Uruguay flag

Country in South America

Uruguay

Uruguay is South America's most progressive and stable democracy, a small country of rolling grasslands, beautiful Atlantic beaches, and a high quality of life.

CapitalMontevideo
LanguageSpanish
CurrencyUruguayan peso
Population3.5M

Key Facts

CapitalMontevideo
RegionSouthern South America / Río de la Plata
GovernmentUnitary presidential republic
Independence1825
Area176,215 km2
Population density20/km2
Time zoneUYT (UTC-3)
Calling code+598
Drives onRight

Quick View

HDI
0.830
Safety index
70.0
Internet access
88%
Life expectancy
78.5

Sources: World Bank, Numbeo, UN.

Top 3 Highest Mountains

Cerro Catedral514 m
Cerro Tres Picos439 m
Cerro Miriñaque419 m

Religion (est.)

  • No religion38%
  • Christianity54%
  • Other5%
  • Judaism3%

Why Visit

MontevideoProgressive capital with art deco architecture, a long rambla promenade, and vibrant food scene.
Colonia del SacramentoTiny UNESCO-listed colonial town across the river from Buenos Aires.
Punta del EsteSouth America's glamorous beach resort, drawing artists, yachties, and sun-seekers.
Gaucho CultureEstancias and open pampas preserving the authentic South American cowboy tradition.
Progressive SocietyOne of South America's most liberal democracies, early to legalize same-sex marriage and cannabis.

Top 3 Cities by Population

Montevideo
1.4M
Salto
104k
Ciudad de la Costa
93k

Climate Overview

18CJan avg.
10CJul avg.
1,100 mmYearly rainfall
Humid subtropicalClimate

Other Quick Info

CurrencyUruguayan peso
Official languageSpanish
National day25 August
Electricity220V, Type C/F/L