Lifestyle and entertainment
Just a few kilometers away, Uruguay has many attractive landscapes to offer where you can enjoy a nice horseback ride, go hang gliding, enjoy guided vehicle tours on all sorts of terrain, go mountain biking and try a zip line amongst many other things.

 

Visiting wineries with small children
Involving children in productive activities is always rewarding and Uruguayan wineries offer charming environments to experience family days that will stay fresh in their memory for ever. Many offer special activities to entertain all members of the family, from grandparents to little children. Below are some proposals.

 

Religious Tourism
While Uruguay is a State not profess any particular creed, the country has a varied agenda of religious festivals, celebrations and pilgrimages. spiritual, mystical or devotional centers, can be visited in each of the 19 departments. Beyond their beliefs, tourists can appreciate the historical, heritage and architectural richness of the temples, works of art in paintings, and stained glass images that create spaces for contemplation. In addition, Uruguay has energy points that bring visitors attracted by the mystical experiences and the wonderful landscapes of these places.

Places like Calera de las Húerfanas a Jesuit heritage recovered Colonia, the Gruta del Padre Pio on the edge of Paysandu and Salto, the Fenocchi Chapel in Cardal (Florida) with its mystique and autumn colors, are particularly tourist value during the Week Tourism.

During the Good Friday activities like traditional Via Crucis of Cerro de Montevideo succeed, in 14 seasons walk the path of the cross to the summit, the picturesque procession of Christ articulated through the streets of Villa Santo Domingo Soriano (Soriano), the celebration of the Lord’s death in Valizas (Rocha), the Via Crucis in Aguas Dulces (Rocha) and La Floresta (Canelones). Special activities as a tour is also developed with works by Buxtehude, Bach and Handel at the Central Methodist Church in the capital.

Tourism Friendly
Over the last few years, Uruguay has been considered a friendly destination for tourists where specialized quality service is readily accessible in addition to advanced legislation prioritizing respect for diversity. Charming cities, fun nights out, fascinating architecture, art and culture of all shapes sizes and colors, sophisticated hotels and restaurants, beaches and nature are all ready to be explored in a country where everything is conveniently close by. To top off the Uruguayan experience it’s essential that every tourist taste the traditional wine and food match of Tannat wine and our world renowned beef.

We welcome the LGBT community and here in the capital of Montevideo, there is a group of private businesses called Mesa Friendly which is in constant contact with different sectors of the tourism industry. The organization aims to provide all tourists with personalized information so that they can have a great experience. Uruguay has always been a pioneer in civil rights in the continent and since the 20th century, many advances have made towards progress such as workers’ and civil rights, including anti discrimination laws self appointed gender registrations, child adoption for civil unions and same sex marriages.

Spa Tourism
In the northwestern part of Uruguay, 400 km from Montevideo, in the departments of Salto and Paysandú, there is a wide area of thermal options which are a true gift of nature. The water from the hot springs comes from the Guaraní Aquifer System, which is the largest in South America, and constitutes one of the most important underground water resources on the planet due to its size and the quality and temperature of the water.

In Uruguay, this great water park has temperatures that range between 38°C and 46°C. In the region, tourists find multiple ways to take advantage of this resource: pools of all sizes, shapes and water temperatures, relaxing showers, invigorating jet pools and bubble baths are a temptation to rest, enjoy and leave stress behind. These hot springs, in close contact and communication with nature, are surrounded by soft and undulating natural meadows furrowed by the water of rivers and creeks. The landscape is wonderful and to reach some of the Thermal Centers visitors have to deviate from the route along idyllic spots. For those who seek an even closer approach to nature, and the traditions of the rural setting, there are tourist farms and inns where visitors can participate in daily farm activities, such as milking, rodeos and shearing. There are six thermal centers: Arapey, Daymán, Guaviyú, Salto Grande, San Nicanor and Almirón.

Beach tourism
The Uruguayan coast is as vast as it is diverse. Nature, family friendly environments, sightseeing, and adrenaline all come together to offer amazing and unique experiences. There are small beaches surrounded by nature, or wild coasts ideal for water sports: beach lovers of all kinds always find what they were looking for, and more.

Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital, is a business, event, and cultural center, and has great beaches right here in town. Piriápolis is another beach paradise to discover, with a European-style ocean-side avenue. Punta del Este is a fitting alternative for high end beach goers, with a variety of services, the latest trends in design, fashion, and cuisine. Cabo Polonio is a gem by the Atlantic Ocean for a small beach-town vibe.

Other beaches such as La Paloma and Punta del Diablo are a must-go for surfers. After the sun goes down everyone comes out to have a good time. Go out to eat, catch a movie or a concert, or just stay in and contemplate the sky as it changes color and the stars come out.

Dive into the first crystalline lagoon in Uruguay
Diving into a crystal clear saltwater lagoon and enjoying various water attractions for the family are some of the new proposals that Punta del Este has to offer to visitors this summer 2017. Located in the Solanas complex, at kilometer 118.500 of the Interbalnearia Route, more precisely, in the beach resort of Portezuelo, the first crystal lagoon in Uruguay opened in early January this year. The innovative initiative called Solanas Cristal Beach, emerged within the framework of the 40th Anniversary of Solanas Holiday Club and required an investment of 14 million dollars. This aquatic paradise offers the ideal conditions for recreation, swimming and water sports and it is the perfect place for relaxation surrounded by nature. It has an area of 5 hectares, includes 3 white sand beaches with loungers and services, two bars, a pedestrian path, and a children’s pool with a pirate ship and slides. The place offers several activities to kids and adults such as hydro gym classes, rhythm gym, yoga, pilates, water sports school and games, children’s shows, musical shows, a live DJ, water games, stand paddel, family and individual pedal boats, Catamaran trips, kayaks, and the big ball, among other proposals. Solanas Crystal Beach stands out for being sustainable and friendly with the environment, as it allows the rational use of scarce resources such as energy and water. For example, its innovative technology uses 100 times fewer products than conventional swimming pools and consumes only 2% of the energy required by traditional filter systems.

To contemplate unique examples of art deco style, to decipher candombe, to indulge in the specifities of Uruguayan tango or to discover why some Uruguayan landmarks have earned the UNESCO distinction, are just some of the cultural and heritage tourism alternatives that visitors can enjoy in Uruguay.

As an introduction, it can be said that folk traditions, indigenous ancestors, the Afro-Uruguayan heritage and the import of European immigrant customs have turned Uruguayan cultural expressions into a rich and diverse heritage.

Tango is recognized as one of the greatest cultural contributions of the River Plate region to the world. It embraces dance, music, song and poetry at the same time. In September 2009, it was declared as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

Unquestionably, Uruguayan Carnival is another feature of the local culture that deserves the attention of visitors. It is the longest in the world and features a colorful array of parades and shows that start in late January and continue until mid-March.

Candombe is part of this great celebration and is one of the most popular expressions of Uruguayans. Its roots go back to the arrival of African slaves in Montevideo during colonial times. In 2009, along with tango, it was also proclaimed as Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

Uruguayan theater is one of the most important in Latin America. The country has more than 70 operating theater rooms with a remarkably extensive and varied billboard including classic and modern plays for the most diverse tastes.

Uruguay also offers a wide range of museums and cultural centers where visitors can appreciate the work of national artists such as Juan Manuel Blanes, Rafael Barradas, Pedro Figari, Joaquín Torres García and José Cúneo, among others.

At the architectural level, Uruguay preserves unique examples of Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles, which are hardly seen in other parts of the world. Other architectural landmarks are the famous creations in reinforced ceramics and brick by engineer Eladio Dieste, which have aroused the interest of worldwide architects.

In addition, Uruguay has two sites which have been proclaimed Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. On the one hand, the historic neighborhood of Colonia del Sacramento, which has been recognized since 1995 for its peculiar fusion of Portuguese, Spanish and post-colonial styles. On the other hand, the former meat packing plant of Frigorífico Anglo in the city of Fray Bentos, which became part of the privileged list in mid-2015 as an exceptional example of the evolution of the social and economic structure of the 19th and 20th centuries in the region.

