Montevideo Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Montevideo.
Healthcare System
Uruguay has a dual healthcare system with both public (ASSE) and private providers. The private healthcare system is excellent and widely used by tourists, offering high-quality care at reasonable costs compared to North America and Europe. Public healthcare is available but can have longer wait times.
Hospitals
Major private hospitals include Hospital Británico, Asociación Española, and Hospital Italiano, all offering excellent care and some English-speaking staff. These facilities accept international insurance and credit cards. The British Hospital is particularly popular with English-speaking visitors.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (farmacias) are abundant throughout Montevideo and well-stocked with international brands. Many medications available only by prescription elsewhere can be purchased over the counter. Pharmacies operate on a rotating 24-hour schedule (farmacia de turno). Staff are knowledgeable but may not speak English.
Insurance
Travel health insurance is strongly recommended but not legally required. Private healthcare facilities may require payment upfront or proof of insurance before treatment. Ensure your insurance covers medical evacuation.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring copies of prescriptions with generic drug names, as brand names may differ
- Private clinics often provide faster service than public hospitals for non-emergencies
- Dental care is of excellent quality and much more affordable than in North America
- Tap water is safe to drink in Montevideo
- Keep your insurance provider's international assistance number readily available
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching are the most common crimes affecting tourists, particularly in crowded areas, on buses, and at outdoor markets. Thieves often work in pairs or small groups and target distracted tourists.
Theft from parked cars is relatively common, with thieves targeting rental vehicles and cars with visible valuables inside. Both parked and briefly stopped vehicles can be targeted.
Thieves on motorcycles or scooters may snatch bags, phones, or cameras from pedestrians, particularly those walking near the curb. These incidents are less common than pickpocketing but do occur.
While extremely rare in Montevideo compared to other Latin American cities, there have been isolated incidents where victims are briefly detained and forced to withdraw money from ATMs.
Theft of unattended belongings on beaches is common, particularly during peak summer months (December-February) when beaches are crowded.
Traffic can be chaotic, and drivers may not always follow rules. Pedestrian crossings are not always respected, and motorcycles often weave through traffic.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Some taxi drivers may take longer routes, claim the meter is broken, or quote inflated flat rates to tourists, particularly from the airport or port. Some may also give incorrect change.
Some merchants or money changers may try to confuse tourists unfamiliar with Uruguayan pesos, giving incorrect change or switching bills during the transaction. The large denominations can be confusing for newcomers.
Individuals posing as plain-clothes police officers may approach tourists claiming to need to check wallets for counterfeit money or illegal substances, then steal cash or valuables during the 'inspection.'
One person creates a distraction (spilling something on you, asking for directions with a map, dropping coins) while an accomplice steals your belongings. Sometimes involves friendly people who engage you in conversation.
Some tourist-oriented restaurants, particularly near Mercado del Puerto, may add unauthorized charges, include items not ordered, or charge inflated prices not matching the menu.
When booking apartments or rooms through unofficial channels, scammers may request large deposits for properties they don't own or that don't exist as advertised.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Money and Valuables
- Use ATMs inside banks or shopping centers during daylight hours
- Carry only what you need for the day; leave extra cash, cards, and passport in hotel safe
- Divide your money between different pockets or bags
- Use a money belt or concealed pouch for important documents
- Take photos of your important documents and store them in cloud storage
- Be discreet when handling money; count cash in private, not on the street
- Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks
Transportation
- Use official taxis (black and yellow) or ride-sharing apps like Uber
- Avoid unmarked or informal taxis, especially at night
- Keep belongings close on buses; theft is common on crowded routes
- If renting a car, park in attended lots when possible
- Be extra cautious when crossing streets; drivers don't always yield
- The STM bus system is generally safe but watch for pickpockets during rush hour
- Avoid displaying valuables while waiting at bus stops
Accommodation
- Choose accommodations in safe neighborhoods like Pocitos, Punta Carretas, or Carrasco
- Use hotel safes for valuables and important documents
- Verify the identity of anyone claiming to be hotel staff before opening your door
- Keep your room number private; don't announce it in public areas
- Check that windows and doors lock properly
- Book through reputable platforms and read recent reviews
Night Safety
- Ciudad Vieja becomes quieter at night; use taxis rather than walking alone
- Stick to well-lit, populated areas after dark
- Avoid displaying expensive items like cameras or jewelry at night
- Travel in groups when possible, especially in less touristy areas
- Be aware that some neighborhoods are less safe after dark; ask locals or hotel staff
- Keep your phone charged and have emergency numbers saved
- Limit alcohol consumption to maintain awareness of your surroundings
Communication
- Learn basic Spanish phrases; English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas
- Save important numbers in your phone (embassy, hotel, emergency contacts)
- Purchase a local SIM card for reliable communication
- Share your itinerary with someone back home
- Take a business card from your hotel to show taxi drivers
- Download offline maps in case you lose internet connection
- Have your embassy's contact information readily available
General Awareness
- Trust your instincts; if something feels wrong, remove yourself from the situation
- Be aware of your surroundings; avoid being distracted by your phone in public
- Dress modestly and avoid looking overtly touristy to blend in better
- Make copies of important documents and store them separately
- Register with your embassy if staying for an extended period
- Stay informed about local news and any safety advisories
- Ask your hotel staff about areas to avoid and current safety concerns
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Montevideo is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. Uruguay has a progressive culture and women enjoy considerable freedom and equality. However, catcalling (piropos) is culturally common and can be uncomfortable, though it's rarely threatening. Women should exercise the same precautions as in any major city, being more cautious at night and in isolated areas.
- Catcalling is common but usually harmless; ignoring it is typically the best response
- Dress as you like; Montevideo is cosmopolitan and there are no strict dress codes, though modest dress may attract less attention
- Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps rather than walking alone late at night
- Stay in well-reviewed accommodations in safe neighborhoods like Pocitos or Punta Carretas
- Keep your drink in sight at bars and clubs; don't accept drinks from strangers
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Consider joining group tours or activities to meet other travelers
- Avoid isolated beaches or parks when alone, particularly at dawn or dusk
- Local women often travel alone and use public transportation; follow their lead
- The beach culture is relaxed; bikinis and casual dress are completely normal
- Emergency services are responsive; don't hesitate to call 911 if needed
- Many restaurants and cafes are women-owned; ask at your accommodation for recommendations
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Uruguay is one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly countries in Latin America and the world. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2013, adoption rights are equal, and comprehensive anti-discrimination laws are in place. Gender identity laws allow people to change their legal gender without medical intervention.
- Montevideo is very LGBTQ+-friendly; same-sex couples can openly show affection without concern in most areas
- The neighborhood of Ciudad Vieja has several LGBTQ+-friendly bars and clubs
- Uruguay Pride (Marcha por la Diversidad) takes place annually in September and is a major celebration
- Most hotels and accommodations welcome LGBTQ+ travelers without issue
- While Montevideo is very accepting, smaller towns outside the capital may be more conservative
- Legal protections are strong; discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is illegal
- Healthcare providers are generally LGBTQ+-friendly and knowledgeable
- The LGBTQ+ community is visible and active; several organizations provide support and information
- Dating apps are widely used and safe to use in Montevideo
- Transgender travelers should face minimal issues; legal protections are comprehensive
- Ask at LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations for current venue recommendations
- The general attitude is one of acceptance and respect; Uruguay is considered a safe destination for LGBTQ+ travelers
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended for Montevideo, though not legally required. While Uruguay has excellent healthcare, private facilities (which offer the best service for tourists) can be expensive and often require upfront payment or proof of insurance. Insurance provides peace of mind for medical emergencies, theft, trip cancellations, and lost belongings, which are the most common issues travelers face.
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