The Guru’Guay Blog

Bringing you the beef on Uruguay since 2013

Uruguay tourism is about beaches, wine, ranches, Montevideo, culture and architecture. We’ve got info on Colonia del Sacramento, Punta del Este, Ciudad Vieja vs Pocitos, music & celebrations, the meaning of murga in English and way more…

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Uruguay borders: Travel ban exemption to study Spanish

While the borders remain closed to non-citizens and residents, there is a legal way to get in to Uruguay. Studying Sp...

Happy Saint David’s Day from your Welsh woman in Uruguay

I left my native Wales when I was just 18 but March 1, Saint David’s Day, is always a time when I think about m...

Uruguay is #1 democracy in Latin America

In a world where democracy is under threat, The Economist ranked Uruguay the most democratic country in Latin America...

Not just great culture. Montevideo has 10 fine beaches

The capital of Uruguay has beaches with fine white sand, great for paddling or swimming, kitesurfing, with fairground...

Carnival in Uruguay – what is murga?

Murga is an instantly recognisable musical style associated with carnival. It’s a uniquely Uruguayan phenomenon...

6 reasons why you must not miss carnival in Montevideo

Virtually unknown to people outside of Uruguay, carnival in the capital Montevideo is one of the most authentic in th...

After 12 years abroad, Uruguayan reports on Montevideo food scene

The food scene in New York City had turned Javier’s head. Would Montevideo mean having to trade great food for ...

The night sky: Best places to stargaze in Uruguay

NASA-recognised astrophotographer Fefo Bouvier tells us about the night sky in the southern hemisphere and Uruguay...

Uruguay Festivals – Sea Goddess Day on February 2

This year the Government of Montevideo is urging Yemanjá sea goddess worshippers to avoid congregating–and to ...

Guru’Guay’s 2020

2020. Working in the travel sector, you can imagine how we were hit. Guru’Guay chews over the pivots to stay af...

José Ignacio: Tiny Uruguay town turned world’s hot beach spot

First Argentina’s rich & beautiful, then the Hearsts and Rockefellers. Just how did a rocky Uruguay peninsula ...

What is the average salary in Uruguay?

I often get asked what salaries are like in Uruguay. If you have any idea of the cost of living, you may be surprise...

5 Uruguayan films you must see

Uruguayan movies tend to be slow burners with lots of critical acclaim. The Guru invites you to put your feet up and ...

Gay Montevideo

Montevideo – the capital of the friendliest country in South America. And it’s Uruguay’s version o...

Cabaña de Veronica – Great steak & Uruguay asado

The Port Market–Disneyland for carnivores–is not to be missed but avoid the tourist traps! At Veronica...

Love & shelter in Uruguay for Clipper round the world sailor

When the Clipper Round the World race was called off, Spaniard Clara Carrington followed her heart 11,000 miles to Ur...

US actor turned digital nomad finds Uruguay ideal place to settle

When Chris locked his New York City apt door in Dec 2019, he never imagined he’d be moving out of it, in a pand...

Uruguay’s new tax residency requirements

Uruguay’s new government wants to attract immigration. Their first move, on tax residency, is aimed at neighboring ...

Posada Lune de Miel – best value Punta del Diablo hotel

These impeccable, colourful cabins are the best value hotel you’ll find in Punta del Diablo. Just minutes from ...

Canada motor-bikers in a pandemic in Uruguay

Fearful after hearing scary stories from elsewhere in Latin America, this adventure motorcycle couple’s experie...

Can I apply for residency from outside Uruguay?

If moving to Uruguay is your #1 goal but you don’t meet current entry requirements, there may be another option...

Pregnant, South African and stuck in a pandemic in Uruguay

This South African has had a crash-course on life in Uruguay–and healthcare–after finding herself stuck h...

Older Post page template (Do not modify)

This is a follow-up to Mark Teuten's article on how to get residency in Uruguay. A few readers raised the question as...

Guru’Guay en Hijos de Punta

Guru'Guay en hijos de puntaGracias por escuchar Karen A Higgs, creadora de Guru'Guay y referente internacional sobre...

Guru’Guay in the Extra Pack of Peanuts podcast

Guru'Guay in Extra Pack of PeanutsThanks for listening to the Guru'Guay, aka Karen A Higgs, in the Extra Pack of...

Guru’Guay en El País

Guru'Guay en El paísGracias por leer la nota de Karen A Higgs, creadora de Guru'Guay y referente internacional sobre...

We were looking for a sense of community. We found it in a pandemic in Uruguay

Kris and Ryan from Oakland, California’s round-the-world trip came to an abrupt stop as they found themselves s...

The extraordinary murals of 25 de agosto

The sleepiest little towns in Uruguay can be full of surprises. This one just an hour from Montevideo is home to over...

It’s sunny and 60° F out – winter in Uruguay

If you are travelling to Uruguay in June, July, August, temperatures may look mild, but you will be in for a surprise...

Herbal remedies for coughs and colds in Uruguay

Useful expressions to help you describe your cough and/or cold while you are in Uruguay, so that you can get some dec...

Guru’Guay on Amateur Traveler

Chris Christensen interviews Guru’Guay creator Karen A Higgs about travel and tourism in Uruguay. AT is one of ...

Guru’Guay in the We Travel There podcast

Guru'Guay in We Travel ThereThanks for listening to the Guru'Guay, aka Karen A Higgs, in the We Travel There podcast....

10 typical Uruguay foods you must try

Typical Uruguay foods — chivito, tira de asado, pamplona, torta frita, alfajor, dulce de leche… We go through...

When is the best time to visit Uruguay?

Avoid high season prices and crowded beaches. See Montevideo at its liveliest. Don’t miss carnival. So when is ...

Guru’Guay in the Amateur Traveler podcast

Guru'Guay in the amateur traveler Thanks for listening to the Guru'Guay, aka Karen A Higgs, in the Amateur Traveler...

Post pandemic, US & Europeans want to move to safe Uruguay

There’s a boom in real estate enquiries following Uruguay’s solid response to COVID-19, demonstrating it&...

Recommended food delivery and take away in Punta del Este

Our favourite foodie restaurants have pivoted to what is most helpful and safe right now – take away and delive...

Punta & Montevideo chefs organise communal pots

A volunteer team has commandeered a luxury hotel kitchen and is making hot, nutritious meals for hundreds of adults a...

Wine delivery around Montevideo

Stay safe and still get hold of your favourite Uruguay wines. Call in your order by WhatsApp and the wines arrive at ...

The Top Tannats of 2020

One in three bottles of Uruguay wine is a Tannat. Yes, Uruguayans LOVE this red. Nowadays there’s a Tannat for ...

Best food delivery and take away in Montevideo

In Montevideo during coronavirus? Shelter in place. Order delivery of delicious food (and wine and beer – of co...

Feel good in quarantine: 10 minutes in a parallel universe

Join us as we parachute in on a virtual visit to a Uruguay wine-maker. Harvest is just ending and there’s some ...

Uruguay country hotels in times of quarantine

Corona has left visitors stranded in Uruguay. Two beautiful, isolated country hotels, close to the airport, & ru...

Organic produce delivery – Montevideo & Punta

Get organic fruit and vegetables, fresh eggs and honey direct to your door. Organic food baskets delivered in Montevi...

What eating out costs in Uruguay

I often get asked about costs in Uruguay. Get an idea what you are likely to spend on food and drink when eating out ...

Flights to Uruguay: the best and worst airlines

The Guru gives you her honest take on airlines flying to Uruguay from the USA, Europe, Buenos Aires, Argentina &...

Haras Las Tordillas – A horse-riding paradise

A luxury lodge nestling in the hills of Eden. A secret spot for horse-riding in Uruguay. For horse lovers, wine love...

Living in Uruguay: Guru’Guay creator celebrates 20 years

The creator of Guru’Guay moved to Uruguay in 2000. She shares an uncanny coincidence that she thinks made URUGU...

San Baltasar Carnival parade – January 6

My friend who’s ‘carnival royalty’ says San Baltasar is like carnival was when she was a child. You...

Uruguay’s Kentucky Derby – January 6

One of the best things to do in Montevideo is visit the horse races. Fun for the family and for architecture buffs th...

