✈️ Flights to Uruguay 2026: Airlines, Prices & Best Time to Buy
Complete Travel Guide — Flights to Montevideo (MVD), best deals, routes & tips to save money
Flying to Uruguay is easier than ever, with new routes, competitive fares, and high-quality airlines connecting major global hubs to Montevideo (MVD) and Punta del Este (PDP). Whether you’re planning a beach vacation, a cultural getaway, a business trip, or moving long-term, understanding the best flight options can help you save hundreds of dollars and hours of travel time.
This complete 2026 guide covers everything you need to know before booking flights to Uruguay, including:
- Best airlines and routes
- Cheapest months to fly
- Direct flights vs layovers
- Price expectations and when to buy tickets
- Flights from major U.S., European, and South American cities
- Insider tips to travel cheaper and smarter
Let’s plan your perfect trip to Uruguay.
Table of Contents
Flying to Montevideo (MVD)
Main airport: Carrasco International Airport (MVD)
Located just outside Montevideo, Carrasco International Airport (MVD) is Uruguay’s largest and most modern airport. It offers:
- International and domestic flights
- Excellent safety and traveler experience
- 24/7 taxi & shuttle services
- Shops, SIM cards, restaurants & lounges
Secondary airport: Punta del Este (PDP)
Popular for seasonal tourism, especially December–February. Fewer international routes.
✈️ Most travelers fly into MVD and connect by bus/car to other destinations.
Direct Flights vs Layovers
| Flight Type | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct flights | Faster, no stress with connections | More expensive, limited cities | Short trips, families, business travelers |
| 1–2 layovers | Cheapest options, more seat availability | Longer travel time, risk of delays | Budget & flexible travelers |
Cities with seasonal or limited direct flights to Uruguay (2026)
- Miami (MIA) → Montevideo (MVD)
- São Paulo (GRU) → Montevideo (MVD)
- Buenos Aires (EZE/AEP) → Montevideo (MVD) or ferry + bus
- Santiago (SCL) → Montevideo (MVD)
Most other routes from the U.S. or Europe require one connection, usually through GRU (São Paulo), EZE (Buenos Aires), SCL (Chile), or PTY (Panama City).
Best Airlines Flying to Uruguay in 2026
| Airline | Route Style | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| LATAM Airlines | Many connecting routes via Santiago, Lima, São Paulo | Best reliability & comfort |
| Copa Airlines | U.S. connections through Panama (PTY) | Fastest layovers to MVD |
| American Airlines | Miami seasonal service | Good option from the U.S. |
| Gol Airlines | GRU & Brazilian connections | Budget-friendly |
| Aerolíneas Argentinas | Via Buenos Aires | Works well with ferry option |
| Iberia / Air Europa | Madrid to Montevideo | Best for Europe travelers |
🏆 Best overall airline for most travelers: LATAM
💲 Best budget airline: GOL
⏳ Fastest U.S. route: Copa Airlines via PTY
Cheapest Months to Fly to Uruguay
Low-season & cheapest months
| Month | Reason |
|---|---|
| May | Fall shoulder season |
| June | Quiet travel period |
| August | Off-season |
| September | Best weather + low prices |
Most expensive months
| Month | Reason |
|---|---|
| December | Holiday peak |
| January | Summer tourism |
| February | Carnaval season |
| Early March | Event tourism |
💡 Price difference can exceed $700 depending on season.
Best Time to Buy Flights
| Travel Month | When to Book |
|---|---|
| High season (Dec–Mar) | 3–5 months in advance |
| Low season (May–Sept) | 30–60 days in advance |
| Last-minute deals | Possible May–August |
📉 Fact: Prices drop most frequently on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Flights from Major Cities
✈️ Flights from Miami to Uruguay
- Duration: 8–12 hours depending on layovers
- Typical price: $650–$1,200 round-trip
- Best airlines: American Airlines, Copa, LATAM
- Tip: Booking via Panama with Copa is usually 20–35% cheaper
✈️ Flights from New York (JFK/EWR)
- Duration: 13–20 hours
- Typical price: $850–$1,400
- Best airlines: LATAM via São Paulo or Copa via Panama
- Tip: Avoid long overnight layovers in Argentina
✈️ Flights from Los Angeles (LAX)
- Duration: 18–28 hours
- Typical price: $900–$1,600
- Best airlines: LATAM, Copa, Delta + partner legs
- Tip: Two-leg routes often cheaper than one-stop
✈️ Flights from Madrid (MAD)
- Direct option available
- Duration: 12–13 hours
- Typical price: €850–€1,500
- Best airlines: Iberia, Air Europa
- Tip: Book in August or September for best deals
✈️ Flights from São Paulo (GRU)
- Direct daily flights
- Duration: 2 hours 45 min
- Typical price: $180–$350
- Best airlines: LATAM, GOL
Price Comparison Table
| Departure City | Low Season Price | High Season Price |
|---|---|---|
| Miami | $650 | $1,300–1,800 |
| New York | $850 | $1,500–2,200 |
| Los Angeles | $900 | $1,700–2,300 |
| Madrid | €850 | €1,600–2,200 |
| São Paulo | $180 | $400–600 |
Tips to Find the Best Deals
Smart booking strategies
- Book on Tuesday & Wednesday when prices drop
- Enable price alerts on Google Flights or Skyscanner
- Compare one-way segments instead of round-trip
- Fly into Buenos Aires + ferry for extra savings
- Use multi-city search (open-jaw strategy)
- Consider low-cost carriers in South America
Pro travel hack
Fly to Buenos Aires (EZE/AEP), then:
- 1-hour ferry to Colonia → Montevideo
- 3-hour ferry/bus combined ticket
Often $250–$500 cheaper during high season.
