Languages of Uruguay
picture of the cover of a sample tour itinerary

Download itinerary

  • Get This Itinerary Now! πŸ“¬
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
small transparent logo
Customize Now

Languages of Uruguay

Language Information

It is common for different countries in South America to speak Spanish in different tones and dialects. In Uruguay, Spanish is the official language, but the Spanish spoken here is different from what you would hear in Mexico. Uruguayan Spanish has a great deal of Italian influence. Many Italian words are actually incorporated into the language. This type of Spanish is similar to the Spanish you will hear in Buenos Aires, Argentina – tending to have Italian flare.

There are other differences in Uruguayan Spanish besides its Italian influences. For example, some of the subjects in language change. Uruguayans use the “vos” subject rather than “tu,” just as Argentines do.

Not many locals in Uruguay can speak English fluently, but most of the staff at hotels, restaurants, and tourist locations will have a good understanding of English. All of our tour guides are English speaking, and other languages are available upon request.

Due to the fact that not many Uruguayans speak English fluently, it would be helpful for you to pick up a few basic Spanish phrases, including greetings, please and thank you, and questions such as how to ask for directions. Knowing just a couple of these phrases will make your travels in Uruguay much easier and enjoyable. You might even be able to impress some of the locals!

For an interactive experience, we recommend that you take a “Spanish for Travelers” class at your local community center. Or, if you don’t have a lot of extra time, consider purchasing a software program such as Rosetta Stone, or popular language apps such as Duolingo. Many travel guidebooks include brief language sections – study up before you go to familiarize yourself with basic Spanish.

Phrases to know:

  • β€œHola” = β€œHello”
  • β€œAdiΓ³s” = β€œGoodbye”
  • β€œPor favor” = β€œPlease”
  • β€œPerdΓ³n” = β€œExcuse me”
  • β€œGracias” = β€œThank you”
  • β€œDe nada” = β€œYou’re welcome”

Casapueblo in Uruguay

Create Your Own Custom Tour

Click your preferences: Destinations & Activities. Be as specific or general as you like - or click Help Me Decide! We'll spice it with hidden gems & personal tips to create your perfect trip.

Choose Amazon destinations (optional)
Choose destinations (optional)
Choose Bolivia destinations (optional)
Choose Brazil destinations (opt)
Choose Chile destinations (opt)
Choose Colombia & Panama destinations (optional)
Choose Ecuador & Galapagos destinations (optional)
Choose Paraguay & Uruguay destinations (optional)
Choose Patagonia & Antarctica destinations (optional)
Choose Peru destinations (optional)
Choose Guianas destinations (optional)
Choose Interests
Choose activities
What category of accommodation?

You can choose more than one!

When would you like to go?
for
How many travelers?
age groups
age groups
Review my trip summary
destinations

activities

accommodations

when

who

Highly recommended - Phone: We ❀️ to talk! A brief chat with your personal Travel Consultant helps us create your perfect trip!

Hooray! Thanks for Sharing!

If you have an additional 30 seconds we’d love to learn more about you…

Custom Tour Request Popup

  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • Hidden
  • One Moment Please

    We are matching your tour idea with the right Travel Consultant
    who will be in touch shortly.
    Thank you for your request!

  • Hidden
  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.