Former Uruguay president (& guerrilla) is the star of Netflix

José ‘Pepe’ Mujica was dubbed “the world’s poorest president” for his modest lifestyle...

José Ignacio – a billionaire playground with valet parking signs in the sand

Elon Musk and a Murdoch Jr have owned houses in tiny Jose Ignacio. But we’re still at the beach, in Uruguay. So...

8 things to do in Punta del Este

Argentines and Brazilians LOVE ‘Punta’–it’s Uruguay’s glamour puss beach resort. So you...

The sunset from Casapueblo – a Punta classic

An artist’s cliff-hugging summer house literally grew and grew as he expanded it to host friends such as Brigit...

Cabo Polonio – Lost island in a sea of dunes

Deserted beaches, rocky islands heaving with baying seals & tiny colourful shacks. Cabo Polonio, Uruguay is unfo...

The history of the chivito – Uruguay’s gigantic steak sandwich

This classic Uruguayan sandwich is soooo good. What’s in a chivito, why does its name refer to a goat when it&#...

New Guru’Guay guide to Montevideo out now

Lonely Planet just named Uruguay ‘one of the ten countries you MUST visit in 2020’. Perfect timing as we ...

Montevideo #1 in new travel show

The host of this brand new travel show fell in love with Montevideo. The wine, soccer, carnival, food… so many ...

Is Montevideo safe?

Montevideo is one of the safest cities in Latin America but it is still a capital city. Take the regular precautions ...

Uruguay in the Rugby World Cup

World famous for soccer, turns out Uruguay has the #2 rugby team in South America. Guru’Guay investigates and i...

Using credit cards in Uruguay: get 22% VAT off

VAT is deducted *automatically* on car hire, restaurants and… winebars! Huge savings and no last-minute messing...

Montevideo Carnival 2020 dates

Montevideo has the world’s longest carnival starting January thru early March. We’ve got the links you ne...

How healthcare works in Uruguay

The cost of living in Uruguay is not low but healthcare is good and affordable. Find out how the Uruguay healthcare s...

Latin America’s first Earthship hotel under construction in Uruguay

Not only does Uruguay have Latin America’s first ‘earthship’ school, but soon it’ll have the ...

Photography: Montevideo melting pot

After a challenge by a friend, Eliana Cleffi photographed as many nationalities as she could in 100 days in Montevide...

5 albums from Uruguay you MUST listen to

The Uruguay music scene has a mixture of rock, pop, tango, folklore, candombe, carnival sounds. Prepare to be surpris...

The WHALES are back in Uruguay!

The first sighting of whales in Uruguay this year was in May. They’ll be around until November. So where’...

May in Montevideo: Degusto gastronomy fair

Bringing together more than 80 foodie initiatives and live music over one weekend, Degusto takes place in May and Oct...

A rainy day in Montevideo? Go to the movies

Montevideo has around more than a dozen movie theatres including 3 non-profit movie theatres. Movies are subtitled so...

How to get from the Montevideo airport to the city

The Montevideo international airport is 15 miles from the city centre. You can take a taxi, shuttle or bus. The most ...

Zitarrosa: The most Uruguayan singer of them all

When he became famous in the 1960s Alfredo Zitarrosa’s record sales rivalled The Beatles’ in Montevideo. He took ...

Gaucho week in Montevideo – Easter

Traditional food, handmade goods, and South American cowboys riding wild horses. It’s the Semana Criolla –...

Sometimes Sunday Café – Outstanding Montevideo coffee shop

OMG, the eggs in salsa and Bloody Mary. Breakfast, all-day brunch and the best coffee at this Colombian-owned coffee ...

Montevideo Tales #13

Alien robots wreaking havoc on 18 de julio avenue, firing rockets at Palacio Salvo and bombing Tres Cruces bus statio...

What’s worth checking out in Carnival

Carnival starts late January till early March. Yes, it’s the world’s longest carnival. The parades and sh...

Guru’Guay in Uruguay’s top 12 influencers

MyUS.com—a site which serves 550,000 expats in 220 countries–named Karen A Higgs along with singer-songwriter...

Montevideo Tales #12

Two old ladies walk in to a cafe, then one makes a confession. This story feels so Uruguayan to me that I’m sti...

5 foods you need to try at the beach in Uruguay

Looking for the best seafood in Uruguay? The cuisine of Uruguay’s most eastern province, Rocha, is chock full ...

5 amazing beaches in Rocha, Uruguay

Without a doubt, Rocha has some of the very best beaches in Uruguay. And they’re almost totally deserted for vi...

What do Uruguayans eat?

What do Uruguayans eat (and drink)? A “tourist shopping basket”–to keep prices down in vacation hot spots&#...

Why does the tourist industry in Montevideo close down at peak visitor times?

The truth is out. Montevideans just don’t care that much about taking your tourist dollars. They’d rather...

How much does the Montevideo-Buenos Aires ferry cost?

Following Guru’Guay’s super popular article on the best way to travel Montevideo-Buenos Aires, an update ...

What is the best way to travel from Buenos Aires to Montevideo?

Guru’Guay looks at the fastest, cheapest & most relaxing ways of going Uruguay to Argentina and back by fe...

Tango dancing in Montevideo

Dance tango in Uruguay. Especially if you are a beginner or intermediate tango dancer, the tango scene in Montevideo ...

Os estrangeiros podem comprar maconha no Uruguai?

Antes de mais nada, é preciso esclarecer que não existe venda de cannabis para quem estiver visitando o Uruguai. Pa...

Colonia, Uruguay’s UNESCO World Heritage site

Essential information so that your stay in Colonia del Sacramento fits into your travel schedule as you travel betwee...

The 20 very best Uruguayan wines

Uruguay’s wine production is small yet magnificent. Here’s the very best from the Guru’Guay Guide t...

¿Los viajeros pueden comprar marihuana en Uruguay?

No existe la venta de cannabis a viajeros. Para poder comprar marihuana en Uruguay, tenés que ser uruguayo o residen...

10 reasons I love living in Uruguay: By a Uruguayan

Living in Uruguay, I also experience the same kind of small kindnesses and unsolicited courtesies Susana mentions alm...

New Uruguayan music – the really alternative Latin

Looking for some great music to listen to on the beach? Recommendations for summer listening from the alternative Lat...

Transportation in Uruguay: Travelling around by bus

It’s easy to travel around Uruguay by bus, even if you don’t speak Spanish. A centralised website collec...

Get around Montevideo like a local

And not like a tourist. This interactive map loads really fast. Use it to travel by bus or on foot and get around Mon...

Press in Uruguay loves the new Guru’Guay guide

A prestigious journal ran a full page quoting Guru’Guay that Uruguay is a holiday destination to rival Argentin...

Guru’Guay guide to Uruguay Beaches, Ranches & Wine Countr

Written by a Brit with all the contacts and knowledge accrued over almost twenty years living in Uruguay, the new Gur...

Can foreigners buy marijuana in Uruguay?

Weed is legal in Uruguay but as a non-resident you won’t be able to buy cannabis. But you can receive gifts �...

Planning your vacation in Uruguay

Your Guru has been living here for over fifteen years. Let me help you get started. Why visit Uruguay? One of South ...

All about Uruguay – a quick overview from Guru’Guay

Coming to Uruguay? Get a quick overview of this little-known South American nation. Progressive politics, stable econ...

Expressions you’ll only hear in Uruguay

Argentinian and Uruguayan Spanish accents sound the same to most English-speakers. But when hear these expressions, y...

The bell tower in the middle of nowhere

Looking for unique things to do in Uruguay? Be one of the only overseas travelers ever to climb to the top of this ca...

San Pedro de Timote – Uruguay’s most historic estancia

For 200 years, Estancia San Pedro de Timote has been the pride of Uruguay. Today it’s a historic country hotel ...

6 best beers for summer in Uruguay

Daniel Rocamora, Uruguay’s foremost craft beer expert, chooses this summer’s best craft beers. Hit the be...

Driving in the Uruguay countryside

Driving in the interior of Uruguay is a real pleasure. Calculate a little extra time and relax on some of the empties...

