Self-drive Uruguay: Classic highlights
13 days from £3,175
Explore the tour day by day, from the highlights to the quieter moments in between. Here’s how each day unfolds and what to expect along the way.
Arrive in Buenos Aires, an elegant, cultured and cosmopolitan city famed for its interesting museums and the fascinating port district of La Boca, with its cobbled streets and brightly painted houses – it’s where the tango was born. The centre of town is home to the colonial heart, government buildings and churches as well as chic shopping and residential districts which have a nostalgic Parisian feel.
The bohemian quarter of San Telmo is full of quaint old houses interspersed with antiques shops, tango bars and classy restaurants. Slightly further out of the centre is the Recoleta district which is where your hotel is based. Recoleta is even more evocative of the French influence, and was where Evita Perón was laid to rest.
The comfortable and elegant mid-range Loi Suites Recoleta hotel is on a conveniently located avenue in the well-heeled district of Recoleta, an area brimming with chic cafés, parks and boutiques.
Many of the double-glazed rooms have impressive views over the neighbourhood’s most famous tourist attraction: the beautiful, labyrinthine Recoleta Cemetery, lined with the impressive marble mausoleums of Argentina’s late great and good.
The main entrance leads into an attractive marble lobby and atrium with an indoor ‘winter garden’ and heated pool beneath a large skylight with iron supports.
The hotel has a European feel to its design and architecture, and the décor of the well-equipped guest rooms is led by subtle tones and contemporary style. There’s a buffet breakfast, gym, sauna and sophisticated restaurant.
Although the modern Buenos Aires skyline is dominated by its mass of high-rise towers, typical of any rapidly expanding 21st century metropolis, at street level it reveals architectural gems and peeling relics which tell a story best appreciated on foot.
The historic neighbourhoods of Montserrat and San Telmo are the focus of your guided walking tour, which includes a visit to the famous Plaza de Mayo, adorned with the Presidential Casa Rosada (Pink House) and ends in San Telmo, with its many antique and bric-a-brac shops, weekend street market and tango clubs.
The comfortable and elegant mid-range Loi Suites Recoleta hotel is on a conveniently located avenue in the well-heeled district of Recoleta, an area brimming with chic cafés, parks and boutiques.
Many of the double-glazed rooms have impressive views over the neighbourhood’s most famous tourist attraction: the beautiful, labyrinthine Recoleta Cemetery, lined with the impressive marble mausoleums of Argentina’s late great and good.
The main entrance leads into an attractive marble lobby and atrium with an indoor ‘winter garden’ and heated pool beneath a large skylight with iron supports.
The hotel has a European feel to its design and architecture, and the décor of the well-equipped guest rooms is led by subtle tones and contemporary style. There’s a buffet breakfast, gym, sauna and sophisticated restaurant.
Take the hydrofoil ferry across the River Plate to the port of Colonia in Uruguay. Travel along a forest-fringed estuary, dotted with upmarket residences, to this peaceful little port, and its UNESCO-protected historic centre. It’s a real contrast to the hubbub of Buenos Aires.
You’ll have a guided walk to explore this quaint town where the evocative colonial grid of tree-shaded, peaceful lanes is a photographer’s delight. Colonia was founded by the Portuguese, so the architecture is a bit different from the Spanish and French styles of Buenos Aires and elsewhere in Spanish America. Along the way you’ll stop at one of the town’s welcoming little boltholes for a typical Uruguayan snack of wine, bread and cheeses.
Your hotel is in the heart of old Colonia, allowing opportunities to return to your favourite corners of town to linger longer. You might climb the lighthouse for a view over the town and the estuary beyond.
This little boutique style hotel brings warmth and character to the fringes of Colonia’s historic quarter, squatting on the banks of the River Plate with huge views over the silvery estuary.
There are eight guestrooms in the colonial era building, but as many as four room categories, including suites and balcony rooms. They are all easy on the eye with contemporary, Scandinavian-minimalist design featuring lots of luminous white in the furnishings and fabrics juxtaposed with darker rustic stone and wood work. As with most converted colonial buildings, the layout and size of each guest room varies and while most face the cobbled streets of old Colonia, the balcony suite has a river view.
