Natural Uruguay

Day 1 : Colonia del Sacramento

Upon arrival at the port in Colonia del Sacramento, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel in the heart of the city’s Old Town. Afterwards, discover the charm of Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage site on a walking tour.

Founded by the Portuguese and long contested by both Spain and Portugal, the city’s rich and fascinating history has been meticulously preserved. As you stroll through its cobblestone streets, your guide will lead you to notable landmarks such as the old city gate (Porton de Campo), the historic Calle de los Suspiros (Street of Sighs), picturesque squares, and the iconic Iglesia Matriz.

Conclude your tour with a traditional Uruguayan mate tasting, where you will learn the cultural significance and secrets of this beloved national drink.

Day 2 : Colonia del Sacramento

Today begins with a transfer to Bodega El Quinton, where you will explore the beautiful vineyards and olive plantations, followed by a delightful tasting of their exquisite wines and olive oils.

Next, continue to La Vigna Cheese Farm, where you will learn about the art of local cheese production. Guided by the “Cheese Architect,” you will sample some of the finest cheese varieties in the region. Agustin and Lucila, the passionate owners of La Vigna, have cultivated a truly unique farm focused on sustainability and organic practices, offering you the chance to enjoy some of the most delicious and innovative cheeses in the area.

Day 3 : Colonia del Sacramento > Montevideo

Transfer from Colonia to Montevideo. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at the bustling Port Market, a lively food hall brimming with a variety of restaurants and traditional “asado” (barbecue).

After lunch, meet your guide for an insightful walking tour of Montevideo’s historic Old City. Delve into the rich history of the capital as you explore landmarks like Independence Square, the iconic Palacio Salvo, the President’s office, and the mausoleum of national hero José Gervasio Artigas.

Stroll down Sarandi Pedestrian Street and visit Matriz Square, home to Montevideo’s Cathedral and the town’s Cabildo. You will also have the chance to visit two museums of your choice, such as the MAPI – Museum of Pre-Columbian and Indigenous Art, the Torres Garcia Museum, or the Gurvich Museum (closed on Sundays).

Day 4 : Montevideo

Enjoy a tour of modern Montevideo, exploring its vibrant neighbourhoods that emerged after the Old City Walls were demolished in 1829. Begin at Plaza Independencia, surrounded by impressive architecture that reflects the city’s forward-looking spirit.

Stroll along the grand 18 de Julio Avenue, visit Plaza Fabini with its striking “Plaza del Entrevero” sculpture, and admire the multi-coloured marble Palacio Legislativo. Continue through Montevideo’s “Ciudad Abierta,” with its green parks, monuments, and upscale residential areas, including Carrasco and Punta Gorda.

You will also visit the studio of Lobo Nunez, a renowned Afro-Uruguayan drum maker and percussionist, for an exclusive insight into the history of Candombe music and Uruguay’s Carnival traditions, dating back to 1760.

Day 5 : Montevideo > Treinta y Tres Province > Valentines

After a leisurely breakfast, transfer to the picturesque countryside, where an authentic experience awaits. You will stay at a traditional estancia nearby the town of Valentines with a local family, fully immersing yourself in their daily routines and experiencing the true gaucho lifestyle.

Upon arrival, enjoy a warm welcome lunch or dinner. During your stay, you will have the chance to engage in a variety of activities and tasks, providing a genuine taste of country life.

Day 6 : Valentines

Enjoy another day at your estancia. Depending on your preferences, today offers the opportunity to participate in cooking demonstrations, explore the local town, savour traditional “asados” (barbecues), and enjoy a range of activities including horseback riding, hiking, farm tasks, biking, kayaking, fishing, and more.

Day 7 : Valentines > Treinta y Tres Province > Quebrada de los Cuervos National Park > La Pedrera

In the morning, drive to Quebrada de los Cuervos National Park for a trekking adventure. Meet your local guide at the park entrance and begin a 3 hour mini-trek down the gorge to where the Olimar and Yerbal Rivers converge. Savour a picnic lunch specially prepared by your guide amid the stunning natural scenery.

Afterwards, you will continue to La Pedrera, a coastal town in the province of Rocha.

Day 8 : La Pedrera > Cabo Polonio Dunes > La Pedrera

Partake in a full-day tour of the Cabo Polonio Dunes. Your adventure begins in the quaint town of Valizas, where you will cross the stream on a local angler’s boat. From there, enjoy a 4 hour trek across the stunning dunes to Cabo Polonio.

Enjoy breathtaking ocean views from Buena Vista Hill before reaching the charming fishing village. Relish a seaside lunch with ocean vistas at a local restaurant, then climb the lighthouse to observe one of South America’s largest sea lion colonies. Afterwards, depart the village and return to your hotel in La Pedrera.

Day 9 : La Pedrera > Santa Teresa National Park > La Pedrera

Meet your local guide for an immersive full-day hiking tour from La Coronilla to Santa Teresa National Park. Begin in the charming town of La Coronilla, where you will visit the visitors’ centre of the local NGO Karumbe (named after the Guarani word for “turtle”). A specialist will share insights into their conservation efforts and lead you on a hike through the Green Hill Protected Area, where you might spot green turtles and dolphins from November to March.

Upon reaching Santa Teresa National Park, enjoy a delightful picnic lunch and explore the historic Portuguese fortress, immersing yourself in the rich local history.

Day 10 : La Pedrera > Garzon > Jose Ignacio

Transfer to the charming town of Garzon, often referred to as the “Uruguayan Tuscany”, where you will explore the main square, chapel, and historic train station. Next, visit the Garzon Winery, perched atop a rocky outcrop with breathtaking views of the hillside vineyards.

Enjoy a tour of the winery, followed by a tasting and a delicious lunch. The mineral-rich, well-draining soils of the region contribute to the high-quality grapes and exceptional wines. After your visit, transfer to your hotel in Jose Ignacio.

Day 11 : Jose Ignacio > Punta del Este > Jose Ignacio

Enjoy a half-day tour of Punta del Este, one of South America’s most glamorous resorts. Explore the city’s highlights, including its pristine beaches, elegant seaside homes, high-rise apartments, luxury hotels, and vibrant restaurants. Discover key attractions such as Main Avenue, Juan Gorlero, the artisans’ market, the yacht port, Nuestra Senora de la Candelaria Church, and the iconic lighthouse.

Stroll through residential neighbourhoods like Golf, San Rafael, Beverly Hills, Rincon del Indio, and Cantegril. Cross the undulating bridge to La Barra, known for its surfer-friendly beaches, colourful houses, and relaxed ambience. Your tour will also take you to Punta Ballena to visit Casapueblo, the unique creation of renowned Uruguayan artist Carlos Paez Vilaro, where you can enjoy stunning ocean views.

Day 12 : Jose Ignacio

After breakfast, transfer to Estancia Anastasio for an invigorating bike ride along scenic rural trails, passing private estancias on your way to the Anastasio stream. From there, depart on a kayaking adventure to the lagoon, a wintertime bird paradise with flamingos, swans, herons, and storks. Savour a traditional picnic lunch amidst this natural beauty before biking or transferring back to Jose Ignacio.

Day 13 : Jose Ignacio > Montevideo

Today transfer back to Montevideo, to either the airport or port where your arrangements conclude.