Exploring the Uruguayan interior

Deepest Uruguay begins just an hour from the capital. Explore centuries-old ranches, a village with 100 murals, a Mil...

If you drive in Uruguay, NO drinking alcohol

There’s zero tolerance. Not even a glass. The police are hot on breathalysing tourists right now. And the conse...

Sailing lessons, boat & windsurf rental in Montevideo

At Full Sailing, you hire a boat, board, kayak or instructor by the hour. It’s a perfect option in Uruguay, whe...

Those unmistakable rural schools in Uruguay

In the 1960s, a philanthropist and an engineer set about replacing “school shacks” in the poorest, most remote pa...

Learning Spanish in Montevideo

Readers have asked me to recommend a good Spanish language school. Academia Uruguay gets the thumbs up from people I ...

The Montevideo Marijuana Museum

The Cannabis Museum puts the country’s ground-breaking legislation in context and explains, why for Uruguayans,...

A Wall Street banker in Montevideo

Roberto worked in the international banking world for 20 years. Then he gave it all up to return to his home town of ...

Wine tasting in Uruguay vs Napa, California

Take it from the Tannat Queen. If you want a wine tasting experience to remember – and generous pours! – ...

Wine tasting in Carmelo

Wine tasting at the unique family-run boutique wineries of Carmelo, Uruguay. Plan your route, find contact details an...

Carmelo: The Uruguayan Tuscany

Not a huge amount to things to do in Carmelo, besides drink wine. Thank god! Visit vineyards, drink fine wine & ...

#GottaLoveUruguay – Tu Piano – music for the people

A piano sits in the open air in a square in Montevideo. And anyone’s welcome to play it. See what happens…...

Hollywood blockbuster directed by Uruguay’s Fede Alvarez

Fede Alvarez’s horror film Don’t Breathe became the toast of Hollywood, 6 years after a video he made dep...

Gourmet Uruguayan comfort food in a vintage furniture store

The food is what I’d call rustic-chic. Think local cooking roasts, but taken to a whole other culinary level.

How much does the ferry cost from Buenos Aires to Montevideo?

Following my very successful article on the best ways to travel Montevideo-Buenos Aires, an update on the price of fe...

A Uruguay rock and pop sampler

Uruguay’s rock and pop scenes have been thriving since the sixties. Here’s some local artists definitely ...

Montevideo’s Prado neighbourhood

Minutes from downtown, Montevideo’s leafy El Prado district is a photographer’s paradise of ghostly mansi...

What is candombe?

Candombe is an essential part of Uruguayan culture. Every neighbourhood has its comparsa (troupe), regardless of soci...

Is the Zika virus in Uruguay?

It’s a *South American* epidemic, right? Not so. South America is huge and diverse. Uruguay has had just one ca...

Why we love Montevideo

Montevideo is often overshadowed by Buenos Aires. Three well-travelled bloggers tell what made them fall in love with...

Best Uruguayan films – Clever #NotForTheMediocre

Uruguay films are characterised as “slow-burns” but this debut film is a hilarious explosion of comedy, m...

The day Mick Jagger got to experience Real Uruguay

What happened to Mick, is what makes Uruguay completely different from other places. And you don’t need to be...

The Guru’Guay Guide to Montevideo

Up until now it’s been virtually impossible to find a good Uruguay travel book. Why? Because they are written b...

Can’t withdraw (enough) cash from ATMs in Uruguay?

Some travellers to Uruguay find they cannot withdraw more than 200 USD at a time from ATMs or worse, nothing at all. ...

What time do people eat in Uruguay

Dinner time in Uruguay is …10pm??!! Revealed – Your secret weapon in the quest to make it alive to dinner...

Tipping in Uruguay

What to tip waiters, bartenders, taxi drivers…and …do you *really* have to tip the guy who guides you int...

Montevideo’s Old Town is blooming

Ciudad Vieja, the Old Town, is Montevideo’s most socio-economically diverse barrio. Check out how neighbours ar...

Uruguay tops the Americas Social Inclusion Index—again

For the third year running, Uruguay ranks at the top of the fourth annual 2015 Americas Quarterly Social Inclusion In...

Punta del Diablo – where hippie meets hip

A fishing town with dirt roads is one of Uruguay’s most popular beaches. Is it the brightly-painted cabins, swe...

Where is the best place to stay in Montevideo?

Montevideo’s neighbourhoods –or barrios– are all really different, and the area where you choose to sta...

Time zone differences between Uruguay and the rest of South America

NOTE: This article was updated on August 3 2015. The Uruguayan government has decided NOT observe daylight savings ti...

6 Uruguayan wines you MUST try

Argentinians know wine. Local expert Claudio Angelotti selects neighbour Uruguay’s best wines. The Guru transla...

What’s on tonight in Montevideo?

Insider tips for things to do -mostly off-the-tourist track- while you are in Montevideo, from The Guru.

...

Whale-watch in Uruguay

In Uruguay you can watch whales close-up from the beach. Save yourself an expensive trip to Patagonia & feel gre...

7 secrets to having the best time in Montevideo

Insider tips to getting the most out of your time in Montevideo including the 25-km rambla, sunsets, wineries, soccer...

The Guru plans – 4 days and nights in Montevideo for you

You should definitely visit Montevideo. Take minimum 4 days, ideally Thursday to Sunday. Tons of things to do, especi...

Discovering Montevideo through its live music scene

Do the same as Austin music journalist Nancy Flores and let Guru’Guay take you on a Montevideo musical journey....

Uruguay president gives hitch-hiker a ride

President picks up hitch-hiker – only in Uruguay. Once again President Pepe Mujica proves that he is made of differ...

The Gaucho Museum

Most museums in Montevideo are run by the state and free to visit. The Gaucho Museum is located in a fantastic “pal...

Atlántida – wide sandy beaches 30 miles from Montevideo

Fine white sands, pines, 2 mysterious structures – an eagle head & a world-reknowned church. The Uruguay beach...

Uruguay – most gay friendly country in South America

… and 9th friendliest in the world, says the Spartacus International Gay Guide. Yep, homosexuality has been leg...

Weird weather in Uruguay – the Storm of Santa Rosa

A violent storm hits Uruguay and parts of Argentina at the same time every year. Urban myth? Or is there some truth t...

Uruguay’s rivers – video, 3 years in making, captures peace

This lovely amateur video shot over 3 years around the Cuareim and Yaguarón rivers in Uruguay. Its simple Spanish te...

3 Uruguayan white wines you must not miss

Uruguayan red wines may get all the press but descendents of Spaniards are producing some great whites – albari...

Why Uruguayans celebrate Tourism Week – not Easter

40% of Roman Catholics live in Latin America but as usual Uruguay does its own thing. There’s complete separati...

Does Uruguay have the happiest news show in the world?

The weekly Uruguayan news show is an “antidote to depressing TV news” and an internet sensation. #gottalo...

Uruguayans invented the mammogram and the birth control pill

As 10% of all women get breast cancer, the mammogram is arguably among the most important techniques of the last cent...

Uruguay wines vs. Argentina’s, who comes out top? You may be surprised

A lot of people were suprised when Financial Times wine expert Jancis Robinson ranked several Uruguay wines higher in...

Parque Rodó – beach, kitsch fairground & Sunday drummers

My favourite park in Montevideo, Parque Rodo has tons of stuff to do for adults and children alike and the best view ...

The Andes 1972 Museum – one of the great human survival stories of the 20th century

Best things to do in Montevideo – visit the moving Andes 1972 museum which honours the survivors (all Uruguayan...

Pura vida! The air in Uruguay is the purest in the world – and that’s official

Uruguay has the best air quality in the world according to a study by Yale University. Guru’Guay looks at the 2...

Balls – Giant statue in Montevideo inspires soccer cartoon

A short cartoon by Uruguayan artist Matias Bervejillo, inspired by the naked “Greeting Man” statute, a gi...

Buying tickets for concerts and carnival

You can buy tickets for concerts and carnival shows in Montevideo at box offices and Abitab and Red Pagos/RED UTS ...

