When is the best time to visit Uruguay?
The climate of Uruguay remains uniformly temperate throughout the year due to the flat topography of the land. Seasonal variations are pronounced, and since the country is in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are exactly opposite to those in the northern hemisphere.
In summer, the temperature in southern Uruguay is around 80°F, while in the north this can rise up to 90°F. Northwestern Uruguay is typically warmer than the rest of the country. Due to warm tropical currents, coastal Uruguay experiences temperatures up to 104°F. In winter, however, it is rarely warmer than 59°F during the day while at night, the temperature dips to a cool 41°F. Uruguay receives heavy rainfall throughout the year, with the northwest receiving the maximum amount of rain. Cold winds are also quite common because of the flat landscape.
OVERVIEW
January sits right in the middle of the Uruguayan summer! Average day time temperature is a toasty 82°F. The beaches are packed with tourists enjoying bright, blue skies and warm waters.
WE RECOMMEND
- Go beach hopping in charming Montevideo
- Cycle along La Rambla in Montevideo
OVERVIEW
Temperatures stay in the low 80s. It’s carnival time in the country! Montevideo hosts one of the longest carnivals in South America that attracts tourists from around the globe. Plan your trip well in advance.
WE RECOMMEND
- Join the revelry at the biggest celebration of all – the Carneval in Montevideo
OVERVIEW
Day time temperature is near perfect at 77°F accompanied by clear, blue skies. Nighttime lows are around 60°F. The carnival crowd thins out leaving behind quiet beaches that are still great for snorkeling and other water adventures.
WE RECOMMEND
- Explore the country’s underwater wonders at one of many easily accessible snorkeling sites
- Get a taste of the culture and heritage of the country at the Fiesta de la Patria Gaucha in Tacuarembó
OVERVIEW
It’s the start of autumn but the sea is at its warmest having heated up all summer. Mild days characterize the month with day time highs around 70°F. With moderate temperatures, it’s a great time to sightsee.
WE RECOMMEND
- Set off on a walking tour of Colonia del Sacramento; the old town, with its pretty cobblestone streets, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
OVERVIEW
Temperatures go down further in May but it’s still a wonderful time to experience Uruguay. You will see plenty of sunshine and clear skies with daytime highs in the mid-high 60s. The sea is still warm so don’t forget to pack your swimwear.
WE RECOMMEND
- Live the gaucho aka cowboy life in rural Uruguay
- Sign up for a tango session in Montevideo
OVERVIEW
June marks the beginning of winter in Uruguay. Cool days and cold nights are the norms. The countryside is breathtaking during winter so wear those layers and explore the stunning landscape.
WE RECOMMEND
- Discover the unspoiled countryside – spectacular in autumn
OVERVIEW
July is the coldest month of the year in Uruguay with the average daytime temperature just about touching 60°F and nighttime lows in the mid-40s. It’s a low tourist season but still a good time to visit if you want to explore cities and get an insight into the country’s history and culture.
WE RECOMMEND
- Food connoisseurs, head to the quaint village of José Ignacio for some outstanding dining
OVERVIEW
Due to cold polar winds called Pampero winds, winter in Uruguay can feel colder than what temperature readings indicate. Many beaches and resorts close for winter opening only towards the end of September. It is, however, a good time to go whale watching (June – November).
WE RECOMMEND
- Spot whales from the beaches of Piriápolis
OVERVIEW
It’s the last month of winter! Temperatures start to inch up again in September with average daytime highs now in the mid-60s. You will still need to cover up during night times with temperatures barely touching 50°F.
WE RECOMMEND
- Sink your teeth into some local delicacies like asado, chivito, tortas fritos and more!
OVERVIEW
It’s springtime in Uruguay. Beach resorts start to get ready for the influx of tourists that they will see for the next few months. It’s a great time to visit the country’s vineyards. By the end of the month, day time temperatures are almost touching 70°F.
WE RECOMMEND
- Savor fine reds and whites at the boutique wineries surrounding Carmelo
OVERVIEW
November is a good month to experience Uruguay, sans the crowds. Enjoy warm temperatures and deserted beaches during the month. Day time highs are now in the mid-70s while lows are almost touching the 60s.
WE RECOMMEND
- Kick back, relax and catch some waves in Punta del Diablo
OVERVIEW
December is a great month to travel to Uruguay but also one of the busiest. It’s the first month of summer and tourists from neighboring countries pour in to enjoy the glorious weather and beautiful beaches. Temperatures are well into the high 70s making it a perfect month to simply laze on the beach and work on your tan.
WE RECOMMEND
- Ring the New Year in style at Punta del Este, the party capital of Uruguay
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Best Time to Visit Uruguay by Season
- Summer – December to March
- Autumn – March to June
- Winter – June to September
- Spring – September to December
What to Pack
What you pack for your Uruguay trip will depend on the time of year you are visiting, but in general here are few essentials you should include: comfortable shoes to walk on cobblestones streets, wind and rain jacket, gloves, layered clothing, sweater and warm jacket for winter, casual and comfortable day clothes, lightweight cotton clothing, wind jacket, slippers, swimsuit, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen and repellent and perhaps some nicer clothing for going out!
Looking for a vacation filled with unique experiences? Look no further than Uruguay! Live the cowboy life in rural Uruguay, join the biggest party at the Carneval in Montevideo and live the life of the rich and famous in Punta del Este. Discover Enchanting Uruguay!
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