Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise increased caution in Uruguay due to crime. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport is valid at the date of their entering the country. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa is not required as long as you do not stay in the country more than 90 days.
US Embassy/Consulate
+(598) 1770-2000; US Embassy Montevideo, Laura Muller 1776, Montevideo 11200, Uruguay; MontevideoACS@state.gov; https://uy.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
598
Local Emergency Phone
999, 911
Vaccinations
See WHO recommendations
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Warm temperate; freezing temperatures almost unknown
Currency (Code)
Uruguayan pesos (UYU)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
220 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, F, L
Major Languages
Spanish
Major Religions
Roman Catholic 47.1%, non-Catholic Christians 11.1%, nondenominational 23.2%, Jewish 0.3%, atheist or agnostic 17.2%
Time Difference
UTC-3 (2 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Yes
International Driving Permit
Suggested; additionally, if you plan to drive in Uruguay, you will need an Inter-American Driving Permit issued by the AAA
Road Driving Side
Right
Tourist Destinations
Montevideo; Colonia del Sacramento; Santa Teresa National Park; Punta del Diablo; Carmelo; Salto; Piriapolis
Major Sports
Soccer, basketball, rugby
Cultural Practices
Uruguayans stand very close when conversing (in both social and business settings), often touching shoulders and/or holding arms while talking. The North American "OK" sign (thumb and index finger in a circle) is considered very rude.
Tipping Guidelines
Tipping 10% is normal at restaurants. At an airport or hotel, tip the porter 20 pesos for baggage handling.
Souvenirs
Leather and suede goods, amethyst jewelry, woolen items
Traditional Cuisine
Chivito — a sandwich filled with slices of churrasco (grilled/roasted and thinly sliced beef), ham, bacon, tomatoes, lettuce, melted mozzarella, and a topping of fried (or sometimes boiled) eggs
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Tuesday, July 18, 2023
