Explore Uruguay

First time visitors to Uruguay typically only spend a day or two in Colonia del Sacramento, Carmelo, or Montevideo as a quick jaunt from Buenos Aires. All three destinations are accessible with a simple ferry ride.

On the other hand, Argentines flock to Uruguay’s Atlantic beaches for summer every year. Punta del Este, Maldonado, José Ignacio and surroundings are upscale, posh beachside cities. Backpackers, hippies, and relaxed travelers will go further up the coast to Punta del Diablo, or Cabo Polonio.

Uruguay is a small but mighty country.

Its small size lends itself to a road trip. In just 1-2 weeks you can cross the country and back. You’ll find rolling rural hills, historic ranches, a cultural capital city, charming villages, and a burgeoning wine industry.

I live in Buenos Aires, just a hop, skip, and short ferry ride away from Uruguay. I have been to tiny Colonia del Sacramento more times than I can count, eaten my way through Montevideo, and spent a winter holiday on the coast (the beach in winter does have its own charm, does it not?).

I love Uruguay. At first glance it feels so similar to its next door neighbor, Argentina. But it doesn’t take long before you feel its pulse. Uruguay is calmer. It’s relaxed. Take the time to explore it and you won’t regret it.

Uruguay Facts at a Glance

• Where is Uruguay? Uruguay is in South America. It borders the Atlantic Coast and the Rio de la Plata. Argentina is to its south and Brazil to the north.
• Size: As just over 68,000 square miles, it is the 89th largest country (out of 195 in the world).
• What adaptor do I need for Uruguay?: You can find one of three different plugs here – Types C, F, and L. Pack a universal adaptor like this to cover your bases.
• Capital: Montevideo (almost 2 million people live in the greater urban area).
• Population: 3.5 million people. Almost half of the country’s citizens call Montevideo and its outskirts home.
• Language: Spanish
• Currency: the Uruguayan Peso, UYU, denoted with a dollar sign ($U). Uruguay is the most expensive country in South America.
• Emergency Numbers: 911 for the police, 105 for ambulances/medical emergencies, 104 for firefighters