Uruguay Travel & Emergency Guide

Emergency Numbers in Uruguay

Key Travel Facts

Driving Rules & Speed Limits in Uruguay

Toll & Vignette: Electronic toll system (Telepeaje) active on all primary national routes.

Tipping & Etiquette

Recommendation: Tipping (Propina 10%) in restaurants is standard practice. 10% is standard in restaurants. Card terminals often prompt for 'Propina 10%'. Taxi drivers appreciate rounding up to the nearest convenient amount.

• DO Pay with international credit cards in restaurants to enjoy the immediate 9–18% VAT (IVA) tourist refund.
• DO Observe the ubiquitous Mate tea culture and politely accept if offered a sip from the gourd (calabaza).
• DO Stroll or cycle along Montevideo's scenic 22 km coastal waterfront promenade ('La Rambla').
• DON'T Never stir the Mate tea with the metal straw (Bombilla) – it is considered bad etiquette.
• DON'T Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit sections of the port area in Montevideo.
• DON'T Do not rush locals – Uruguayans take pride in a relaxed, thoughtful pace of life.

Power Sockets & Tap Water

Plug Type & Electricity: Type C, F & L (220V, 50Hz – standard European Europlugs and Schuko plugs fit most modern outlets).

Tap Water: Generally potable and safe in Montevideo and urban centers. Mineral bottled water (Agua Mineral) is widely available for sensitive travelers.

Insider Tip: Tourist Perk: Foreign visitors paying with non-Uruguayan credit cards automatically receive an instant 9–18% VAT (IVA) refund on restaurant dining and car rentals!