Uruguay
South America • URY
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Missing malaria information
Please consult authoritative sources below.
Uruguay is a charming and stable South American country known for its progressive culture, beautiful Atlantic coastline, and relaxed lifestyle. Visitors can enjoy a mix of historic colonial architecture, vibrant urban life in Montevideo, and upscale beach resorts like Punta del Este.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many Western countries including the US, Canada, EU members, and Australia can enter Uruguay for up to 90 days for tourism without a visa.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry
- Proof of onward or return travel
- Sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay
Popular Attractions
Casapueblo: A stunning white sculpture-house built by artist Carlos Páez Vilaró, featuring dramatic cliffside views and incredible sunsets.
Colonia del Sacramento: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its preserved cobblestone streets and historic colonial architecture dating back to the 17th century.
Punta del Este: Uruguay's premier resort destination, famous for its luxurious beaches, vibrant nightlife, and the iconic La Mano sculpture.
Montevideo's Ciudad Vieja: The oldest part of the capital, filled with neoclassical buildings, bustling markets, and lively street performances.
Cabo Polonio: A rustic and secluded village accessible only by 4x4 vehicles, offering an off-the-grid experience with vast dunes and a sea lion colony.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Drinking mate is a national obsession; carrying a thermos and gourd is common, and it is usually shared among friends.
When greeting locals, a single kiss on the right cheek is the standard practice, even between people meeting for the first time.
Uruguayans are very relaxed regarding time; do not be surprised if social events or meetings start 15 to 30 minutes later than scheduled.
Tipping is customary in restaurants; leaving about 10 percent of the bill is standard practice for good service.
It is considered polite to arrive a bit late to social gatherings at private homes, as arriving exactly on time can be seen as slightly eager.
Safety Tips
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use ATMs located inside banks or malls whenever possible to prevent card skimming.
Keep a close watch on personal belongings in crowded areas like the port area or bus terminals in Montevideo to deter pickpockets.
When driving at night, exercise extra caution as some rural roads are not well-lit and stray livestock may be present.
Only use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps like Uber to ensure your trip is tracked and the driver is vetted.
Stick to well-lit, populated areas in the city at night and avoid walking through unfamiliar neighborhoods after dark.
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