Only a short ferry ride from Buenos Aires across the River Plate, many people choose to visit Uruguay from Argentina. Even though Uruguay is minute in comparison to its neighbours, this tranquil country offers a variety of activities.
As the ferry arrives at Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay’s oldest city and a Unesco world heritage site, it is the perfect place to start your tailor-made itinerary. Explore the picturesque cobbled streets as they meander down towards the river. Expect to see perfectly preserved houses, boutique shops and vibrant bougainvillea.
From here you can drive to the capital, Montevideo. A quaint yet cosmopolitan city, with impressive plazas and the 19th-century Mercado del Puerto, where you can enjoy a spot of lunch. In Montevideo, you can also visit the beach, where the Rio de la Plate meets the Atlantic. Or take a trip to see the studio of a drum maker and percussionist, famous within the Afro-Uruguayan Candombe music community. Surrounding Montevideo are many wineries and cattle ranches which are also worth visiting.
Lastly, if you’re looking for some relaxation, end your trip in Jose Ignacio. Walk along the sandy beaches, take a kayak tour to a local lagoon or visit nearby villages for olive oil and wine tasting.