Entry Requirements
Visa requirements for Uruguay depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.
Check if you need a visa for UruguayEmergency Numbers
- General
- 911
Currency
- Name
- Uruguayan Peso
- Code
- UYU
- Symbol
- $U
ATMs widespread. USD widely accepted in tourist areas and Punta del Este. Cards accepted in most restaurants, hotels, and shops. Bring some cash for smaller towns.
Power Outlets
- Outlet types
- Type C, Type F, Type L
- Voltage
- 230V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
Time Zone
UYT (UTC−3) — no daylight saving
Best Time to Visit
December–March is summer in the Southern Hemisphere — perfect for beaches in Punta del Este and La Pedrera. Carnival (Montevideo, late January–early February) is world-class. June–August is mild but cooler; ideal for Colonia and city sightseeing.
Tipping Customs
| Venue | Typical | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10% | A 10% cover charge (cubierto) for bread is common — this is not a tip. Add 10% on the total for service. |
| Taxis | Round up | Cabify and Uber operate in Montevideo |
| Hotels | $1–2 USD for porters | — |
| Paradores (rural guesthouses) | $5–10 UYU per service | — |
Dress Code
- Very casual — Uruguayans dress practically
- Smart casual in Montevideo's better restaurants
- Beach attire at Punta del Este and Atlantic coast beaches
- Modest dress in churches
Social Etiquette
- Uruguay is one of Latin America's most secular and progressive countries — LGBTQ+ marriage has been legal since 2013
- Mate (a shared herbal drink) is the national pastime — if offered, drink it all without swirling the straw; pass the gourd back
- Asado (barbecue) is serious — Uruguayan beef is world-class. Accept every invitation
- Uruguayans are thoughtful and intellectual — political conversations are welcome and direct
- Greet with a kiss on the right cheek
Local Laws
Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.
- Cannabis is legal in Uruguay for residents; tourists can now purchase at licensed pharmacies — check current rules as this evolves
- LGBTQ+ rights are among the most advanced in South America
- Helmet laws are enforced for motorcycles and bicycles
- Road toll roads operate throughout the country — keep coins or a TAG card (available at petrol stations)
Common Phrases
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | Hola / Buenas | OH-lah / BWEH-nahs |
| Thank you | Gracias | GRAH-syahs |
| How are you? | ¿Cómo andás? | KOH-moh ahn-DAHS (Uruguayan Spanish) |
| Mate tea (the drink) | El mate | el MAH-teh — accept and drink the whole gourd |
| Cheers! | ¡Salud! | sah-LOOD |
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