South America“Discover Uruguay: Top 10 Travel Destinations in South America’s Underrated Gem
Discover Uruguay: Top 10 Travel Destinations in South America’s Underrated Gem
Welcome to the gem of South America, Uruguay. This vibrant Latin nation has much to offer its visitors; from stunning beaches, rich culture, and picturesque colonial towns, Uruguay is an underrated visit to South America that cannot be overlooked. So get your bags ready, and join us on a virtual tour of the top 10 must-see places in Uruguay.
1. Colonia del Sacramento
A charming colonial town just an hour’s drive from the capital Montevideo, the UNESCO World Heritage listed Colonia del Sacramento offers picturesque cobbled streets and well-preserved Portuguese, Spanish and Brazilian colonial buildings. Stroll around the charming historic area, take in the captivating sites on the river, and even visit some of the indie stores and bars.
2. La Paloma
A beach town that is very popular with the locals, and increasingly with international tourists, La Paloma is one of Uruguay’s most charming areas. Located on the coast, you can explore the jagged coastline while taking in the breathtaking scenery and making the most of its tranquil beaches. Visit the town on the 27th of July, where its annual Duck Festival celebrates this impressive local tradition.
3. Montevideo
The nation’s capital, Montevideo, is jam-packed with culture, history and activities. A walk around its Rambla is a must, along with exploring the Markets of the Ciudad Vieja, enjoying a meal in the old town, and taking a selfie in front of the Plaza Independencia. The city also features amazing jazz bars, some great nature reserves, and the main civil Gothic church known as the Cathedral Metropolitana.
4. Cabo Polonio National Park
This nature reserve is home to some of the best sand dunes in Uruguay, and Cabo Polonio is a favoured get away for beach goers. Named after a nearby cape, the national park offers a range of spectacular landscapes. Take a stroll around the salt flats, take a dip in its natural pools, while taking in the captivating views of the ocean and the wildlife all around.
5. Punta del Este
The most well-known and the busiest tourist hotspot in Uruguay. Punta del Este is known for its vibrant nightlife, filled with beach bars, luxurious resorts, and five-star restaurants. During the day, bask in its fine sandy beaches, visit the impressive hand sculptures, and get lost in the streets of the Jose Ignacio.
6. Salto
Come and explore the north of Uruguay in the city of Salto. Take a boat ride along the Uruguay River, explore the stone bridges, walk around the Remanso de Salto Nature Reserve, and don’t miss visiting the Salto Grande power Dam.
7. Cerro Catedral
Eastern Uruguay is known for its rolling hills and grasslands, and in this top 10 list, we are taking you to Cerro Catedral. A mountain protected area that is popular with climbers and trampers, Cerro Catedral also offers some of the best and most unique views in Uruguay.
8. Ciudad de la Costa
A lively beach town filled with tourist activity, the city of Costa de La Costa is one of the main tourists destinations in Uruguay. There is much to explore here, from boat rides along the coastline, a diverse range of resorts, an amazing and long nightlife, to some of the best local cuisine in the country.
9. Fray Bentos Historic Industrial Site
This former industrial town turned UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see for any enthusiast of history and technical progress. Here, some of the best preserved industrial history from the late 19th century can be witnessed, along with a visit to the mesmerising Peace Square.
10. Piriapolis
Venturing south, we reach the resort town of Piriapolis. Found roughly halfway between Montevideo and Punta del Este, the town is renowned for its stunning beaches and cool waters, as well as seaside fun activities like parasailing, windsurfing and horseback riding.
These and many more hidden gems create an amazing experience and culture that awaits to be discovered by any of its visitors. So book your tickets today and begin to explore Uruguay, the underrated gem of South America.
