What are the best travel insurances for El Salvador in 2025?
- The best travel insurance plans for El Salvador
- Is it currently safe to travel to El Salvador?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter El Salvador?
- Why take out travel insurance for El Salvador?
- What Travel Insurance for El Salvador Should Cover
- The cost of travel insurance for El Salvador
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to El Salvador
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in El Salvador?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for El Salvador: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for El Salvador covers medical emergencies, repatriation, and other unexpected travel-related issues.
2. Warning: The U.S. Department of State advises to reconsider travel to El Salvador due to high crime rates.
3. Key protection: Travel insurance is not mandatory but highly recommended due to potential medical and security risks.
4. Healthcare cost: Private medical care is costly, with a hospital night often costing several hundred U.S. dollars.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for El Salvador typically costs between $30 and $60.
6. Good to know: Ensure your policy includes robust medical evacuation coverage to the U.S. for serious emergencies.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for El Salvador.
The best travel insurance plans for El Salvador
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | Recommended for comprehensive protection in El Salvador, especially for emergencies. - high medical ceiling - repatriation included - detailed guarantees |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | Good choice for most trips, especially group travel and night-time risks. - 24/7 medical support - cancellation protection - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | $0.55M | Practical for tourism and city-based stays in El Salvador. - solid medical cover - emergency assistance - competitive pricing |
| Travel Pass Monde | $0.77M | Balanced policy for travelers needing broad protection. - repatriation - hospitalization included - flexible reimbursement ceiling |
| Globe Partner | $0.33M | Suitable for frequent or long-term travelers to El Salvador. - medical emergencies covered - liability included - streamlined claims |
| Globe Traveller | $0.55M | Effective for short visits or low-risk trips around El Salvador. - essential medical cover - quick reimbursements - capped benefit |
- high medical ceiling
- repatriation included
- detailed guarantees
- 24/7 medical support
- cancellation protection
- no deductible
- solid medical cover
- emergency assistance
- competitive pricing
- repatriation
- hospitalization included
- flexible reimbursement ceiling
- medical emergencies covered
- liability included
- streamlined claims
- essential medical cover
- quick reimbursements
- capped benefit
Is it currently safe to travel to El Salvador?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State has set a Level 1 advisory for El Salvador, indicating travelers should exercise normal precautions. The security situation has improved significantly, with a marked drop in gang-related crime, though a state of exception still allows authorities broad arrest powers.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: crime rates have fallen, but travelers should avoid isolated areas and avoid driving or traveling between cities at night. For example, travel on major highways only and do not display valuables in public.
- Health risks: some infectious diseases such as dengue and chikungunya are present. Access to quality medical care is better in San Salvador but limited in rural regions, making travel health insurance important.
- Legal requirements: the ongoing state of exception suspends some legal rights, so travelers can be detained for minor infractions, including nonviolent offenses or failure to comply with police instructions.
- Cultural norms: any alcohol in the bloodstream while driving leads to immediate detention. U.S. citizens should also avoid protesting or joining large gatherings, as these may be monitored.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in El Salvador.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter El Salvador?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for U.S. citizens to enter El Salvador.
Travel insurance is still strongly recommended. Medical care in San Salvador is available, but access outside the capital is limited and emergency medical evacuation can be expensive. Insurance ensures coverage for unexpected health issues, accidents, or disruptions during your stay.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to El Salvador due to concerns over the cost of emergency healthcare, risk of tropical diseases, and the need for support in case of legal or travel complications.
Why take out travel insurance for El Salvador?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to El Salvador.
