El Salvador has been considered by many to be the most dangerous country in the world for many years. For decades, gangs controlled almost the entire territory, leaving citizens and businesses in a constant state of fear. However, things changed dramatically a few years ago, and the same can no longer be said.
Tired of the high level of crime and murder, Salvadorans elected Nayib Bukele, who promised radical reforms and a zero-tolerance policy toward gangs. The result? Prisons are packed with gangsters, and Bukele has the highest approval rating in the world.
I recently visited El Salvador and can definitely state that the country is on the path of progress. How safe is El Salvador now, though, and what should travellers and expats consider? In this article, we explore whether it’s safe to travel to El Salvador and some key details you need to plan your visit.
To understand how safe El Salvador is to visit today, we must reflect on its conflictive past. The country suffered from a civil war between 1980 and 1992 that resulted in around 75,000 deaths and the migration of thousands of citizens, mainly to the United States. The conflict ended with the Chapultepec Peace Accords, but violence persisted in the form of powerful gangs (maras) like MS-13.
From that moment, El Salvador earned the title of murder capital of the world, with over 100 homicides per 100,000 people. Gangs ruled the streets, extorting local businesses and pushing many Salvadorans to leave the country. But everything changed when Bukele took office.
Gangs that once controlled vast territories have been dismantled, and thanks to the government's strict anti-gang measures, public order has finally been restored
Fast-forward to today, El Salvador’s transformation is an example for the world. The former murder capital of the world has become a beacon of safety in the region, with crime rates dropping to record lows under Bukele. Gallup’s recent poll found that 88% of Salvadorans feel safe walking alone at night, surpassing countries like the U.S. and Canada in terms of public safety.
This transformation has put El Salvador ahead of its regional peers and made it one of the safest countries in the Western Hemisphere—to the point that, according to Statista, it has the lowest crime rate in Latin America.
The government’s strict anti-gang measures have been essential to restore public order. Gangs that used to control vast territories have been dismantled, with many of its members arrested and imprisoned. This level of security has improved the lives of Salvadorans and created a tourism boom in the last few years, as visitors and residents are increasingly confident that gangs won’t accost them at every corner.
In 2023 alone, El Salvador received 3.4 million visitors, bringing in $3.79 billion USD in revenue. The country’s success story has received considerable attention, setting an example for countries that aim to improve their challenging situations.
Related content: How You Can Apply For Residency In El Salvador
El Salvador still has a poverty rate above the average for Latin America and the Caribbean, leading some people to resort to petty crimes like theft to make a living
Even though El Salvador has made notable progress in terms of safety, you’ll still want to be aware of certain risks to enjoy your time there:
El Salvador’s poverty rate is still above the Latin American and Caribbean average, so some people resort to petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching to make a living. You’ll likely be one of their favourite targets as a tourist, especially if you are non-Latino. Protect your belongings, use anti-theft bags, and avoid displaying valuables like expensive jewellery to minimize risk.
Driving in El Salvador might be challenging if you’re unfamiliar with the country. Some roads, especially in rural areas, are poorly maintained, and traffic laws are not always strictly followed. Be mindful of aggressive drivers, speed bumps, and pedestrians crossing the road. If you prefer to take a taxi, discuss the fare in advance with the driver, and if you opt for a car-sharing app like Uber, check the driver’s identity before getting into the vehicle.
El Salvador is popular due to its beautiful beaches and abundant greenery, but there are also specific natural hazards to look out for:
Earthquakes: El Salvador is located in a seismically active region, so occasional earthquakes might occur. Be sure to familiarize yourself with emergency procedures.
Volcanic Activity: Some of El Salvador’s volcanoes, such as those of San Salvador and San Miguel, are active. Be aware of this if your accommodation is close to them or you visit national parks like Cerro Verde.
Rip Currents: The Pacific Coast is known for its beautiful beaches, but some rip currents are dangerous even for experienced swimmers. Only swim in designated areas and pay attention to local lifeguards.
El Salvador's progress is notable. Bukele's efforts to reduce violence show results, but the country has far to go. It's not ideal for offshore now, but worth watching its development
El Salvador’s progress is impressive, but as I discussed in a previous podcast episode, it’s not yet worth the hype. While Bukele’s efforts to eliminate the gangs are paying off, the country still has a long way to go due to its high taxes and burdensome regulations. It may not be the best offshore destination for now, but it is a place to watch.
Latin America has many countries you may want to call home. For instance, well-established nations like Panama offer a high standard of living and an attractive tax regime. If your ultimate goal is to relocate, Panama and other expat-friendly countries may be better choices.
How Safe Is El Salvador? Crime rates have dropped significantly, making it safer for visitors, but it’s not yet a top choice for a Plan-B. Keep an eye on its evolving potential
How safe is El Salvador these days? You’ll be happy to hear that the country has made incredible progress! Once known for its high crime rates, El Salvador has turned things around, becoming much safer for locals and visitors. Crime has dropped dramatically, people feel more secure, and tourism is booming. It’s a great sign that the country is heading in the right direction, making it an exciting and promising future. Just be sure to keep a little caution in mind.
As an expat consultant with years of experience, I wouldn’t recommend El Salvador as a Plan-B destination yet. The country still needs to make many improvements, but it is worth keeping an eye on its growth and ongoing changes. Many excellent options exist in other Latin American countries, such as Panama, Brazil, and Paraguay. If you don’t know where to start, subscribe to our newsletter and receive our free special report on “Plan-B Residencies and Instant Citizenship.”