Uruguay Car Hire

Reasons to book a car hire in Uruguay

Renting a car in Uruguay offers the freedom to explore this beautiful country at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can conveniently manage your luggage and enjoy flexible travel plans, making it an ideal choice for those seeking beach and outdoor adventures. Key attractions such as Mansa Beach, perfect for relaxing by the sea, and Centenario Stadium, a historic site for sports and culture, are easily accessible. You can also take a leisurely drive along the Rambla of Montevideo, which provides a scenic view of the city.

Additionally, renting a car allows you to visit popular destinations like Montevideo, home to notable sites such as Carrasco Beach and Parque Rodó, or venture to Punta del Este, where you can enjoy both Mansa and Brava Beaches. Furthermore, Colonia del Sacramento offers charming spots like the Plaza de Armas and stunning views of the Rio de la Plata. Whether you are a solo traveller, couple, or family, having a rental car enhances your experience by allowing you the flexibility to discover Uruguay’s diverse attractions with ease.

Most popular car hires in Uruguay

• Economy: The Economy car is a fantastic option for those travelling solo, as couples, or with families. It comfortably accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for navigating Uruguay’s scenic routes while ensuring you have enough space for your luggage without unnecessary bulk.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is perfect for families, couples, or small groups seeking a bit more space and comfort. This vehicle accommodates up to 5 travellers and offers room for up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for those who need extra luggage capacity. Its SUV design provides a higher driving position and enhanced comfort for longer journeys across Uruguay.
• Compact: The Compact car is an excellent choice for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for a balance of efficiency and comfort. With room for up to 5 travellers and space for up to 3 medium suitcases, it’s versatile enough to suit various travel needs. This option is particularly valuable for navigating urban areas while still being spacious enough for your belongings.

Where to stay in Uruguay

• Montevideo: A vibrant city experience awaits in Montevideo, perfect for romantic getaways or family holidays. With attractions like the historical Centenario Stadium and the serene Carrasco Beach nearby, there’s plenty to explore. The local shopping centres and public markets offer delightful options for dining, including various wineries and restaurants. For a picturesque day out, visit Parque Rodó, where you can enjoy the lush surroundings and cultural activities, all within a short distance of the city centre.
• Punta del Este: Known for its stunning beaches, Punta del Este is ideal for a romantic beach holiday. Mansa Beach, Brava Beach, and La Barra Beach are all close by, offering beautiful seaside experiences. The area is also home to excellent shopping areas and centres, ensuring you have access to a variety of dining options, including local wineries and restaurants. This coastal city is particularly lively during the summer months, making it a great choice for those looking to soak up the sun and vibrant atmosphere.
• Colonia del Sacramento: For a charming city-themed and outdoor experience, Colonia del Sacramento is a wonderful option. The city is rich in history and offers attractions such as the picturesque Plaza de Armas and the scenic Rio de la Plata. Visitors can enjoy the nearby Ferrando Beach, perfect for relaxation. The shopping areas and cafes provide delightful local cuisine and wine, ensuring a fulfilling stay. This destination is especially appealing during the mild seasons, making it a great choice for family outings or cultural exploration.

10 tips to save on your car hire in Uruguay

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer driving, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—may not be accessible. This may also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling alternatives, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: It is common to incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, though the convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should any unforeseen incidents occur during your trip. Adding car hire insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in Uruguay

The best value period to rent a car in Uruguay is June, when prices are moderately low and demand is also low. Following June, August offers similarly low prices and demand, making it another appealing option. The months of March and November see average pricing but experience moderately high demand. In contrast, December is the most expensive month, with high demand, making it a busy time for rentals. October also tends to have moderately high prices with steady demand.