£1 UYU 54.57
Today
12:54 am
-3h from you
Weather in Uruguay
Uruguay
24°
Clear sky
Wed
13
24
Thu
14
26
Fri
18
28
Sat
21
26
Sun
23
27
SPF level in Uruguay
Recommended: SPF 50+
Spring
SPF 50
Summer
SPF 50+
Autumn
SPF 50
Winter
SPF 30
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Uruguay
Tipping in Uruguay
Tipping is customary in Uruguay for various services. While not always explicitly included in the bill, it is appreciated for good service.
Restaurant
10% of the bill is standard, if service is not included. Check your bill, as some restaurants include a 'cubierto' or service charge.
Bar/Café
Rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is appreciated for good service.
Taxi
Rounding up the fare is common..
Hotel Porter
UYU 50-100 per bag is appropriate.
Hotel Housekeeper
UYU 50-100 per day is appreciated for good service.
Tour Guide
10% of the tour price is standard for a good tour.
Safety in Uruguay
Tips for British travellers
Uruguay is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Take care when swimming at the beach and observe the coloured flag warnings displayed, such as red for danger and yellow for caution.
Be vigilant in Montevideo against bag-snatching, pickpocketing, and muggings, especially at night or in isolated areas.
Always lock your car and do not leave any valuables, luggage, or personal documents visible inside, as thieves often break in.
Be aware that drink-driving is a serious offence, and you can face a fine, driving suspension, or imprisonment if found with any alcohol in your system.
It is illegal to smoke, including e-cigarettes, in enclosed public places such as restaurants, shopping centres, and cinemas.
Bonus tips:
You can use a UK photocard driving licence for the first 90 days, but rental companies often require an International Driving Permit and 2 years of experience.
Do not attempt to buy, grow, or use marijuana as it is illegal for tourists, even though it is legal for registered residents.
Driving in Uruguay
A UK driving license is generally accepted for short visits. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
110 km/h
Urban speed limit
45 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Remember: Uruguay drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
911
Save 911 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Uruguay
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type C, Type F, Type L
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Uruguay operates on 230V at 50Hz. Plugs types C, F and L are used. British travelers will need a plug adapter.
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Uruguay, especially in major cities, tourist areas, and larger establishments. However, smaller businesses or rural areas may prefer cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +13039671096
ATMs in Uruguay
ATMs are readily available in urban areas, especially in Montevideo and other tourist destinations. Availability may be limited in rural areas.
Local name
Cajero automático
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are a convenient way to withdraw UYU. Ensure your card is chip and PIN enabled. Some ATMs may charge a fee for withdrawals.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming regulations no longer apply to UK mobile users. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in Uruguay. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for potentially cheaper rates.
Local SIM data package
5GB for 300 UYU (~£7)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
Antel, Movistar, Claro
WiFi & internet
Wi-Fi is available in many hotels, restaurants, cafes, and public spaces, particularly in urban areas. Connection quality can vary.
Average speed
25 Mbps
Free Wi-Fi is becoming more common in Uruguay's cities. However, it's always good to check with establishments about Wi-Fi availability and reliability.
Health & vaccinations in Uruguay
It is important to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, before travelling to Uruguay. Ensure your policy covers all planned activities.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
While Uruguay generally has good sanitation, it's advisable to consult your doctor regarding recommended vaccinations and health precautions before travelling. Drink bottled water and be cautious with street food. Medical facilities are generally good in Montevideo, but may be limited in rural areas.
Calling Uruguay
Country code
+598
To call Uruguay from the UK, dial 00 598 followed by the local number.
To call a Montevideo landline, you would dial 00 598 2 xxx xxxx.
The country code for Uruguay is 598. When calling Uruguay from abroad, dial your country's exit code, followed by 598 and then the local number.
UK Embassy in Uruguay
British Embassy Montevideo
Calle Marco Bruto 1073, 11300 Montevideo, Uruguay
Airport in Uruguay
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.