Uruguay

A small country with great treasures: peaceful beaches, famous vineyards and an authentic culture full of charm.

Les Essentials

Uruguay in detail

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Capital :

Montevideo

Area :

176 215 km²

Population :

3,5 Millions

Currency :

Uruguayan Peso (UYU) | 40 UYU = 1 USD

Language :

Spanish

Time difference :

GMT-3 in winter and GMT-2 in summer

Best seasons :

Décembre à mai

Uruguay

Practical info

Gastronomy

Uruguayan cuisine is heavily influenced by Spanish and Italian traditions. Signature dishes include asado (meat barbecue), chivito (a hearty meat sandwich), and empanadas. Mate, a drink made from yerba mate leaves, is very popular and an integral part of Uruguayan culture.

Embassy

Uruguay has embassies and consulates in several countries. https://embassies.net/uruguay-embassy

Crafts

Uruguayan handicrafts are distinguished by their leather products, textiles, and woolen items, including ponchos and blankets. The craft markets of Montevideo and Colonia del Sacramento are excellent places to discover and purchase these traditional products.

Credit cards

Bank cards are widely accepted throughout the country, including in small businesses. ATMs are readily available in urban and tourist areas. However, it is advisable to keep some cash on hand for purchases in smaller towns or markets.

Route selection

Uruguay offers many possibilities for itineraries, such as visiting Montevideo with its museums and colonial architecture, or Punta del Este, a popular seaside resort. Colonia del Sacramento, with its historic center declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also a must-see destination.

Climate

Uruguay enjoys a temperate climate, with warm summers and mild winters. Temperatures range from 10°C in winter to 28°C in summer. The country does not experience any climatic extremes, making it a pleasant destination all year round.

Electricity

Uruguay uses 230 volts of electricity with a frequency of 50 Hz. The sockets are mainly of type C, F, and L. It is advisable to check the compatibility of electrical devices before leaving and to bring an adapter if necessary.

Public holidays

Opening hours

Opening hours in Uruguay vary, but banks are generally open from 1pm to 5pm Monday through Friday. Shops are often open from 9am to 7pm, with an extended lunch break. Restaurants start serving dinner quite late, often after 8pm.

Internet

Internet access is widespread in major cities and tourist areas, with good Wi-Fi coverage in most hotels, cafes, and restaurants. Rural areas may have limited coverage.

Language

The official language of Uruguay is Spanish. English is sometimes understood in tourist areas, but it is useful to have some knowledge of Spanish to get around easily.

Money & Change

The official currency is the Uruguayan peso (UYU). ATMs are widely available, and currency can be exchanged at banks and exchange offices. US dollars are also accepted in some businesses.

Clothes

It is advisable to wear light clothing in summer, with extra layers for cooler evenings. In winter, warmer clothing is necessary, especially due to the humidity. For visiting the beach or the countryside, casual and comfortable clothing is recommended.

Taxis

Taxis are easy to find in major cities like Montevideo and Punta del Este. They usually use a meter. Uber is also available in major cities and can be a convenient option for getting around.

Health

Uruguay has a good health system, with well-equipped public and private hospitals. It is recommended to take out health insurance before traveling. No specific vaccinations are required, but it is advisable to be up to date with your basic vaccinations.

Security

Uruguay is one of the safest countries in Latin America. Security conditions have improved considerably in recent years. However, it is advisable to be careful with valuables and avoid walking alone at night.

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