Our guides: Uruguay

Explore our guides · Uruguay

Uruguay is the smallest Spanish-speaking country in South America, but it has a lot to offer travelers seeking tranquility. Although it’s often just a quick stopover on the way between Argentina and Brazil, it’s well worth spending some time there. Montevideo is a capital city on a human scale, Colonia del Sacramento is a colonial gem designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Atlantic coast offers unspoiled beaches far from the crowds.

Traveling in Uruguay is easy and safe. The country is small, well-connected by bus, and boasts the highest quality of life on the continent. Just a few hours from Montevideo, you can reach Punta del Diablo, a fishing village that has become a surfer’s haven; Cabo Polonio, accessible only by 4x4 through the dunes and without access to the public power grid—a place unlike any other in the world; or Punta del Este, the “Saint-Tropez of Uruguay.”

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Is Montevideo worth a visit? Montevideo instantly charmed us with its laid-back vibe, which is pretty surprising when you realize that out of Uruguay's 3.5 million people, 1.3 million live right here in the capital. It was warm, but never stifling, thanks to the tree-lined streets and the ocean breeze close by. It’s the kind of city that just invites you to wander around at your own pace, with absolutely zero rush. | Our travel guide, specially crafted by De Sacs et d’Eau How to explore the historic town of Colonia del Sacramento? During our stay in Montevideo, we decided to take a little day trip to Colonia del Sacramento. It's a charming town with colonial architecture that’s earned it a spot as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Getting there was a breeze, as the town is very well connected by both ferry and bus. | Our travel guide, specially crafted by De Sacs et d’Eau

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The cost of living in Uruguay is higher than in Argentina or Brazil. It is the most expensive country in South America, along with Chile. Expect to spend between 35 and 55 euros per day for two people. Accommodations and dining are of high quality, and Uruguayan meat (the famous asados) is a culinary must-try. To keep costs down, there are numerous well-equipped campgrounds along the coast.

The best time to visit Uruguay is from November to March (southern hemisphere summer), especially if you want to enjoy the beaches. Spring (September–November) is also pleasant and less crowded. Winter (June–August) is mild but rainy.

Check out our articles and practical tips for incorporating Uruguay into your South American itinerary.

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We're Tristan and Mathilde. A French duo who set off for a year of backpacking across South America, with one conviction: the best memories are made along the way. De Sacs et d'Eau is our travel blog, with complete guides, itineraries tested on the ground, and interactive maps to help you plan your trip with everything you need, right in your pocket. To do that, we favour overland travel over flying, buy local, and choose accommodation and businesses run by local people. Travelling far, yes, but with our impact in mind.

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