Uruguay: Overview
The attractive Eastern Republic of the Uruguay, of worldwide famous beaches, is located in South America and it limits with Brazil to the north and northeast; with Argentina to the south, and with the Atlantic Ocean to the southeast. Its reduced surface is no obstacle to having a great variety of activities and landscapes to offer to its visitors. Full of colonial cities, vibrant night life and beautiful beaches, Uruguay is one of the best destinations in South America.
Climate-When to go
Uruguay has a subtropical climate, with particularly high temperatures during summer months. Although in the interior regions and in the Atlantic coastline temperatures are endurable, in the surroundings of Rio Uruguay, which separates the country from Argentina, they can rise quite high. Between November and April there are often strong winds and heavy storms.
Being the beaches one of the main tourist attractions in the country, the high season takes place during summer.
To keep in mind
There are different entry requirements which vary according to the visitor's origin. Members of the European Union and citizens from bordering countries do not need more than a tourist identification card which is valid for 90 days and can be extend for the same period of time. Other visitors must have a passport valid, at least, for six months. Everyone must have an onward return ticket.
The official currency is the Uruguayan peso (UYU). In the main beaches, in Colonia and in Montevideo you can easily change dollars and traveller cheques at casas de cambio (money exchange offices), although commission rates for cheques may not be too convenient. Inland you can only change money at banks. Although the main hotels and restaurants accept most credit cards, ATMs do not operate with European or American ones.
Tips are usually 10% of the total amount, although they are discretionary. Taxi fares are generally rounded up and bellhops usually receive US$ 1 per bag.
Concearning health a vaccine against Hepatitis A is recommended. You should also take cautions against mosquitos, since they transmit dengue fever. If its possible drink bottled water and eat washed and well cooked food. Medical facilities are good for covering basic cares and there is a 24hs-emergency room at British Hospital in Montevideo. However, most doctors and hospitals expect to be payed in cash and serious cases need evacuation to a country with better medical facilities. You are advised to hire a medical insurance for your trip.
Although security level in Uruguay is quite good and police is efficient, it is recommended to be careful in the streets of Montevideo, not to show off valuables and to stay alert when using ATMs.
Where to go
Montevideo, the picturesque capital of the Republic, is also the biggest city. There you can see the multi-styled architecture, Ciudad Vieja, Plaza de la Independencia, Palacio Salvo, Plaza de la Constitución, the port market, Historico Nacional, Gaucho and Mint museums, Tristán Narvaja fair, and several beautiful beaches lined along the coast.
West of Montevideo, in the Uruguayan coast, is Colonia del Sacramento, city of cobbled streets and colonial buildings. Also in the coast, you can navigate and fish in Mercedes beaches and visit the interesting museums of Paysandú city.
The Riviera, east of Montevideo, is full of beaches where tourists dressed in Hawaiian shirts enjoy many aquatic activities. Here you can visit Piriápolis and the city of Minas and climb Cerro Pan de Azúcar.
Punta del Este, one of the most famous destinations in South America, stands out for its amazing beaches, golf fields, fancy residences, casinos and exclusive fishing clubs. From there you can visit Isla Gorriti, where you will see the remains of an 18th century fortress, and Isla de los Lobos, a natural reservation inhabited by a great colony of marine wolves.
Festivals
The two main festivities of the country are Carnival, celebrated on the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, and Semana Criolla (Holy Week), when horse tamings, shows and asados (barbeques) are liven up by folk music and dances.
