Uruguay — Currency & Money

The Uruguayan peso (UYU) floats around 40 to the US dollar. Uruguay is the most card-friendly country on the continent — contactless works nearly everywhere, and foreign cards get automatic VAT discounts at restaurants and car hire under the tourist tax regime, so paying by card is often cheaper than cash. US dollars are accepted for big-ticket items, especially in Punta del Este. Banred and RedBROU ATMs dispense both currencies. Expect Western European price levels, the highest in South America. Tipping: 10% in restaurants, small change elsewhere.