Uruguay's Highlights

8 Day Highlights of Uruguay

Filled with beauty and liveliness, Uruguay is probably the most underestimated country in South America. Often overshadowed by its neighbours, Brazil and Argentina, this verdant and sea fronting country, has more to offer than you might think, especially if you are an admirer of the delicate art of making wine.
From the summery Atlantic beaches to the UNESCO awarded city of Colonia del Sacramento, or the two-month Carnaval celebration filled with candombe sounds - a type of music and dance originated from the African slaves in the 19th century - everything in Uruguay goes hand in hand with feelings of freedom and joy.
On this eight-day trip, you will see some of the most prestigious spots in Uruguay while having enough time to savour each one of them carefully. Your Uruguayan adventure starts at Colonia de Sacramento on a city tour. The Old District is sure to be the highlight of this tour as not much else can beat the incredible beauty of the old city. You will also be spending some days in the reinvigorating Estancia Finca Piedra where you will eat well, look well, and feel well, as you surround yourself with nature. Montevideo will be another treasure; it is a city where historic heritage meets a modern and entrepreneurial spirit. Punta del Este will be the perfect end to your trip, as nothing gives a holiday a more pleasant finish than the warmth of the sun and the fresh breeze of the sea.

Highlights

• Discover Portuguese architecture in Colonia

• Visit wineries in Carmelo

• Go horse-riding or hiking from Estancia Finca Piedra

• Explore cultural Montevideo

• Relax on the beaches at Punta del Este

Truly Individual

We can make any element of this holiday truly individual to your requirements, including the places you want to see and the things that are important to you. Just contact one of our Travel Specialists today.

Day 1: Colonia del Sacramento

You will spend your first day in the beautiful city of Colonia where a private transfer will welcome you at the port. After checking-in at your hotel, you will have a guided walking tour. The walk will take you through the old district where you will learn why Colonia de Sacramento was recognised as a World Heritage Site back in 1995. The Old District was founded in 1680 by the Portuguese on the Rio de Plata and is a beautiful and peaceful area. It is still very well preserved today, allowing visitors to witness the fusion of Portuguese, Spanish and post-colonial architectural styles. Your tour will start at the old city gates towards the famous “Street of Sighs” (or Calle de los Suspiros) which is a narrow pedestrianised road and paved with wedge stones that date back to 1720. You will stop at the Main Square, followed by the ruins of the San Francisco Church which is the oldest ruin in Uruguay dating back to the 17th century. You will then visit the Lighthouse, the Governor’s House and finally the Sacramento Basilica. Every corner of this city is extra special. Once the tour is over you are free to continue on your own and keep exploring. 

It is also possible to do this itinerary on a self-drive basis, excluding excursions, so you can explore at your own pace. Driving is easy in Uruguay, with well-paved and generally empty roads, you’ll be able to stop and take in the sights in your own time. Speak to your Travel Specialist for more details.  

Meals: None 

Accommodation – Posada Plaza Mayor 

Day 2: Carmelo Wineries

Today you will head to western Uruguay, to the sleepy little town of Carmelo. This is the region’s centre of wine production. Here you’ll get to see some of Uruguay beautiful countryside and visit three different wineries to learn about the production and how the wines here differ greatly from those on offer in Argentina. You’ll also get to try a few too! Lunch is included in Carmelo. You’ll then journey back to Colonia for the night. 

Meals: B. L 

Accommodation – Posada Plaza Mayor 

Day 3: Estancia

After breakfast you’ll be collected from your hotel and drive to Estancia Finca Piedra, a short drive of around an hour and half, through the Uruguayan countryside. Estancia Finca Piedra is an authentic ecotourism ranch and is perfect for anyone looking to unwind while experiencing the Uruguayan country life. While here you can choose from a wide range of excursions (some included, others will have an extra cost) including horse-riding with a 'gaucho', cart rides, bird watching, trekking, vineyard tours, wine tasting, cookery classes and much more. When you are out, keep an eye out for the beautiful wildlife as you could spot foxes, rabbits, lizards, anteaters, or beautiful birds. Here you will learn everything about the agriculture of this 1000-hectare ranch, as well as the history, culture and lifestyle of Uruguay.  

Meals: B 

Accommodation - Estancia Finca Piedra 

Day 4: Montevideo 

Today you will have a private transfer to the city of Montevideo. Upon arrival, check-in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. You could spend some time relaxing at the hotel or start exploring on your own. You could wander around Montevideo's Plaza de la Independencia, once home to a Spanish citadel. The plaza has easy access to Ciudad Vieja ('The Old Town') which features fantastic art deco buildings, colonial homes and other landmarks including the towering Palacio Salvo and the neoclassical performance hall 'Solís Theatre'. To get the most out of your visit bring your camera and your best walking shoes! 

Meals: B 

Accommodation – Hilton Garden Inn 

Day 5: Montevideo 

Today you have a guided tour of Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital and a major city along the Rio de la Plata. Life in the city revolves around the Plaza de la Independencia and is known for its rich culture as well as vibrant and eclectic atmosphere. You can expect to see Montevideo's monuments, gardens and parks, impressive landmark buildings (such as the Parliament Building), the pretty residential district of Carrasco with its early 20th century architecture and scenic coastal roads. 

Meals: B 

Accommodation – Hilton Garden Inn 

Day 6: Punta del Este 

Today you will take a bus journey to Punta del Este. A fantastic seaside resort town, Punta del Este is Uruguay’s answer to Miami, with lovely, white-sand beaches, high-end hotels and glitzy bars. Your time here is free to explore or relax. 

For a quieter more bohemian beach vibe, speak to your Travel Specialist about staying in José Ignacio, just a short distance up the coast. 

Meals: B 

Accommodation – AWA Boutique Hotel 

Day 7: Punta del Este 

Also known as the ‘St. Tropez of South America’, Punta del Este is famous for being a favourite destination for the regional and international jet-set. Today you will head out on a private guided tour of the city. You’ll see the fantastic beach areas of Playa Mansa and Playa Brava, beautiful mansions in the residential districts, as well as to Punta Ballena which is a must-see for its panoramic views of the city and coast. You will also stop at Casapueblo, a Moroccan-style atelier once home to the renowned Uruguayan artist, Carlos Páez Vilaró, before heading back to your hotel. 

Meals: B 

Accommodation – AWA Boutique Hotel 

Day 8: Transfer to the airport for your onward flight 

A private transfer will take you to the Montevideo Airport where you will catch your flight back home, alternatively, return to Colonia for the ferry to Buenos Aires. 

Meals: B 

Price from £2299 per person 

(2023 departures, based on 2 people sharing a room) 

Add International Flights 

International flights to Buenos Aires from the UK start from £899 per person. Alternatively speak to your Tavel Specialist about flights to Montevideo. 

On a self-drive basis, including car hire, excluding excursions, prices start from £1999 per person.  

Send an enquiry and your Travel Specialist can find you the best available options from your local airport 

Includes: 

• 7 nights’ accommodation as detailed 

• 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch 

• Walking tour in Colonia 

• Wineries tour in Carmelo 

• Excursions as per package at Finca Piedra 

• City tour of Montevideo and Punta del Este 

• Transfers and domestic flights as per itinerary 

Excludes: 

• Entrance to Casapueblo on day 7, approximately $8 per person 

• Additional excursions at Finca Piedra 

• International flights if not added 

• Meals not indicated in your itinerary 

• Local departure taxes payable locally 

• Items of a personal nature such as laundry and drinks etc 

• Tips for guides and drivers (discretionary) 

• Camera or video fees at any sites