What is the Fastest Flight to Uruguay?
All Inclusive with Airfare Mexico
The fastest way to reach Uruguay from the United States is by taking a direct flight from Miami to Montevideo. However, these direct flights are limited, and the fastest alternative involves connecting through a major South American city with a short layover. Checking with American Airlines for updated schedules is advisable, as they often provide the most direct routes from the US to Uruguay.
What to do in Montevideo in 3 days
All-Inclusive Trips to Mexico
What US Airports Fly Direct to Uruguay?
| Capital | Montevideo |
| Currency | Uruguayan peso (UYU) |
| Airport | Carrasco International Airport |
| Country code | 598 |
| Max Temp Winter | 80° F |
| Max Tem Summer | 90° F |
| Time Zone | UTC -3h |
How Long is the Flight From the US to Uruguay?
Flights to Uruguay
Flights to Uruguay
The flight time from the United States to Uruguay varies depending on your departure city and whether your flight is direct or includes layovers:
Flights to Uruguay from Miami (MIA): A direct flight from Miami to Montevideo typically takes around 9 to 10 hours.
Flights to Uruguay from NYC (JFK): If you’re flying from New York City, expect a flight time of approximately 14 to 16 hours, including layovers.
Flights from Other Major US Cities: Flights from Los Angeles (LAX), Houston (IAH), and other major hubs usually involve at least one stop and can take between 14 and 20 hours, depending on the layover duration.
The Latest Booking Flights to Uruguay
Flights to Uruguay
Booking Flights to Uruguay
Can You Fly Direct to Uruguay?
Can you fly direct to Uruguay? The answer is yes, but with some caveats. Direct flights are mainly available from Miami, and even these are not always offered year-round. Travelers from other parts of the US will likely need to make at least one connection. The main carriers servicing Uruguay from the US are American Airlines, LATAM, and Copa Airlines, with connections typically occurring in São Paulo, Santiago, or Panama City.
How Do I Get to Uruguay from the USA?
To travel from the USA to Uruguay, you have a few options:
- Direct Flights from Miami: As mentioned, Miami offers the only direct flight option to Montevideo. This is the quickest and most convenient route if available.
- Connecting Flights via South American Hubs: If you’re flying from New York, Los Angeles, or other major cities, you’ll likely connect in São Paulo, Buenos Aires, or Santiago before continuing to Montevideo.
- Ferry from Buenos Aires: For travelers interested in exploring Argentina as well, flying to Buenos Aires and then taking a ferry to Colonia del Sacramento or Montevideo is a popular choice. The ferry ride is scenic and adds a unique experience to your journey.
Can US Citizens Go to Uruguay?
Yes, US citizens can travel to Uruguay. For short stays (up to 90 days), US citizens do not require a visa. Upon arrival, you will receive a stamp in your passport that allows you to stay in the country for up to three months. It’s important to ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Uruguay.
Is it Easy to Travel in Uruguay?
Traveling within Uruguay is straightforward, thanks to its relatively small size and well-developed infrastructure. Montevideo serves as a central hub, with buses connecting to all major cities and tourist destinations. Car rentals are widely available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace, and domestic flights are also an option for traveling to more remote areas, such as the beautiful Rocha coastline.
Insider Tips for a Memorable Flight to Uruguay
| Booking Tips | Book your flight to Uruguay at least 2-3 months in advance to secure the best prices. |
| Seat Selection | Choose a seat near the wing for a smoother ride, or opt for an exit row or bulkhead seat for extra legroom. |
| Layovers | Consider layovers in cities with shorter immigration lines to reduce travel stress. |
| Timing | Select flights that arrive in Uruguay during daylight hours for easier navigation upon arrival. |
| Packing Essentials | Pack a travel pillow, noise-cancelling headphones, and an eye mask for a more comfortable flight. |
| Health and Comfort | Stay hydrated during the flight by drinking plenty of water and avoid alcohol or caffeine. |
| Entertainment | Download movies, TV shows, or podcasts to keep yourself entertained during long flights. |
| Food and Snacks | Bring healthy snacks like nuts, fruits, or granola bars to supplement in-flight meals. |
| Check-In | Check-in online 24 hours before your flight to secure your preferred seat and avoid airport lines. |
| Travel Documents | Ensure your passport, visa (if required), and other travel documents are up-to-date and easily accessible. |
| Currency Exchange | Exchange a small amount of money into Uruguayan pesos before you leave, so you have cash on hand upon arrival. |
| Local SIM Card | Consider buying a local SIM card upon arrival in Uruguay for affordable mobile data and calls. |
| Arrival Preparation | Research the airport layout in Montevideo or your final destination to navigate smoothly after landing. |
| Jet Lag Management | Try adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before departure to the local time in Uruguay to minimize jet lag. |
| Transportation | Pre-book a taxi or airport shuttle to your accommodation to avoid the hassle of finding transportation upon arrival. |
| Travel Insurance | Purchase travel insurance that covers international flights and includes trip cancellation, health coverage, and lost luggage protection. |
| Emergency Contacts | Keep a list of important phone numbers, including your country’s embassy in Uruguay, in case of emergencies. |
| Language Basics | Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to help with communication during your trip. |
| Climate Consideration | Check the weather forecast for Uruguay and pack accordingly, as the country experiences diverse weather patterns. |
| Luggage Security | Use a TSA-approved lock for your luggage and consider using a luggage tracker for added security. |
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Conclusion: Flights to Uruguay
Flying to Uruguay from the United States involves some planning, especially if you’re looking for direct routes or the best deals. By booking in advance, staying flexible with your dates, and considering various route options, you can find the perfect flight for your trip. Once in Uruguay, you’ll find a welcoming country that’s easy to navigate and full of cultural and natural wonders waiting to be explored.