Montevideo over New Year? 5 things you need to know

Between Christmas & New Year, Montevideans leave town in droves. So what to do you do? There’s still the ...

Should I visit Punta del Este?

If you’re a party-loving 20-something sun-worshipper you’ll love Punta del Este Uruguay in January. Every...

Uruguay is the best countreeee — Joke becomes national hit

Uruguay turned a national in-joke into an international tourism campaign. Do you think it works?

...

Breakfast is not big in Uruguay

Bizcochos, medialunas and cafe con leche or mate. The traditional breakfast in Uruguay revealed.

...

Even the buses have free wifi!

It’s really, really easy to get online in Uruguay. In fact, Uruguay is the only country in the world to complet...

A day by the sea? Piriapolis and Punta Colorada

Piriapolis, an hour from Montevideo, is a charming Uruguay beach town, ideal for families, has an art-deco promenade ...

Art, Music & Film

Carnival in Uruguay – what is murga?

Murga is an instantly recognisable musical style associated with carnival. It’s a uniquely Uruguayan phenomenon...

Bar El Mingus – Chill Out Restobar & Tuesday Jazz

El Mingus is a one of the best restaurants in Montevideo–cool, contemporary, with the intimacy of an old-school...

Heidi Lender: stuck in Uruguay in the pandemic

This San Franciscan photographer runs a Uruguay/US creative arts institute. “There’s not a day that I don’t...

5 Uruguayan films you must see

Uruguayan movies tend to be slow burners with lots of critical acclaim. The Guru invites you to put your feet up and ...

San Baltasar Carnival parade – January 6

My friend who’s ‘carnival royalty’ says San Baltasar is like carnival was when she was a child. You...

Former Uruguay president (& guerrilla) is the star of Netflix

José ‘Pepe’ Mujica was dubbed “the world’s poorest president” for his modest lifestyle...

Montevideo #1 in new travel show

The host of this brand new travel show fell in love with Montevideo. The wine, soccer, carnival, food… so many ...

Photography: Montevideo melting pot

After a challenge by a friend, Eliana Cleffi photographed as many nationalities as she could in 100 days in Montevide...

5 albums from Uruguay you MUST listen to

The Uruguay music scene has a mixture of rock, pop, tango, folklore, candombe, carnival sounds. Prepare to be surpris...

A rainy day in Montevideo? Go to the movies

Montevideo has around more than a dozen movie theatres including 3 non-profit movie theatres. Movies are subtitled so...

Artesana – Uruguay vineyard for foodies

Besides great wine, in our experience, this award-winning women-run winery 45 minutes from Montevideo, has the BEST l...

Zitarrosa: The most Uruguayan singer of them all

When he became famous in the 1960s Alfredo Zitarrosa’s record sales rivalled The Beatles’ in Montevideo. He took ...

Montevideo Tales #13

Alien robots wreaking havoc on 18 de julio avenue, firing rockets at Palacio Salvo and bombing Tres Cruces bus statio...

Tango dancing in Montevideo

Dance tango in Uruguay. Especially if you are a beginner or intermediate tango dancer, the tango scene in Montevideo ...

Experience candombe drummers in the street

To check out authentic candombe in Uruguay, you’ll want to go to a street rehearsal. Where to go, how it works ...

New Uruguayan music – the really alternative Latin

Looking for some great music to listen to on the beach? Recommendations for summer listening from the alternative Lat...

Hollywood blockbuster directed by Uruguay’s Fede Alvarez

Fede Alvarez’s horror film Don’t Breathe became the toast of Hollywood, 6 years after a video he made dep...

A Uruguay rock and pop sampler

Uruguay’s rock and pop scenes have been thriving since the sixties. Here’s some local artists definitely ...

What is candombe?

Candombe is an essential part of Uruguayan culture. Every neighbourhood has its comparsa (troupe), regardless of soci...

Best Uruguayan films – Clever #NotForTheMediocre

Uruguay films are characterised as “slow-burns” but this debut film is a hilarious explosion of comedy, m...

The day Mick Jagger got to experience Real Uruguay

What happened to Mick, is what makes Uruguay completely different from other places. And you don’t need to be...

Montevideo’s Old Town is blooming

Ciudad Vieja, the Old Town, is Montevideo’s most socio-economically diverse barrio. Check out how neighbours ar...

What’s on tonight in Montevideo?

Insider tips for things to do -mostly off-the-tourist track- while you are in Montevideo, from The Guru.

...

April – anniversary of the world’s most famous tango

The world’s most famous tango song is over 100 years old–and it’s Uruguayan! Every year a week-long...

Discovering Montevideo through its live music scene

Do the same as Austin music journalist Nancy Flores and let Guru’Guay take you on a Montevideo musical journey....

Ana Prada – the face of modern Uruguayan folk music

Nominated Revelation of the Year by Rolling Stone Argentina, Ana Prada hails from Uruguay. She’s the best thing...

Balls – Giant statue in Montevideo inspires soccer cartoon

A short cartoon by Uruguayan artist Matias Bervejillo, inspired by the naked “Greeting Man” statute, a gi...

Beaches

Not just great culture. Montevideo has 10 fine beaches

The capital of Uruguay has beaches with fine white sand, great for paddling or swimming, kitesurfing, with fairground...

José Ignacio: Tiny Uruguay town turned world’s hot beach spot

First Argentina’s rich & beautiful, then the Hearsts and Rockefellers. Just how did a rocky Uruguay peninsula ...

Where are the best beaches in Uruguay?

A secret for North Americans and Europeans, Uruguay’s beaches have been a favourite with Argentinians for years...

José Ignacio – a billionaire playground with valet parking signs in the sand

Elon Musk and a Murdoch Jr have owned houses in tiny Jose Ignacio. But we’re still at the beach, in Uruguay. So...

8 things to do in Punta del Este

Argentines and Brazilians LOVE ‘Punta’–it’s Uruguay’s glamour puss beach resort. So you...

The sunset from Casapueblo – a Punta classic

An artist’s cliff-hugging summer house literally grew and grew as he expanded it to host friends such as Brigit...

Cabo Polonio – Lost island in a sea of dunes

Deserted beaches, rocky islands heaving with baying seals & tiny colourful shacks. Cabo Polonio, Uruguay is unfo...

5 amazing beaches in Rocha, Uruguay

Without a doubt, Rocha has some of the very best beaches in Uruguay. And they’re almost totally deserted for vi...

What beach warning flags mean in Uruguay

What’s that green cross on the red flag all about? Wondering what the lifeguard flags in Uruguay mean? Check ou...

Best place to watch the sunset in Montevideo

7pm on a summer’s evening. The sun will be going down in under an hour. Where’s the best spot to kick bac...

Punta del Diablo – where hippie meets hip

A fishing town with dirt roads is one of Uruguay’s most popular beaches. Is it the brightly-painted cabins, swe...

Whale-watch in Uruguay

In Uruguay you can watch whales close-up from the beach. Save yourself an expensive trip to Patagonia & feel gre...

Atlántida – wide sandy beaches 30 miles from Montevideo

Fine white sands, pines, 2 mysterious structures – an eagle head & a world-reknowned church. The Uruguay beach...

Should I visit Punta del Este?

If you’re a party-loving 20-something sun-worshipper you’ll love Punta del Este Uruguay in January. Every...

A day by the sea? Piriapolis and Punta Colorada

Piriapolis, an hour from Montevideo, is a charming Uruguay beach town, ideal for families, has an art-deco promenade ...

Coronavirus & Uruguay

Can I get into Uruguay right now?

Are you trying to travel to Uruguay right now? Find out what the current entry requirements are and if you meet them....

Uruguay vaccine plan prioritises health workers, teachers & care homes

Uruguay to begin a mass vaccination plan against Covid-19 in March. Which vaccines are being used and who will receiv...

Uruguay borders to remain closed for the austral summer

Borders are still closed–with exceptions–to inbound travel as Uruguay continues to work to keep coronavir...

The first wave: how Uruguay is handling the pandemic

From 20 cases a day in March, to 0 cases in June, for the first time after 9 months of pandemic there are 400+ new co...

Flights to Uruguay during COVID

A collection of the latest information on flights and flying to Uruguay. Read our update regarding opening the border...

