El Salvador Joins UAE, Spain, India, China, South Africa, Turkey, Denmark, Italy, Saudi Arabia, and Seventy More Countries on US Advisory List as Travelers Are Urged to Exercise Increased Caution : New Updates You Need to Know – Travel And Tour World

Sunday, February 16, 2025
El Salvador has officially joined UAE, Spain, India, China, South Africa, Turkey, Denmark, Italy, Saudi Arabia, and 70 more countries on the U.S. Travel Advisory List, with the State Department urging travelers to exercise increased caution. The advisory, which places El Salvador under Level 2, warns of security risks, crime, and ongoing safety concerns, reinforcing the need for travelers to stay alert and follow recommended precautions. This latest update highlights key travel restrictions, safety measures, and important considerations for those planning to visit the country.
El Salvador now joins United Arab Emirates (UAE), Spain, India, China, South Africa, Turkey, Denmark, Italy, Saudi Arabia, and 70 other nations under this advisory, which warns travelers about potential risks, including crime, political instability, and other security concerns.

Why El Salvador Is on the Travel Advisory List

The advisory is due to high crime rates and security concerns, with particular emphasis on gang-related violence. The U.S. government has issued strict travel guidelines for its employees, recommending:

Travel only during daylight hours
Avoid using public buses
Refrain from traveling between certain cities after dark

However, exceptions apply to specific routes, such as:

The road between San Salvador and El Salvador’s international airport
The route between San Salvador and La Libertad

“State of Exception” and Its Impact on Travelers

Since March 2022, the El Salvadoran government has enforced a “State of Exception”, allowing law enforcement to arrest individuals suspected of gang activity without a warrant. While this has significantly reduced gang-related crimes, it has also led to:

Detainment of some American and foreign travelers
Suspended legal rights, including due process
Concerns about wrongful arrests and indefinite detention

Safety Recommendations for Travelers to El Salvador

The U.S. State Department urges all travelers to exercise increased caution and follow these essential safety measures:

Use major highways and limit travel outside metropolitan areas after dark
Do not drink and drive – El Salvador enforces a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol
Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times
Travel in groups or pairs, especially in rural or remote locations
Do not rely solely on online maps, as local road conditions may differ
Avoid hitchhiking under any circumstances
Carry multiple forms of communication and backup power sources
Do not resist robbery attempts, as it can escalate violence
Be cautious at ATMs and banks to avoid theft
Avoid displaying valuable items, including expensive watches, jewelry, or electronics
Hire certified local guides when exploring backcountry areas
Exercise caution when swimming at beaches, as strong currents can be dangerous

Other Countries Under the Level 2 Travel Advisory

El Salvador is now among 80 countries under the Level 2 travel advisory, meaning travelers should take extra precautions while visiting. Some of the notable countries in this category include UAE, Spain, India, China, South Africa, Turkey, Denmark, Italy, and Saudi Arabia. This list also includes several nations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, each with its own unique safety concerns that travelers should be aware of before visiting.

Final Thoughts

If you are planning a trip to El Salvador or any of the 80 countries under the US Travel Advisory List, it is crucial to stay updated on local conditions, follow travel advisories, and prioritize safety at all times.

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