Uruguay Security Services
Uruguay Secure Transportation Services and Security
ETS Risk Management provides a range of travel risk management and secure transportation services in Uruguay. Our team of local, English speaking security drivers has assisted Fortune 500 clients in VIP protection, secure transportation, and risk management in Montevideo and the local area.
Executive Protection and Secure Transportation in Montevideo, Uruguay
ETS has excellent capability and experience in Montevideo and greater Uruguay. We have a small team of very experienced executive protection specialists for security assignments, with extensive experience in the protective industry for both public and private sector. The executive protection team in Montevideo are former high-level federal officers, and our local security drivers have all received high-level training from Government agencies with significant experience in security operations for corporations and HNWI’s.
Uruguay Security Overview
Uruguay remains one of the lower-risk environments in South America, but crime trends since 2018 warrant elevated caution, particularly in Montevideo and the coastal departments of Canelones and Maldonado. The U.S. Department of State rates Uruguay Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution due to crime.
Opportunistic street crime. Pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and distraction theft are the most common threats to business travelers, concentrated in busy areas, transport hubs, waterfront promenades, and around hotels in Montevideo. The UK’s FCDO highlights theft risks in crowded spaces and recommends standard precautions.
Robbery and vehicle-related crime. Armed robberies and “encerrona”/follow-home style incidents occur in urban areas. Motorcycle-borne offenders—commonly referred to locally as motochorros—operate in pairs to snatch phones, watches, and bags at intersections and curbside; authorities have stood up specialized police capabilities to counter this modus operandi. Do not resist during a robbery.
Crime trends. Official data show persistent challenges with robbery (rapiña) and theft (hurto) across the country; travelers should expect periodic police operations targeting hot spots.
Civil unrest. Demonstrations are generally peaceful but can disrupt movement in central Montevideo; avoid protest routes and allow buffer time for road closures. (Monitor local advisories.
Road safety
Road traffic crashes are a material risk. Uruguay’s road-fatality burden remains significant by regional standards; risk increases outside Montevideo due to rural road conditions, variable lighting, and limited emergency response. Use reputable drivers, avoid night driving outside urban areas when possible, and wear seatbelts at all times.
Yes, traveling for business in Uruguay can be safe but, it is very important to mitigate risk. The main threat when traveling in Uruguay is becoming a victim of crime, including armed attacks and vehicle robberies.
If you are unfamiliar with the environment, seriously consider booking a team of security experts to improve your safety.
Yes, private security can be armed in Uruguay. However, to carry a firearm a government-issued license is required.
The most dangerous risk to travelers in Uruguay is driving by road. Driving standards are poor resulting in frequent road traffic collisions. Additionally, driving at night increases the risk due to a range of hazards and reduced visibility.
Montevideo is generally considered safe, but it does have a higher crime rate than other parts of Uruguay. Tourists and business travelers do get targeted for opportunities of theft and muggings; violent attacks cannot be ruled out. Consider having a trusted driver and vehicle move you from business meetings and social engagements to reduce the risk.
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The ETS team push simplification and customer relationship management at every juncture. An impressive worldwide network of former colleagues and associates from the global security community has supported client operations since 2012 in over 80 countries and 102 cities.
