Is Montevideo Safe for Travel in 2024?

Montevideo, Uruguay
Safety Score
59

Montevideo (Spanish: San Felipe y Santiago de Montevideo, San Felipe y Santiago de Montevideo) is the capital and largest city of Uruguay, as well as the administrative center of the Montevideo department.

Warnings & Dangers in Montevideo

Overall Risk

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Montevideo is not the safest place for travelers, but you can avoid most of the troubles if you use common sense and take precautions.

Transport & Taxis Risk

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM

Public transport is not well developed. Traffic on the roads can be hectic and unsafe. Pickpockets are common on buses. Use only licensed taxi services.

Pickpockets Risk

PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH

Like any major city in Montevideo, pickpockets do happen. Especially on public transport during rush hour. Keep track of your belongings and do not leave bags and wallets unattended on the tables in the cafe.

Natural Disasters Risk

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

Natural disasters have been known to hit Uruguay, such as tornados, heavy rain, and flooding. Study the weather conditions before your visit here.

Mugging Risk

MUGGING RISK : LOW

There is a risk of armed attacks or kidnapping in Montevideo, and the common goal of robbers is to get your money and valuables. Therefore, if you are attacked, give the robbers what they ask of you to save your life.

Terrorism Risk

TERRORISM RISK : LOW

The risk of terrorism is low in Beijing. Of course, the risk of attacks still exists, due to the international position of the city. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.

Scams Risk

SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

Fraud is commonly associated with street vendors offering counterfeit goods to tourists. Don't buy them even if the price is very attractive. Also, only withdraw money from ATMs at banks with cameras to avoid skimming your card.

Women Travelers Risk

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW

Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in Montevideo. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.

How Safe Is Montevideo for Tourists?

Montevideo is not the safest city to travel to, with crime rates ranging from low to high.

The main problems are related to vandalism, attacks, and car thefts.

Although the city is considered safe enough for tourism, it is worth remembering certain precautions: try not to show that you are a tourist – this can draw special attention to you and attract the attention of scammers.

Do not shine with expensive things and devices, as well as large bundles of cash – all this attracts the attention of criminals and increases the possibility of an attack on you.

Don’t take anything with you that you don’t want to lose.

Leave expensive jewelry, watches, and other valuables at home and only take with you what you need.

It is better to keep your valuables and documents in the hotel safe.

This also applies to credit cards and other documents;

Use a taxi or a rented car to get around.

However, it is worth remembering that thefts and theft of cars often occur in the city, so if you use a rented car, always carefully lock it, do not leave valuable things inside, and park in guarded parking lots.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Montevideo?

Visitors to Uruguay must obtain a visa from one of the Uruguayan diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries. A valid passport is a must.

Which Currency Is Used in Montevideo?

Uruguayan peso has been the name of the Uruguayan currency since Uruguay’s settlement by Europeans. The present currency, the peso uruguayo adopted in 1993 and is subdivided into 100 centésimos. There are no centésimo coins currently in circulation.

How's the Weather like in Montevideo?

In Montevideo, the summers are warm and humid; the winters are cold, wet, windy, and partly cloudy year-round. The city can be visited all year round, but the best time is the off-season months of the year, i.e., March-May and September-November.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Montevideo?

Carrasco/General Cesáreo L. Berisso International Airport is the main international airport of Uruguay. It is also the country’s largest airport. It was located in the name-giving Carrasco neighborhood. Later, the region formed part of Canelones, actually located in Ciudad de la Costa. It has been cited as one of the most efficient and traveler-friendly airports in Latin America.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.

What Are Some Things to Do in Montevideo?

Travelers come to explore the well-preserved old town or use the city as a starting point to travel to tourist destinations such as the UNESCO-protected Colonia or the beach town of Punta del Este, which is a favorite party spot for Argentines.

Is the Water in Montevideo Safe to Drink?

The water is safe to drink in Montevideo.

Is Uber Safe in Montevideo?

There is no Uber taxi in Montevideo. You can use any other local taxi services.

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