Pope Leo XIV Sets South America Trip to Uruguay for 6–17 November 2026

The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Leo XIV will travel to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from 6 to 17 November 2026, keeping the trip on the itinerary that had already been published. The confirmation came after the pontiff underwent surgery for lung cancer earlier in October.

Key facts

• Travel dates: 6 to 17 November 2026
• Countries on the itinerary: Uruguay, Argentina and Peru
• The trip proceeds according to the previously published itinerary
• The Vatican says there are no medical reasons preventing the journey
• Pope Leo XIV underwent lung cancer surgery on 13 October 2026 at Gemelli Hospital in Rome, Italy

What is happening?

The Holy See Press Office said the apostolic journey to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru will proceed according to the previously published itinerary. The Vatican described the surgical procedure as successful and without complications, and said subsequent examinations confirmed the disease was localized and that no additional cancer treatment is necessary.

Based on the pope's clinical condition and the results of diagnostic tests and laboratory analyses, the Vatican said there are no contraindications preventing him from making the Latin America trip as planned. The source does not give details of the itinerary, the cities to be visited or any public events in Uruguay.

Why was the pope in hospital?

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost, underwent surgery for lung cancer on 13 October 2026 at Gemelli Hospital in Rome, Italy. He remained hospitalised for several days, all of them on a general ward, and was discharged on 17 October, after which he resumed his activities.

The pope said he was filled with joy to return to the continent where he has spent many moments of his life. He served as a missionary and bishop in Peru and holds citizenship of that country.

What this means for travellers

Travellers planning to be in Uruguay between 6 and 17 November 2026 should note that a papal visit is scheduled for that period. The source gives no information about specific dates for Uruguay, security arrangements, transport changes or entry rules, so nothing further can be confirmed about any impact on travel within the country.

The Vatican has not announced any changes to the published itinerary. Further details of the schedule, including the dates for each country, are not included in the information released so far.