In short, Uruguayan cultural and heritage options are diverse and any time of the year is ideal to discover and enjoy them.

Just a few kilometers away, Uruguay has many attractive landscapes to offer where you can enjoy a nice horseback ride, go hang gliding, enjoy guided vehicle tours on all sorts of terrain, go mountain biking and try a zip line amongst many other things.

Mining Tourism in Artigas
One of the most innovative proposals offered by the northern region is touring the cities of long-standing mining tradition such as Artigas or the town of Minas de Corrales in the Department of Rivera.

One of the offers is a Mining Safari around the city of Artigas consisting of a guided tour of the quarries located in the region of El Catalán, where world-renowned large deep purple amethysts and agates are extracted. Tools, training and safety equipment are provided to visitors who wish to collect their own semiprecious stones. Back in the city, tourists can visit several workshops where raw stones undergo several industrial processes and/or are handcrafted for trade.

The safari is about 5 hours long and covers around 150 kilometers along the national route number 30 and scenic byways along the fields where the mines are located. The journey offers visitors the opportunity to be surprised by the flora and fauna of the area, and to visit quaint general stores and enjoy typical products.

Likewise, the city of Minas de Corrales, offers tourists the opportunity to visit its gold mines, get to know its pioneering aerial tramway system, the Cuñapiru hydroelectric dam, and the ruins of the first mining town in Uruguay, full of history, culture and beautiful landscapes. This tour can be combined with a tour around the city of Rivera, a visit to the wineries of the region, or a shopping trip along the border area. For those who wish to do some ecotourism there is the chance to visit to the protected area of the Valle del Lunarejo.

A weekend getaway to Mercedes and Villa Soriano
Given its exceptional location on the banks of the Río Negro river, Mercedes is an ideal spot for fishing, doing water sports, or resting surrounded by nature. Cycling around town to see the sights is, without a doubt, a great plan for a family weekend in the Uruguayan interior.

In recent years, the number of tourist attractions in Mercedes has multiplied. Catamaran rides, guided tours to the historic Castillo Mauá (a castle which houses the municipal winery and paleontology museum), paragliding jumps, light aircraft rides and eco-friendly trekking tours on the islands Barrientos and El Sauzal are some of the options.

Visitors coming for a day or two can go on board of the Soriano I catamaran to head towards the historic village of Villa Soriano. After arriving at the colorful village, we recommend going on a guided sightseeing tour around the Nautical Station – once the Olivera Hotel -,the Maeso Museum, the Casa de las Máscaras (House of Masks), the Marfetán Museum and the Capilla de Santo Domingo (Santo Domingo chapel).

Additionally, the craft has other destinations scheduled for this month of March during “Semana de Turismo” (Easter Week). Find out about them and book a seat!

Watch Montevideo from above
In late October, a classical Montevideo attraction made a comeback. The Panoramic Viewing Platform at the top of the City Hall building reopened its doors, Mondays to Fridays 10am to 4pm. At 80 meters, it offers one of the most comprehensive and iconic views of the city. The renovated observation deck has a cafeteria, a gift shop and a visitor service center.

Visitors can borrow binoculars and umbrellas and have free wi-fi access, a rest area with tables and seats, cell phone charging stations and touch screens with QR codes.

Parties of over 15 members must schedule their visit either by phone – call 1950 3368 Monday to Friday 11am to 4pm –; in person, at San José 1328; or by email at visitas@imm.gub.uy. Useful information: Where to go: 22nd Floor of the Intendencia de Montevideo (the City Hall). 18 de julio Ave. 1360. Opening hours: 10am to 4pm.

Enjoy Uruguay’s Vendimia (grape-harvesting season)
As it always happens at this time of year, Uruguay’s tourist wineries open their doors to the public to celebrate the grape-harvesting season, the most emblematic and crucial point in the vine life-cycle. Grape harvest festivals are a universal tradition that dates back to the times when wine was considered a bridge between gods and men, and which has become a symbol of the joy generated by the culmination of the harvesting efforts.

