Uruguay
7 scams
Uruguay has much to offer, with its vibrant riverside capital Montevideo, beautiful beaches along the Atlantic Coast as well as delightful UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Further, the country is one of the safest countries in South America though there are still some potential pitfalls to watch for.
Note: vast majority of trips are trouble free and there is no need to be paranoid. That said, it always pays to be aware, careful, and prepared.
Emergency numbers
- General emergency hotline: 911
Travel guide

Ferry day tour scams in Uruguay
6 0How it works: Scam 1: spending a lot more time at shops (where they get a commission) rather than at attractions. Scam 2: having CD (containing Montevideo’s history) peddlers on…
Read more…Fake fortune tellers, magicians in Uruguay
5 0How it works: Opening: at a market, someone claiming to be a fortune teller or a magician offers to read your palm or tell your fortune. Sometimes they may perform…
Read more…Shopping scams in Uruguay
4 0How it works: Fake goods: including perfume, jewelry and electronics. Inflated prices: as a foreigner, you will be quoted prices that are double or triple the fair price. Places to…
Read more…Would you like a drink bar scam in Uruguay
2 0How it works: Opening: a young female engages you in conversation, using the excuse that she wants to practice her English. Next, she suggests getting a drink together at a…
Read more…Vacation apartment scams in Uruguay
2 0How it works: Situation: you see an ad on a classified ads site (e.g. Craigslist) for an apartment in the trendy area of Pocitos for a really good price. Opening:…
Read more…Pickpockets in Uruguay
2 0How it works: Version 1: they work in a gang – one onlooker, one blocks, pushes, distracts, or engages you, one grabs and the final hides the loot under a…
Read more…Snatch thefts in Uruguay
1 0How it works: Bike/moped: riding past with a pillion rider doing the snatch. Street, mall, shop, park, transportation hub: distracting and snatching from you, then escaping via a getaway car or…
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