Uruguay FAQ’s
Do I need a visa?
Travelers with a US or Canadian passport do not need a visa for visits less than 90 days. For those traveling with a passport from another country other than the US or Canada; visit
projectvisa.com for more information.
Is my passport valid?
We recommend your passport to be valid at least 6 months following the end of your trip for entry into Uruguay. If it expires sooner, you may want to get a renewal.
Do I need any shots?
No vaccinations are required for travel to Uruguay from the USA. Call the CDC Travelers’ Hot Line at 888-232-3228 or visit the website (
www.cdc.gov/travel). Most travelers receive inoculations for Hepatitis A, Typhoid Fever and Tetanus.
When can I expect more details on my trip?
You will receive two sets of information by email: 1. Pre-departure materials once your trip is guaranteed, typically a few months prior to your departure; and 2. Final Documents sent two weeks before you leave.
When is my balance due?
Your land balance is due 90 days prior to departure for Signature Trips and generally due at 120 days for Custom Trips. An invoice indicating your balance due will be sent with your pre-departure information.
Will I be met at the airport?
Yes. You will be arriving by airplane to Buenos Aires, where a local Southwind staff person will meet you. You will be arriving by ferry in Colonia, Uruguay, where you will also be met. The ferry and transfers are included in the Land Cost. Meeting instructions and local contact information will be given with your Final Documents.
How much money should I bring?
Depending on the length of your trip, plan to bring $300-600 per person for spending money, tips, taxi rides, additional visits and those meals not included in the itinerary.
Should I bring cash or bank cards?
Cash is the easiest to exchange and most places accept US dollars. Credit or debit cards are also easy to use at most establishments. Be sure to check with your bank prior to your departure to inform them that you will be using your card in a foreign country. Traveler’s checks are less efficient and may take extra time and documentation to use. Find
current exchange rates.
Are ATM machines available?
ATMs are readily available in the cities of Colonia and Montevideo, and in the resort region of Punta del Este. Inland areas and smaller coastal towns have more limited access to ATMs. The currency is the Uruguayan Peso. View the
current exchange rate.
Is Uruguay safe?
Uruguay is one of the safest countries in South America, enjoying a low crime rate compared to its neighbors. Uruguay’s level of education and standard of living is high by South American standards, with the highest literacy rate of the continent. This makes for an impressive level of security and stability in the country. Travelers tend to feel safe.You can find updates on the
US State Deparment’s Uruguay information.
What about thievery?
Petty thievery in Uruguay’s cities is not higher than in any large city in the US, and lower than average for South America. However, common sense is important. Use the safety deposit box at your hotel for your passport and extra money (carry only as much as you might spend each day) and leave jewelry and expensive watches at home.
What will the weather be like?
Uruguay enjoys a humid subtropical climate. Near the coast, winter months (June-August) can be cooler and windy, with low temperatures below 50°F and high temperatures in the mid to upper 60s. The summer season (December-March) is warm and excellent for beach-going, with high temperatures in the upper 80s and some humidity. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. Farther inland, humidity decreases, and the climate is drier, making winters milder and summers warmer.
Who will be my guide?
We work with the most respected and experienced local guides, many of whom have advanced degrees in tourism, biology, culture or other specialties. All speak fluent English and are knowledgeable, patient and fun to be around. Your Final Documents will provide guide details.
