My Wishlist
1.800.557.2841or Contact Your Travel Advisor
Historic tall building with intricate architecture, bathed in sunset light, overlooking a city skyline and coastline.
Home/Destinations/South America/Uruguay/Culture & Traditions
Tell me more
Explore Culture & TraditionsClose
Uruguay Travel Information
Best Time to Visit
Culture & Traditions
Food & Drink
Insider Travel Tips
Travel Guides
Not sure which theme is right for you?

Culture & Traditions

Experience Uruguay's vibrant culture, warm locals, and colorful celebrations.

Uruguay is a nation that loves to celebrate. The Carnaval of Uruguay is famous for its vibrant parades, music, and colourful costumes. Join in the festivities and experience the lively spirit of the Uruguayan people.

Uruguay is known for its safety and friendly locals. Travellers often find themselves welcomed with open arms and a genuine warmth that makes their visit even more special.

Like neighbouring Argentina, most Uruguayans have Italian and Spanish ancestors who immigrated to the country in the 19th and 20th centuries. Most of the population is Roman Catholic, though a small community of Jews—one of the largest in South America—lives in the capital of Montevideo.

The official language of Uruguay is Spanish. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and business places. Portuguese and Portuñol (a mixture of Spanish and Portuguese) are spoken near the border with Brazil.

Candombe is the traditional Uruguayan music and dance style with African roots and is now a UNESCO-recognized World Cultural Heritage.

Travel Stories

Get inspired about Your Trip to Uruguay

Explore More Travel Stories
Not sure which theme is right for you?

Unlock more by subscribing to our newsletter

With our newsletter, you’ll get access to regular communications that inspire you and help you explore the world your way
Exclusive Savings
Insider Benefits
Trending Stories
Newsletter signup visual
Follow Us On
Contact UsCustomer ServiceGeneral Inquiries
As seen on
Travel + LeisureAfarForbesSmithsonian
BC Reg. #833-0; TICO Reg. #1543989; CST #2070685-20Offices located in CA, US, AUS© Copyright 2025. Goway Travel