Uruguay is often overlooked by travelers in South America, but it’s a hidden gem when it comes to budget travel. If you want to visit this laid-back country and not break the bank, you’re in the right place. From affordable food to cheap transport, here’s a guide on how to travel in Uruguay on a budget.
Accommodation: Finding Budget-Friendly Places
Accommodation in Uruguay can get expensive, especially during the summer when tourists swarm the coasts. The best way to save money is by staying in hostels or using platforms like Airbnb. Hostels offer cheap dorm rooms starting around $10-15 per night, and you can find private rooms for $20-25 in most places.
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Airbnb is another great choice if you prefer more privacy or if you’re traveling with a group. Split the cost of an apartment, and you’ll save a lot. You can find private rooms from $25 and full apartments for as low as $35, depending on the area.
If you’re really strapped for cash, consider Couchsurfing. It’s popular in the larger cities like Montevideo and Punta del Este, and it gives you the chance to meet locals who can show you around.
Camping: If You Love Nature
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, camping is a fantastic option in Uruguay. There are campgrounds all over the country where you can pitch your tent for as little as $5-10 per night. Many Uruguayans love camping during the summer, and it’s a great way to immerse yourself in nature without spending a lot.
Food: Eating Well on a Budget
Food in Uruguay can be affordable if you know where to look. The key is to avoid the touristy restaurants and stick to local spots or markets. Head to “milangas” (local sandwich shops) where you can grab a huge sandwich for less than $5. The “chivito” (a big steak sandwich) is a national favorite and usually cheap.

If you’re looking for a full meal, you can find set menus at local restaurants for around $7-10. These meals usually come with a salad, main course, and drink. This is especially common during lunch hours.
Self-Catering to Save Money
Buying groceries and cooking can help you save even more. Most Uruguayans shop at the local markets or grocery stores like Tienda Inglesa or Devoto. A week’s worth of groceries will cost around $40-50 if you stick to simple meals like pasta, sandwiches, or local staples like rice and beans.
Wine is also affordable in Uruguay, so if you want to enjoy a drink, you can pick up a decent bottle for $5-8 at the store.
Transportation: Getting Around Cheaply
Uruguay has an efficient and affordable public bus system that can get you around the country. Buses run frequently between cities, and you can expect to pay around $5-15 for long-distance routes depending on the distance. Companies like COT and Turil run the main routes and have comfortable buses.
Within cities, public buses are quite cheap, usually costing less than $1 per ride. It’s the best way to get around Montevideo or other towns if you don’t want to walk.
Shared Rides and Hitchhiking
If you want to save even more or meet other travelers, hitchhiking is fairly common in Uruguay. It’s considered safe in rural areas and along the coast. You can also check carpooling platforms like BlaBlaCar, which is starting to gain popularity here.

Attractions: Free and Cheap Things to Do
Thankfully, Uruguay has a lot of free and inexpensive things to do, which will help you keep costs down. Many of the best activities include enjoying nature, history, and beaches, all of which are often free or very affordable.
Montevideo: Exploring the Capital on a Budget
Montevideo is a beautiful city with a lot to offer, and you don’t need to spend much to enjoy it. Take a walk along the Rambla, a long promenade by the sea that stretches for miles. It’s a great place for people-watching, jogging, or relaxing by the water.
Head to Ciudad Vieja, the old part of town, and explore the historic streets. It’s free to wander around, and you can admire the colonial architecture and visit Plaza Independencia without any cost. While you’re there, visit the Mercado del Puerto, a historic market known for its grill restaurants. Even if you don’t eat, the atmosphere is worth soaking in.
If you’re into museums, many of Montevideo’s museums are free or charge a small fee of around $2. The National History Museum and the Torres Garcia Museum are good examples.

Punta del Este: Affordable Beach Scenes
Punta del Este is known for its luxury, but there are ways to enjoy this beach town on a budget. The beaches are free, of course, so pack your own snacks and drinks and spend the day lounging by the water. Visit Playa Brava to see the famous Hand in the Sand statue or go to Playa Mansa for calmer waters.
Another free activity is strolling along the port and looking out for the sea lions. They often swim around the boats, and it’s fun to watch them for free.
Colonia del Sacramento: Cheap Day Trip
If you’re looking for a charming and relaxed place, hop over to Colonia del Sacramento. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s free to walk around and explore the cobblestone streets. You don’t need to spend much here; just soak in the atmosphere.

You can climb the Colonia Lighthouse for just a couple of dollars, offering great views of the town and the river. A budget-friendly way to get here from Montevideo is by bus, which will cost about $10-12 one way.
Cabo Polonio: A Rustic Getaway
If you want an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Cabo Polonio is a remote beach village worth visiting. There’s no electricity or running water, which makes it a true escape. The entry fee to the national park is around $5, and camping here is an affordable option.
To get there, you’ll need to take a 4×4 truck from the park entrance for about $10. Once you’re there, you can enjoy beach walks, star gazing, and visiting the sea lion colony for free.
Travel Timing: Plan Around the Low Season
One of the easiest ways to save money in Uruguay is by avoiding the high season, which runs from December to February. Everything is more expensive during this time—accommodation can double, and transport prices rise.
Visit during the shoulder season (March-April or October-November) for lower prices and fewer crowds. You’ll still get great weather but with a fraction of the cost.
Use Travel Apps and Discounts
Lastly, make sure to make use of apps and websites that offer discounts or cash-back options. Apps like Uber and Cabify are useful for city transport and are cheaper than taxis. Use them for short trips in Montevideo or Punta del Este to save time and money.
Check out platforms like Restorando for meal discounts. Some restaurants offer up to 40% off if you book in advance through the app. This can be a huge help if you want to enjoy a sit-down meal for less.
Final Thoughts: Traveling Uruguay on a Budget
While Uruguay is not the cheapest country in South America, there are plenty of ways to keep costs down. Stay in hostels or camp, cook your own meals, and take advantage of the country’s reliable bus system.
With stunning beaches, rich history, and free natural scenery, you can enjoy all Uruguay has to offer without stretching your budget. Just remember to plan ahead, especially during peak seasons, and always look out for local deals.
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