Coronavirus in Uruguay – a summary of the first 9 months

An indepth summary of Uruguay’s response to COVID-19 from March to November 2020, when coronavirus cases were a...

Heidi Lender: stuck in Uruguay in the pandemic

This San Franciscan photographer runs a Uruguay/US creative arts institute. “There’s not a day that I don’t...

Amazing coincidences for Russian stranded in Uruguay

Finding herself stranded in Uruguay on a biking holiday, Kate Chernysheva couldn’t believe her eyes as she rode...

Love & shelter in Uruguay for Clipper round the world sailor

When the Clipper Round the World race was called off, Spaniard Clara Carrington followed her heart 11,000 miles to Ur...

US actor turned digital nomad finds Uruguay ideal place to settle

When Chris locked his New York City apt door in Dec 2019, he never imagined he’d be moving out of it, in a pand...

Canada motor-bikers in a pandemic in Uruguay

Fearful after hearing scary stories from elsewhere in Latin America, this adventure motorcycle couple’s experie...

Pregnant, South African and stuck in a pandemic in Uruguay

This South African has had a crash-course on life in Uruguay–and healthcare–after finding herself stuck h...

We were looking for a sense of community. We found it in a pandemic in Uruguay

Kris and Ryan from Oakland, California’s round-the-world trip came to an abrupt stop as they found themselves s...

Post pandemic, US & Europeans want to move to safe Uruguay

There’s a boom in real estate enquiries following Uruguay’s solid response to COVID-19, demonstrating it&...

Feel good in quarantine: 10 minutes in a parallel universe

Join us as we parachute in on a virtual visit to a Uruguay wine-maker. Harvest is just ending and there’s some ...

Countryside & Outdoors

The night sky: Best places to stargaze in Uruguay

NASA-recognised astrophotographer Fefo Bouvier tells us about the night sky in the southern hemisphere and Uruguay...

Estancia El Ceibo – deepest Uruguay with minimal travel

It can take hours along pot-holed roads to reach the best estancias in Uruguay. This ranch, virtually unchanged since...

The extraordinary murals of 25 de agosto

The sleepiest little towns in Uruguay can be full of surprises. This one just an hour from Montevideo is home to over...

Hotel Solis – historic, coastal B&B

Be a part of history. Once the best hotel in Uruguay-and British spy HQ in WW2!-, nestling by beaches, wineries and t...

Haras Las Tordillas – A horse-riding paradise

A luxury lodge nestling in the hills of Eden. A secret spot for horse-riding in Uruguay. For horse lovers, wine love...

8 things to do in Punta del Este

Argentines and Brazilians LOVE ‘Punta’–it’s Uruguay’s glamour puss beach resort. So you...

The WHALES are back in Uruguay!

The first sighting of whales in Uruguay this year was in May. They’ll be around until November. So where’...

Gaucho week in Montevideo – Easter

Traditional food, handmade goods, and South American cowboys riding wild horses. It’s the Semana Criolla –...

Colonia, Uruguay’s UNESCO World Heritage site

Essential information so that your stay in Colonia del Sacramento fits into your travel schedule as you travel betwee...

Experience candombe drummers in the street

To check out authentic candombe in Uruguay, you’ll want to go to a street rehearsal. Where to go, how it works ...

Uruguay is a whale and dolphin sanctuary – and that’s official

In 2013, the Uruguayan parliament voted unanimously (62-0) to turn Uruguayan waters into a protected area for whales ...

Los Platanos – an authentic estancia run by 6th generation

A lovely working ranch in a remote spot of the rolling sierras of central Uruguay run by the same family for over 150...

The bell tower in the middle of nowhere

Looking for unique things to do in Uruguay? Be one of the only overseas travelers ever to climb to the top of this ca...

San Pedro de Timote – Uruguay’s most historic estancia

For 200 years, Estancia San Pedro de Timote has been the pride of Uruguay. Today it’s a historic country hotel ...

Driving in the Uruguay countryside

Driving in the interior of Uruguay is a real pleasure. Calculate a little extra time and relax on some of the empties...

Exploring the Uruguayan interior

Deepest Uruguay begins just an hour from the capital. Explore centuries-old ranches, a village with 100 murals, a Mil...

Sailing lessons, boat & windsurf rental in Montevideo

At Full Sailing, you hire a boat, board, kayak or instructor by the hour. It’s a perfect option in Uruguay, whe...

Those unmistakable rural schools in Uruguay

In the 1960s, a philanthropist and an engineer set about replacing “school shacks” in the poorest, most remote pa...

Montevideo’s Prado neighbourhood

Minutes from downtown, Montevideo’s leafy El Prado district is a photographer’s paradise of ghostly mansi...

Whale-watch in Uruguay

In Uruguay you can watch whales close-up from the beach. Save yourself an expensive trip to Patagonia & feel gre...

Uruguay’s rivers – video, 3 years in making, captures peace

This lovely amateur video shot over 3 years around the Cuareim and Yaguarón rivers in Uruguay. Its simple Spanish te...

Parque Rodó – beach, kitsch fairground & Sunday drummers

My favourite park in Montevideo, Parque Rodo has tons of stuff to do for adults and children alike and the best view ...

Food & Drink

Estación Penitente – Magical hill-top restaurant in Minas, Uruguay

Overlooking Uruguay’s Sierras de Minas, with views reminiscent of Greece. Traditional cooking, Uruguayan BBQ &#...

Es Mercat – The best fish restaurant in Montevideo

We wager Es Mercat is the very best fish and seafood restaurant in the whole of Montevideo. Ask the chef to choose wh...

After 12 years abroad, Uruguayan reports on Montevideo food scene

The food scene in New York City had turned Javier’s head. Would Montevideo mean having to trade great food for ...

Lobo Suelto – Best little foodtruck in the East

The best traditional food in Uruguay between the airport and the beach. Chivito, seafood and salads, all locally sour...

Arazá – Native Uruguay cuisine

Native Uruguay cuisine in Montevideo. Special events include monthly expeditions to El Prado park to identify local p...

Bar El Mingus – Chill Out Restobar & Tuesday Jazz

El Mingus is a one of the best restaurants in Montevideo–cool, contemporary, with the intimacy of an old-school...

Cabaña de Veronica – Great steak & Uruguay asado

The Port Market–Disneyland for carnivores–is not to be missed but avoid the tourist traps! At Veronica...

Il Tano Cucina – pasta & seafood in Punta del Diablo

One of the best seafood restaurants in Punta del Diablo & open all year round. Family-run, it’s minutes fro...

10 typical Uruguay foods you must try

Typical Uruguay foods — chivito, tira de asado, pamplona, torta frita, alfajor, dulce de leche… We go through...

Recommended food delivery and take away in Punta del Este

Our favourite foodie restaurants have pivoted to what is most helpful and safe right now – take away and delive...

Punta & Montevideo chefs organise communal pots

A volunteer team has commandeered a luxury hotel kitchen and is making hot, nutritious meals for hundreds of adults a...

Best food delivery and take away in Montevideo

In Montevideo during coronavirus? Shelter in place. Order delivery of delicious food (and wine and beer – of co...

Organic produce delivery – Montevideo & Punta

Get organic fruit and vegetables, fresh eggs and honey direct to your door. Organic food baskets delivered in Montevi...

What eating out costs in Uruguay

I often get asked about costs in Uruguay. Get an idea what you are likely to spend on food and drink when eating out ...

Salón No. 3 – La Barra cuisine

New La Barra restaurant in a vintage furniture store. Pull up a chair in the kitchen as the chef preps just-caught f...

Doña Martina – Classic empanadas at their freshest

A traditional street food in Uruguay is the empanada. This is the very best empanada place we’ve found with a m...

The history of the chivito – Uruguay’s gigantic steak sandwich

This classic Uruguayan sandwich is soooo good. What’s in a chivito, why does its name refer to a goat when it&#...

Montevideo #1 in new travel show

The host of this brand new travel show fell in love with Montevideo. The wine, soccer, carnival, food… so many ...

