Travel Safety in Uruguay
Overview
Uruguay is generally safe. The main security risk to travellers is petty crime, which is a concern predominantly in Montevideo, and Punta del Este. There have also been reports of smash and grab robberies from cars stopped at traffic lights, as well as muggings and robberies (occasionally armed) in Uruguay’s major urban centres.
Express kidnapping (the short-term abduction of people with the objective of having them withdraw money from an ATM or taking their valuables) occasionally takes place in Montevideo.
Demonstrations regularly occur in this city and occasionally turn violent.
Currently, there is no major concern relating to conflict, kidnapping or terrorism in the country.
Medical facilities are of a good standard in Montevideo, but less adequate elsewhere.
Get a personalised travel risk assessment for Uruguay
Get your risk scores, find out whether it's safe to go, and learn how to reduce your risks.
Basic information
Medical:
911/999 (police, fire and ambulance). Operators may not speak English. Response times and services are likely to be poor.
Money:
The currency is the Uruguayan peso (UYU).
ATMs are widespread.
Credit cards are only accepted in some international hotels, restaurants and higher-end retailers.
Language:
The country's main language is Spanish. English is also spoken in major urban centres and tourist areas.
Water:
It is generally safe to drink tap water in major cities, but tap water in rural areas may not be safe to consume.
Connectivity:
3G, 4G and 5G available.