Uruguay

Flanked by its larger neighbours Argentina and Brazil, Uruguay is, at last, enjoying some time in the sun. There is much to savour in Montevideo – from discos and tango bars to old theatres and foreign cultural centres that give the capital its cosmopolitan sophistication. Picturesque Colonia del Sacramento, famed as a smugglers’ nest during the country’s colonial era, is worth a visit for its Barrio Histórico, which lies on a small peninsula jutting into the Río de la Plata. Hot springs and aquatic parks abound on the Río Uruguay fed by the large groundwater reservoir, the Guarani Aquifer, while wildlife tours on the Atlantic coast or exploration of the vast plains of the interior await the intrepid adventurer.

Currency 

Local currency: Uruguayan Peso 
Symbol: $ 
ISO code: UYU 
Subunit: Centésimo 
Banknotes: $20, $50, $100, $200, $500, $1000, $2000 
Coins: $1, $2, $5, $10, $20 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 

Main airlines: LATAM Airlines Uruguay, Amaszonas Uruguay 
International Airports: Carrasco International Airport (MVD) 
Domestic Airports: Laguna de los Patos International Airport (CYR), Angel S. Adami International Airport (PDP), Capitán Corbeta CA Curbelo International Airport (PDP) 

Road: 

Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: No 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: No 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Uruguayan cuisine is characterized by its meat-centric dishes, particularly asado, a traditional barbecue featuring various cuts of beef cooked over an open flame. Other popular dishes include chivito (a steak sandwich), milanesa (breaded and fried meat), and empanadas. As for drinks, mate (a traditional herbal tea), medio y medio (a sparkling wine), and clerico (a fruity wine cocktail) are notable choices. 
Tipping: 10-15% 

Annual rainfall: 1000 - 1500 mm 
Average temperature: 17°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 28°C 
Average lows: 18°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 16°C 
Average lows: 7°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Uruguay is during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is warm and conducive to beach activities. 

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Plug Type: Type C, Type F 
Voltage (V): 220V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.