There is an attractive breakfast area, al fresco bar and a bistro restaurant which is open to the public, as well as a small riverside garden where you can enjoy the watery vistas.
Uruguay is a tranquil place, its roads beyond the capital are paved, mostly well-maintained and signposted; petrol stations are frequent and local driving standards are (relatively) good. Roads leading to the coast are most busy during the peak summer holiday season of mid-December to late February but elsewhere you should find there is relatively little traffic, especially if you’re accustomed to driving in the UK. You should be in for a relaxing driving experience, where you can confidently make a detour to explore a place off your basic route which tickles your fancy.
Your car will be delivered to your hotel this morning and once on the road, you’ll be heading west to Carmelo (78km, around 1 hour direct), a sleepy little port at the end of the River Plate estuary with a pretty colonial plaza and a waterside promenade. It’s the centre of the wine-producing region and there are several important vineyards in the vicinity, all ensconced in peaceful countryside studded with eucalyptus trees which is a delight to drive through. Spend two nights at a delightful small lodge and winery in an idyllic rural setting near Carmelo.
This utterly charming Narbona Wine Lodge is just outside Carmelo. Within the historic Narbona estate (founded around 1740), this boutique property is tucked away amidst bucolic countryside of pine and eucalyptus forests, vines and grazing pastures. Only reds – Tannat, Pinot Noir and Tempranillo varieties – are produced here: the harvest begins mid-February, lasting up until the end of March. The property is listed in the prestigious Relais & Chateaux portfolio.
The sky-blue hued estancia buildings and its grounds overflow with museum-pieces of bygone times: vintage cars once used by the estate, old tractors, and relics of a previous wine-making era. Besides wine tasting activities, you can spend your days relaxing by the outdoor pool and pretty colonial-style patio, sample the estancia’s home-made cheeses and preserves or take a bicycle out along the quiet country lanes.
Yesterday was a great introduction to driving in Uruguay but today you may well decide just to hang out around Carmelo and become acquainted with Uruguay’s excellent wines, centering on bold reds – called Tannat – which you’ll find surprisingly different to the Malbecs available across the River Plate. You walk or cycle to local vineyards from the hotel, or visit the little store close by where you can enjoy a glass among the vines.
The sleepy riverside town of Carmelo itself, with its single-storey dwellings shaded by jacaranda trees and churches, is worth a look around: there’s a nice little museum a ruined Jesuit mission from the 18th century.
This utterly charming Narbona Wine Lodge is just outside Carmelo. Within the historic Narbona estate (founded around 1740), this boutique property is tucked away amidst bucolic countryside of pine and eucalyptus forests, vines and grazing pastures. Only reds – Tannat, Pinot Noir and Tempranillo varieties – are produced here: the harvest begins mid-February, lasting up until the end of March. The property is listed in the prestigious Relais & Chateaux portfolio.
The sky-blue hued estancia buildings and its grounds overflow with museum-pieces of bygone times: vintage cars once used by the estate, old tractors, and relics of a previous wine-making era. Besides wine tasting activities, you can spend your days relaxing by the outdoor pool and pretty colonial-style patio, sample the estancia’s home-made cheeses and preserves or take a bicycle out along the quiet country lanes.
It’s off on the road back east towards Montevideo, the nation’s capital. You could well stretch the 245km journey to a full day. There are a couple of alternative roads, but in general you’ll be driving through open farmland with vast fields of wheat and soya, the ubiquitous cattle and small farmsteads. Close to the estuary you’ll cross rivulets and marshlands, before you see the Montevideo skyline loom up on the horizon.
Arriving in the capital you’ll discover a lively waterfront city with a great setting, where modern skyscrapers jostle with art deco façades and grand, monumental colonial buildings. For a national capital there’s relatively little traffic or pollution, so you should feel at ease driving through the city to your hotel.
Born of the competing interests of colonial powers, the city, on the shores of a fine natural harbour on the River Plate, grew to be a prosperous port devoted to overseas trade. It attracted immigrants from all of Europe, resulting in an eclectic cultural mix which survives to this day.
