The Republic of Uruguay is a South American country washed by the Atlantic Ocean. It may seem as if nothing ever happens here: you rarely hear about Uruguay in the news, and looking at the people, you can never tell that they are preoccupied with anything. In the capital, Montevideo, as well as in many other cities and towns, it's always calm and comfortable, making you feel like the city is asleep. And don't be surprised if you feel like you're in a time-space continuum when you spot a gaucho (cowboy) on horseback. Uruguay has practically no ancient monuments, and you won't find many centuries-old traditions, but this Latin-American country can boast of its amazing modernity. There are constantly organized festivals where friendly locals will gladly offer you a glass of excellent wine.
Guide to Uruguay
Basic Information
Photos of Uruguay
Sights
Tours to Uruguay
Uruguay offers a serene and comfortable vacation experience, with warm summer weather when Europe is gripped by sweltering winter. Besides beach vacations, tourists flock to the country to partake in various festivals, including the renowned Uruguayan Carnival. The locals are known for their friendliness, making it a welcoming destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture.
The peak tourist season in Uruguay spans from December to February when summer is in full swing. For those looking to save money, visiting during the fall can be a more budget-friendly option, as the weather is not as hot, and ticket prices tend to be lower. Sightseeing tours covering South American capitals like Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay are highly popular among vacationers, with prices starting from $3500 per person for a 13-day tour excluding flights.
For independent travelers planning a 10-day trip to Montevideo, the cost can be approximately $1377 per person, comprising $928 for airfare and $449 for hotel accommodation. The tripmydream service can assist you in finding the best vacation options tailored to your preferences.
Where to go Uruguay
Tourists eager to explore the history and culture of Uruguay should start their journey in the capital, Montevideo. Strolling along the streets, you might feel like you've stepped back in time to the mid-20th century, with local cowboys known as gauchos on horseback adding to the ambiance. The second largest and oldest city in Uruguay is Colonia Del Sacramento.
The cities in the northern region, such as Salto and Paysandu, are renowned for their vibrant and colorful culture, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the local way of life. For nature enthusiasts, the central region of the country, including places like Durazno and Trinidad, boasts numerous fields, meadows, orange groves, and stunning nature reserves.
The southern region of Uruguay is famous for its excellent beach resorts. Among the most popular ones are Piriapolis, La Barra, and Punta del Este. Punta del Este, in particular, transforms into a bustling hub during the summer, attracting thousands of tourists to its South American Cote d'Azur. Here, days are spent basking under the warm sun, while nights come alive with a plethora of entertainment options to cater to even the most affluent visitors.
When to go Uruguay
Spring in Uruguay
Uruguay in summer
Autumn in Uruguay
Uruguayan winter
Usefulness
Visa to Uruguay
Only a passport is required to cross the border. The period of stay in the country - no more than 30 days.
At the border control, you may be asked to confirm the purpose of your trip (invitation, hotel reservation, return ticket, etc.).
Customs & Tax Free
Import and export of national currency is not limited.
Prohibited for import: fruits and vegetables, flowers and plants, perishable products, meat and fish.
It is not allowed to export and import: drugs, weapons, animal skins, medicines, pornographic materials.
The import of pets is allowed in the presence of a veterinary certificate.
Travel by car
If you rent a car, you can drive around the whole coast in a couple of days. The roads in the country are in good condition.
Rental points are available at airports, train stations and large hotels. The average cost of rental - from 50 dollars per day.
Conditions for renting a car:
- age - not less than 23 years;
- driving experience - from 2 years.
- deposit amount in cash or on a card (about 1000 dollars).
Phrasebook for tourists
Popular Phrases:
Buenas dias - Good morning.
Buenas tardes - Good evening.
Adios - Goodbye.
Gracias - Thank you.
Por Favor - You're welcome.
Ci - Yes. But - No.
Vale - Okay, all right.
Public transport and prices
Buses are the most comfortable and economical form of public transportation. You can get from the capital to almost any city in the country up to 5 hours on the road.
Functioning trains in the country are used mainly for freight transportation.
The fare in the capital, Montevideo, is about 3 pesos. The price depends on the type of bus (regular or express).
Events
Late February - early March - Uruguayan Carnival.
Early March - Gaucho Festival in Tacuarembo.
Late March - early April - Tourism Week.
June 19 - Birthday of the folk hero Jose Artigas.
August 25 - Independence Day.
October 12 - Day of the Discovery of America.
