Mexico & Central America
Money, cards and tipping in El Salvador
USDDollar
Money in El Salvador
Mixed: cards and cash The US dollar is the currency; bitcoin acceptance became voluntary in 2025 and is rare. Carry small bills: many shops refuse $50s and $100s.
Key facts
- Tipping: Restaurants usually add a 10% propina; it's voluntary but customary. Tip surf instructors and guides.
- ATMs: ATMs dispense US dollars; use machines inside malls or banks in daylight. Local fees vary by bank.
- Paying by phone: Contactless and Apple/Google Pay work in San Salvador chains and malls; cash elsewhere. Bitcoin only at a few places.
- Price level: about 41% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| El Tunco | Mixed: cards and cash | Dollars are the currency. Cards work at larger hotels and restaurants; cash for bars, buses, taxis and surf lessons. ATMs are scarce. |
| El Zonte | Mixed: cards and cash | Dollars are the currency. A few spots accept Bitcoin, but acceptance is voluntary and rare; cash is simplest, with cards at some hotels. |
| San Salvador | Mixed: cards and cash | Cards are accepted at malls, hotels and chain restaurants; use cash for markets, buses and street food. US dollars only. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in El Salvador?
Restaurants usually add a 10% propina; it's voluntary but customary. Tip surf instructors and guides.
Is El Salvador cashless?
Mixed: cards and cash. The US dollar is the currency; bitcoin acceptance became voluntary in 2025 and is rare. Carry small bills: many shops refuse $50s and $100s.
What currency does El Salvador use?
The Dollar (USD).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- GOV.UK foreign travel advice: El Salvador
- Government of Canada travel advice: El Salvador
- Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería
- Speedtest Global Index: El Salvador
- World Bank open data
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