Just moments from the River Plate and a half-hour drive from Montevideo international airport, this is a good-value, welcoming property in the tranquil neighbourhood of Buceo. The immediate area features a pretty waterfront rambla and plenty of restaurants and small shops, while a 15 minute stroll takes you to the upmarket entertainment district of Pocitos, with its impressive whitesand river beach and lively nightlife. The property itself is modern and tastefully decorated. There’s a bar-restaurant on site, an attractive roof terrace and an indoor pool with a hot tub.
You’ll have a guided walking tour in the morning, passing through the colonial centre, viewing some of the historic public building and monuments: there’s a distinct retro feel, with many art-deco buildings displaying a faded charm.
You’ll be taken to the port market for lunch: this is a fascinating place, popular among the locals who throng to its open-air bars and restaurants. Here, you can enjoy a steak to rival anything you might have savoured in Buenos Aires, washed down with a local wine.
In the evening you might take a stroll down the beachfront Rambla, where Montevideños may well be out jogging, cycling or roller-skating.
Just moments from the River Plate and a half-hour drive from Montevideo international airport, this is a good-value, welcoming property in the tranquil neighbourhood of Buceo. The immediate area features a pretty waterfront rambla and plenty of restaurants and small shops, while a 15 minute stroll takes you to the upmarket entertainment district of Pocitos, with its impressive whitesand river beach and lively nightlife. The property itself is modern and tastefully decorated. There’s a bar-restaurant on site, an attractive roof terrace and an indoor pool with a hot tub.
Drive for around 200km north-east of the capital and into the rural department of Lavalleja, with its low hills and rugged countryside. Inland, Uruguay’s roads are startlingly empty, as is the countryside. Much of it is cattle country, dotted with traditional small estancias (ranches) and alive with nature and birdsong.
Uruguay has several delightful country inns which welcome guests with simple lodgings and warm hospitality – a typically Uruguayan experience. Your base for the next couple of days, is a charming small rural inn a few minutes’ drive from the settlement of Mariscala, whose population is under 2,000. Depending on your chosen route, the journey to tonight’s accommodation takes around 3 hours.
This cosy estancia is nestled amidst the hills of Lavelleja offering unique landscapes, wholesome comfort and the charm of a small posada.
Rediscovering nature, history and rural tourism of Uruguay is the main concept of this characterful posada; relax and take in the beauty of the surrounding wildlife. With only 8 rooms El Balcon has a cosy and familial feel. Step out from the main house straight onto wonderful hiking trails or go horseback riding through the mountains with the option of finishing up at the caves of Salamanca. Alternatively, there is also fishing, canoeing, mountain biking and golf on offer. Back at the estancia find a deck chair to sit and enjoy the spectacular views or explore the gardens which create stunning floral perfumes during the flowering season. At the restaurant hearty food is available with most of the ingredients coming from the organic garden with drinks available and the opportunity to try Uruguayan wine.
El Balcon del Abra offers peaceful landscapes, homely comforts and the charm of a small Uruguayan posada (inn) with only 8 rooms. Located in well-kept parkland dotted with tall palms and deck chairs, it is a fine base to relax for the day or wander off on a self-guided walk. The estancia also offers its guests a complimentary horse ride during their stay. Optional activities which may be available locally include mountain biking, canoeing and 4×4 trips into the surrounding countryside.
This cosy estancia is nestled amidst the hills of Lavelleja offering unique landscapes, wholesome comfort and the charm of a small posada.
Rediscovering nature, history and rural tourism of Uruguay is the main concept of this characterful posada; relax and take in the beauty of the surrounding wildlife. With only 8 rooms El Balcon has a cosy and familial feel. Step out from the main house straight onto wonderful hiking trails or go horseback riding through the mountains with the option of finishing up at the caves of Salamanca. Alternatively, there is also fishing, canoeing, mountain biking and golf on offer. Back at the estancia find a deck chair to sit and enjoy the spectacular views or explore the gardens which create stunning floral perfumes during the flowering season. At the restaurant hearty food is available with most of the ingredients coming from the organic garden with drinks available and the opportunity to try Uruguayan wine.