Because it is an extremely important period in the production of wine, each winery chooses a day as the start of the season – the fruit is collected at the perfect point of ripeness and gives life to flavors that have never been tasted before. Each harvest is the beginning of a surprise.

In the words of Adriana Gutierrez, head of production at Bodega Juanicó winery, located in the department of Canelones, barely 38 km from Montevideo “Grapes are harvested by using chemical analysis and fruit tasting. Only when the sugar/acid ratio is at optimal levels for each vine, do we proceed to vinification”.

Vendimia marks the beginning of what will be any given year’s wine – it is when the quality of all the work carried out during the year becomes apparent. It is such a turning point that the number of visitors increases significantly at this time of the year, and so do the number and variety of options to enjoy it.

The largest concentration of activities takes place during the weekend, particularly on Saturday. The choice of activities is ample, ranging from wine tastings to workshops and opportunities for relaxation. Don’t miss it!

Visit Minas de Corrales (Corrales Mines) and discover its gold mining tradition
Minas de Corrales -96 km from the city of Rivera and 60km from the city of Tacuarembó -attracts visitors due to its history, natural features and distinctive identity traits.

The town’s uniqueness stems from the combination of small-town traditions and the nature of the mining industry. The sight of locals on horseback riding by mining company-owned special vehicles evidences a striking contrast between the traditional and the modern.

Along the length of the median strip on Minas de Corrales’s main street, Avenida Dr Davison, there are various 19th Century local mining artifacts on display.

The beauty of Cerros Miriñaque and Vigilante (Miriñaque and Vigilante Hills) is also bound to catch the visitor’s eye. From the top, varieties of dwarf palm trees that only grow in this region can be spotted.

The San Gregorio Mining Company, just 5 km from the center of Minas de Corrales, is a mandatory stop for those interested in mining activities. We are talking about Uruguay’s largest gold mining company.

Also, there are galleries of former mining operations on the banks of Corrales creek. The cool, damp, dark setting will give you an idea of how hard life was like for miners in the past.

Minas de Corrales also features the Gold Museum, a space which houses an exhibition on the different aspects of the gold extraction process and the history of its founder, Don Tito Pereira.

Follow the “Barra de la Laguna” Trail in Rocha
Pamper your senses with the new “Barra de la Laguna” (Rocha Lagoon) Trail in Rocha and try dishes with the best shrimp in the world, which according to experts is obtained from the Laguna de Rocha, Laguna de Castillos (Castillos Lagoon) and Arroyo de Valizas (Valizas Creek), or let yourself be surprised with local specialties prepared with siri crab, or seaweed.

This area is part of the National System of Protected Areas of Uruguay (SNAP) and there is a community of artisan fishermen that has lived in the area of Laguna de Rocha and its surroundings for 70 years. They live on water resources and tourism and they provide walking tours and different food options, all made with the local products.

Their recipes integrate fruits of the palm groves and the native fields of Rocha as butiá (fruit of the jelly palm), arazá (eugenia stipitata) and olive trees, as well as wine from local wineries. The best way to taste these delicacies, especially in the low season (March – November) is to arrange your visit in advance.

However, there is a walk that is available 24 hours a day. Those who visit this Protected Area, entering through the intersection of highways 10 and 15, will enjoy a spectacular self-guided walk along a 2.8 km trail.

From the very beginning, the tour invites visitors to contemplate the great mirror of water, to make a stop at the bird observatory, and continue up to the sand bar that separates the lagoon from the Atlantic Ocean. Informative billboards indicate the unique natural dynamics that occur in the place and generate an optimal ecosystem for countless birds and animal species.

The trail ends in the dune zone, an ideal point for whale watching. They visit the coast of Rocha from July to October.The first stage of the trail is wheelchair accessible, then the trails continues on the sand. The total trail takes approximately 1 hour.

