Uruguay

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 911 for police.
• Dial 911 for ambulance.

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Demonstrations

Demonstrations regularly occur in Uruguay, particularly near the Legislative Palace, City Hall, Parque Batlle, Plaza Libertad, and the universities in Montevideo. Some of these demonstrations express anti-U.S. sentiments.

Protests directed toward the U.S. government, usually small in size, can occur around the U.S. embassy.

• U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Uruguay should avoid large gatherings or events where crowds gather to demonstrate, protest, or cause damage as a byproduct of celebrating an event, such as after soccer matches.
• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

Thefts, burglaries, armed robberies, assaults, and other violent crimes are common throughout Uruguay.

• Street crime occurs in tourist centers within Montevideo with large numbers of tourists. This includes armed robberies and theft.
• Street crimes occur in Ciudad Vieja, the Rambla, and the neighborhood around the U.S. embassy. Even upscale residential neighborhoods, such as Punta Carretas, Pocitos, and Carrasco are not immune to criminal activity.
• Always stay aware of your surroundings while traveling throughout Uruguay. Criminals seek out victims in vulnerable situations.
• Criminals tend to conduct surveillance on potential targets including ATMs, residences, restaurants, vehicles, and individuals prior to committing robberies.
• Criminals regularly travel in pairs on motorcycles to approach victims with a weapon. They demand personal belongings before fleeing. They attempt to catch victims off-guard by driving slowly next to their vehicles and waiting for them to get out of their car to rob them. Other times, they break car windows to steal valuables from vehicles that are parked or stuck in traffic.
• Stay alert when using ATMs, especially during non-daylight hours. Criminals frequently use gas-induced explosive devices to steal from ATMs.

High-risk areas

The following Montevideo neighborhoods have higher crime rates. Official U.S. government personnel are recommended to avoid or limit travel to these areas:

• 40 Semanas
• Bella Italia
• Borro
• Casavalle
• Casabó
• Cerro
• Cerro Norte
• Hipódromo
• La Teja
• Marconi
• Malvín Norte
• Tres Ombúes
• Villa Española

During the summer months from December to March, many cities in Uruguay experience an increase of petty street crime, residential burglaries, and robberies, especially in beach towns, including:

• Cabo Polonio
• La Barra
• La Paloma
• La Pedrera
• Punta del Diablo
• Punta del Este

Criminals also target vehicles traveling to these and other popular destinations.

Police cars are clearly marked and equipped with cellular phones. While professional and well-trained, local police do not maintain a large physical presence to deter criminal activity throughout Montevideo. This often results in a delayed response. Most police officers do not speak English.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

• If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 911 and contact the U.S. embassy at 598-1770-2000 or [email protected]

Review our information for Victims of Crime. 

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.
• Current list of local Attorneys: Legal Assistance – Attorney List - U.S. Embassy in Uruguay

Sexual assault and domestic violence

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy at 598-1770-2000 or [email protected] for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Drones are legal to use and operate in Uruguay but are regulated.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
  
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for an extended period. They may also face criminal charges and be convicted of a crime.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Uruguay seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Uruguay. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Uruguay prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities, but the law is not enforced.

• Expect accessibility to be very limited in public transportation, lodging, communication, and general infrastructure.
• Transportation services are generally not equipped for access by people with disabilities.
• Sidewalks and crosswalks are often in need of maintenance. Accessibility ramps can present challenges to people with disabilities.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers 

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Uruguay Traveler Information Page provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 911 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are widely available and comparable to U.S. standards.

• Ambulances are equipped with advanced medical equipment.  They are staffed with a medical doctor.
• Ambulances can be delayed if questions about health insurance coverage come up.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Uruguay. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Travelers on cruise ships with stops in Uruguay are strongly urged to verify their overseas health insurance coverage
• Most hospitals and medical professionals accept credit card or cash payment.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available all throughout Uruguay and are usually in adequate to excellent condition.

• Hospitals and doctors will require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• There is no restriction on types of medication that can be imported for personal use with the exception of medical marijuana, possession and use of which is prohibited for foreigners. 
• Some medications may not be available in Uruguay, so bring a sufficient supply for your stay. This does not apply to the importation or use of medical marijuana
  
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water in Montevideo and other cities is generally safe to drink and use in cooking.
• In rural areas, tap water may not be safe to drink and bottled water is a better choice.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks, since it may be made using tap water.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Uruguay.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Traffic fatalities are high in Uruguay. According to the World Health Organization, Uruguay’s rate of traffic deaths is nearly 50 percent higher than that of the United States.

According to the Uruguayan National Road Safety Unit, motorcyclists and bicyclists account for 70 percent of transit-related fatalities.

