Uruguay

Eco-friendly travel guide to Uruguay advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to travel in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Uruguay, South America.

Vista de la ciudad de Montevideo, Uruguay

Air quality: 3.0 / 5

Bus connections: 2.5 / 5

Train connections: 3.0 / 5

Hitchhiking: 3.0 / 5

National parks: 3.5 / 5

Outdoor activities: 3.0 / 5

Locals' English level: 3.5 / 5

Safety: 3.0 / 5

Accommodation: US$30 - $150

Budget per day: US$45 - $200

Responsible Travel

Uruguay is the land of beautiful coasts and stunning architecture. Situated in the Southern half of the American continent, Uruguay boasts of a beautiful line of heritage and culture often overlooked by many worldwide. Yet this country deserves to be explored, being the smallest country in the continent of South America. This country has a little to offer for everyone – starting from their residents to visitors from various parts of the world.

Talk about observing the cowboys or the horses over the vast meadows, visiting hot springs for a little dip in the water, going for safari rides in sanctuaries and wildlife parks, or walking around the city looking at the towering architecture that is made for appreciation. However, for all the things Uruguay deserves, it also deserves responsible traveling. The climate in Uruguay is moderate all year round. Till the 19th century, Uruguay has seen a great deal of unrest due to politics and colonialism. Four countries were fighting over the piece of land. They were namely Spain, Portugal, Brazil, and Argentina.

However, Uruguay stands free in the present day and with its head held high in the sky. At present, this country ranks the highest in terms of peace, corruption-free governance, and democracy. Now, when it comes to travel, the responsibility of safe and chaos-free travel is on the visitors. There are quite a few ways to ensure that the journey is responsible. Let us take a look.

The best way to make sure that travel to Uruguay is safe for both the visitors as well as the residents of Uruguay is by making sure that the pollution levels due to tourism are at the lowest. To ensure the same, people have a number of options to avail themselves within the country of Uruguay. One of the best ways to ensure pollution-free travel is to use their own feet to walk around explore the city. This is an excellent option for backpackers in the country to soak in the ambiance and understand the culture. Walking around requires no fee and generates no harmful substances at all.

There are quite a few routes via which visitors can conduct self-guided tours very quickly. Apart from that, there are also hikes meant for realizing the real beauty of Uruguay.

Bike touring is another popular option in the country of Uruguay. Both male and female travelers can take to biking around the cities. They can also participate in Uruguay's bike tours, which take the cyclists through scenic locations in the city. Combine camping with this activity, and you have a fun way to travel around the city.

Visitors can also avail pool cars in the city. There are mobile apps that allow people to travel together in a car. Besides, you also have shared car services in the towns and cities.

The rail transport in Uruguay is also very efficient. There is a total of 2900kmsof railroad in the country that connects all the major cities of Rivera, Salto, Paysandu, and Rio Branco. All lines connect to the capital city of Uruguay which is Montevideo. There are tram services in the town as well. However, that is only applicable to certain parts of the country.

Air Quality and Pollution

In times like these, where the air quality is on a steady decrease, Uruguay boasts of clean air when compared to most of the big countries of the world. That does not mean that this country is immune to the worst of mankind’s activities. The main reasons for pollution in Uruguay's land are emissions from vehicles, factories, mining industries, petroleum industries, and via wastes from the forestry department, textile industry, pulp mills, and agricultural burning. The effluents released into the water cause harm to aquatic life. Uruguay residents are often subjected to cough and cold, shortness of breath, nausea, chest pain, headache, runny eyes and nose, respiratory problems such as infections and bronchitis. Escalation of these medical conditions can easily lead to more severe conditions such as allergies, cardiovascular diseases, and even cancer.

However, with the help of strict measures, there has been significant improvement in the health of this country's environment. The annual average air quality index is 19, which is good compared to all the major countries in the world. This makes it quite a feat for Uruguay. This is also another reason for people all over the globe visiting Uruguay to take care of its environment all the more and care for the surroundings instead of abusing it.

Visitors who are above the age of 60 and new-born babies must take extra care of their respiratory systems. They can carry an inhaler with them in case of serious problems. As tourists, one should avoid smoking, holding bonfires or littering around the cities, or conducting any activities which would lead to adverse environmental effects.

