Is Montevideo Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Montevideo is generally considered to be a safe destination for solo female travelers. Crime rates are relatively low compared to other large cities, and locals are friendly and helpful. However, it's still a large city so it's important to remain vigilant, especially at night and in less crowded areas.

Safety rating

4.2 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.3 /5

Based on 5 experiences from local women

Montevideo is currently ranked #8 safest place in Uruguay for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 3.4 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Montevideo?

Safety at night:Safe

Montevideo is relatively safe even at night for solo female travelers. However, it’s always important to take general safety measures. The city is well-lit, and there's a visible police presence. While locals go about their business in peace, it’s advised not to walk alone in isolated areas or parks at night. Stick to well-trafficked areas and always be aware of your surroundings.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Montevideo is generally safe, efficient, and reliable. Both buses and taxis are frequently used by locals and tourists alike. The majority of taxi drivers are honest and follow regulated fares. Buses are widely accessible and usually have frequent services throughout the day. However, it's important to be aware of pickpocketing in crowded buses, especially around touristic areas. Late-night public transport services are a bit scarce but taxis can be securely booked through a reputable company.

Street harassment:Low

Compared to many other places around the world, Montevideo in Uruguay has a relatively low level of street harassment. While incidents can occur anywhere, many female travelers report they generally feel safe walking around the city, even at night. Locals are respectful and often willing to help if you seem lost or confused. Nonetheless, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and listen to your intuition.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Montevideo, in general, is a relatively safe city but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. It's advisable to be cautious, avoid flashing valuables, and always be aware of your surroundings.

Is Montevideo worth visiting?

Solo travel

I went alone for a weekend to Montevideo from Buenos Aires and it was wonderful. It's a very peaceful city. I visited a Sunday market, walked along the riverbank and drank mate. It was charming. And very easy, thanks to the use of the Buquebus ferry. I didn't feel unsafe at all.

Posted: May 1, 2023

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Is Montevideo safe for women?

Safety index

3.3 /5

Based on 5 local experiences

Crime index

2.3 /5

Based on 5 local experiences

Carmela

It is quite a safe place, especially if you are accompanied. Although there is crime, the main issue is home burglaries and such. Violent assaults or kidnappings of women are not common. I have been living in the capital (Montevideo) for 4 years, and I have only been robbed once. I have never experienced any kind of abuse on the street more than the "normal": people shout things at me on the street or touch me on public transportation.

Posted: December 25, 2024

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Camila

The most common thing in Montevideo are the robberies, and people can hurt you if you refuse to give your things. But you'll be safe if you avoid certain neighbourhoods. Sexual harassment such as truck drivers catcalling are a common thing, although I noticed them way more when I was younger and wearing my school uniform 🤮 You can safely use public transport, but try to go to more bussy bus stops if it's nighttime (again, because of the robberies). Overall, I think Montevideo is pretty safe and other towns in Uruguay are even more.

Posted: August 19, 2024

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Meet locals in Montevideo

Marianne

About Me

Hi! I’m Marianne, and I’m interested in art, photography, sightseeing and trekking. I work as a web UX/UI designer, I enjoy working in local cafes and taking pictures to all the places I visit. I also love running and in every new city I visit I try to go at least for a run so if you enjoy running please join me!

Speaking

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Luna

About Me

Hola! Soy Luna, vivo en Uruguay, soy diseñadora ux y también hago ilustraciones. 💖 Voy a estar de viaje en Costa Rica 🇨🇷

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Montevideo

Carolina

Montevideo

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi! I'm Carolina, a young adult living in Montevideo. I used to travel a lot but now not so much cause I find it hard to do it on my own. I'd love to travel but first I'd love to host you and show you my beautiful and diverse city. I'm an easygoing person, love to hang out and chill but I love a good party once in a while. I'm vegetarian. I live with my two cats: Filipo and Poema, they're super chill and lovely. I work as a literature teacher in high school. I play the drum in Candombe, an original music from Uruguay brought here by the african slaves during the colonial times. I love culture activities: music, cinema, varietés, etc. I also enjoy nature very much. Well, there's a lot more to know about me! Welcome to know Montevideo and me and my friends!

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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 !

Speaking

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Safety in Uruguay

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