May in Montevideo: Degusto gastronomy fair

Bringing together more than 80 foodie initiatives and live music over one weekend, Degusto takes place in May and Oct...

Club del Pan – Legendary sandwiches in Parque Rodó

A tiny corner cafe off the rambla. Gigantic sandwiches made with sourdough from a legendary baker. Excellent coffee. ...

Sometimes Sunday Café – Outstanding Montevideo coffee shop

OMG, the eggs in salsa and Bloody Mary. Breakfast, all-day brunch and the best coffee at this Colombian-owned coffee ...

5 foods you need to try at the beach in Uruguay

Looking for the best seafood in Uruguay? The cuisine of Uruguay’s most eastern province, Rocha, is chock full ...

What do Uruguayans eat?

What do Uruguayans eat (and drink)? A “tourist shopping basket”–to keep prices down in vacation hot spots&#...

My top 3 places to eat in Montevideo’s Old City

The Guru recommends her three fav watering holes in Ciudad Vieja, the old town of Montevideo – amazing fish, al...

The 20 very best Uruguayan wines

Uruguay’s wine production is small yet magnificent. Here’s the very best from the Guru’Guay Guide t...

6 best beers for summer in Uruguay

Daniel Rocamora, Uruguay’s foremost craft beer expert, chooses this summer’s best craft beers. Hit the be...

Montevideo Wine Experience – the underground sommeliers

Montevideo wine tasting? There’s a charming little wine-bar close to the port of Montevideo with the friendlies...

What time do people eat in Uruguay

Dinner time in Uruguay is …10pm??!! Revealed – Your secret weapon in the quest to make it alive to dinner...

6 Uruguayan wines you MUST try

Argentinians know wine. Local expert Claudio Angelotti selects neighbour Uruguay’s best wines. The Guru transla...

Checking out the craft beer in Uruguay

For a country of 3 million, Uruguay has a notable number of craft breweries, all producing excellent craft beer, many...

Where to watch the World Cup in Montevideo. Or where the real sports bars are

Forget those plastic replicas in the shopping centres. These are the real thing out in the neighbourhoods of Montevid...

3 Uruguayan white wines you must not miss

Uruguayan red wines may get all the press but descendents of Spaniards are producing some great whites – albari...

Breakfast is not big in Uruguay

Bizcochos, medialunas and cafe con leche or mate. The traditional breakfast in Uruguay revealed.

...

Getting Around

How to get from the Montevideo airport to the city

The Montevideo international airport is 15 miles from the city centre. You can take a taxi, shuttle or bus. The most ...

Great little car rental company in Uruguay

Unashamed shout-out for local car hire company, Mariño Sport, in Uruguay. I’ve been impressed by their grea...

Transportation in Uruguay: Travelling around by bus

It’s easy to travel around Uruguay by bus, even if you don’t speak Spanish. A centralised website collec...

Get around Montevideo like a local

And not like a tourist. This interactive map loads really fast. Use it to travel by bus or on foot and get around Mon...

Driving in the Uruguay countryside

Driving in the interior of Uruguay is a real pleasure. Calculate a little extra time and relax on some of the empties...

If you drive in Uruguay, NO drinking alcohol

There’s zero tolerance. Not even a glass. The police are hot on breathalysing tourists right now. And the conse...

Getting around: buses, taxis and walking

Getting around like a local. Flag down the bus – or it won’t stop. Don’t tip your taxi driver – but d...

Help! I don’t speak Spanish and I need to call a cab!

How to call for a cab in Montevideo–it’s easy, even when you don’t speak Spanish–, how much t...

Even the buses have free wifi!

It’s really, really easy to get online in Uruguay. In fact, Uruguay is the only country in the world to complet...

Getting to Uruguay

Uruguay borders to remain closed for the austral summer

Borders are still closed–with exceptions–to inbound travel as Uruguay continues to work to keep coronavir...

Flights to Uruguay during COVID

A collection of the latest information on flights and flying to Uruguay. Read our update regarding opening the border...

Getting to Uruguay

“The great advice in your guide saved me $500USD on my airline ticket!” How to get to Uruguay from Argentina, Bra...

Flights to Uruguay: the best and worst airlines

The Guru gives you her honest take on airlines flying to Uruguay from the USA, Europe, Buenos Aires, Argentina &...

How much does the Montevideo-Buenos Aires ferry cost?

Following Guru’Guay’s super popular article on the best way to travel Montevideo-Buenos Aires, an update ...

What is the best way to travel from Buenos Aires to Montevideo?

Guru’Guay looks at the fastest, cheapest & most relaxing ways of going Uruguay to Argentina and back by fe...

Buying ferry tickets from Buenos Aires to Colonia, Uruguay

Planning a day-trip to Colonia from Buenos Aires? Guru’Guay looks at the ferry options, price of tickets, sched...

9 tips to buying Buenos Aires to Uruguay ferry tickets

The Uruguay-Argentina ferry sites are getting better but buying tickets online can still be frustrating. Pour yoursel...

What is the best way to travel from Buenos Aires to Montevideo?

Guru’Guay looks at the fastest, cheapest & most relaxing ways of going Uruguay to Argentina and back by fe...

Holidays & Festivals

Carnival in Uruguay – what is murga?

Murga is an instantly recognisable musical style associated with carnival. It’s a uniquely Uruguayan phenomenon...

6 reasons why you must not miss carnival in Montevideo

Virtually unknown to people outside of Uruguay, carnival in the capital Montevideo is one of the most authentic in th...

Uruguay Festivals – Sea Goddess Day on February 2

This year the Government of Montevideo is urging Yemanjá sea goddess worshippers to avoid congregating–and to ...

San Baltasar Carnival parade – January 6

My friend who’s ‘carnival royalty’ says San Baltasar is like carnival was when she was a child. You...

Uruguay’s Kentucky Derby – January 6

One of the best things to do in Montevideo is visit the horse races. Fun for the family and for architecture buffs th...

Montevideo #1 in new travel show

The host of this brand new travel show fell in love with Montevideo. The wine, soccer, carnival, food… so many ...

Montevideo Carnival 2020 dates

Montevideo has the world’s longest carnival starting January thru early March. We’ve got the links you ne...

May in Montevideo: Degusto gastronomy fair

Bringing together more than 80 foodie initiatives and live music over one weekend, Degusto takes place in May and Oct...

The carnival whisperer – SOLD OUT for 2020

Your tour guide will be Christine, the “carnival whisperer”. A long-time Uruguay & Montevideo residen...

Public holidays in Uruguay

It’s a good idea to know when public holidays in Uruguay are as most shops close. Public transport is also limi...

Gaucho week in Montevideo – Easter

Traditional food, handmade goods, and South American cowboys riding wild horses. It’s the Semana Criolla –...

What’s worth checking out in Carnival

Carnival starts late January till early March. Yes, it’s the world’s longest carnival. The parades and sh...

Carnival in Uruguay 2019: Montevideo attractions and dates

Montevideo has the world’s longest carnival starting January thru early March. We’ve got the links you ne...

Experience candombe drummers in the street

To check out authentic candombe in Uruguay, you’ll want to go to a street rehearsal. Where to go, how it works ...

April – anniversary of the world’s most famous tango

The world’s most famous tango song is over 100 years old–and it’s Uruguayan! Every year a week-long...

Weird weather in Uruguay – the Storm of Santa Rosa

A violent storm hits Uruguay and parts of Argentina at the same time every year. Urban myth? Or is there some truth t...

Why Uruguayans celebrate Tourism Week – not Easter

40% of Roman Catholics live in Latin America but as usual Uruguay does its own thing. There’s complete separati...

Buying tickets for concerts and carnival

You can buy tickets for concerts and carnival shows in Montevideo at box offices and Abitab and Red Pagos/RED UTS ...

Montevideo over New Year? 5 things you need to know

Between Christmas & New Year, Montevideans leave town in droves. So what to do you do? There’s still the ...

Progressive Society

Gay Montevideo

Montevideo – the capital of the friendliest country in South America. And it’s Uruguay’s version o...

US actor turned digital nomad finds Uruguay ideal place to settle

When Chris locked his New York City apt door in Dec 2019, he never imagined he’d be moving out of it, in a pand...

