Embassy of El Salvador in Ottawa, Canada; address 209 Kent Street, K2P 1Z8, Ottawa; phone +6132382939. Head of mission: Cindy Mariella Portal de Acosta.…
Frequently asked questions
How attractive is El Salvador as a destination for visitors from Canada?
El Salvador offers a unique combination of cultural richness and natural beauty, making it an appealing destination for some Canadian travelers. With around 1.2 million foreign visitors annually, the country showcases diverse attractions, including stunning coastlines and lively cultural festivals. Given that 5 million Canadians travel abroad each year, a portion may find El Salvador an interesting option to explore.
Please answer the following question: How safe is El Salvador for tourists coming from Canada?
El Salvador presents certain safety concerns for tourists, particularly when compared to Canada. According to the Global Peace Index, El Salvador is ranked 105th out of 160 countries, while Canada ranks much higher at 11th.
The murder rate in El Salvador is significantly higher, with 18.2 murders per 100,000 people, compared to Canada's rate of 2.1. Additionally, female murder rates are also concerning, with El Salvador at 4.0 per 100,000, versus Canada's 1.0.
In terms of organized crime, El Salvador scores poorly on various indices. For instance, it has a mafia group index of 9.5 (with 1 being best), compared to Canada's 5.0. Other areas of concern include crime networks (El Salvador 6.5 vs. Canada 4.0), state crime (7.0 vs. 2.0), and human trafficking (7.0 vs. 3.5).
While many tourists visit El Salvador without incident, it is advisable for Canadian travelers to remain vigilant, stay informed about local conditions, and take necessary precautions.