Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US State Department currently recommends US citizens exercise increased caution in Uruguay due to crime.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
For the latest passport and visa requirements for this country, please consult the U.S. State Department’s “Learn About Your Destination” search tool, available through the link below.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages.html
US Embassy/Consulate
+(598) 1770-2000; US Embassy Montevideo, Laura Muller 1776, Montevideo 11200, Uruguay; MontevideoACS@state.gov; https://uy.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
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, Protestant, African American cults/Umbanda, and other
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: Wednesday, June 26, 2024
