Uruguay Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Uruguay.
Healthcare System
Uruguay has one of the best healthcare systems in Latin America, with both public (ASSE) and private sectors. The system is well-regulated, and medical professionals are generally well-trained, with many doctors speaking English. Private healthcare is excellent and affordable by international standards.
Hospitals
Major private hospitals in Montevideo include Hospital Británico, Asociación Española, and CASMU. These facilities accept international patients and many work directly with international insurance providers. In Punta del Este and other resort areas, medical facilities are available but more limited outside peak season.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (farmacias) are widespread and well-stocked. Many medications available by prescription-only in other countries can be purchased over the counter. Pharmacists are knowledgeable and can provide basic medical advice. Several 24-hour pharmacies operate in major cities.
Insurance
Travel insurance is not legally required but strongly recommended. While healthcare costs are lower than in North America or Europe, medical evacuation and serious treatments can be expensive. Ensure your policy covers medical treatment and evacuation.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring copies of prescriptions with generic drug names, as brand names may differ
- Private clinics may require payment upfront or credit card guarantee before treatment
- Tap water is safe to drink throughout Uruguay, reducing risk of waterborne illness
- Vaccination requirements are minimal; routine vaccines should be up to date
- Dengue fever occurs occasionally in summer months; use mosquito repellent
- The national healthcare card (Tarjeta de Asistencia al Viajero) can be purchased for extended stays
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft of unattended items are the most common crimes affecting tourists. Thieves often work in pairs or groups and target distracted tourists in crowded areas, restaurants, and beaches.
Theft from parked vehicles and motorcycle theft are common, particularly in Montevideo. Rental cars with tourist plates are sometimes targeted. Carjackings are rare but have occurred.
Thieves on motorcycles or scooters may grab bags, phones, or jewelry from pedestrians, sometimes while the victim is walking or sitting at outdoor cafes.
While rare, express kidnappings (brief abductions to force ATM withdrawals) have occurred, typically involving unofficial taxis or when victims are alone at night.
Strong currents and riptides can be dangerous on Atlantic coast beaches. Theft on beaches is common when belongings are left unattended while swimming.
Traffic accidents are a significant risk. Driving standards can be aggressive, and rural roads may be poorly lit. Motorcycles and pedestrians often don't follow traffic rules strictly.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals posing as plain-clothes police officers approach tourists, claim to be investigating counterfeit money or drugs, and ask to inspect wallets or bags. They may steal cash or credit cards during the 'inspection.'
One person creates a distraction (spilling something on you, asking for directions with a map, dropping items) while an accomplice steals your bag, phone, or wallet.
Some taxi drivers take unnecessarily long routes, claim the meter is broken and quote inflated prices, or refuse to give change claiming they don't have any.
Devices attached to ATMs capture card information and PIN numbers, which are then used to clone cards and withdraw money.
Unlicensed accommodation providers show professional photos online but the actual property is significantly inferior, or they claim the booked room is unavailable and offer a worse alternative.
Unofficial money changers on the street offer better rates but use sleight of hand to shortchange tourists or swap real bills for counterfeits during the count.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Money and Valuables
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours when possible
- Carry only what you need for the day; leave extra cash and cards in hotel safe
- Keep larger bills separate from small bills to avoid displaying wealth when paying
- Make copies of important documents and store separately from originals
- Consider using a money belt or hidden pouch for passport and emergency cash
- Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card freezes
- Have a mix of payment methods (cash, credit card, backup card)
Transportation
- Use official taxis with company names and phone numbers, or ride-sharing apps
- Avoid unmarked or informal taxis, especially at night
- If renting a car, choose a reputable company and ensure comprehensive insurance
- Keep car doors locked and windows up when driving in cities
- Public buses are generally safe but watch for pickpockets during rush hour
- Don't accept rides from strangers, even if they seem friendly
- Pre-arrange airport transfers through your hotel when arriving late at night
Accommodation Safety
- Choose accommodations in well-reviewed, safe neighborhoods
- Use hotel safes for passports, extra money, and valuable electronics
- Keep your room locked at all times, even when inside
- Don't open doors to unexpected visitors; verify identity through hotel staff
- Note emergency exits when you first arrive
- Keep valuables out of sight from windows and balconies
- Consider ground-floor rooms carefully, as they may be more vulnerable to break-ins
Night Safety
- Stay in well-lit, populated areas after dark
- Travel in groups when possible at night
- Avoid walking alone in Ciudad Vieja or along the Rambla after midnight
- Keep phone charged and have emergency numbers saved
- Limit alcohol consumption to maintain awareness
