There are numerous first-class hotels in Montevideo and along Uruguay's coastal resorts, where rates are usually a little higher. It is essential to book during the summer and during carnival week in Montevideo. There are several lower-priced hotels in the city for more basic accommodation. The Ministry of Tourism has a hotel listing page on its website (see Contact Addresses).

Grading: A star rating system of 1 to 5 stars is used. Prices tend to be higher during the tourist season. There is a 23% value-added tax in Montevideo. At the beaches, many hotels offer only US-plan terms (full board).

Allowed at numerous designated sites throughout the country; elsewhere it is necessary to get police permission. Campsites are listed on the Ministry of Tourism's website (see Contact Addresses).

Uruguay is a member of the International Youth Hostel Federation and there are several youth hostels throughout the country offering cheap accommodation, run by Asociación de Alberguistas del Uruguay (see Accommodation Information below).

Asociación de Alberguistas del Uruguay (Hostelling International Uruguay)
Canelones 935, PO Box 10680, CP 11100, Montevideo, Uruguay
Tel: (2) 900 5749.
Website: www.hosteluruguay.org