It’s around 150km to drive today to reach José Ignacio, a cool, sophisticated and affluent coastal resort with upmarket boutiques, art galleries and restaurants yet not at the expense of its charm. The town only has about 300 permanent residents but this number swells by the thousand in the buzzy summer, including socialites, Hollywood stars and international supermodels. They are attracted to the laid-back, low-key atmosphere: there are still some dusty, acacia-shaded lanes with pop-up bars and al fresco celebrity chef eateries – you may be fighting for space with a Porsche if you want to park outside one of these.
You’ll be staying at a hotel around 3km from José Ignacio and just 200m from the beach in a peaceful location away from the relaxed nightlife (discos have to shut at 2am by law).
This appealing property does its best to be ‘cool and charming’ in a contemporary ambience. The geometrically-inspired modern two storey building features huge plate glass windows overlooking a tree-filled garden a short walk from the beach. It’s all very light and airy.
The bright guest rooms vary: some have sea views you can enjoy from a Jacuzzi and the top-end rooms have a deck with private plunge pool. But all rooms have excellent amenities; Egyptian cotton sheets, robes, free Wifi, TV/DVD player with a selection of films and complimentary tea and coffee are standard. There are connecting rooms for families and a small crescent-shaped pool with sun loungers set on decking behind the hotel building.
You can take breakfast wherever you like, although there is no restaurant. However there are a couple of modest dining options nearby and more choice in the resort of San Ignacio which is 3km away, so having your own hire car is a good idea.
You have 2 full days at leisure to enjoy the resort’s vibe, sample its fine restaurants and maybe catch up with some sun on the beach.
If you are in the mood for exploration with your hire car, there is no shortage of options. An hour to the west is Uruguay’s most famous beach resort, Punta del Este, with its glorious, sweeping Atlantic beaches, fine restaurants and a very lively atmosphere in summertime.
For something more sedate, head east towards the province of Rocha. One of our favourite parts of Uruguay, Rocha is a picture of utter peace and tranquility. It has some of Uruguay’s most alluring countryside, dotted with old estancia houses, ombu and palm trees. Cabo Polonio National Park, one of Uruguay’s highlights, is around 2-hours drive away. Walking amidst its sand dunes and wild, windy coastline makes for a bracing day out. The remote hamlet of Cabo Polonio itself feels almost cut off from the outside world, with its brightly painted houses, iconic lighthouse, small eateries and sea lion colony. Rocha also has several small beach resorts such as La Pedrera and La Paloma, popular among surfers with a hip nightlife in summer. Meanwhile, its nature reserves and lagoons are great for birding.
This appealing property does its best to be ‘cool and charming’ in a contemporary ambience. The geometrically-inspired modern two storey building features huge plate glass windows overlooking a tree-filled garden a short walk from the beach. It’s all very light and airy.
The bright guest rooms vary: some have sea views you can enjoy from a Jacuzzi and the top-end rooms have a deck with private plunge pool. But all rooms have excellent amenities; Egyptian cotton sheets, robes, free Wifi, TV/DVD player with a selection of films and complimentary tea and coffee are standard. There are connecting rooms for families and a small crescent-shaped pool with sun loungers set on decking behind the hotel building.
You can take breakfast wherever you like, although there is no restaurant. However there are a couple of modest dining options nearby and more choice in the resort of San Ignacio which is 3km away, so having your own hire car is a good idea.
An early start for the 145km drive from José Ignacio to Carrasco airport near Montevideo, which should take around 2 hours.
UK clients arrive home the following day.
The places you’ll stay and explore on this tour. Here’s a closer look at each one and what makes it worth the trip.
Argentina - Buenos Aires
Discover Argentina’s elegant and energetic capital, where grand European-style architecture, vibrant neighbourhoods, world-class cuisine and the passion of tango come together to create one of South America’s most captivating cities. Dynamic, stylish and nostalgic in equal measure, Buenos Aires is a destination worthy of a trip in its own right.
Uruguay - Colonia and Carmelo
Cobbled streets, and a slow pace on the banks of the Río de la Plata, that’s the UNESCO-listed town of Colonia del Sacramento. Just an hour away, Carmelo trades cobblestones for vineyards, with wineries, and some of Uruguay’s best food. Together they make a rewarding Colonia holiday packed into one small corner of the country.