Respect the Culture

When it comes to Mexico and South America, people all over the world relate to the countries through cowboys or favelas. In the case of Uruguay, the cowboy culture, better known as the gaucho culture, is what the country stands for. Ever since Uruguay's country has been a colony of European countries, it has had cattle rearing as its main occupation. All the rituals, traditions, and cultural identity has grown around the cows that form their primary career.

Montevideo is the capital city of Uruguay, depicts the Gaucho lifestyle more accurately than ever. The air has romance in it that visitors can feel almost instantly as they set foot in the country. Additionally, the Tango is undeniably the most romantic and passionate dance form next to Salsa. The music that accompanies Tango with the help of classical guitars is the folk music native to the country that also signifies the country's rural roots better than anything else.

Last but not least, Uruguay is a name to be heard quite often in the world of football. The country has been the recipient of one World Cup and two gold medals in the Olympic Games. Walking around the city, visitors will find youngsters and middle-aged men spending their time playing a little game of football.

Top 10 Places to Visit

Uruguay is a small wonder located between the two large countries of Brazil and Argentina. At one point in time, this country was entirely inhabited by the locals known as the Charrua people. However, very few of the indigenous groups remain in this country as the settlement of people from other countries has increased. The exciting bit is that this country had much influence from the African culture as there had been a considerable number of Africans being brought as slaves in the country in the 19th century.

Uruguay is indeed a hidden gem that will only give its visitors pleasant surprises in the form of lovely locations and fun activities. Some people like to have their itinerary when they are visiting a place. For this, we have noted down the 10 best places they can see when they are in Uruguay. Take a look at the following list.

Montevideo: The first on the list is the scenic capital city of Uruguay, which is also home to nearly half the country's population. Montevideo is ideal for walking around as it a perfect mix of the old-world charm and the new metropolitan city vibes. There is not only the city life that requires attention from the visitors, but there is also history, culture, and great food. One thing that will undoubtedly catch every person’s attention who visits Uruguay for the first time in the city's scenic architecture. The architecture in the town is partially Gothic and partially Art-Deco. The wonder of the architecture in Montevideo is especially pronounced through the large towering churches and the old-school Gothic mansions belonging to the rich and wealthy. Walking down the streets, one won't help but notice the stone-set cobbled streets of the town. Adding to the mix of Neoclassical architecture and colonial influence on the city of Montevideo is the touch of modern Europe, as you will notice the color of the buildings to be nothing short of royal. This makes walking around the city nothing but feel good in a pleasant way. The most important part of the town is the Ciudad Vieja, the oldest section of the town. It holds historical importance and is also the neighborhood where one is sure to find innumerable landmarks that make the capital city gain its prominence.

La Paloma: This is a popular tourist destination for Uruguayans themselves, and thus, it serves as a strong recommendation from them to visitors from outside. La Paloma is an island situated on the Atlantic Coast. It has whitewashed houses with red roofs in a setting like that of a village. For every person taking a trip to La Paloma, this city assures travelers warm Sun, serene calm blue waters of the Atlantic, and a quaint town away from the cities' bustle. You can take a few days off to kick it back and lay down on the beach to soak yourself in the Sun. If you are looking for some fun, there is no reason to disappoint as the beaches are packed with water sports activities such as surfing, windsurfing, and sailing.

A little further down to Anaconda Beach, visitors can enjoy the sun setting over the ocean for the longest while at dusk. This place is one of Uruguay's best spots if a chill, laid-back vacation is all you have in mind.

This city's remoteness makes it the perfect pick for travelers to take a break from their hiking and traveling.

Salto: Coming back to Uruguay cities, Salto is the second largest in the town when it comes to the geographical area. This city in Uruguay falls on the route to Argentina, which is also why many travelers stop to explore this place before they leave for another town. The name might sound strange to visitors who understand English. However, ‘Salto’ is a word that is anything but related to salt. Instead, it is named after the waterfalls close to the city of Salto that means ‘big jump.’ This city has a lot to offer in terms of scenic beauty; If you are feeling lazy, you can take a walk down the riverside for a breath of fresh air. There are plazas full of shops that sell authentic Uruguayan goods. The streets are lined with trees that make it great to walk around the city instead of feeling sided by the traffic and crowd of the city life. The town's architecture will take you by surprise if you are looking for things to be mesmerized by. Furthermore, Salto is quite close to Dayman, a place that lets you unwind in the thermal springs' calm waters. This, in turn, is also quite close to the hydroelectric dam that serves as are a popular tourist destination.