Pregnant, South African and stuck in a pandemic in Uruguay

This South African has had a crash-course on life in Uruguay–and healthcare–after finding herself stuck h...

Latin America’s first Earthship hotel under construction in Uruguay

Not only does Uruguay have Latin America’s first ‘earthship’ school, but soon it’ll have the ...

Zitarrosa: The most Uruguayan singer of them all

When he became famous in the 1960s Alfredo Zitarrosa’s record sales rivalled The Beatles’ in Montevideo. He took ...

Uruguay is a whale and dolphin sanctuary – and that’s official

In 2013, the Uruguayan parliament voted unanimously (62-0) to turn Uruguayan waters into a protected area for whales ...

Why did Uruguay legalise cannabis?

Anyone that knows Uruguayan politics will not be surprised at the seemingly audacious policy to legalise cannabis. It...

Uruguay has gay friendly business certification

“Businesses welcome guidance around what’s appropriate and respectful.” Uruguay certified the first...

Can foreigners buy marijuana in Uruguay?

Weed is legal in Uruguay but as a non-resident you won’t be able to buy cannabis. But you can receive gifts �...

The Montevideo Marijuana Museum

The Cannabis Museum puts the country’s ground-breaking legislation in context and explains, why for Uruguayans,...

#GottaLoveUruguay – Tu Piano – music for the people

A piano sits in the open air in a square in Montevideo. And anyone’s welcome to play it. See what happens…...

Why we love Montevideo

Montevideo is often overshadowed by Buenos Aires. Three well-travelled bloggers tell what made them fall in love with...

Uruguay tops the Americas Social Inclusion Index—again

For the third year running, Uruguay ranks at the top of the fourth annual 2015 Americas Quarterly Social Inclusion In...

Uruguay president gives hitch-hiker a ride

President picks up hitch-hiker – only in Uruguay. Once again President Pepe Mujica proves that he is made of differ...

Uruguay – most gay friendly country in South America

… and 9th friendliest in the world, says the Spartacus International Gay Guide. Yep, homosexuality has been leg...

Why Uruguayans celebrate Tourism Week – not Easter

40% of Roman Catholics live in Latin America but as usual Uruguay does its own thing. There’s complete separati...

Uruguayans invented the mammogram and the birth control pill

As 10% of all women get breast cancer, the mammogram is arguably among the most important techniques of the last cent...

Uruguay is the best countreeee — Joke becomes national hit

Uruguay turned a national in-joke into an international tourism campaign. Do you think it works?

...

Even the buses have free wifi!

It’s really, really easy to get online in Uruguay. In fact, Uruguay is the only country in the world to complet...

Staying Safe & Healthy

Uruguay vaccine plan prioritises health workers, teachers & care homes

Uruguay to begin a mass vaccination plan against Covid-19 in March. Which vaccines are being used and who will receiv...

The first wave: how Uruguay is handling the pandemic

From 20 cases a day in March, to 0 cases in June, for the first time after 9 months of pandemic there are 400+ new co...

Coronavirus in Uruguay – a summary of the first 9 months

An indepth summary of Uruguay’s response to COVID-19 from March to November 2020, when coronavirus cases were a...

Love & shelter in Uruguay for Clipper round the world sailor

When the Clipper Round the World race was called off, Spaniard Clara Carrington followed her heart 11,000 miles to Ur...

US actor turned digital nomad finds Uruguay ideal place to settle

When Chris locked his New York City apt door in Dec 2019, he never imagined he’d be moving out of it, in a pand...

Canada motor-bikers in a pandemic in Uruguay

Fearful after hearing scary stories from elsewhere in Latin America, this adventure motorcycle couple’s experie...

Pregnant, South African and stuck in a pandemic in Uruguay

This South African has had a crash-course on life in Uruguay–and healthcare–after finding herself stuck h...

How to describe a cough or cold in Spanish

Spanish varies a lot from country to country. Here are some expressions used in Uruguay to get medication, teas &...

Herbal remedies for coughs and colds in Uruguay

Useful expressions to help you describe your cough and/or cold while you are in Uruguay, so that you can get some dec...

Recommended food delivery and take away in Punta del Este

Our favourite foodie restaurants have pivoted to what is most helpful and safe right now – take away and delive...

Punta & Montevideo chefs organise communal pots

A volunteer team has commandeered a luxury hotel kitchen and is making hot, nutritious meals for hundreds of adults a...

Best food delivery and take away in Montevideo

In Montevideo during coronavirus? Shelter in place. Order delivery of delicious food (and wine and beer – of co...

Feel good in quarantine: 10 minutes in a parallel universe

Join us as we parachute in on a virtual visit to a Uruguay wine-maker. Harvest is just ending and there’s some ...

Uruguay country hotels in times of quarantine

Corona has left visitors stranded in Uruguay. Two beautiful, isolated country hotels, close to the airport, & ru...

Organic produce delivery – Montevideo & Punta

Get organic fruit and vegetables, fresh eggs and honey direct to your door. Organic food baskets delivered in Montevi...

Is Montevideo safe?

Montevideo is one of the safest cities in Latin America but it is still a capital city. Take the regular precautions ...

How healthcare works in Uruguay

The cost of living in Uruguay is not low but healthcare is good and affordable. Find out how the Uruguay healthcare s...

What you MUST know about sunbathing in Uruguay

A hole in the South Pole ozone layer means the sun in South America is VERY strong. You can get SERIOUS sunburn in mi...

New vaccination requirement for residency in Uruguay

From 2018 the Uruguay Ministry of Public Health requires anyone applying for permanent residence to show proof of vac...

Beware of dye-marked banknotes

In 2018, a spate of ATM robberies led banks to put dye-packs amongst the bills. Dyed notes were no longer legal tende...

What beach warning flags mean in Uruguay

What’s that green cross on the red flag all about? Wondering what the lifeguard flags in Uruguay mean? Check ou...

If you drive in Uruguay, NO drinking alcohol

There’s zero tolerance. Not even a glass. The police are hot on breathalysing tourists right now. And the conse...

Power sockets and plugs in Uruguay

In Uruguay we have a bunch of different electrical power sockets and plugs, so which power travel adapter should you ...

Is the Zika virus in Uruguay?

It’s a *South American* epidemic, right? Not so. South America is huge and diverse. Uruguay has had just one ca...

Pura vida! The air in Uruguay is the purest in the world – and that’s official

Uruguay has the best air quality in the world according to a study by Yale University. Guru’Guay looks at the 2...

The People

Heidi Lender: stuck in Uruguay in the pandemic

This San Franciscan photographer runs a Uruguay/US creative arts institute. “There’s not a day that I don’t...

7 amazing facts about Uruguay national football team

More international footballing titles, two World Cups, the first soccer sex symbol and the best football anthem. Not ...

Amazing coincidences for Russian stranded in Uruguay

Finding herself stranded in Uruguay on a biking holiday, Kate Chernysheva couldn’t believe her eyes as she rode...

Love & shelter in Uruguay for Clipper round the world sailor

When the Clipper Round the World race was called off, Spaniard Clara Carrington followed her heart 11,000 miles to Ur...

Canada motor-bikers in a pandemic in Uruguay

Fearful after hearing scary stories from elsewhere in Latin America, this adventure motorcycle couple’s experie...

We were looking for a sense of community. We found it in a pandemic in Uruguay

Kris and Ryan from Oakland, California’s round-the-world trip came to an abrupt stop as they found themselves s...

Former Uruguay president (& guerrilla) is the star of Netflix

José ‘Pepe’ Mujica was dubbed “the world’s poorest president” for his modest lifestyle...

Uruguay in the Rugby World Cup

World famous for soccer, turns out Uruguay has the #2 rugby team in South America. Guru’Guay investigates and i...

Montevideo Tales #12

Two old ladies walk in to a cafe, then one makes a confession. This story feels so Uruguayan to me that I’m sti...

Why does the tourist industry in Montevideo close down at peak visitor times?

The truth is out. Montevideans just don’t care that much about taking your tourist dollars. They’d rather...

Manuel Filgueira: Ninja winemaking in Uruguay

Trained in elite French chateaux but down to earth, Manuel Filgueira is one of Uruguay’s top winemakers, produc...