An area of great natural value
The area of Laguna de Rocha was declared a Lacustre National Park in 1977 and a UNESCO biosphere reserve. Similarly, since 2015 it has been part of the list of wetlands with international relevance created by the Ramsar Convention. All these characteristics make this place a must for nature lovers.

The lagoon communicates periodically with the Atlantic Ocean through a natural system of opening and closing sandy bars. When this happens, due to the accumulation of water in the lagoon and the action of the sea, very coveted varieties of crustaceans (shrimp) and fish enter the lagoon.

At the same time, this condition makes it the refuge of more than 220 species of birds that choose this magical environment to feed, reproduce and look after their nests. Black swans, flamingos, white geese, storks are just some of the beautiful species that embellish the area. All year long, the lagoon receives birds from places as far as Alaska or the Falkland Islands.

But the fauna of the lagoon includes many more species. Surrounded by streams and marshes, the area is characterized by the presence of otters, turtles, capybaras, river wolves, foxes, wild cats and bare hands. The surrounding farms are abundant in rhea and mulitas. It is also home to the Darwin toad, a globally endangered species.

Recommendations for responsible tourists
Hunting, all-terrain vehicle driving and motor water sports are prohibited. Cameras and binoculars are recommended to enjoy the natural wonders of the place. Comfortable footwear is also essential to travel through the wet areas and pastures. When walking, be cautious to avoid the nests of some birds which are particularly discreet.

How to get to Laguna de Rocha?
At the intersection of Highways 10 and 15, at kilometer 8, take east on a gravel road, and you will find Laguna de Rocha. From there, another path allows you to approach its sand bar, where it is possible to observe the thin strip of sand that separates it from the ocean.

Whale-watching
Boats leave from the port of Piriapolis every weekend to embark on whale watching. The boat rides are one hour long and cost approximately $400 and $200 for children under the age of ten. Although whales are not always visible, visitors often find penguins, turtles, albatrosses and petrels apart from the ever present sea wolves and sea gulls. Another alternative for this boat rides is to embark at the port of Punta del Este. The Company registered at the Ministry of Tourism for these rides is Nautical Events, which also organizes special tours for groups upon previous arrangement.

Getaway to Minas and Villa Serrana
A trip to an area characterized by a landscape of undulating hills, green vegetation and abundant flora and fauna is always ideal to enjoy a break during Easter Week, even more so if it is just a short drive away. Fishing, hang gliding, zip-lining, ecotourism trails through dense vegetation and sailing on rivers and lagoons are just some of the alternatives.

Other nearby attractions that you cannot miss!
Park Salto del Penitente. A 20-metre-high waterfall in a pool of crystalline mineral water where visitors can swim. The area includes a tourist look-out point which offers a restaurant, where visitors can hire horseback rides, trail hiking tours and adventure sports rides.

Cerro Arequita (Arequita Hill): A geological curiosity that does not go unnoticed.
Visitors can go inside and see its numerous grottos. At the base of the hill another tourist spot; El Mirador, which offers homemade meals and guided tours. Nearby is the municipal campsite with cabins and full services and another possibility is the campsite at the base of the Laguna de los Cuervos, smaller and more family oriented.

Reserva Natural de Salus (Salus Natural Reservation).
A forest entangled with various native species and paths of wild ferns and rosebushes that create an atmosphere of enchantment. One of its main attractions is the mythical Fuente del Puma (Puma Fountain). The name comes from a legend that claims pumas were the animals that guarded this pristine spring of mineral water. Tourists can choose from several guided tours of different degrees of difficulty and duration.

El Valle del Hilo de la Vida. (The Valley of the Thread of Life). Archaeological remains, beautiful mountain landscapes and a very special energy are combined in this natural refuge just 8 kilometers from Minas. One of the most distinctive marks in the area are the stone mounds located in energetic spots, which are ideal for families interested in mystical sites. The valley has a rustic-style tourist center built with stones where visitors can have lunch or a snack in total harmony with nature.

Wineries and vineyards
Uruguay enjoys a privileged geographical position that enables it to be a leading country in the production of wines. Located between parallels 30 and 35 (south latitude), Uruguay shares the location of the best wine regions of Argentina, Chile, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. Its clay soil, balanced sunshine, rain and temperatures are optimal conditions for the vineyards growing on its gentle rolling land.