Uruguay - Montevideo
Set on the Río de la Plata, Montevideo combines rich heritage, great food and wine, and a laid-back atmosphere influenced by centuries of European immigration. Founded in 1726, the city pairs a historic old town with a vibrant waterfront. From cobbled streets to traditional asados by the water, Montevideo offers an authentic taste of Uruguay.
Uruguay - Punta del Este beaches and coastline
East of Montevideo, Uruguay’s coastline turns glamorous. Punta del Este divides the calm River Plate from the Atlantic, with smart hotels, casinos, boutiques, bars and restaurants. 40 minutes further along and you land in José Ignacio, a former fishing village turned stylish hideaway. Punta del Este holidays cover everything from full glamour to total escape.
Uruguay, wedged between the behemoths of Brazil and Argentina, is a holiday destination offering a real sense of breathing space. It’s the size of England but with a population of just 3.5 million, not much greater than that of Wales. The gently rolling countryside is dreamily bucolic – the famous beef cattle graze nonchalantly accompanied by a multitude of birds, whose song at sunrise is as enchanting as the unspoilt little towns and increasingly chic range of hotels and restaurants.
Getting around is most satisfyingly achieved with the freedom of your own hire car. Our self-drive holiday explores the UNESCO jewel of Colonia, Carmelo’s vineyards, Montevideo’s art-deco streets, the little-visited interior of Uruguay and the beaches of José Ignacio. There’s about 850km of driving over nine days and you’ll have the support of pre-booked accommodation allowing you to explore at your leisure.
Finn Clennett
All of our experts have lived or travelled extensively in Latin America, so you will receive unrivalled advice based on unique personal experiences.
The practical detail for this tour, all in one place. Transport, accommodation, what’s included and what to pack, so you know exactly what to expect before you go.
- Transport
1 ferry journey (1hr); car hire for 9 days.
- Accommodation
We invite you to stay at a variety of accommodation styles, from urban boutique to wine-theme lodge and countryside ranch. Each has individual character and a couple have rural settings, adding to the self-drive experience in Uruguay.
- Meals
Breakfast daily, lunch day 7, dinner days 8 and 9.
- Guides
We carefully select our local partners, some of whom we have worked with for over 25 years. Their English-speaking guides understand the expectations of our clients very well, and are consistently singled out for praise by the latter on their return.
- Summary Of Nights13 days, 12 nights: Buenos Aires 2; Colonia 1; Carmelo 2; Montevideo 2; Balcon del Abra 2; José Ignacio 3.
- Currency
The unit of currency in Argentina is the Argentine peso; in Uruguay it is the Uruguayan peso.
- How To Take It
Cash machines are available in all major cities and towns, and so taking a debit or credit card with a PIN number is the most convenient way of withdrawing money while on your trip, and in most shops and restaurants you can also pay by card. However, since cards can get lost, damaged, withheld or blocked, you should not rely exclusively on a card to access funds.
We recommend that additionally you take a reasonable quantity of US dollars cash (no more than is covered by your insurance), which you can exchange into local currency. Dollar bills should be in good condition, soiled or torn bills may be refused. $100 dollar bills must be the most up to date style – old design bills may not be accepted. You can take sterling, but the exchange rate is not always competitive or even available, restricting the number of places where you can change money.
For our latest currency advice for Argentina please see our FAQs section.
- Daily Spend
It is very difficult to give a guideline for essential expenses but a budget of around US$50 per day should cover the cost of meals not included in the holiday itinerary, drinks and the odd souvenir. Eat at the best restaurants and you will pay considerably more. Allow around US$100 to cover fuel.
- Tipping
Tips are welcomed and local guides often rely on their tip as a significant proportion of their income.
Most service industry workers will expect a tip of some kind and so it is useful to have spare change for hotel porters, taxi drivers and the like. It is common to leave 10 – 12% in restaurants.
- Insurance And Documents
Travel insurance is essential.
Details of our recommended policy can be found on our Travel Insurance page.
