Safety

Safety in Uruguay

Uruguay is consistently ranked the safest country in South America and one of the most politically stable nations in Latin America. The 2024 Global Peace Index ranks it 52nd globally and 2nd in South America.

Safety Overview

Strengths:

• Safest country in South America
• Politically stable democracy
• No terrorism risk
• No natural disaster risk (no earthquakes, hurricanes)
• 13th on Corruption Perceptions Index globally
• Strong rule of law

Crime Statistics:

• Homicide rate: 11.2 per 100,000 (2023)
• Most violent crime linked to drug trafficking near Brazilian border
• Violent crime in neighborhoods tourists don't visit
• Expat areas (Pocitos, Punta Carretas, Carrasco) are low-crime

Main Safety Concerns

Petty Theft:

• Pickpocketing in busy markets and bus stations
• Phone snatching, especially downtown Montevideo
• Motorcycle grab-and-go (motochorro) incidents
• Bag theft from restaurant tables

Armed Robbery:

• Occasional incidents in Pocitos, especially late at night
• Restaurants targeted during late-night hours
• Avoid displaying expensive items

Property Crime:

• Burglaries in houses more common than apartments
• Choose buildings with 24/7 portero (doorman)
• Apartments are significantly more secure

Safe Neighborhoods (Montevideo)

Very Safe:

• Pocitos (despite occasional late-night incidents)
• Punta Carretas
• Carrasco
• Puerto Buceo

Generally Safe:

• Cordón (central areas)
• Parque Rodó
• Buceo
• Malvín

Exercise Caution:

• Casavalle
• Cerro
• La Teja
• Areas north and west of the Port

Government Travel Advisories

Practical Safety Tips

Day-to-Day:

• Don't display phones or valuables on streets
• Keep bags close and in front of you
• Be aware of surroundings in crowded areas
• Use ATMs inside banks during business hours

At Night:

• Avoid late-night dining in Pocitos (robbery target)
• Use Uber/taxi instead of walking
• Stick to well-lit, populated areas
• Don't walk alone in unfamiliar areas

Housing:

• Prefer apartments over houses (more secure)
• Choose buildings with portero (doorman)
• Install security cameras if renting a house
• Ask neighbors about area crime history

Emergency Numbers

Women's Safety

Uruguay is generally safe for solo female travelers:

• Progressive society with strong women's rights
• Exercise standard urban precautions
• Well-lit neighborhoods are safe for evening walks
• Growing awareness of gender-based violence issues