Money in El Salvador: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping

El Salvador uses the US dollar for all transactions. ATMs dispense USD, and most cards work in hotels, larger restaurants and supermarkets. Carry $5‑$20 notes; $50/$100 bills are often rejected. Tipping is customary at about 10 % of the bill or $1‑$2 for guides and drivers.

The country officially adopted the US dollar in 2001; Bitcoin has legal status but is not required for payment. ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas, dispensing $20 and $50 notes (the latter may be scarce). Bank branches and currency exchange offices also sell USD.

Visa, Mastercard and American Express are accepted in most hotels, upscale restaurants and larger shops. Small eateries, street vendors and local markets usually prefer cash and may not have card terminals.

Tipping is not mandatory but expected for good service. In restaurants, leave roughly 10 % of the total bill; rounding up to the nearest dollar is common. For tour guides, drivers and porters, a tip of $1‑$2 per person per service is appropriate.

Bars and cafés often have a tip jar; adding a small amount is appreciated but not required.

US $50 and US $100 notes are frequently refused by small vendors; bring plenty of $5‑$20 bills.

ATMs may charge a small fee (≈$2‑$3) for foreign‑issued cards; check with your bank before travel.