Uruguay Travel Guide

Uruguay is the second-smallest country in South America sandwiched between Uruguay and Brazil in the heart of South America. It is basically a European country, since the majority of its citizens are descended from Spanish and Italian immigrants. Though it doesn't have all the dramatic scenery its neighbors have, Uruguay does boast 200 miles (320 km) worth of beaches on the Atlantic. And it is these beaches which Uruguay has tactfully fashioned into attractive destinations for tourists. The landscape features mostly rolling plains and low hills (cuchilla) with fertile coastal lowland. most of it grassland, ideal for cattle and sheep grazing.

The climate in Uruguay is moderate, but fairly warm as freezing temperatures are almost unknown. The predominantly flat landscape is also somewhat vulnerable to rapid changes from weather fronts, as well as to the pampero, a chilly and occasionally violent wind blowing north from the pampas plains in Uruguay.

The most popular Uruguayan destination is Punta del este, with the Atlantic on one side and the River Plate on the other. It is an expensive jet set center for nightlife, casinos, and discos. Estancias, rural estates that are working ranches, are located throughout the country if you want a gaucho experience. Beef lovers will delight in grilled asado eaten in restaurants known as parrilladas or asados. Italian restaurants are everywhere. Try to rent a car to get to see the sights. Public transport in Uruguay is awful, unlike other countries, which have an extensive public transit system. Be prepared to pay much more than you would in Mexico, Central America, Venezuela, Peru, and Ecuador.

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