Tacuarembo: Here is one city in Uruguay that captures the essence of expansive meadows, hills, and cattle amidst the gaucho culture. This place is situated north of the country where the food, culture, and way of living are significantly different compared to the rest of the country. Travelers who make it a point to visit Tacuarembo will get a chance to look at cowboys, cowgirls, and rustic plazas that they only find in the movies. In Tacuarembo will find significant attractions such as the cathedrals, waterfalls, museums, and 19th of April Plaza. The hills in the Tacuarembo are low in their height and thus offer great pastures for cattle to graze on. The gaucho land of Uruguay, which is also known as Tacuarmebo, is the birthplace of the Tango artist CraolGardel. Go horse riding through the landscape of this city for a full experience.

Colonia Del Sacramento: Uruguay has tons of small cities that look as pretty as a picture. One of the smallest towns in Uruguay is Colonia, also known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The streets of Colonia will make you feel like you may have come across them in postcards or wallpapers, and the chances are that you may have. The city center is more specifically the Heritage Site as it is one of the oldest on the entire continent. The city center is known as the Barrio Historico or commonly known only as of the Old Town Center. The Barrio Historico has a large number of historical buildings that date back to the 17th century. The cobbled streets lead people down to a square filled with lush green trees. The notable monuments and attractions in this place include the Basilica of Holy Sacrament. This place was built in the 19th century by the Portuguese who settled down in Colonia. Additionally, a wooden drawbridge is a convent that dates back to the 17th century and a museum under the Municipality. One will find interesting artifacts from the history of the city in this museum. Other popular attractions in this city are the lighthouse's remnants beside the river and the Real de San Carlos. Wander around the city on a pleasant afternoon through the lovely bougainvillea in the streets and soak in the warm aura of the city of Colonia Del Sacramento. IF you have the time, then make sure to take the ferry to Buenos Aires. This gives tourists the window to know a little bit about Argentina as well.

Piriapolis: Piriapolis is a slice of the Mediterranean in the middle of South America. Uruguay boasts of her very own continental life in the city of Piriapolis. This city takes city life by the beach to a barely achievable level by any other country. The coast is clean and never-ending. Besides, the waterfront is an excellent place to step out of the hotel room to bask in the Sun. Take note that if you are looking for resorts in the city, then chances are you will find one after much luck. This is so as Piriapolis has been the home for a large number of alternatives that offer a whole experience altogether. The nightlife in Piriapolis is also quite happening. Find bars, restaurants, casinos, and lovely lounges right next to the coastline that let you keep an eye out for the sea. If it is the beach that you want to head out for after a hectic night, depend on the beachside shacks to get you a hearty dinner. Note down Rambla and make it a point to visit this waterfront for a great experience at this place.

Hot Springs: We mentioned hot springs right at the beginning of this article, and rightly so. Uruguay's country is proud to have several locations that offer travelers a day to unwind and release toxins from the body. Take a deep soak in the warm bubbly waters of the Termas in Uruguay. Head over to a resort that hosts guests and gives them a one of a kind experience in the hot springs. Some noteworthy alternatives are around the two popular spots for hot baths – Dayman and Arapey. Dayman hot springs are next to the river, which goes by the same name. The Termas can easily accommodate both adults and children in them. The springs in this area have a maximum temperature of 46 degrees. Arapey is significantly bigger in terms of space, and the Termas consist of natural healing properties of the minerals in the water. Arapey is also the oldest thermal resort in the country which a mean temperature close to 39 degrees. A holiday at the Arapey will consist of lush green spaces, water bodies with cooler temperatures, holiday resorts, and calm, open areas.

