A Uruguay travel guide with passion and soul
Lovingly curated since 2013 by Karen A Higgs. If you love to experience new places that have conserved their original charm, then Uruguay is the perfect place for you.
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From the Guru’Guay blog
Spanish language students can enter Uruguay
While the Uruguay borders remain closed to most travellers until Nov 1, it is possible to enter as a language student regardless of your age. Updated.
Las Cárcavas – exclusive ocean front lots close to José Ignacio
Las Cárcavas is a beach-front real estate development of exclusive sustainable ranch-style lots on the coast, close to José Ignacio, Uruguay.
Those unmistakable rural schools in Uruguay
In the 1960s, a philanthropist and an engineer set about replacing “school shacks” in the poorest, most remote parts of Uruguay. They went on to build 228.
Montevideo’s Romantic Museum, aka the Marble Palace
Hugely instagramable, this tiny museum hidden in Montevideo’s old town depicts the lifestyle of Uruguay’s most affluent at the time of independence.
5 reasons to put Uruguay on your travel bucket list
The unassuming South American nation is off-the-radar to Europeans & North Americans. But Brazilians and Argentines have been flocking to Uruguay for years.
Uruguay has a new UNESCO World Heritage Site
This modest church built entirely of brick has been called “a marvel of modern architecture”—and received the world’s greatest cultural recognition.
Atlántida – beachtown & UNESCO heritage site
Fine white sands, pines, 2 mysterious structures—an eagle head & a UNESCO Heritage church. The Uruguay beach of Atlántida is just 30 mins from Montevideo.
The most unusual assistance we’ve ever provided an expat
Angela, an expat in Uruguay, contacted Guru’Guay. She’d been diagnosed with cancer and wanted our assistance to find her a…
8 surprises about insurance in Uruguay
We were shocked by some of the differences—good and bad—with the US and UK, regarding household, travel & business insurance in Uruguay.
2020: the best Uruguay wines in decades
Following a textbook harvest, experts and winemakers are heralding Uruguay wines of 2020 as some of the best in decades, reports sommelier Adriana Rossi.
Tannat for beginners
One in every three bottles of wine produced in Uruguay is a Tannat. What does Uruguay’s flagship wine taste like? Here’s a guide to get started, by locals.
Top things to do in winter in Uruguay
Between June and August, visit Uruguay for horse-riding, deserted beaches, great culture, live music, bonfire parties, winetasting & whale-watching.
Winter in Uruguay – sunny and 60° F out
The temperatures for winter in Uruguay (June-August) may look balmy. But you may be in for an unpleasant surprise if you don’t do your research. Start here.
Medicinal teas for coughs & colds
Uruguayans love their herbal remedies. When you have a cough or cold, here’s what to look for in the supermarket before going home to make a soothing brew.
“Uruguay is an eye of calm in a global storm”
This risk-management expert analyses the best countries for expats. Find out why he and his wife have just moved to Uruguay to live permanently.
Where is the best place to stay in Montevideo?
The neighbourhoods are all really different. Get a feel for the place that best fits you. We analyse the ‘thumbs up’ and ‘mehhh’ factors of each barrio.
Uruguay: Green leader worldwide
Uruguay has embraced renewable energy for economic reasons and ranks in the world’s top twenty green leaders, according to MIT.
Andes 1972 plane crash museum
The museum, in Montevideo, honours the survivors of the Andes plane crash. Yes, one of the greatest survival stories of the 20th century is Uruguayan.
Why Uruguayans celebrate Tourism Week – not Easter
40% of Roman Catholics live in Latin America but as usual Uruguay does its own thing. There’s complete separation of church and state for almost 100 years.
Uruguay: South American birding oasis
10 reasons why Uruguay is a great choice for nature tourism in general and birding in particular–especially in a pandemic.
Coronavirus & Uruguay
What you need to know to stay safe
70% fully-vaccinated in Uruguay—and getting boosters
It happened on the eve of Independence Day—almost as if it had been planned. Uruguay’s vaccination rate is third in the world, and cases plummeting.
Vaccines are controlling the pandemic in Uruguay
The government banked on a fast vaccination campaign to control the pandemic in Uruguay. The data shows the strategy is working.
Which Covid vaccines are in Uruguay
Uruguay has done well to obtain vaccines from three different manufacturers, and so cover the needs of the entire population.
Flights to Uruguay during Covid-19
The latest data on flights and flying to Uruguay from the US, Europe and within Latin America while the borders are closed. Updated August 18 2021.
Uruguay to open borders November 1
Thanks to a strong vaccination campaign, Uruguay will open its borders to all travellers from November 1st. Travellers must show proof of vaccination.
Uruguay covid cases back to 2020 levels
As Reuters reports Uruguay covid cases are down to 5% of its peak, we run you through the numbers and maps we access every day here in Uruguay.
Are people in Uruguay getting vaccinated?
Take a peek at the numbers of people getting vaccinated, where they live and their ages. Spoiler alert: People are getting vaccinated in droves.