Foreign travelers in El Salvador often rely on private hospitals in San Salvador, such as Hospital de Diagnóstico or Hospital Centro Médico, as public hospitals may lack modern facilities or English-speaking staff. Medical care outside the capital is limited, and emergencies or serious illnesses can lead to significant expenses or the need for evacuation to the US.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the US if necessary.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in El Salvador.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Hospital de Diagnóstico (USD) | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | $1,200 | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | $900 | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | $18,000 | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | $3,500 | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What Travel Insurance for El Salvador Should Cover
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for El Salvador.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Pays for doctor visits, emergency treatment, and hospital stays if you fall ill or are injured. It is best to have at least $75,000 in total medical coverage. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation | Covers emergency transport to a hospital or repatriation to the US. We recommend a reimbursement limit of $150,000 due to distance and limited care outside major cities. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Protects prepaid trip costs if canceled for specific insured reasons like illness or natural disaster. A minimum of $2,000 per person is suggested. |
| 🛄 Baggage loss/delay | Pays for lost or delayed baggage and essentials if your luggage is delayed, lost, or stolen. Choose at least $1,000 of coverage per traveler. |
| 🦷 Emergency dental care | Covers urgent dental care for pain or accidental injury. A limit of $750 should be adequate for most situations. |
| 🧑⚖️ Personal liability | Covers accidental injury or property damage you may cause to others. A recommended minimum is $50,000 in personal liability coverage. |
| 🏠 24/7 assistance services | Provides emergency assistance, translation, and support. Opt for a policy that offers English-language assistance and quick response. |
| ⛷️ Sports/adventure coverage | Needed for activities like surfing or hiking. Check for exclusions and add coverage if planning extreme sports. |
It is best to have at least $75,000 in total medical coverage.
We recommend a reimbursement limit of $150,000 due to distance and limited care outside major cities.
A minimum of $2,000 per person is suggested.
Choose at least $1,000 of coverage per traveler.
A limit of $750 should be adequate for most situations.
A recommended minimum is $50,000 in personal liability coverage.
Opt for a policy that offers English-language assistance and quick response.
Check for exclusions and add coverage if planning extreme sports.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards typically comes with lower coverage limits and more exclusions. It is much safer to choose a major insurer with complete benefits. Compare top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant proof of coverage.
The cost of travel insurance for El Salvador
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $16 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $29 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $41 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $92 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance policy will vary. Key factors include: your age, the duration of your stay, your destination, the coverage amount, and any optional add-ons like a cancellation waiver. Keeping these elements in mind is essential to select the right plan that fits your needs and budget for your trip.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to El Salvador
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to El Salvador while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🧳 Trip duration | The number of travel days directly impacts the final insurance premium you pay. | Set the coverage to match your exact travel dates to avoid paying for unnecessary days. |
| 🎒 Level of coverage | Medical costs in El Salvador can vary, especially outside San Salvador. | Choose coverage limits based on actual local medical costs, not on the highest amounts available. |
| 🧑🤝🧑 Number of travelers | Group or family policies can lower the per-person rate compared to solo plans. | Opt for a family or group policy if possible to benefit from bulk pricing advantages. |
| 👨🎓 Traveller's age | Age can significantly affect pricing, with higher premiums for seniors. | Compare several insurers and remember Heymondo does not increase rates for people over 62 years old. |
| 🏄♂️ Activities covered | Sports or adventure activities might make your insurance cost more. | Only add coverage for specific activities if you truly plan to participate in them while in El Salvador. |
| 💲 Deductible amount | Higher deductible levels usually result in lower overall policy costs. | Select a higher deductible only if you are prepared to pay more out-of-pocket in the event of a claim. |
| 🌍 Travel region covered | Multi-country coverage costs extra. Select only El Salvador to limit price. | Choose single-country coverage focused on El Salvador unless you will visit nearby countries as well. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in El Salvador?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage—such as credit card insurance or your health plan—can protect you during a trip to El Salvador. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient, especially in terms of medical emergencies or serious incidents abroad. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in El Salvador? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage outside the US. No reimbursement for medical costs or hospitalization in El Salvador. | Travel insurance covers up to $1,000,000 for medical care and evacuation abroad. |
| Private health insurance (Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna) | Yes, partly | Some offer limited reimbursement abroad, usually $25,000–$50,000. No guaranteed assistance or evacuation. | Travel insurance can provide $500,000+ emergency coverage, including evacuation. |
| Classic credit card (Chase Freedom, Citi Simplicity, Capital One Platinum) | Yes, partly | Limited medical expenses, rarely more than $2,500. Does not cover baggage loss or trip cancellation. | Travel insurance covers medical, luggage, and cancellation, up to $500,000. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Capital One Venture X) | Yes, partly | Medical coverage up to $100,000, some trip and baggage protection. No 24/7 assistance guarantee. | Travel insurance can cover up to $1,000,000 and provide continuous worldwide support. |
Example
After a bad surfing accident in El Tunco, David's emergency surgery for a broken femur cost $18,000. His US health insurance considered the hospital out-of-network, covering nothing. His Chase Sapphire card's travel insurance only paid $2,000, leaving him with a staggering $16,000 bill for his Salvadoran surf trip.
