The U.S. State Department has reissued a travel advisory for the Central American nation of El Salvador due to crime.

The advisory, which is at Level 2, means travelers should “exercise increased caution” when making their way through the country.

The alert warns U.S. government employees to travel throughout the country only during daylight hours and avoid using public buses and traveling between certain cities after dark.

Some exceptions are allowed, however, including:

• the route between San Salvador and El Salvador’s international airport
• between San Salvador and La Libertad

Due to the increase in gang homicides, the government of El Salvador created a “State of Exception” in March 2022 that is still enforced today.

The “State of Exception” allows local law enforcement to arrest anyone suspected of gang activity.

Because of this, criminal procedure and the right to a fair or trial are not guaranteed, and some Americans and other foreigners are still imprisoned due to this measure.

The State Department recommends Americans take the following precautions before traveling to El Salvador:

• Use major highways and roads and minimize travel outside metropolitan areas after dark.
• Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol. El Salvador’s “zero tolerance” policy on drinking any level of alcohol before getting behind the wheel can result in detention.
• Stay aware of your surroundings.
• When possible, travel in pairs or in groups, especially for long trips and in rural places.
• Don’t become completely dependent on web-based mapping applications; they may not reflect local road conditions.
• Don’t hitchhike.
• Ensure you have multiple forms of communication when traveling and the ability to charge your devices.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Stay alert when visiting banks or ATMs.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
• Engage local guides certified by the national or local tourist authority when hiking in backcountry areas. 
• Be careful when swimming near El Salvador’s beaches.

You can find more safety tips to use while traveling in El Salvador here.