• Illumination, pavement markings, and road surfaces for secondary roads can be poor.
• Several of the main highways are particularly accident-ridden. This is because of heavy tourist traffic and speed-related accidents including: Route 1 (between Montevideo and Colonia), the Ruta Interbalnearia (between Montevideo and Punta del Este), Route 9 to the east (that leads to Punta del Diablo, La Paloma, La Pedrera, and Cabo Polonia), and Route 2 (between Rosario and Fray Bentos).
• Road accidents increase during the summer beach season between December to March, Carnaval from mid-to-late February, and Easter week.
• If you are in an accident involving injury, stay in place until a police officer arrives. The insurance company will generally respond to the scene as well.
• Some major roads are centrally monitored via live camera feeds and emergency response may arrive quickly.
• Dial 911 immediately to report an emergency and notify your rental company if you are in a rental car.

Road conditions and safety

Traffic fatalities are high in Uruguay. According to the World Health Organization, Uruguay’s rate of traffic deaths is nearly 50 percent higher than that of the United States.

According to the Uruguayan National Road Safety Unit, motorcyclists and bicyclists account for 70 percent of transit-related fatalities.

• Illumination, pavement markings, and road surfaces for secondary roads can be poor.
• Several of the main highways are particularly accident-ridden. This is because of heavy tourist traffic and speed-related accidents including: Route 1 (between Montevideo and Colonia), the Ruta Interbalnearia (between Montevideo and Punta del Este), Route 9 to the east (that leads to Punta del Diablo, La Paloma, La Pedrera, and Cabo Polonia), and Route 2 (between Rosario and Fray Bentos).
• Road accidents increase during the summer beach season between December to March, Carnaval from mid-to-late February, and Easter week.
• If you are in an accident involving injury, stay in place until a police officer arrives. The insurance company will generally respond to the scene as well.
• Some major roads are centrally monitored via live camera feeds and emergency response may arrive quickly.
• Dial 911 immediately to report an emergency and notify your rental company if you are in a rental car.

Traffic laws 

You may drive using your U.S. driver’s license in Uruguay.

• Seat belts are mandatory.
• Headlights must always be on, day and night.
• Children under 12 years must ride in the back seat.
• Motorcyclists must wear helmets and reflective vests.
• The use of cell phones, as well as texting, while driving is prohibited.
• Drinking “mate” (a popular, hot beverage in Uruguay) while driving is also prohibited.
• Right turns at red lights are prohibited.
• Unless otherwise marked, drivers approaching an intersection from the right generally have the right of way, but this right is not always respected.
• Drivers already in traffic circles generally have the right of way, but pay close attention to markings.
• Flashing high beams indicates intent to pass or to continue through unmarked intersections.
• Drivers often ignore lane markers, change lanes and make turns without signaling, ignore speed limits, and disregard traffic signs.
• Motorists may make frequent and sudden stops on any road, especially when driving along Montevideo’s riverfront (Rambla).
• Motorcyclists often drive the wrong way down one-way streets, use sidewalks to avoid lengthier routes, or drive between vehicles when traffic is stopped.
• Cycling outside the capital or small towns is hazardous due to a scarcity of bike paths, narrow road shoulders, and unsafe driving practices.
• Speed and red-light cameras are common throughout Uruguay. Tickets for speeding typically exceed $100. Be aware of the posted speed limits and obey all traffic laws. Uruguayan law requires your vehicle to be equipped with a specific road safety kit including hazard cones, flares, reflective vest, and fire extinguisher. You can find these items at most grocery stores or gas stations. Rental vehicles should have these basic kits.

Taxis and ride-shares

Ride sharing services are monitored to ensure that they comply with safety standards at least equal to those applied to the taxi system.

• Taxis can be hailed from the street or by dialing 141.
• Commonly used ride-sharing apps are available and generally safe to use.
• Most taxis do not have functioning seat belts in the back seat.

Public and commercial transportation

Public buses can be crowded. Customers are sometimes targeted by pickpockets and bag snatchers.

• The public bus system utilizes pre-determined routes and is generally dependable.
• Regular labor strikes can stop public transportation with minimal advance notice. Travelers should have alternative plans, such as ride sharing apps, or consider hiring a private executive car (remise). All these options are usually reliable during mass shutdowns of public transportation.
• Visit the website of Uruguay’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Uruguay’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight.  FAA’s website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Uruguay should check the following:

• U.S. Maritime Advisories
• U.S. Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings 
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

• Flooding— Flooding is the most common natural disaster that impacts Uruguay. Flood risk peaks during the months from April to August. It can cause the Rio Uruguay and Rio Negro to overflow.
• Strong winds – Uruguay has been known to experience strong winds during the seasonal transition periods.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates