Is Uruguay safe for solo female travelers?

Uruguay is relatively safe for solo female travelers. The country is known for its low crime rate compared to other Latin American countries. People are generally friendly, and public transportation is widely available. As always, it is important to remain vigilant, especially at night or in secluded areas. However, most travelers have uneventful trips and praise the welcoming nature of locals.

Safety rating

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How safe is Uruguay?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Safe

Uruguay is generally safe at night, especially in well-populated areas. The majority of cities, including Montevideo, have an active nightlife scene and are monitored by police. However, it's still essential to exercise common sense and avoid poorly lit or desolate areas. Always be aware of your surroundings, and if possible, try to stick to busier areas or travel in groups, even if you started off solo.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Uruguay's public transportation, particularly in urban areas like Montevideo, is generally regarded as safe and reliable. Buses and taxis are prevalent and utilized by many locals on a daily basis. However, as in any country, it's still important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially late at night. Certain areas might have less frequent service or more minor security concerns, though the instances of violent crime towards passengers are relatively low.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

Uruguay is quite respectful towards female travelers. The locals are aware of the significance of tourism and are generally respectful, treating everyone equally regardless of their gender. That said, it's always important to maintain common precautions, but incidents of street harassment are relatively minimal in Uruguay.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Low

Uruguay has a generally low rate of petty crime, such as pickpocketing or purse-snatching, especially when compared to its neighboring countries. However, it's advisable to err on the side of caution. Stay vigilant in crowded places and always keep your belongings within sight. Use common sense precautions, like not displaying expensive jewelry or other valuable items. Most areas in Uruguay are safe, though it's always wise to avoid walking through less busy areas late at night.
Tap water:

Tap water:Safe

Tap water in Uruguay is generally safe to drink. The water is treated with chlorine and is continuously monitored to meet safety standards. However, it does take on a different taste due to the treatment process and some travelers may choose to drink bottled water for this reason.

Is Uruguay safe to travel?

Is Uruguay safe right now?

Before your visit to Uruguay, it's essential to check travel advisories for Uruguay, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The United States Government advises to exercise increased caution in Uruguay due to crime. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 17, 2023
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Canadian government advises taking normal security precautions in Uruguay. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: April 15, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The Australian Government advises to exercise normal safety precautions in Uruguay. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: February 22, 2024

Is Uruguay worth visiting?

Family travel experience

I was in Uruguay in June and I spent five days in Montevideo with my parents. We took a one-day trip to the city of Colonia, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Montevideo reminded me of Madrid, both the landmarks and the people - conservative, nice and helpful. I took a really nice tango lesson, ate some amazing paella and walked along Las Ramblas. Uruguay is one of the more expensive countries in Latin America, especially when it comes to clothing and meals. However, our Airbnb was inexpensive, as were the taxis.

Posted: May 1, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Meet locals in Uruguay

Meet local women in Uruguay who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Giuliana

Giuliana

About Me

I would like to go to Las Vegas to see Adele.

Speaking

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Romi

Romi

About Me

Hi! I’m Romi, an adventurous traveler who likes to be on the move and discovering new places all the time. I’m actually in my home town for a few months and would love share with people from all over the world, exchange experiences, have a coffee or a beer and meet new friends !

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Stay with locals in Uruguay

Stay with local women in Uruguay who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Romi

Romi

Montevideo

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi! I’m Romi, an adventurous traveler who likes to be on the move and discovering new places all the time. I’m actually in my home town for a few months and would love share with people from all over the world, exchange experiences, have a coffee or a beer and meet new friends !

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Pilar

Pilar

Tacuarembó

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi! I am a chemistry assistant profesor at an uruguayan university. I love arts, painting is my first passion, music aswell. I love to move discover and find myself in solo trips

Speaking

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Safety in Uruguay