Expert advice
Always review the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption for a relative’s illness, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to purchase dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to El Salvador?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays of less than 90 days in El Salvador. You must have a valid U.S. passport and, upon arrival, purchase a tourist card for $12. This tourist card is valid for up to 180 days, depending on your passport validity. If your stay exceeds 90 days, confirm further requirements in advance.
How do I purchase travel insurance for El Salvador?
First, compare policies by using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Next, check for coverage and any exclusions specific to El Salvador, including limits on emergency medical or evacuation. Then, complete your purchase securely online. You will receive your insurance certificate by email to keep for your travels.
Are hospitals and medical care easily accessible in El Salvador?
Medical care is widely available in San Salvador but is limited outside urban areas. Emergency services may require upfront payment, and quality of care can differ from U.S. standards. Travel insurance ensures arrangements and payment for necessary treatment, especially in emergencies or for medical evacuation to the United States.
Can I get reimbursed for lost or stolen belongings in El Salvador?
Most travel insurance plans provide reimbursement for lost, stolen, or damaged belongings including luggage, electronics, and travel documents. Policy limits typically range from $500 to $2,500 per item. You must file a police report locally and submit proper documentation to your insurer in order to make a claim.
Are adventure sports and outdoor activities covered in El Salvador?
Standard insurance plans may not cover injuries from high-risk activities such as surfing, hiking volcanoes, or ziplining unless these are listed policy benefits. If you plan to participate in these activities, check if the policy lets you add adventure sports coverage, which is often available for an extra premium.
What should I do in case of a travel emergency in El Salvador?
If you encounter a medical or security emergency, call local authorities first. For medical issues, seek care at the nearest hospital. Contact your insurer’s emergency assistance number listed on your certificate for help with translation, referrals, or transport arrangements. Enrolling in STEP can also provide important updates and alerts during your trip.
Do I need a visa to travel to El Salvador?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays of less than 90 days in El Salvador. You must have a valid U.S. passport and, upon arrival, purchase a tourist card for $12. This tourist card is valid for up to 180 days, depending on your passport validity. If your stay exceeds 90 days, confirm further requirements in advance.
How do I purchase travel insurance for El Salvador?
First, compare policies by using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Next, check for coverage and any exclusions specific to El Salvador, including limits on emergency medical or evacuation. Then, complete your purchase securely online. You will receive your insurance certificate by email to keep for your travels.
Are hospitals and medical care easily accessible in El Salvador?
Medical care is widely available in San Salvador but is limited outside urban areas. Emergency services may require upfront payment, and quality of care can differ from U.S. standards. Travel insurance ensures arrangements and payment for necessary treatment, especially in emergencies or for medical evacuation to the United States.
Can I get reimbursed for lost or stolen belongings in El Salvador?
Most travel insurance plans provide reimbursement for lost, stolen, or damaged belongings including luggage, electronics, and travel documents. Policy limits typically range from $500 to $2,500 per item. You must file a police report locally and submit proper documentation to your insurer in order to make a claim.
Are adventure sports and outdoor activities covered in El Salvador?
Standard insurance plans may not cover injuries from high-risk activities such as surfing, hiking volcanoes, or ziplining unless these are listed policy benefits. If you plan to participate in these activities, check if the policy lets you add adventure sports coverage, which is often available for an extra premium.
What should I do in case of a travel emergency in El Salvador?
If you encounter a medical or security emergency, call local authorities first. For medical issues, seek care at the nearest hospital. Contact your insurer’s emergency assistance number listed on your certificate for help with translation, referrals, or transport arrangements. Enrolling in STEP can also provide important updates and alerts during your trip.
