El Salvador

Les Essentials

El Salvador in detail

Some information relevant to the country El Salvador.

Capital :
San Salvador
Area :
21 041 km²
Population :
6,5 Millions
Currency :
Dollar Américain (USD)
Language :
Spanish
Time difference :
GMT-6
Best seasons :
November to April
El Salvador Placeholder
El Salvador

Practical info

Find out more about your dream destination. You'll find all the practical information you need to make sure you don't get lost on your first trip.

Gastronomy

Salvadoran cuisine is best known for pupusas, a type of corn tortilla usually stuffed with cheese, beans, or meat. Other popular dishes include yuca frita (fried cassava), tamales, and sopa de pata

Embassy

El Salvador dispose d'ambassades et de consulats dans de nombreux pays. https://embassies.net/el-salvador-embassy

Crafts

Salvadoran handicrafts are rich and varied, with typical products such as colorful textiles, pottery, handmade hammocks, and naive paintings. Artisan markets, such as the one in La Libertad, are great places to buy these items.

Credit cards

International credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas. However, in rural areas, it is advisable to have cash, as access to banking services can be limited.

Route selection

El Salvador offers many interesting itineraries, such as the Ruta de las Flores, known for its picturesque villages and flower-filled landscapes. Cerro Verde National Park, the Izalco Volcano, and the beaches of the Pacific coast are also popular destinations.

Climate

The climate in El Salvador is tropical, with a dry season from November to April and a rainy season from May to October. Temperatures are relatively constant throughout the year, ranging from 25°C to 32°C.

Electricity

Electricity in El Salvador is 120 volts, with a frequency of 60 Hz. Plugs are type A and B, similar to those used in the United States.

Public holidays

Major holidays include New Year's Day (January 1), Holy Week (varies), Independence Day (September 15), and Christmas (December 25). There are also local holidays that fall around religious holidays.

Opening hours

Opening hours vary, but banks are generally open from 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday. Shops are open from 8am to 7pm, and restaurants are open from 11am to 10pm. Hours may be reduced on Sundays and public holidays.

Internet

Internet access is widespread in major cities and tourist areas. Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer Wi-Fi. However, in rural areas, coverage may be limited.

Language

The official language of El Salvador is Spanish. Although English is understood in tourist areas, it is not widely spoken in rural areas.

Money & Change

The official currency is the US dollar (USD), adopted in 2001. ATMs are readily available in cities, but it is advisable to have small denominations for transactions in rural areas.

Clothes

Light clothing is recommended due to the warm climate. A raincoat may be necessary during the rainy season. For excursions to the mountains or volcanoes, warmer clothing and hiking shoes are recommended.

Taxis

Taxis are common in larger cities such as San Salvador. It is advisable to agree on a price in advance, as they are generally not metered. Uber is also available in major urban areas.

Health

It is recommended to have health insurance that covers medical expenses abroad. Public hospitals can be overcrowded, so it is best to seek urgent care at private clinics. Vaccinations against hepatitis A and typhoid are also recommended.

Security

Safety conditions in El Salvador have improved significantly in recent years, thanks in part to government efforts. However, caution is still recommended, especially with valuables and when traveling at night. It is advisable to stay informed about safety advice and follow the instructions of local authorities.
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