dinero_admin The U.S. Embassy in El Salvador announced today the update of its Travel Alert from Level 2 to Level 1. This change recognizes the country’s sustained advances in citizen security and an overall improvement in security conditions. The statement notes that this upgrade represents “a significant step forward” for El Salvador on its path to stability.
According to the summary provided by the State Department, normal precautions should be exercised when traveling to El Salvador. Over the past three years, gang activity has decreased significantly, resulting in a significant drop in homicide and violent crime rates. This context has allowed greater freedom of movement for U.S. government employees during the day.
However, some restrictions remain. U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling between cities or departments during the night, except for travel between San Salvador and the international airport or the department of La Libertad. Also, the use of public buses remains prohibited due to security concerns.
The press release also reiterates that the State of Emergency declared by the salvadoran government in march 2022 remains in effect. This measure was implemented following a spike in gang-related homicides and allows arrests without warrants, suspending several constitutional rights. Tens of thousands of people, including U.S. citizens and other foreigners, remain detained without trial under this regime.
For those who decide to travel to El Salvador, the Embassy recommends taking precautionary measures such as using main roads, avoiding nighttime travel outside of urban areas, not consuming alcohol if driving, and remaining alert, especially when using ATMs or visiting banks. It is also advised to avoid showing signs of wealth and to have multiple forms of communication when traveling.
In the release, travelers are urged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), review the country’s security report and consult CDC pages for updated health information. The Embassy strongly recommends purchasing travel insurance that includes medical assistance and coverage for cancellation or evacuation in the event of an emergency.