Experience candombe drummers in the street

To check out authentic candombe in Uruguay, you’ll want to go to a street rehearsal. Where to go, how it works ...

10 reasons I love living in Uruguay: By a Uruguayan

Living in Uruguay, I also experience the same kind of small kindnesses and unsolicited courtesies Susana mentions alm...

Expressions you’ll only hear in Uruguay

Argentinian and Uruguayan Spanish accents sound the same to most English-speakers. But when hear these expressions, y...

A Wall Street banker in Montevideo

Roberto worked in the international banking world for 20 years. Then he gave it all up to return to his home town of ...

#GottaLoveUruguay – Tu Piano – music for the people

A piano sits in the open air in a square in Montevideo. And anyone’s welcome to play it. See what happens…...

Why we love Montevideo

Montevideo is often overshadowed by Buenos Aires. Three well-travelled bloggers tell what made them fall in love with...

The day Mick Jagger got to experience Real Uruguay

What happened to Mick, is what makes Uruguay completely different from other places. And you don’t need to be...

Uruguay president gives hitch-hiker a ride

President picks up hitch-hiker – only in Uruguay. Once again President Pepe Mujica proves that he is made of differ...

Why Uruguayans celebrate Tourism Week – not Easter

40% of Roman Catholics live in Latin America but as usual Uruguay does its own thing. There’s complete separati...

Does Uruguay have the happiest news show in the world?

The weekly Uruguayan news show is an “antidote to depressing TV news” and an internet sensation. #gottalo...

Uruguayans invented the mammogram and the birth control pill

As 10% of all women get breast cancer, the mammogram is arguably among the most important techniques of the last cent...

The Andes 1972 Museum – one of the great human survival stories of the 20th century

Best things to do in Montevideo – visit the moving Andes 1972 museum which honours the survivors (all Uruguayan...

Uruguay is the best countreeee — Joke becomes national hit

Uruguay turned a national in-joke into an international tourism campaign. Do you think it works?

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Things To Do

Uruguay borders: Travel ban exemption to study Spanish

While the borders remain closed to non-citizens and residents, there is a legal way to get in to Uruguay. Studying Sp...

Academia Uruguay – Learn Spanish in Uruguay

If you’re planning to learn Spanish to come to Uruguay, Academia Uruguay teachers not only have the right accen...

Montevideo #1 in new travel show

The host of this brand new travel show fell in love with Montevideo. The wine, soccer, carnival, food… so many ...

A rainy day in Montevideo? Go to the movies

Montevideo has around more than a dozen movie theatres including 3 non-profit movie theatres. Movies are subtitled so...

The carnival whisperer – SOLD OUT for 2020

Your tour guide will be Christine, the “carnival whisperer”. A long-time Uruguay & Montevideo residen...

Birdwatching Tour in Punta del Este

See 30-40 bird species as you tour Parque Indigena, a national park on the Maldonado river just ten minutes from Punt...

Private walking tour of the Old City

Climb the iconic Palacio Salvo, get a feel for carnival and learn juicy facts about the history and architecture. All...

Private City Exploration Of Montevideo

Learn juicy historical background and secrets behind the city’s most beautiful architecture as you tour Montevideo ...

Tango dancing in Montevideo

Dance tango in Uruguay. Especially if you are a beginner or intermediate tango dancer, the tango scene in Montevideo ...

San Pedro de Timote – Uruguay’s most historic estancia

For 200 years, Estancia San Pedro de Timote has been the pride of Uruguay. Today it’s a historic country hotel ...

Sailing lessons, boat & windsurf rental in Montevideo

At Full Sailing, you hire a boat, board, kayak or instructor by the hour. It’s a perfect option in Uruguay, whe...

Learning Spanish in Montevideo

Readers have asked me to recommend a good Spanish language school. Academia Uruguay gets the thumbs up from people I ...

The Montevideo Marijuana Museum

The Cannabis Museum puts the country’s ground-breaking legislation in context and explains, why for Uruguayans,...

Montevideo’s Prado neighbourhood

Minutes from downtown, Montevideo’s leafy El Prado district is a photographer’s paradise of ghostly mansi...

7 secrets to having the best time in Montevideo

Insider tips to getting the most out of your time in Montevideo including the 25-km rambla, sunsets, wineries, soccer...

The Guru plans – 4 days and nights in Montevideo for you

You should definitely visit Montevideo. Take minimum 4 days, ideally Thursday to Sunday. Tons of things to do, especi...

The Gaucho Museum

Most museums in Montevideo are run by the state and free to visit. The Gaucho Museum is located in a fantastic “pal...

Parque Rodó – beach, kitsch fairground & Sunday drummers

My favourite park in Montevideo, Parque Rodo has tons of stuff to do for adults and children alike and the best view ...

The Andes 1972 Museum – one of the great human survival stories of the 20th century

Best things to do in Montevideo – visit the moving Andes 1972 museum which honours the survivors (all Uruguayan...

Tipping & Money

What is the average salary in Uruguay?

I often get asked what salaries are like in Uruguay. If you have any idea of the cost of living, you may be surprise...

Uruguay’s new tax residency requirements

Uruguay’s new government wants to attract immigration. Their first move, on tax residency, is aimed at neighboring ...

What eating out costs in Uruguay

I often get asked about costs in Uruguay. Get an idea what you are likely to spend on food and drink when eating out ...

The rights of a surviving spouse in Uruguay

Planning to retire in Uruguay? What are the pros and cons? We continue our series on spouse’s rights and what c...

Using credit cards in Uruguay: get 22% VAT off

VAT is deducted *automatically* on car hire, restaurants and… winebars! Huge savings and no last-minute messing...

How much does the Montevideo-Buenos Aires ferry cost?

Following Guru’Guay’s super popular article on the best way to travel Montevideo-Buenos Aires, an update ...

Beware of dye-marked banknotes

In 2018, a spate of ATM robberies led banks to put dye-packs amongst the bills. Dyed notes were no longer legal tende...

Uruguay currency: Can I use dollars or Argentine pesos in Uruguay?

The answer is: sometimes. You’ll want to have Uruguayan pesos but in places like Colonia they’ll accept d...

Exchanging money in Uruguay – it couldn’t be simpler

Did you know that Uruguay money exchanges don’t charge commission and that ATMs dispense US dollars? Everything...

Making a will in Uruguay

The truth about inheritance laws–children inherit the estate, not spouses and there’s no tax. Essential reading f...

Buying property in Uruguay

Moving to Uruguay? Lawyer Mark Teuten goes through legal requirements, taxes and most importantly the costs of buying...

Uruguay has gay friendly business certification

“Businesses welcome guidance around what’s appropriate and respectful.” Uruguay certified the first...

Can’t withdraw (enough) cash from ATMs in Uruguay?

Some travellers to Uruguay find they cannot withdraw more than 200 USD at a time from ATMs or worse, nothing at all. ...

Tipping in Uruguay

What to tip waiters, bartenders, taxi drivers…and …do you *really* have to tip the guy who guides you int...

Buying tickets for concerts and carnival

You can buy tickets for concerts and carnival shows in Montevideo at box offices and Abitab and Red Pagos/RED UTS ...

When To Visit

It’s sunny and 60° F out – winter in Uruguay

If you are travelling to Uruguay in June, July, August, temperatures may look mild, but you will be in for a surprise...

When is the best time to visit Uruguay?

Avoid high season prices and crowded beaches. See Montevideo at its liveliest. Don’t miss carnival. So when is ...

Why does the tourist industry in Montevideo close down at peak visitor times?

The truth is out. Montevideans just don’t care that much about taking your tourist dollars. They’d rather...

Top things to do in winter in Uruguay

Between June and August, visit Uruguay for horse-riding, deserted beaches, great culture, live music, bonfire parties...

Whale-watch in Uruguay

In Uruguay you can watch whales close-up from the beach. Save yourself an expensive trip to Patagonia & feel gre...

Montevideo over New Year? 5 things you need to know

Between Christmas & New Year, Montevideans leave town in droves. So what to do you do? There’s still the ...