Punta del Diablo: The best way to save energy, reduce travel costs, as well as care for the environment in Uruguay is to go walking about exploring places. If city life is not your tea cup, you can indeed explore the hiking trails in the country. One of the best destinations to explore hiking is Punta del Diablo's small village, which comprises only 1000 residents. This village lies on the coast of the Atlantic, where soft sandy beaches touch the shore. The magic to this place comes from the stringent regulations that forbid any high structure from being built into this place. Find small shops named cabanas selling local handicrafts and souvenirs for visitors to collect. The life of this city – bars, restaurants, and hotels overlook the rocky coast. Visitors can trek over the dunes of Punta Del Diablo and to the Santa Teresa National Park. An hour away from Punta del Diablo is the Punta del Este. Try adventure sports on beaches a little away from the Devil’s Point to incorporate fun into the vacation.

Cabo Polonia: Quite close to La Paloma is situated in the small city of CaboPolonia, one of Uruguay's hidden gems. The feature that is fascinating about this place is that it is home to the second-largest sea lions colony – a sight that you can barely expect to see in Uruguay. The even more exciting part of this package of CaboPolonia is that there are no roadways for traffic to the sea lion colony apart from a pathway made for four-seater vehicles. Travelers have to walk through a stretch of 7 km to spend the day with the creatures. Sip away at your cocktail while swinging in a hammock at the beach at Cabo Polonia.

Carmelo: Carmelo is a small town situated on the coastline of Uruguay. One of the most common crowd that Carmelo sees is from Uruguay itself. This is a relative discovery when it comes to travelers from the globe. Take a boat ride down the Parana Delta or choose to walk down the riverfront made out of cobbled stones in the 1900s. Carmelo offers lovely lanes to spend the early morning or late afternoon lazying around by the river.

Panorama of Montevideo

Explore

As it is evident from the must-visit places in Uruguay, it is safe to assume that this country has quite a lot to offer to its international tourists. This country has it all, starting from riverfronts, scenic coastlines, sprawling meadows to old cathedrals, museums, and national parks. The best part is that it is open to exploration only recently. Find out what suits your interest depending on your kind of travel.

City Parks

City parks are an essential part of any city as it allows ample space for children to play around and spend time with people from their age group. It is also a great place to go for a walk, practice yoga, or spend time lying down reading a book. Even though most city parks are situated in Montevideo as it is the only big city in the country, it is worth knowing some names in the city. Go through the list to visit some of the best parks in Uruguay.

JardinJapones: The name suggests quite clearly that this is a Japanese garden in the heart of Montevideo. Situated in the Prado neighborhood, this garden is a center of Uruguayan art that dates back to the 19th century. You will find a koi pond in the middle of the park, which is typical of Japan. This koi pond is in the style of San-Sui, which translates to mountain and water. This city park surrounds the Blanes Museum. Visit in the month of spring when the flowers are blooming. The oriental fashion of this city park is its main attraction.

Parque Rodo: Parque Rodo is famous for its low laying hilly terrain with paths that climb up and down. On both sides of the roads lie trees that add to the serenity of the park—the ParqueRodohas trees on both sides of its paths, along with fountains in the lakes. Find an art museum inside the park. Visitors can also eat at the cafes and restaurants within the park when they want to break from the sight-seeing. This park is located close to Ramirez Beach.

ParqueBattlle y Parque De Los Aliados: The western end of this city park holds importance to Uruguay's sports world as it is where the EstadioCentenario or the National Football stadium is located. The National Football Stadium hosted the first-ever FIFA World Cup. Additionally, the Velodromo stage is next to the city park that hosts multiple music festivals and concerts throughout the year. Look out for trees alongside the roads, sculptures, bird feeding grounds, and spaces to laze around in the ParqueBattlle y Parque De Los Aliados.

JardinJapones

National Parks

National parks are the real treasure of every country. They indicate the efforts put into the sustainable development and conservation of wildlife. National parks are wide open areas meant for the sustenance of wild animals. More often than not, these wild animals are endangered and save their population; national parks are built.

Uruguay has many national parks that work actively to conserve the environment and flora and fauna. Let us take a look at a few sites which visitors can explore when they are in Uruguay.

