Getting around Uruguay: transport and apps

Buses

• Bus travel in Montevideo and around the country is safe and reliable, which is Global Affairs Canada's own assessment.
• Everything intercity goes through Tres Cruces, so learning that one terminal covers the whole country.
• The Montevideo to Punta del Este corridor is frequent and takes about two hours.

Driving

• The main toll road to Punta del Este is in good condition and well marked. Other roads vary, with potholes.
• Serious accidents are common, and they spike in summer, at Carnaval in mid-February and in Easter week.
• Expect lane changes without signalling, ignored traffic signals and motorbikes riding the wrong way up one-way streets.
• A UK photocard licence is valid for 90 days, and an international driving permit may be required beyond that.
• Seatbelts are compulsory and a first aid kit must be in the car.
• Drink-driving is strictly enforced, with fines and possible imprisonment.

Across the river

• Buquebus and Colonia Express run ferries to Buenos Aires, from Montevideo and from Colonia. Immigration for both countries is done at the departure port, so you clear Argentina before boarding.