Uruguay
South America • URY
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Missing malaria information
Please consult authoritative sources below.
Uruguay is a welcoming South American nation known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy a mix of historic colonial architecture, vibrant urban life in Montevideo, and stunning beach resorts like Punta del Este.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many Western countries, including the US, Canada, and EU member states, do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
- Completed digital immigration form
Popular Attractions
Casapueblo is a unique, sculptural home and museum designed by Carlos Paez Vilaro, offering breathtaking views of the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.
Colonia del Sacramento is a charming UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved historic quarter and cobblestone streets.
Montevideo's Mercado del Puerto provides an authentic culinary experience where visitors can enjoy traditional Uruguayan parrilla and local wines.
Punta del Este is the country's most famous beach resort, featuring the iconic La Mano sculpture and a glamorous nightlife scene.
Cabo Polonio is a remote, off-the-grid coastal village accessible only by 4x4 vehicles, famous for its massive sea lion colony and tranquil nature.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Drinking mate is a national obsession; learn the basic etiquette, such as not touching the bombilla straw once the gourd is prepared.
Uruguayans typically greet friends and family with a single kiss on the right cheek, even between men.
Punctuality is often relaxed in social settings, so don't be surprised if hosts or friends arrive slightly after the scheduled time.
Dining times are late, with dinner often starting after 9:00 PM, reflecting the country's slow-paced lifestyle.
Always express gratitude, but avoid asking prying personal questions during initial conversations with locals.
Tipping at restaurants is customary, generally around 10 percent of the total bill if a service charge is not already included.
Safety Tips
Uruguay is generally very safe, but remain vigilant in crowded tourist areas of Montevideo to prevent opportunistic pickpocketing.
Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or isolated areas, particularly in parts of the capital city.
Use official taxi services or reputable ride-sharing apps rather than hailing unmarked cars on the street.
Keep your belongings, especially passports and large amounts of cash, in a secure hotel safe or a concealed money belt.
Be cautious when using ATMs; try to use those located inside bank lobbies rather than standalone machines on the sidewalk.
Always ensure you have travel insurance that covers emergency medical expenses during your trip.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, according to CDC's measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
View sourceMeasles
Source: Canada_Travel
Ensure that you and your family are up to date on routine vaccinations, including for measles.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: Canada_Travel
Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: Canada_Travel
Vaccination is recommended for all travellers.
View sourceDengue
Source: UK_FCDO
Dengue is a health risk in Uruguay. Travelers should take precautions to prevent mosquito bites.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers coming from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Typhoid vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book Typhoid fever vaccines licensed in the U.S.
View sourceHepatitis A vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Uruguay.
Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.
Please see Your COVID-19 Vaccination for more information.
View sourceHepatitis B vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Uruguay.
Sex and Travel - CDC Yellow Book
View sourceRabies pre-exposure vaccination
Source: CDC
Rabies is present in some terrestrial wildlife species in Uruguay.
Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.
View sourceMeasles vaccination
Source: Canada_Travel
Before travelling, ensure that you and your family are up to date on routine vaccinations, including for measles.
Measles is a serious viral infection that spreads easily.
View sourceSun protection measures
Source: UK_FCDO
During daylight hours
Uruguay has strong sun with high UV levels. Travelers should use sun protection measures to prevent sunburn and heat-related illnesses.
View sourceMpox awareness
Source: ECDC
Recommended for travelers to be aware of mpox risks and take precautions.
Avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms of mpox.
View sourceMalaria chemoprophylaxis
Source: ECDC
Recommended for travelers visiting areas with malaria risk in Uruguay to prevent infection.
Consult a healthcare provider for appropriate medication and dosage.
View sourceHepatitis C awareness
Source: ECDC
Recommended for travelers to be aware of hepatitis C risks and take precautions.
Avoid sharing needles or personal items that may be contaminated.
View sourceRoutine vaccines: MMR, Tdap, etc.
Source: CDC
Make sure you are up to date on routine vaccines before every trip.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Insect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent insect-borne diseases, use insect repellents, wear long sleeves/pants, and stay in accommodations with window screens.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To avoid food and waterborne illnesses, travelers should take precautions such as consuming bottled or boiled water and eating well-cooked food.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink outside of major hotels and restaurants due to food and water safety concerns.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Uruguay, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Other region-specific vaccines/measures
Source: CDC
Consult your healthcare provider for additional vaccines that might be recommended based on travel itinerary and individual health.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers who may have close contact with animals or plan to visit areas where rabies is present.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers who may have exposure to blood or body fluids, such as through medical procedures or unprotected sex.
View source