Car insurance:
Your trip is based on a compact category 2WD vehicle. Limited collision damage waiver and vehicle theft protection (CDW/TP) cover is included. There may be an excess payable but additional CDW/TP cover with zero excess can usually be purchased at additional cost. Please check the level of your coverage with us when making your booking.We strongly recommend you consider buying your own car hire excess waiver insurance policy before you travel: these are widely available from insurance companies in the UK. All incidents involving collision, robbery and theft must be reported to the police and a report obtained.
An international driving licence is recommended for Uruguay. Since 8 June 2015 no paper counterpart of UK driving licences is required but you need to apply to the DVLA for a code. This may be required by the rental company when you collect your car. Please check https://www.gov.uk/government/news/driving-licence-changes for further details.
You will need to return the car to the specified office at the end of the rental period. If you are leaving on a morning flight we advise you to do this the day before you depart.
- Airport Taxes
If you have purchased your flights through Journey Latin America, the international departure tax is usually included in the ticket.
- Trip Suitability
This holiday is suitable for all able reasonably fit visitors. If you are travelling alone or have a disability or other special requirement, please do call us.
There is minimum of around 900km of driving over the holiday, spread over 9 days, more if you make detours. There are several days at leisure dotted throughout so you won’t have long days of driving on consecutive days. Roads are paved, well signed, and traffic is generally light though coast roads can be busy in the summer. Driving standards are generally good.
- Climate
Buenos Aires is hottest January-March (very humid with tropical showers, occasionally over 40°C during the day). They can be cold and cloudy July-August, so weather conditions are best for a visit in spring and autumn.
Uruguay is an all-year destination, but best enjoyed in late spring, summer and early autumn (mid-November to mid-March). Temperatures range from 10-16°C in the southern hemisphere winter, while in the high summer they can leap into the 30s°. Wet and windy conditions outside high summer are not unheard of, so we suggest avoiding May to October if you want to go to the beach. Rainfall is moderate and varies little over the year, apart from July-August when there are prolonged wet periods.
- Clothing And Special Equipment
The southern hemisphere summer will be hot, therefore bring loose-fitting light clothing for maximum comfort at this time. An umbrella is a good idea in case of a tropical shower. Spring and autumn are milder and less predictable.
South America is in general a relaxed continent and you won’t need clothes for formal dining but you may wish to take some smart casual wear for dining at the estancias or at top of the range restaurants.
- Vaccinations
Preventative vaccinations are recommended against the following: typhoid; polio; tetanus; hepatitis A. You should consult your GP for specific requirements.
You can also find helpful information on the Masta Travel Health website.
- Visas
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate.
If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application.
- Do I need a visa to visit Argentina?
British passport holders don’t need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days. Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the start of your trip. If you’re routing through the US, you’ll need an ESTA in advance. Always check the latest entry requirements before you travel, as rules can change.
- How do I get to Argentina from the UK?
British Airways flies direct from London Heathrow to Buenos Aires in about 13.5 hours. There are also connecting routes via Madrid, São Paulo and other hubs, taking roughly 16 to 17 hours depending on the routing. We arrange all flights and transfers, and can quote them separately based on your dates.
- What’s the best way to travel around Argentina?
The country’s size makes domestic flights the most practical way to cover long distances, and most routes connect through Buenos Aires. Within regions, we arrange private transfers and guided excursions, while self-driving works well in the Lake District, Mendoza and parts of Patagonia, where the roads are good, and the scenery is spectacular.
- What currency does Argentina use?
The official currency is the Argentine peso. US dollars are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, and it’s worth carrying some. ATMs are available in cities and larger towns but can have low withdrawal limits, and credit cards are taken in hotels and restaurants in the main destinations. We’ll advise on the latest currency situation before you travel.
- How long should I spend in Argentina?
Two weeks works well for a first trip, pairing Buenos Aires with Iguazú and Patagonia, or with Mendoza and the lake district. To go further and add the northwest, Península Valdés or an estancia stay, allow three weeks or more. We’ll help you build an itinerary that makes the most of your time.
- What language is spoken in Argentina?
Spanish is the official language, spoken with a distinctive Argentine accent and plenty of Italian influence. English is widely spoken in hotels and tourist areas, less so beyond them, so a few basic Spanish phrases go a long way.