Uruguay vaccine numbers among best in the world
Good news!! Health minister foresees, as Uruguay vaccination numbers among best in the world, a return to normalcy and travel to Uruguay. Find out when.
COVID-19 cases rise in Uruguay in March
Cases increased dramatically in March —compared to what we’d seen until now. Guru’Guay gives you an overview from the ground of what’s happening in Uruguay.
Scheduling your Covid vaccine in Uruguay
Vaccinations for COVID-19 are underway in Uruguay. Struggling to sign up for yours? Here’s what you need to know to schedule your shot with minimum stress.
Uruguay coronavirus travel restrictions
If you’re lucky enough to be eligible to travel to Uruguay, here’s what you need to know about current travel requirements/restrictions due to coronavirus.
Can I get into Uruguay right now?
Are you trying to travel to Uruguay right now? Find out what the current entry requirements are and if you meet them. UPDATED.
Uruguay vaccine plan prioritises health workers, teachers & care homes
Uruguay to begin a mass vaccination plan against Covid-19 in March. Which vaccines are being used and who will receive them first?
Uruguay borders to remain closed for the austral summer
Borders are still closed–with exceptions–to inbound travel as Uruguay continues to work to keep coronavirus numbers in check.
The first wave: how Uruguay is handling the pandemic
From 20 cases a day in March, to 0 cases in June, for the first time after 9 months of pandemic there are 400+ new coronavirus cases per day in Uruguay. What’s the plan moving forward?
Coronavirus in Uruguay – a summary of the first 9 months
An indepth summary of Uruguay’s response to COVID-19 from March to November 2020, when coronavirus cases were at their lowest. Exemplary pandemic response.
Can I apply for residency from outside Uruguay?
If moving to Uruguay is your #1 goal but you don’t meet current entry requirements, there may be another option–residency via a Uruguayan consulate.
Post pandemic, US & Europeans want to move to safe Uruguay
There’s a boom in real estate enquiries following Uruguay’s solid response to COVID-19, demonstrating it’s one of the safest countries to live in the world.
Punta & Montevideo chefs organise communal pots
A volunteer team has commandeered a luxury hotel kitchen and is making hot, nutritious meals for hundreds of adults and children. Find out how you can help.
Feel good in quarantine: 10 minutes in a parallel universe
Join us as we parachute in on a virtual visit to a Uruguay wine-maker. Harvest is just ending and there’s some feel good news, it’s the BEST in 40 years.
Travellers in a pandemic in Uruguay – Where are they now?
The coronavirus pandemic trapped them in a country they did not know, yet they adopted it as their refuge. Where are these travellers a year later?
Travellers in a pandemic in Uruguay – Where are they now? (Part 2)
The coronavirus pandemic trapped them in a country they did not know, yet they adopted Uruguay as their refuge. Where are these travellers a year later?
Travellers in a pandemic in Uruguay – Where are they now? (Part 1)
The coronavirus pandemic trapped them in a country they did not know, yet they adopted it as their refuge. Where are these travellers a year later?
Get our guides now!
Available on Amazon, Audible & good bookshops worldwide
The Guru’Guay Guide to Uruguay
Beaches, ranches and wine country
The Guru’Guay Guide to Montevideo
All you need to know about Montevideo
The audiobook is out!
The Guru’Guay Guide to Montevideo
Your handy directory to Uruguay travel & living
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Latest Guru’Guay Top Picks
Guru’Guay only recommends restaurants, hotels and people who absolutely love Uruguay & what they do
Wine Explorers – Private Uruguay wine tours
Private Uruguay wine tours & tastings. The unique wineries will be the highlight of your travels. Plus monthly group excursions for expats.
Bar Montevideo al Sur – Historic bar & cafe
If you’re looking for a traditional Montevideo bar with a community-feel, good honest food, great cocktails and a friendly vibe, this is your place.
Pantera – Montevideo’s 1st bread club
A new Montevideo bakehouse selling ‘bread and other stuff’. Bagels to DIE for. Their innovative club sends sourdough (& culture) direct to your door weekly.
Bar El Mingus – Chill Out Restobar & Tuesday Jazz
El Mingus is a one of the best restaurants in Montevideo—cool, contemporary, with the intimacy of an old-school bar. We love the great food & live music.
Verne – Fine dining in an aromatic herb garden
Outdoor dining in Verne, the star of a new restaurant scene on the coast a short drive from downtown Montevideo, is a feast for the senses.
Casa Flor – live the Uruguay coast like a local (VIP)
One of the very best hotels near Punta del Este, whose well-connected owners will give you access to the secrets of Uruguay’s coast most can only dream of.
Estación Penitente – Magical hill-top restaurant in Minas, Uruguay
Overlooking Uruguay’s Sierras de Minas, with views reminiscent of Greece. Traditional cooking, Uruguayan BBQ & wild boar. Day trip from Montevideo & Punta.
Big Bang Nature Stays – Bohemian beach domes
Unique ocean-front location to reconnect with nature—with luxury touches—on one of Uruguay’s most deserted beaches in Maldonado.
