EL SALVADOR
Travel to Central America, El Salvador with a unique and flexible plan tailored just for you

Things you might be curious about when traveling to El Salvador.

Cash, cards and currency exchange

The US dollar is used as the official currency in El Salvador.
You can exchange money at local airports and banks, but it is recommended to exchange a certain amount before leaving Japan.
In 2021, El Salvador even adopted Bitcoin as legal tender, so digital payments are widespread and you can use credit cards for many transactions.
It's a good idea to carry some cash, especially when visiting markets and similar places.

Tips

Like in the United States, tipping is customary.
For porters and hotel room service, about one dollar is appropriate.
At restaurants and similar establishments, a tip of around 10% is standard.

Public order

Compared to some periods in the past, public safety in El Salvador is improving, but incidents involving gangs and similar groups still occur.
You need to be vigilant against theft, such as robbery, pickpocketing, and bag snatching.
It is recommended to stay at accommodations that meet a certain standard or above.

clothing

The climate is generally hot and humid throughout the year, so light clothing is sufficient. However, it can feel a bit cool at night, so it's a good idea to bring a light jacket.
Overall, casual clothing will help you blend in better. However, when visiting places like churches, please avoid wearing revealing outfits such as tank tops or shorts.

Things you should bring

Multi-plug adapter, regular medication, mobile battery, overseas travel insurance, sunblock and sun protection items

Visa availability and arrangements

For stays of up to 90 days for tourism or visiting acquaintances, you can enter El Salvador without obtaining a visa, thanks to the visa exemption agreement between Japan and El Salvador.
Additionally, there is a migration and movement agreement among four Central American countries (Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua). Foreign nationals who have legally entered any of these countries for short-term stays can usually travel to and stay in the other three countries for up to 90 days.

Required vaccinations

There are no mandatory requirements for travel.

However, travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever, or those who have transited for more than 12 hours in such countries and are over one year old, are required to present a yellow fever vaccination certificate (Yellow Card).
It is also recommended to get vaccinated against malaria before traveling.