Introducing Uruguay
Well, somebody let the cat out of the bag. Uruguay used to be South America’s best-kept secret, with a handful of Argentines, Brazilians, Chileans and non–South Americans in the know popping in to enjoy the pristine beaches, the atmospheric cities, the huge steaks and the happening nightlife. Then the peso crashed, the place became a whole lot more affordable and people got curious. They came, loved it and went back home to tell their friends. Who came, loved it and went back home to tell their friends.
Which is not to suggest that the place is being overrun. The main drawcards, like Colonia del Sacramento, Punta del Este and Montevideo, have long been set up for tourists, and are dealing with their newfound popularity well. Other destinations, such as Punta del Diablo and Maldonado, retain their charm but are no longer the undiscovered gems they once were. Elsewhere, in the interior (gaucho central Tacuarembó, for example) and the river towns, and particularly in the non-summer months, there’s still a pretty good chance that you’ll be the only gringo in town.
Ready to go?
These tours & activities make it easy:
Sights in Uruguay
Activities in Uruguay
Montevideo
Uruguay’s capital and by far its largest city, Montevideo is a vibrant, eclectic place with a rich cultural life.
Tours in Uruguay
Western Uruguay
The land west of Montevideo is in many ways the ‘real’ Uruguay – little river towns separated by large expanses of pampas and wheat fields.
Uruguay destination guides
Eastern Uruguay
This is Uruguay’s playground (and also, to an extent, Brazil’s, Chile’s, Mexico’s, Spain’s etc) – a long stretch of beaches all the way from Montevideo to the Brazilian border offering something for everyone – surfers, party animals, nature freaks...
Hotels in Uruguay
Budget Hotels & Hostels in Uruguay
Guesthouses and B&Bs in Uruguay
Apartments in Uruguay
Punta del Este
OK, here’s the plan: tan it, wax it, buff it at the gym, then plonk it on the beach at ‘Punta.
Entertainment in Uruguay
Colonia del Sacramento
Take some winding, cobbled streets, add an intriguing history and put them on a gorgeous point overlooking the Río de la Plata.
Shopping in Uruguay