Santa Teresa National Park: Santa Teresa National Park is one which is situated next to the Punta del Diablo, which is in turn known for its lush green pastures. This national park has a diverse array of plants and wildlife. Spot an odd Malapi, Kestrel, or a peacock in this vast expanse of greens. Moving through the forests, you will find an old fortress that was built in the 1700s. This is known as the Fortress of Santa Teresa. Look around for exotic animals or take a long relaxing walk through the jungle.

* Arequita National Park: The Arequita National Park is one of the national parks in Uruguay, which should not be missed when visiting the country. This national park is close to 10 kilometers away from the city of Minas in Uruguay. This national park's main attraction factor is the large mass of volcanic remains that have turned into sheets of rock. Spotted with caves of volcanic stones and Ombu trees, the Arequita National Park is home to many endangered species in the South American continent.

Santa Teresa National Park

Beaches

Uruguay is the number one destination for beaches in South America. Almost every traveler who books a ticket in this country does explore the fine coastline of the Atlantic. We have already mentioned a few beaches in Uruguay which attract travelers within the country and internationally. Let us take a few more names if you are making a list of must-visit beaches in Uruguay.

Pocitos: Pocitos is situated on the banks of Rio de la Plata. This beach is known to be one that is upscale in every sense. Walking down this beach will make you feel like you are at a beach that is no less than a Californian one. Find a never-ending boulevard that is lined with beautiful restaurants, pretty cafes, and posh hotels. This beach hosts some of the top volleyball, racing, and soccer championships in this country. If you have the time, make it a point to visit the Naval Museum.

Punta del Este: This is a big name when it comes to Uruguayan beaches. If you are walking down this beach and spot a Hollywood star, do not be surprised as this place attracts big shots globally. Alternatively, another smaller beach in Punta is called the Playa Mansa and is famous for the picturesque sunsets. Try out water activities such as water surfing, paddling, and jet skiing on this beach. Take pictures in front of the Mano for your social media handles.

Playa en Punta del Este.jpg

Landmarks

Every country has a few landmark places that qualify to the must-visit attractions in that country. Similarly, Uruguay has a couple of spots that travelers cannot and do not ever miss. If you are in Uruguay, you will find dozens of visitors to these places.

Salvo Palace: The Salvo Palace is a historical building located at the intersection of Plaza Independencia and 18 de Julio Avenue. The Salvo Palace is a 100m high building with an antenna at the top, making it the tallest building in South America at a time. This was constructed by Mario Palacio, who designed the structure similar to his house in Buenos Aires.

Mercado del Puerto: Mercado del Puerto translates to the port market. Take a day off to sample the various types of meat preparations in this area. Walking down the streets of Montevideo to the port, travelers will find this market quite easily. The old-world charm of the buildings in this market adds to the rustic feel of the place.

Quebrada de Los Cuervos: Travelers looking to enjoy hiking in Uruguay should visit this place. The forest officials protect the area under Quebrada de Los Cuervos to restore the forest flora and fauna. While going down the hiking trails, trekking, or at the back of a horse, one will find multiple birds species. This place is dotted with cliffs and falls in areas making the trail all the more impressive.

Gateway of the Citadel: Gateway of the Citadel is located in the Puerta de la Ciudadela. This landmark used to be a part of the wall which went around the city of Montevideo. Brought down in the year 1829, this gateway is located close to the Plaza Independencia.

Salvo Palace

Museums

There is no way a country can do without a place to showcase its history and culture. Let us look at a few museums that explain the Uruguayan culture better than any blog on the internet.

National Museum of Visual Arts: This museum is a part of Montevideo and in the Parque Rodo. In terms of space and collection, this national museum is home to the most extensive Uruguayan artifacts collection. Amongst the artifacts, one will find original works of renowned artists from the country itself. The National Museum of Visual Arts is also the center where multiple shows are hosted and art exhibitions.

Ralli Museum: This museum has been designed so that it appeals to visitors for the sole purpose of being a museum. The space for exhibits displays works of marble, and bronze which are typically sculptures. There is a permanent collection of surrealist art, contemporary art, and many such art pieces. A park outside the museum makes for an excellent space for a walk.

Eat

Take a look at some of the food items that are individually a must-try in the country of Uruguay.

