Attraction in Uruguay
Cabo Polonio National Park
Cabo Polonio is a protected coastal wilderness in the Rocha Department, accessible only by 4x4 vehicles crossing rolling sand dunes, where a small off-grid village sits beside one of the largest continental sea lion colonies in South America. Two species, the South American sea lion and the South American fur seal, haul out on the rocks around the historic lighthouse in numbers that can reach into the thousands. The surrounding national park also encompasses open Atlantic beaches, wetlands, and habitat for bottlenose dolphins and migratory seabirds.
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Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Uruguay
Entry requirements depend on your passport. Check your specific requirements on the Uruguay page at Yoogo.
Uruguay uses the Uruguayan peso (UYU). Cards are widely accepted in Montevideo, Punta del Este, and tourist areas. Cash is useful for smaller towns and markets. ATMs are widely available. US dollars are sometimes accepted at resorts and tourist businesses, though the exchange rate may not be favourable.
Uruguay is considered one of the safest and most politically stable countries in South America. Crime exists in parts of Montevideo, particularly in peripheral neighbourhoods, but tourist areas are generally safe. Standard urban precautions apply: keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.
Buses are the primary form of intercity transport and are reliable, comfortable, and affordable. Montevideo has a local bus network and taxis. Renting a car gives flexibility for exploring the countryside and wine regions. Punta del Este is easily reached from Montevideo by bus or car. Driving is on the right.
November to March is summer in Uruguay, with warm weather ideal for beach visits to Punta del Este and the Atlantic coast. The Carnival in Montevideo (January to February) is one of South America's longest and most vibrant celebrations. April to June and September to October offer mild weather for city exploration with fewer crowds.
Spanish is the official language and is spoken throughout the country. Uruguayan Spanish has a distinctive accent and some Italian-influenced vocabulary. English is spoken in tourist areas and hotels in Montevideo and Punta del Este, but limited elsewhere. Basic Spanish is helpful for getting around.
No vaccinations are required to enter Uruguay for most travellers. Routine immunisations should be up to date. Tap water is safe to drink in Montevideo and most urban areas. Healthcare standards are relatively high by regional standards.
Tipping is expected in Uruguay. At restaurants, 10% is standard where a service charge is not included, and some upscale restaurants add a cubierto (cover charge). Taxi drivers are typically tipped by rounding up the fare. Hotel porters and tour guides appreciate small gratuities.
Mobile coverage is excellent across Uruguay, including in rural areas, via providers Antel, Claro, and Movistar. 4G is widely available. Local SIM cards are affordable and easy to obtain. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces in cities.