Uruguay, the second smallest nation in South America, is referred to as the Switzerland of South America due mostly in part to its foreign policy and safety of travel. The varied landscape packed into this small county makes Uruguay a popular destination for the traveling wingshooter. In a mere six hours you can travel from one end of the country to the other by car, passing over rocky hills, flowing rivers, open prairies, and beautiful beaches. The hunting is famous in Uruguay as some of the finest upland perdiz shooting can be found in the many pastures throughout the countryside. With a welcoming culture, old world charm, and vast area for wingshooting, Uruguay is truly a sportsman's paradise.
Banking and Currency
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
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
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, Drink and Cuisine Advice
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%
Climate and Weather
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.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
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
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
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.