Splendour of the Seas from Royal Caribbean is one of the cruise ships that often visits Uruguay in January through March

Brimming with waterfront avenues and old colonial architecture, Uruguay is a wonderful country to go for a relaxed vacation. The county features a mild subtropical climate, making it an attractive destination throughout the year.

However, some months are better than others in terms of weather, and travellers will do well to take the climate into account when planning their trip.

Not surprisingly, Uruguay’s seasons run opposite to those in the United States and the rest of the northern hemisphere. Here, summer lasts from December to March, fall spans April and May while winter begins in June and wraps up in September; spring occurs in October through November.

Summer

Uruguay’s summers can be described as humid and warm, tempered by ocean winds from the Atlantic Ocean. Temperatures hover around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and rainfall is minimal.

Because of these conditions, summer is described as the most pleasant time to visit in terms of weather. Cruise visits hit a high point during this time.

Winter

During the winter, temperatures drop significantly to around 50 degrees Fahrenheit on average. Of course, temperatures do not go below freezing; however it does get rather cold. Often, winter brings much rainfall and therefore a rather wet setting. 

Spring and Fall Conditions

During spring, there is much of an evening out of conditions. During this period, there are warmer temperatures reaching into the high 70’s after the chilly winter rescinds, accompanied by intermittent thunderstorms. Most days see brief spells of overcast skies and storm clouds that give way to sunny conditions in the evenings.

Fall months see similarly warm temperatures as well, accompanied by a significant increase in rainfall. Sometimes, strong winds can be a factor as well.  This season is the wettest time in Uruguay.

Peak and Off-Season

Of course, summer is the most attractive season in Uruguay and as such draws the highest volume of tourists.

The main attractions during this period are the beaches and waterfront promenades, making the warm and sunny summer months of December through March the ideal period to visit.

Travellers also encounter higher prices for lodging, goods and services around this time of year due to the increase in demand.

Tourists will find travel discounts in the winter off-season, which happens to coincide with summer vacation in the northern hemisphere. However, the climate is less appealing.

Peak Season and Climate

Others will find that the best time to visit Uruguay is October through March, when the sun shines and temperatures are mild.

Punta del Este overflows with tourists from Argentina in summer; if you’re seeking a more relaxed time to visit the beaches of the coast, consider going between October and December.

Average temperatures are 62°F (17°C) in spring, 73°F (23°C) in summer, 64°F (18°C) in autumn, and 53°F (12°C) in winter.

Public Holidays

National holidays include New Year’s Day (Jan 1), Día de los Reyes (Jan 6), Carnaval (the days leading up to Ash Wednesday), Easter, Desembarco de los 33 Orientales (Apr 19), Labor Day (May 1), Batalla de las Piedras (May 18), Natalicio de José Gervasio Artigas (June 19), Jura de la Constitución (July 18), Independence Day (Aug 25), Día de la Raza (Oct 12), Día de los Difuntos (Nov 2), and Christmas (Dec 25).