- Is Argentina safe for travellers?
Argentina is generally safe for visitors, especially in the main tourist areas. As in any large city, take sensible precautions in Buenos Aires: keep an eye on your surroundings, avoid flashy valuables, and use licensed taxis or ride apps. Our Travel Experts will advise on anything specific to the regions you’re visiting.
- What can I combine with Argentina?
Argentina pairs naturally with Chile, crossing the Andes from Mendoza, taking the lake crossing from Bariloche or linking a Patagonia trip across both countries. Brazil is a popular add-on to Iguazú Falls; Uruguay is a short ferry ride from Buenos Aires; and Peru pairs well with a broader South America itinerary. Our Travel Experts can design a multi-country trip around you.
- When is the best time to visit Uruguay?
Uruguay is an all-year destination, but probably best enjoyed in summer (Nov-Feb). The weather is mild all the year around. Temperatures range from 10-16oC in the southern hemisphere winter, while in the summer they hover in the mid-20s. Wet and windy conditions outside high summer are not unheard of, and can make it feel very chilly. Rainfall is moderate and varies little over the year, apart from Jul-Aug when there are prolonged wet periods.
- What is the official language of Uruguay?
The official language of Uruguay is Spanish.
- What is the official currency of Uruguay?
The official currency of Uruguay is the Uruguayan Peso. Cards are widely accepted. By using your credit card you may qualify for automatic partial VAT rebates to overseas tourists – check your statement. Some US Dollars cash will also come in handy. US Dollars cash is easier change into Pesos than Sterling/Euros and Dollars may also be accepted if you do not have any Pesos. There are ATMs in larger towns (subject to charges).
- What is the time difference between Uruguay and the UK?'
The time difference between the UK and Uruguay is GMT-3 hours. Usually daylight saving is observed in the summer (GMT -2 hours), from Sep/Oct to early Mar. The date is set by presidential decree.
- Do I need a visa for Uruguay?
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate. If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application.
- What vaccinations do I need for Uruguay?
Please check Travel Health Pro for information on health recommendations and vaccinations for the destinations you are visiting. Please note that many Latin American countries require proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever if you have recently travelled to another country where Yellow Fever is present.
- Which other countries combine well with Uruguay?
Argentina Combines well with Uruguay. Accessing Buenos Aires from Montevideo by air (50mins), road (8 hours) or ferry (3 hours), there’s a ferry from Colonia to Buenos Aires (45mins); Iguazú Falls, Brazil, 3 hours by air.
- How long is the flight between Uruguay and the UK?
The average flight time to Montevideo is 17.5 hours. There are no direct flights from the UK. Some routes involve a change in Brazil, Europe or the USA.
- What are the festivals, cultural and sporting events of Uruguay?
Carnival; 5 days in Feb/Mar, variable. Live bands, costume parades and general frivolity in towns and cities, especially Montevideo. In the Barrio Sur, where the black Afro-Uruguayan population lives, there are condomblé ceremonies (traditional religious rituals from Africa).
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
Things to do
We proudly offer the widest range of activities, excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences across all our destinations, tried and tested personally by our travel experts.
Explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site where cobbled streets reverberate with history.
Discover the eclectic mix of architecture in Montevideo’s Ciudad Vieja (old town).
If you’ve never tasted Tannat, Uruguay is the best place to start.
Travel through the rolling hills of Uruguay’s countryside.
Explore the magnificent dunes and glistening beaches of Cabo Polonio.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation. Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you will relax in utter comfort
Papagaio
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To round the corner of a mountain and see the lost citadel of Machu Picchu unfold beneath you remains one of the most awe-inspiring experiences in Latin America, one of those dreamlike experiences that makes travelling here truly extraordinary.
The Pantanal wetlands cover an area almost the size of the British Isles and offers better wildlife opportunities than the Amazon. Writer and photographer Alex Bellos discovers them.
Small, breathtakingly beautiful Costa Rica is a treasure trove for the nature lover. Trees laden with orchids are home to quetzals and hummingbirds, while the Caribbean shore hosts volcanic beaches and palm-sheltered coves.