Wine lovers will find a great variety of wineries in Uruguay offering tours, wine tastings and hosting special parties and events. To enjoy this experience we recommend contacting the Wine Tourism Association of Uruguay (ATEU), also known as Los Caminos del Vino (The Wine Roads), and especially visiting those establishments registered with the Ministry of Tourism.

All seasons have their charm for wine tourism in Uruguay. For example, in March, the country’s main tourist wineries open their doors to share the best of their crops during the Harvest Festival. During this festival, visitors can get a quick introduction to the production activity and equipped with scissors and a basket, they can experiment the pleasure of harvesting on their own.

In winter, between May and June, wineries propose tourist to enjoy one of the most traditional and perfect pairings: lamb and Tannat, as well as various artistic performances and activities that complement the food and wine proposals.

Mining Safari in Artigas
One of the most innovative proposals that Artigas offers is the Mining Safari, a guided tour of the quarries located in the region El Catalan, where geodes of amethysts and agates of international interest for their size and intense purple are extracted. Tools, training and safety equipment are provided for visitors who wish to experience collecting their own semiprecious stones. Back in the city, tourists can visit several workshops where raw stones undergo industrial processes and/or are crafted for trade. The safari is about 5 hours long and covers around 150 kilometers along National Road 30 and scenic byways along the fields where the mines are. The journey is appropriate for tourists to be surprised by the flora and fauna of the area, visit quaint general stores and enjoy typical products..

Mining Safari in Artigas
One of the most innovative proposals that Artigas offers is the Mining Safari, a guided tour of the quarries located in the region El Catalan, where geodes of amethysts and agates of international interest for their size and intense purple are extracted. Tools, training and safety equipment are provided for visitors who wish to experience collecting their own semiprecious stones. Back in the city, tourists can visit several workshops where raw stones undergo industrial processes and/or are crafted for trade. The safari is about 5 hours long and covers around 150 kilometers along National Road 30 and scenic byways along the fields where the mines are. The journey is appropriate for tourists to be surprised by the flora and fauna of the area, visit quaint general stores and enjoy typical products..

Enjoying Colonia’s nature and rural ranches
Colonia offers a charming experience in nature unlike any other, attractive and varied in nature, offering several options for rural tourism. Enjoy a typical “asado con cuero” (Uruguayan barbecue, cooked within the cow’s skin) or other Criollo delicacies. Visit tourist “tambos” (milking yards), go on a horseback ride and breathe in the fresh and healthy air around you, all while appreciating rural tradition. The rural establishments of Colonia combine agro-tourism, healthy living, ecology, Criollo gastronomy, and rural traditions. A beautiful coastline extends from the Real of San Carlos (historic bull-fighting arena) to the Anchorena Park, containing noteworthy areas like Barrancas, a perfect place to spot fossils from the Marine Era.

Just a few kilometers away, Uruguay has many attractive landscapes to offer where you can enjoy a nice horseback ride, go hang gliding, enjoy guided vehicle tours on all sorts of terrain, go mountain biking and try a zip line amongst many other things.

Santa Teresa, great tubes in sight
During the low season, one can practically surf alone. This is a beach well-frequented by Brazilians, especially during carnival season.

Pesqueros de Playa Grande
This is one of the most consistent beaches in the area and receives swells from the E and S, bringing in high-quality waves. Swells coming from the east break left off the rocks, opening up towards the middle of the beach resulting in long tube waves that stretch for over 100 meters. Sea conditions permitting, we recommend surfers stay away from the rocks since going around the sandbank can be quite difficult with waves reaching up to a meter and a half in height. This can produce some dangerous currents for casual beach goers considering this is the only beach in the area that does not have active lifeguards on duty. The southern swells break fiercely to the mid-right, and if the bank is good and with a little luck there can be some really good waves coming your way.

