Guide To Chuy / Chui
Quick answer: Chuy (Uruguay) / Chui (Brazil) is a small town split down the middle by the border between Brazil and Uruguay, and most travellers use it as a pit stop between the two countries. This guide to Chuy / Chui covers what the border town is like, what to see (a day is enough), where to stay and how to get in and out by bus.
What Is Chuy / Chui Like?
The town’s main street is “Avenida Internacional”. On the Uruguayan side it is called Avenida Brasil, and on the Brazilian side Avenida Uruguay; many other roads in town are also named after countries. The road, barely wide enough for two trucks to pass, is effectively the border between the two countries.
On one side of the street, signs are in Portuguese and shops take Brazilian reais; on the other, shop names are in Spanish and prices are in Uruguayan pesos.
- Brazilian side: Lined with supermarkets.
- Uruguayan side: Duty-free shops selling almost everything at very low prices.
What to See in Chuy
Chuy is not a major destination in itself, but a day gives you enough time to explore the town and its beautiful surroundings.
Fuerte San Miguel
The most popular attraction is Fuerte San Miguel, an old fort 7 km (4.3 miles) west of Chuy. It was built between 1734 and 1737, during the colonial struggles for the region, and offers a spectacular view of the hills that form the boundary with Brazil. You can get there from Chuy by bus or by hitch-hiking.
Where to Stay in Chuy
Etnico Hostel is the best pick. It is open all year round, whereas many places close during the off-peak season (March to October).
- Price: Dorms for USD 11 a night, with free breakfast.
- Location: On the Uruguayan side, a few metres from Avenida Internacional.
Getting In and Out of Chuy / Chui
Chuy is accessible by bus from both Uruguay and Brazil, with frequent services in each direction. The bus stop is just a few metres from the main street.
| Route | Duration | Approx. cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chui – Porto Alegre (Brazil) | 8 hours | BRL 130 (USD 36) | Get your passport stamped before entering town |
| Chuy – Punta Del Diablo (Uruguay) | 45 minutes | UYU 94 (USD 3) | Departs from the Uruguayan side |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chuy in Brazil or Uruguay?
Both. The town is split by the border: the Brazilian half is Chui and the Uruguayan half is Chuy, divided by Avenida Internacional.
How long should I spend in Chuy?
One day is enough to explore the town and visit Fuerte San Miguel.
Which currency is used in Chuy / Chui?
Brazilian reais on the Brazilian side and Uruguayan pesos on the Uruguayan side.
Conclusion
Chuy / Chui is a quirky place where you can stand with one foot in each country. Stock up at the duty-free shops, visit Fuerte San Miguel, remember your passport stamps and then carry on to Porto Alegre or the Uruguayan coast.
Very interesting to find a town split between two places! I haven’t been to either Brazil or Uruguay but hope to visit soon. Good to know if we have time to spend here that the neighbourhood is beautiful and that we should explore.
It’s always nice to know about these sort of in between places. They often get ignored in guides, but sometimes they are important to have more information on when you need to stop there. Thanks for sharing!
I’ve never been to Brazil or Uruguay, but would love to visit Chui/Chuy and experience the joint culture. Thx for sharing.
I’ve never seen a feature on a town split by a border, Chui/Chuy looks like an interesting place to wander if you’re passing. Would love to see what the view is like from the fort!