The food at the parrillas: Parrillas are the steakhouses in Uruguay which sell everything that ought to be on your plate of you love meat. Get hold of an Asado, which is a barbeque platter over an open fire. Eat your meat items with the help of generous servings of baguettes, salads, and vegetables.

Chimichurri Sauce at La Cabana Veronica: This sauce deserves a special mention separately as it is one whose flavor differs from one food stop to another in Uruguay. This tangy, zesty sauce goes well with almost every food item on the list. The La Cabana Veronica brings in their unique flavor to the sauce, making cravings an all-time thing when you are in Uruguay.

Chivito: This is the most popular fast food in Uruguay, as it makes easy food and delicious food a dream come true. The Chivito is a sandwich that packs meat patties, eggs, pickles, tomatoes, sauces, and Mozarella between two burger buns.

Churros: This dessert hits the sweet spot with their fried goods as well. Churros that are dipped in the thick sauce named dulce de leche is one that almost every visitor should try in the country itself. Even though this dessert is one people would find in their country, the Uruguayans make this dessert their own with the unique taste they bring in to the recipe.

Drink

Nightlife in Uruguay is quite pronounced. Find shacks and bars on every coastline, especially on the beaches, which attract many tourists. The legal age for drinking in Uruguay is 18+. Try some of these drinks to freshen up during your stay in Uruguay.

Clerico: This is a popular mocktail that makes the use of fruit juice along with wine. The wine has to be of acceptable quality to enjoy this drink wholly.

Mate: Brewed yerba mate with sugar results in a strictly restricted tea to the country of Uruguay. This tea is taken hot to help with health issues and uplift mood.

Grappamiel: Combine honey with alcohol, and that is what makes Grappamiel. This sweet concoction is perfect for a Sunday brunch with your traveler friends in Uruguay.

Tap-water

Tap water is available in Uruguay for drinking purposes. If the safety factor is considered when it comes to tap water, Uruguay owns a pretty good public health system that makes water from the taps safe to consume directly.

However, it is good to boil water or filter it before consumption, especially when you are not a local.

Activities

Apart from walking down the beaches or bathing in the Atlantic, there are tons of activities one can enjoy being in Uruguay. Of course, there are water sports activities to spend a dime on for all the right reasons. You can try skiing, paragliding, surfing, and jet skiing as well. There are hike trails along the coastline as well as away from.

Try horse-riding down the trek trails or go mountain-biking if you want an adrenaline rush. To unwind at the end of the journey, you have the hot springs that get rid of the toxins in your body and help you laze around at places away from the busy cities. You can visit Uruguay during the carnival time and watch how the cities revel.

Accommodation

Accommodation is comfortable to find in Uruguay. It is easy to find a hotel or a resort. Some of the big names in the accommodation list are Punta del Esta Resort y Casino, Casapueblo Hotel, and Hotel Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco and Spa. All these accommodations allow parking spaces, swimming pools, free WI-Fi, spa, and massage services. You can also get them to arrange a tour of the city for you.

Alternatively, look for a backpackers hostel or shared flats that allow visitors from various parts of the world. This gives travelers to make new friends from all over the world.

Green Hotels

Green hotels are very much in fashion nowadays due to the significant advantages they impose on the environment. Moreover, there is very little to no wastage of crucial resources required to sustain and maintain their services. As such, tourists are always recommended to stay in green hotels whenever they are traveling. It is considered to be a great initiative to look out for the place we are visiting while enjoying quality services at the same time.

Suppose responsible travel is one of the topmost priority when you are visiting Uruguay. Try staying at the MAPA’s eco-hotel in Uruguay. It will surely be challenging to differentiate the hotel from their garden. You could also look up a place that goes by the name Las Cumbres. There are quite a few green hotels that carry out elaborate procedures to move to sustainable accommodation.

They are:

Hotel L’Auberge
Small Hotel Montevideo
Pasada Boutique Las Terrazas
Barradas Parque Hotel and Spa

Hostels and Guest Houses

Hotels and guest houses are no big deal to find in Uruguay. Places that are away from the city have homestays and shared flats for convenience. However, they are also available in the towns at pretty low-cost prices.