Es Mercat – The best fish restaurant in Montevideo
We wager Es Mercat is the very best fish and seafood restaurant in the whole of Montevideo. Ask the chef to choose what you eat, for the best experience.
Mobility LC – Outstanding Uruguay relocation specialist
Uruguay residency, work permits, bank accounts, citizenship & whatever else you as expats in Uruguay need to make your landing smooth.
Academia Uruguay – Learn Spanish in Uruguay
If you’re planning to learn Spanish to come to Uruguay, Academia Uruguay teachers not only have the right accent, you’ll also learn about daily life.
Team Haverkate – recommended Uruguay real estate brokers
Team Haverkate specialise in finding dream Uruguay real estate for expats. They speak English, German, French and Dutch and can now offer you virtual tours.
Estancia El Ceibo – deepest Uruguay with minimal travel
It can take hours along pot-holed roads to reach the best estancias in Uruguay. This ranch, virtually unchanged since 1849, is just an hour from Montevideo.
Lobo Suelto – Best little foodtruck in the East
The best traditional food in Uruguay between the airport and the beach. Chivito, seafood and salads, all locally sourced — & veggies from their garden.
Los Nadies – Premium wine tasting in Montevideo
Your chance to taste some of the best Uruguay wines at the hand of one of the top three wine-makers in Uruguay at his home and winery minutes from downtown.
Arazá – Native Uruguay cuisine
Native Uruguay cuisine in Montevideo. Special events include monthly expeditions to El Prado park to identify local plants–and after you get to taste them.
Il Tano Suites – 420-friendly Punta del Diablo hotel
Your suite with private deck, close to secluded beaches, next to Pdd’s best restaurant. Probably the best value of all Punta del Diablo hotels.
Cabaña Verónica – Great steak & Uruguayan asado
The Port Market—Disneyland for carnivores—is not to be missed but avoid tourist traps! At VerĂłnica’s, you’re guaranteed great steak & Uruguayan asado.
Baco – Montevideo’s top wine restaurant
A French bistro with probably the longest wine list in the city and multiple by-the-glass choices is one of the best new Montevideo restaurants by far.
Il Tano Cucina – pasta & seafood in Punta del Diablo
One of the best seafood restaurants in Punta del Diablo & open all year round. Family-run, it’s minutes from the ocean & specialises in home-made pastas.
Stella Lorenzo Arq. – property appraisal & remodeling
Remodels and property appraisal are Uruguay architect, Stella Lorenzo’s forte. She can also manage your rebuild so it comes in on time & in budget.
SalĂłn No. 3 – La Barra cuisine
New La Barra restaurant in a vintage furniture store. Pull up a chair in the kitchen as the chef preps just-caught fish & his home-grown organic veggies.
Hotel SolĂs – historic, coastal B&B
Be a part of history. One of the best hotels in Uruguay—and British spy HQ!— nestling by Maldonado beaches and wineries, is being lovingly restored.
Mark Teuten & Associates – Lawyers & notaries
Finding an English speaking Uruguay immigration lawyer who can advise on real estate, employment law, & mediation, aswell, can be a huge relief.
Adriana Rossi – your personal wine shopper in Montevideo
Can you believe this? A personalised wine delivery service in Montevideo. Adriana selects Uruguay wine to your taste and budget & delivers to your home.
Private consultations: Is Uruguay a great fit for you?
Are you considering a move to Uruguay—full-time, sabbatical or snow-birding—and want expert advice specific to your circumstances?
Artesana – Uruguay vineyard for foodies
Besides great wine, in our experience, this award-winning women-run winery 45 minutes from Montevideo, has the BEST lunch of Uruguay vineyards.
Alma Historica – art nouveau boutique hotel in Montevideo
Set off the most romantic park in Montevideo, Alma Historica is a truly boutique hotel. You’ll love the views of the Old City from the roof-top hot tub.
So, who’s the Guru?
At 22, Karen A Higgs found herself stranded in Mexico City airport with just a pocket Spanish dictionary for company. Since then, she’s lived most of her life in Latin America.
In 2000, she moved to Uruguay and promptly fell in love with this most understated and “European” of Latin American nations.
Her renowned Guru’Guay guidebooks are praised for their unconventionality and their passion and soul.
So, who’s the Guru?
At 22, Karen A Higgs found herself stranded in Mexico City airport with just a pocket Spanish dictionary for company. Since then, she’s lived most of her life in Latin America.
In 2000, she moved to Uruguay and promptly fell in love with this most understated and “European” of Latin American nations.
Her renowned Guru’Guay guidebooks are praised for their unconventionality and their passion and soul.
Private 1:1 about living in Uruguay
Your opportunity to have private one-on-one time with Karen, Uruguay’s foremost English-language expert.
5 reasons to put Uruguay on your bucket list
See for yourself why everyone loves Uruguay
Uruguay, nestling between Brazil and Argentina is off-the-radar to Europeans and North Americans. But Brazilians and Argentines have been flocking there for years.
As seen in
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