additionally, always ask your hotel staff or a trusted tour guide, or local before exploring new areas and which routes are reliable and secure.
Safety Tips for Traveling in El Salvador
Use Uber or private transport, especially in San Salvador. Uber is widely available in San Salvador and is a safer and more convenient alternative to taxis or buses, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the city. It’s affordable, reliable, and helps you avoid getting lost or ending up in an unsafe area.
Avoid flashy jewelry or valuables in public. Wearing expensive jewelry, designer bags, or flashing your phone or camera can make you a target for petty theft. It’s best to keep accessories minimal and carry only what you need when you’re out and about.
Keep your passport locked up and carry a copy. Your original passport should be stored securely in your hotel or accommodation safe. Carry a physical or digital copy with you when exploring—it’s sufficient for ID in most situations and protects you in case of loss or theft.
Don’t walk alone at night in unfamiliar areas. While some neighborhoods are well-lit and lively, others can be quiet and isolated after dark. Stick to busy, central areas or travel with others if you’re out at night, and use rideshare apps to get back to your hotel safely.
Use local guides for hikes, volcanoes, or off-the-path towns. Having a local guide not only enhances your understanding of the destination but also ensures your safety in remote or less-frequented areas. They know the terrain, can navigate unpredictable weather, and help you avoid risky situations. Guides are also required on many of the hikes because they cross on private property. It’s a very common for scam to get more money out of tourists along
Stay updated on the political climate and avoid demonstrations. Political protests and public gatherings can happen unexpectedly and may turn tense, even if they begin peacefully. It’s best to stay informed through local news or your embassy, and steer clear of any large demonstrations or roadblocks.
Get travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and theft. Travel insurance is essential for covering unexpected situations like illness, injury, or stolen belongings. Choose a plan that includes emergency medical evacuation and 24/7 assistance, especially if you plan on adventure activities like hiking or surfing.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a must when visiting El Salvador, especially if you’re planning outdoor adventures like volcano hikes or surfing. I personally use Safety Wing, which covers travelers in nearly every country in the world. It’s one of the few insurance providers that offers flexible, subscription-based plans, making it super budget-friendly—perfect if you’re traveling long-term or on the go. With 24/7 emergency assistance and coverage for both medical emergencies and theft, it gives me peace of mind wherever I am.
Get a quick quote for your travel dates 👇
Pros of SafetyWing Travel Insurance
- The monthly subscription model
- Can cover medical expenses when overseas
- Up to 2 children under 10 per family (1 per adult) free of charge
- Limited medical coverage in your home country
Cons of SafetyWing Travel Insurance
- Not as many travel insurance perks as other companies
- No coverage for personal electronics
Read this post The Best Travel Insurance for Every Type of Traveler for an in-depth review of the top 3 travel insurances.
Health & Emergency Services
El Salvador has both public and private hospitals. For travelers, private clinics or hospitals are the best choice, especially in case of emergencies. In tourist areas, pharmacies are well-stocked, and basic medical care is easy to access.
Pack any prescription medications
While pharmacies are common and well-stocked in El Salvador, it’s best to bring any necessary prescription medications with you, along with a copy of your prescription. Not all medications are available locally or may be sold under different names, so having your own supply ensures you won’t run into issues during your trip. Keep them in their original packaging and carry them in your hand luggage.
Avoid drinking tap water (stick to bottled)
Tap water in El Salvador is generally not recommended for drinking, especially for travelers who aren’t accustomed to it. To avoid stomach issues, stick to sealed bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Many accommodations and restaurants provide purified water, and you can also bring a portable water filter or purification tablets for extra peace of mind.
Stay hydrated
El Salvador has a warm, tropical climate, and staying hydrated is essential, especially if you’re spending time outdoors hiking volcanoes, exploring cities, or relaxing at the beach. Carry a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day, and take frequent sips, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can sneak up quickly in the heat and humidity.
Use sunscreen
The sun in El Salvador is strong year-round, and it’s easy to get sunburned—even on cloudy days. Apply a high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen before heading outside, and reapply regularly, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. Wearing a hat and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing can also help protect your skin during peak sun hours.
More Than Safe—Truly Welcomed in El Salvador
From the moment I stepped off the plane, I was greeted with warm smiles and a genuine sense of hospitality that stayed with me throughout the trip. Walking through the streets of the city, strangers would greet me with a cheerful “¡Hola!” or even shout, “Welcome to El Salvador!”—not out of formality, but from true kindness and pride in their country.
Even in more remote towns where English wasn’t widely spoken, the language barrier didn’t stop people from helping. If I ever looked unsure of where I was going, someone would quickly offer directions, pull out their phone to translate, or even walk with me to make sure I found the right spot. The warmth of the Salvadoran people was unforgettable—it truly made me feel like a welcomed guest rather than a tourist passing through.
