Uruguay / República Oriental del Uruguay – Let’s explore here
What’s it like in Uruguay?
Uruguay is a hilly country in South America, about the size of England and Wales combined. The highest point in the country is the Cerro Catedral, whose peak reaches 1,686 ft (514 m). There are ten national parks in Uruguay, five in the wetland areas of the north, three in the central hill country, and one in the west along the Rio Uruguay.
Uruguay has a population of around 3½ million, of whom nearly two million live in the capital, Montevideo. Montevideo is the southernmost capital city in the Americas, and the third most southerly in the world (only Canberra and Wellington are further south).
A bit about the history of Uruguay
Spanish colonisation
Uruguay has a rich history shaped by indigenous cultures, colonialism, and struggles for independence. Originally inhabited by indigenous groups like the Charrúa, the region was colonized by Spain in the 17th century as part of the Viceroyalty of the Río de la Plata.
Struggle for independence
In the early 19th century, Uruguay became a battleground for control between Spain, Portugal, and the local population. The region declared its independence from Spain in 1811, but it was not until 1828 that Uruguay officially gained independence after a prolonged struggle, aided by interventions from neighbouring countries like Argentina and Brazil.
Struggle for democracy
Throughout the 19th century, Uruguay experienced internal conflict, notably between the Colorado and Blanco political parties, which culminated in the bloody “Guerra Grande” (Great War) from 1839 to 1851. The country gradually stabilized, with the development of a democratic government in the late 1800s.
Military coup
In the 20th century, Uruguay became known for its progressive social policies, including the first welfare state in Latin America, universal suffrage, and the legal recognition of labour rights. However, the country faced political and economic instability in the mid-1900s, leading to a military dictatorship from 1973 to 1985, marked by human rights abuses and repression.
Democracy and economic growth
Since the return to democracy in 1985, Uruguay has become one of the most stable and prosperous countries in South America, with a strong economy, high quality of life, and progressive policies, including the legalization of same-sex marriage and the regulation of cannabis. Uruguay’s political system remains democratic, and the country is known for its commitment to social justice and human rights.
Uruguay road trip
Our Uruguayan road trip is part of a much larger South American road trip.
Map of our road trip through Uruguay
Our current planned road trip takes us from Argentina towards the capital, Montevideo, before moving back into Argentina and on to Paraguay.
No doubt we’ll explore the country much more than this continent-spanning short route shows, in particular checking out inland Uruguay.
Hopefully our journey will improve our knowledge of this intriguing and beautiful country, and enable us to meet some interesting people. We’ll be updating this page at that time – don’t forget to check back 🙂
What’s it like to drive in Uruguay?
They drive on the right hand side of the road in Uruguay. Main roads are quite good in Uruguay, however rural roads are very poor, as are driving standards.
Toll roads in Uruguay
The main electronic toll roads in Uruguay are from Colonia del Sacramento to Montevideo and Punta del Este. This website provides more information (in Spanish) on the electronic toll roads.
Do you require an international driving permit in Uruguay?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Can you use your UK driving license when driving through Uruguay?
We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
Do I need a carnet de passages to drive in Uruguay?
A Carnet de Passages is required to overland in Uruguay. We’ve created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which answers this question, and more, which you might find helpful.
What currency do they use in Uruguay?
In Uruguay they use the Uruguayan peso. Cash is widely used. The use of credit / debit cards is widely accepted in tourist areas. Travellers cheques are accepted in tourist areas. There are many ATMs in tourist areas, although not all accept foreign issued cards.
You should make yourself aware of the amount that your bank charges you for using credit and debit cards abroad. Often credit cards are cheaper for purchasing items directly, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs.
What language do they speak in Uruguay?
They speak Uruguayan Spanish in Uruguay. Uruguayan Portuguese is spoken in the North near the border with Brazil. English is spoken in tourist areas.
What time zone is Uruguay in?
Remember, when you’re planning your next trip to take a look at what time zone it’s in.
Do I need a visa to visit Uruguay?
We’ve created a dedicated, more comprehensive page on visas, which you should find helpful. Check it out!
Is wild camping legal in Uruguay?
Yes, wild camping is fine in Uruguay, although make sure the land is not private.
What plug / socket type do they use in Uruguay?
In Uruguay they use plug / socket types C, F, I and L.
Health issues in Uruguay
Is it safe to drink water in Uruguay?
Yes, it is safe to drink tap water in Uruguay. Bottled water is also readily available throughout the country.
What vaccinations are required for Uruguay?
This NHS website is kept up to date with all relevant information on vaccinations in Uruguay.
Phones in Uruguay
What is the country calling code for Uruguay?
The country calling code for Uruguay is +598
What are the emergency phone numbers in Uruguay?
- The emergency number for police in Uruguay is: 911 / 109
- In Uruguay, the emergency number for ambulance is: 911 / 105
- The emergency number for fire in Uruguay is: 911 / 104
If you’ve got some useful info that you’d like to share, let us know!
And don’t forget to check out all the other pictures!