Descanso al Paso Chuy
Viajero Hostel Colonia
Negrita Hostel
F&F Hostel
Montevideo Port Hostel
Charruas hostel
HOSTEL IBIRAPITA LA PALOMA URUGUAY
Casa Celestino
Viajero Hostel La Pedrera
Hostel Mar de Fondo

Apartments

Share an apartment with a resident in Uruguay. The only way to find out about such set-ups is to get hold of a broker who calls you deals on apartments during your stay.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is an excellent idea if you are a backpacker hitchhiking through the city. Try to make contacts to spend less at hotels and end up as a temporary tenant at a flat in Uruguay.

Camping

Uruguay without camps beside trails is a different level of incomplete. Try to find a space in either of the camping grounds – Santa Lucia, Punta Ballena, and San Rafael.

Regions

Map of Uruguay with regions colour-coded

Atlantic Coast (Cabo Polonio, Chuy, La Paloma, Punta del Diablo, Piriapolis, Punta del Este)
great beach resorts fronting the Atlantic and a land crossing to Brazil.

Rio de la Plata (Montevideo, Colonia)
the capital city, old colonial magnificence and a ferry crossing to Argentina

Northern Interior (Paysandu, Salto, Tacuarembo)
Land crossings to Argentina.

Central Interior] (Durazno)
Huge dams on the Rio Negro and land crossings to Brazil

Cities

Montevideo - The capital city
Chuy - Right on the border with Brazil
Colonia (Colonia del Sacramento) - a well preserved old colonial town and UNESCO World Heritage Site
Durazno
La Paloma
Paysandu
Piriapolis
Punta del Este
Salto

Getting There and Moving Around

The best way to chalk out any plan is to write down separate lists and read reviews of each place before you sit down to make an itinerary. There are various transportation methods, including a rail network, buses, smaller shared vehicles, and cab rides. Once the traveler knows what to do with their time in Uruguay, the preparations will fall into place.

Air

Uruguay has a large number of airports. You are sure to be connected by flight from one major city to another. The airports' flights leave on time and arrive well in time, causing no air traffic in this zone.

Carrasco Airport Montevideo

Bus

Bus rides are indeed quite comfortable in Uruguay. You can take one from any bus stop and travel to your destination at low ticket prices.

Bus in Chuy

Train

The extensive network of trains let travelers travel using the train services. Use the train o travel from one city to another. Tramways also fall under trains, and thus, this offers a reason to be traveling within the town at the bare minimum.

Train in Montevideo

Hitchhiking

This option of travel has been on the rise as the years pass by. Hitchhiking is the practice of asking for rides to travel from one place to another. Many backpackers who enter Uruguay make sure to hitchhike their way through the country to save money and harmful toxins into the atmosphere.

Others

Uruguay is a land of surprises. Every time you think you have seen it all in this country, more often than not, one is mistaken; There are quite a few features which are still hidden to the locals. Traveling to Uruguay is about visiting a country in Latin America and understanding their culture and roots. Thus, take part in activities which pique your interest any day.

Sustainable Shopping

These are the times when people are being asked to shop for only what they need. This procedure of sustainable shopping has already started affecting the market in some ways. However, it makes for a bright future, and that is all that we want while traveling.

Recycling

If an object can be recycled to turn it into something else, this is a great option instead of throwing it out. Turn products bought in Uruguay into wonders that help the environment of this country to be least affected.

Waste

Responsible travel comes with the burden of carrying one’s waste. Instead of littering, choose to drop your waste at a specific point for disposal.

Work and Study Abroad

There are a large number of job openings in the Uruguay market. As far as universities, there are plenty too. All one has to do is look out for the right time and right information to guide them.

Exchange Student

Even though the academics part of Uruguay is not as developed on a global scale. Still, people can always study at a university in Uruguay through their college procedures via the Exchange Student Programme.

Au Pair

Just like nannies, there are a large number of Uruguayans who would volunteer to work as an Au Pair with a family as long as it pays well. There are trained men and women in the city who take care of all the responsibilities while the guest is exploring places.

Volunteering

Volunteer with any of the country's working NGOs to help the infrastructure and economic class divide within the country.