- Use official transportation rather than walking long distances at night
- Be especially cautious when leaving nightclubs or bars
Beach and Outdoor Safety
- Never leave belongings unattended on beaches; use beach lockers where available
- Bring minimal valuables to the beach; leave jewelry at hotel
- Apply sunscreen regularly; UV index is high due to ozone layer depletion
- Stay hydrated, especially during summer months
- Check weather and water conditions before swimming
- Respect private property signs in rural areas
- Inform someone of your plans when hiking or visiting remote areas
Technology and Communication
- Use VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi
- Keep phones and cameras secured and not visibly displayed when walking
- Back up photos and important data regularly
- Download offline maps before traveling to remote areas
- Consider purchasing a local SIM card for reliable communication
- Be discreet when using expensive electronics in public
- Keep devices password-protected and enable tracking features
Food and Water Safety
- Tap water is safe to drink throughout Uruguay
- Choose busy restaurants with high turnover for best food safety
- Be cautious with street food in summer heat; ensure it's freshly cooked
- Wash hands frequently, especially before eating
- Seafood is generally safe but ensure it's fresh, particularly in coastal areas
- Ice is safe in most establishments as it's made from potable water
- Fruits and vegetables can be eaten raw; produce is generally safe
Cultural Awareness
- Uruguayans are generally friendly but value personal space; avoid being overly familiar with strangers
- Tipping is customary (10% in restaurants) but not mandatory
- Smoking is prohibited in enclosed public spaces
- Marijuana is legal but consumption by tourists is technically restricted; avoid public use
- Respect local customs during Carnival season (February-March)
- Learn basic Spanish phrases; English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas
- Be punctual for tours and reservations, though social events may run on 'Uruguayan time'
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Uruguay is generally considered one of the safest South American countries for women travelers. The country has progressive gender equality laws and a relatively low rate of violent crime against women compared to regional neighbors. However, solo women travelers should still take standard precautions. Cat-calling (piropos) occurs but is less aggressive than in some neighboring countries. Women hold prominent positions in society, and female travelers are common and generally respected.
- Dress modestly to blend in; Uruguayans tend to dress conservatively, especially outside beach areas
- Avoid walking alone late at night, particularly in Ciudad Vieja and isolated areas
- Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps rather than walking alone after dark
- Be assertive if you feel uncomfortable; Uruguayans generally respect clear boundaries
- Consider joining group tours or activities to meet other travelers
- Keep accommodation details private; don't share hotel names or room numbers with strangers
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Wedding rings (real or fake) can sometimes deter unwanted attention
- Be cautious when accepting drinks; watch your beverage being prepared
- Stay in well-reviewed accommodations in safe neighborhoods
- Have your phone charged and emergency contacts readily available
- Beach areas are generally safe, but avoid isolated stretches alone
- Public displays of confidence and awareness can deter potential problems
- Connect with other women travelers through hostel networks or online forums
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Uruguay is one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in Latin America and globally. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2013, adoption by same-sex couples is permitted, and comprehensive anti-discrimination laws are in place. Gender identity laws allow transgender individuals to legally change their gender without medical requirements. The country has strong legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in employment, housing, and public services.
- Montevideo has an active LGBTQ+ scene, particularly in the Palermo and Ciudad Vieja neighborhoods
- Punta del Este is very LGBTQ+-friendly, especially during high season
- Public displays of affection are generally safe in cities but use discretion in rural areas
- Most hotels and accommodations are welcoming to same-sex couples
- The annual Diversity March (Marcha de la Diversidad) occurs in September in Montevideo
- LGBTQ+-friendly beaches include certain sections of Playa Pocitos and Playa Brava
- Smaller towns may be more conservative; gauge the environment before public displays of affection
- Discrimination is illegal, and incidents should be reported to police
- English-language LGBTQ+ resources may be limited; Spanish language skills are helpful
- The organization Ovejas Negras provides LGBTQ+ resources and support
- Medical care is generally LGBTQ+-affirming, and providers are knowledgeable about LGBTQ+ health needs
- Uruguay's progressive stance means official interactions (hotels, police, immigration) should be respectful and professional
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for Uruguay despite the country's excellent healthcare system and general safety. While medical costs are lower than in North America or Europe, serious medical issues, emergency evacuation, or repatriation can be extremely expensive. Trip cancellations, lost luggage, and theft are other common issues that insurance covers. Many private healthcare facilities require payment guarantees before treatment, making insurance essential for accessing the best care immediately.
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