£1 US$1.34
Today
9:57 pm
-6h from you
Weather in El Salvador
El Salvador
34°
Overcast
Wed
19
34
Thu
20
34
Fri
21
33
Sat
21
33
Sun
20
33
SPF level in El Salvador
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around El Salvador
Tipping in El Salvador
Tipping is appreciated in El Salvador for good service, but it is not always expected. A service charge is sometimes included in restaurant bills, so check before adding a tip.
Restaurant
10-15% if not already included
Bar/Café
5-10% or round up
Taxi
Round up or 5-10%
Hotel Porter
USD 1-2 per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
USD 1-2 per night
Tour Guide
10-15%
Safety in El Salvador
Tips for British travellers
El Salvador is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Avoid walking alone or on remote trails, and take extra care in deprived areas of towns and cities.
Only use reputable taxi companies and avoid unofficial taxis due to the small risk of kidnapping.
Carry a copy of the photo page of your passport as ID, as police may detain you if they suspect you are a gang member.
Withdraw money from ATMs in shopping centres and do not withdraw large amounts of cash at night.
Avoid swimming on isolated beaches, especially after consuming alcohol, due to strong undertows and a lack of lifeguards.
Bonus tips:
Bring US dollars in smaller denominations, as many smaller shops and restaurants do not accept 50 and 100 dollar notes.
If driving, stick to main roads and avoid unsurfaced roads, and always lock your doors and keep windows closed.
Driving in El Salvador
A valid UK driving license is accepted for a short visit. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
100 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Remember: El Salvador drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
911
Save 911 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in El Salvador
Voltage
115V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B
UK adapter needed?
Yes
The voltage in El Salvador is 115V, which is different from the UK's 230V. The standard frequency is 60Hz. Plugs used are Type A and Type B. British travellers will need a voltage converter and plug adapter to use their appliances.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are accepted in many businesses in major cities and tourist areas. Smaller establishments may only accept cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1 303 967 1096
ATMs in El Salvador
ATMs are available in major cities and tourist areas, but may be less common in rural areas.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are a convenient way to withdraw cash. Ensure your card is chip and PIN enabled. It is advisable to use ATMs at reputable banks.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, the EU 'roam like at home' policy no longer applies to UK mobile users. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in El Salvador. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for potentially cheaper rates.
Local SIM data package
5GB for 100 SVC (~£9)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
Claro, Tigo
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, restaurants, and cafes, especially in tourist areas. Coverage may be limited in more rural areas.
Average speed
25 Mbps
Internet access is generally available in urban areas and tourist hotspots. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for more reliable mobile data.
Health & vaccinations in El Salvador
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, as health facilities may be limited, particularly outside major cities. Check that your policy covers all activities you plan to undertake.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
It's recommended to consult your GP or a travel health clinic for personalized advice on vaccinations and preventative measures. Dengue fever and Zika virus are present in El Salvador, so take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Tap water is not generally safe to drink; opt for bottled water. Food hygiene standards may vary, so exercise caution when eating from street vendors.
Calling El Salvador
Country code
+503
00 503 [local number]
00 503 7070 7070
To call El Salvador from the UK, dial 00 (the UK exit code), then 503 (El Salvador's country code), followed by the local number. El Salvador does not have area codes; all numbers are 8 digits long.
UK Embassy in El Salvador
British Embassy San Salvador
Edificio Insigne, Colonia Escalón, San Salvador
Airport in El Salvador
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.