Getting there & Getting around

Getting there

Montevideo is the main gateway for flights to and from the country. Expect to pay an international departure tax. Roads and bus services across the borders with Brazil and Argentina are good. Unfortunately, there are no rail services linking these countries. A ferry and hydrofoil service runs between Buenos Aires, Montevideo and Colonia. Ferry passengers embarking at Montevideo pay a port terminal and departure tax; those at Colonia pay slightly less.

Getting around

The military airline TAMU has suspended services, so there are no domestic flights within Uruguay except for the domestic leg of international flights from Punta del Este via Montevideo to Brazil. Buses are reasonably priced and there are frequent services to all sizeable destinations. Traveling by car poses few problems once outside hazardous Montevideo, although the country's winding roads and hilly terrain require some care. Local transport is predominantly by bus and metered taxi.

Visa information

Visas are not required for citizens of western Europe, Australia, USA, New Zealand, Canada or those from neighboring countries (who need only national identification cards). All visitors need a tourist card, which is valid for 90 days and extendable for a similar period.