Uruguay

Uruguay is small, calm and one of the safest and most stable countries in South America, but also one of the most expensive. Uber and Cabify work in Montevideo and, in summer, in Punta del Este, and buses connect every town from the Tres Cruces terminal. Keep in mind that the whole country seems to carry a thermos and mate under the arm, and that Sundays are very quiet.

Currency

Uruguayan peso (UYU). About 40 UYU = 1 US dollar (October 2026). US dollars are accepted in many hotels and in Punta del Este

Entry

US, Canada, UK, EU and Australia: no visa for stays up to 90 days

Language

Spanish (Rioplatense, with "vos" and an Italian accent)

Ride apps

Uber and Cabify in Montevideo; in Maldonado (Punta del Este) drivers must register with the city, and in high season there are few cars and big surge prices

Paying

Cards everywhere. Paying with a foreign card at restaurants and hotels can give you a VAT discount in the tourist season; check the receipt

Plugs

Types C, F and L, 220 V

Best time

December to March for the beaches; October, November and April for the cities without crowds