Uruguay tours & vacations

Given its humid sub-tropical climate, Uruguay is suitable to visit virtually all year round, although warm coats are needed in the winter months (June-August) when the temperature drops to an average of 10 degrees C. From there, the crowds rise in accordance with the mercury. And by the peak of summer (January), the coastline teems with tourists and holidaymakers, meaning a little more planning can be needed to ensure prime accommodation. Don’t be discouraged by peak season though - there are plenty of remote surf breaks and relaxed coastal towns in which to wile away the summer, and there’s always the option to head inland for a taste of fresh air and the country life.

Much of Uruguayan culture is largely influenced by Spain and Italy, probably because most Uruguayans have at least some Spanish or Italian in their background (a whopping 88 per cent of the population is European).

Architecture (particularly in Montevideo), cuisine and the arts are all dripping in Spanish and Italian influences.

Elements of African culture have also woven their way into Uruguayan culture, most notably in the music. Candombe is a popular drum-based music derived from African rhythms, and tango, which has roots in Montevideo, is heavily influenced by African culture.

Uruguayans tend to be well educated and not particularly religious. They’re more likely to spend their Sundays feasting on grilled meats with family and friends at an asado than at church. And like the rest of South America, football (soccer) is an important part of life.

Uruguay’s cuisine reflects the country’s large European (predominantly Spanish and Italian) population. All types and cuts of meat are grilled and consumed in large quantities, either at an asado (Uruguayan barbecue) or a parrillada (a barbeque restaurant). Street vendors and pubs across the country also offer quick grilled meals, like choripan (sausages stuffed into a white roll topped with chimichurri) or chivito (steak sandwich).

Must-try foods in Uruguay

1. Asado

Imagine your average backyard barbecue, multiply it by ten, and then you’ll have an idea of what a Uruguayan asado is all about. A large assortment of meats are prepared on a special charcoal grill called a parrilla. Expect sausages, ribs, steak, blood sausage and so much more served with bread, salads and a variety of condiments over several hours.

2. Chivito

So much more than just a simple sandwich, chivito is a beloved, albeit artery-clogging, national dish. Slices of steak are stuffed in a fluffy white roll and topped with ham, cheese, tomato, a fried or hard-boiled egg and other delectable sauces and condiments.

3. Alfajores

This classic treat, popular across Latin America, can be found at every corner store, supermarket and bakery. The basic alfajore consists of a dollop of gooey dulce de leche sandwiched between two shortbread cookies. You can find a bunch of tasty variations.

Flanked in equal measure by Argentina, Brazil and the Atlantic, Uruguay is the second smallest nation in South America, with a staggering 50% of the population living in the capital. The temperature is mild, with summer highs in January tipping 30 degrees C, while the July winter temperature dips as low as 6 degrees C.

The landscape is predominantly rolling grasslands, small but fertile hills and an abundant coastline. Rainfall is modest and evenly spread through the year, however the absence of large wind-blocking mountains means Uruguay can be prone to high winds.

1. Punta del Este

As Uruguay's answer to the French Riviera's St Tropez, Punta del Este may be a little too glitzy or hectic for some - particularly in summer - but away from the hustle and bustle zone, there are miles of sublime beaches that stretch out either side of the city, plus several discount accommodation options tucked neatly away in other parts of town.

2. Punta del Diablo

Having drawn in droves of travelers for the past few years, Punta del Diablo can no longer claim to be a quieter option than its southern counterpart. But despite its growing popularity, this is easily one of the best beachside locales in Uruguay and well worth the trip north.

3. Cabo Polonio

Sitting on the east coast of Uruguay, this remote location can only be accessed on foot or by 4x4 across the sand dunes. With no electricity or running water, locals (to the tune of 75 people) use generators and collect rainwater, making it the perfect place for a little escapism.

4. La Pedrera

A popular haunt for backpackers and Uruguayans, La Pedrera is characteristic of the small, idyllic beach towns north of Punta del Este. Here, it's still possible to find a sparsely populated stretch of white sand and top-notch surf breaks.

5. Piriapolis

With the enviable backdrop of one of Uruguay’s few mountains, Sugar Loaf, Piriapolis boasts a stack of great beaches, plus a waterfront boardwalk and busy marina.

Shopping options are most extensive in the nation’s capital, where Western-style malls (Montevideo Shopping Centre and Punta Carretas Shopping) can be found alongside boutiques selling independent designers and markets brimming with souvenirs and local handicrafts.

Head to the Tristan Narvaja Street Market on Sundays to shop for clothes, artisan goods, antiques and food (perhaps pick up your own mate cup here). Or support local talent by browsing the three outputs of the Mercado de los Artesanos, where artists have a fixed place to sell their work.

Gnocchi Day

A delicious tradition that stems from Uruguayans remarkable ability to turn a hardship on its head – on the 29th day of each month, people eat gnocchi. Originally intended as a cheap meal at the end of the month when money was scarce and all that was left for food was flour and potatoes, today many restaurants make a big deal of this tradition with some serving only gnocchi on the 29th.

Tacuarembo Fiesta de la Patria Gaucha 

Uruguay’s most authentic celebration of gaucho culture takes place each March over five days, packed with concerts, dancing, barbeques and gaucho showmanship. Don’t miss the parade when thousands of horseback riders in full gaucho regalia trot through town.  

Natalicio de Artigas

The birthday of Jose Gervasio Artigas, the father of Uruguayan independence, is a big deal across the country. Expect parades, street festivals, music, dancing and other dazzling displays of patriotism each year on 19 June.

Semana Santa (Holy Week)/Semana Criolla

The week before Easter can be quiet for tourists, as most towns empty out as Uruguayans visit relatives or go on vacation. The exception is in Montevideo, however, where gaucho culture infiltrates the city’s parks through barbeques, rodeos and handicraft exhibits as part of Semana Criolla.