El Barco
With large swells southbound and winds from SW, El Barco can have very good waves. This is a good option when the tide is high and other beaches are inaccessible. Waves coming from the east also create good conditions at this beach.

La Moza Beach
Some of the best waves in the country can be found here when the tide is high. This beach faces the S and SE. We can find long, right-banking waves that can break 300 meters from the rocks. The water pours in where when they connect with the La Mocita rocks and waves can stretch for more than 500 meters. Waves reach heights of 2.5 meters to absolute perfection. Getting in position can be an exercise that requires patience as swells constantly pump making it difficult for surfers to make it to the rocky points. The alternative is to wait between sets and not hesitate to make your move as a slip up at this point can be dangerous. Or lastly, you can enter the water near Achiras, which is a longer paddle, but a safer one.

Cabo Polonio, surfing with sealions
Despite being hard to reach, this paradise of sand dunes and white beaches is home to some excellent waves. The Southern Beach produces some great waves when the tide is south bound and the wind in the opposite direction. Here in Cabo Polonio, there are waves for everyone and for every style, taste and skill level. From the stream to the lighthouse all you have to do is pick a spot and enjoy. There is a large colony of sea lions that live in Cabo Polonio that can become disconcerted when they see people but are happy when left alone. Most of the year, Cabo Polonio is empty and those who do come often find it very peaceful off season.

Further towards Valizas you can also enjoy incredible beaches with long dunes and high quality waves. From the stream to the lighthouse all you have to do is pick a spot and enjoy. There is a large colony of sea lions that live in Cabo Polonio that can become disconcerted when they see people but are happy when left alone. Most of the year, Cabo Polonio is empty and those who do come often find it very peaceful off season.

La Calavera
This beach faces ENE, and is the only beach with this orientation on the whole of the coast. Here there are even fewer people and is it rare to find anyone surfing at all. Further towards Valizas you can also enjoy incredible beaches with long dunes and high quality waves.

Punta del Diablo, perfect for surfers of all levels
This is a small fishing town, home of the biannual national surfing champions. The Rivero beach, faces eastwards that gets swells from the east ranging up to 2-meter in height. Depending on the state of the sandbanks, the most favorable winds come from the S, SW, W, NW, and N. Punta del Diablo also gets swells from the S and SW, which come in after sweeping through the rocks, past the monument and come to an end at the beach, breaking both to left and right. With a strong SW wind, one can surf comfortably. This is an easy wave, perfect for all levels of surfing and with several points at which the waves start to break. The Viuda Beach faces S-SE and provides very strong waves with various beach breaks. These waves also tend to be bigger and take on more tube-like shapes due to the flatter sandbanks. The best winds here are E, NE, N, NW, and W.

Surfing in Canelones
Clean sand coasts with small coves rounded off by rocky points, surrounded by the Río de la Plata.
From the Pando river mouth to the Solis Stream, breaking points commonly face the S or SE, and are able to be surfed in optimal conditions, with clean swells coming from S and SE and winds coming from N and NW.

Waves here generally do not exceed a meter in height, although a few times year some beaches may witness waves of 1.5 meters, ideal for beginner level surfers. In this area, sandbanks are more consistent during the summer months, due to strong spring winds from N and NE forming sand banks which the winter’s S, SW winds, also known as the pamperos, then remove.

The most-frequented beaches are Atlántida, Santa Lucía del Este, and Jaureguiberry or the Solís’ river mouth, but there are also plenty of other spots alongside this 70 kilometer stretch that are good for practicing sports and relaxing.

Challenging the Rocha waves
From the mouth of the Rocha Lagoon to the Barra del Chuy (bordering Brazil), there are countless different kinds of beaches where surfers can find their own beach just for themselves. Find your special spot to surf on your own while surrounded by beautiful landscapes and sea life.

La Paloma
This is a surfing town on the coast of Rocha, which has two well-differentiated areas perfect for sport. The Southern area (Los Botes, Zanja Honda, and Corumba) has waves that reach over 2 meters. The Eastern area (La Aguada) is perfect for enjoying the sunrise facing the swells along the 7km long coastline stretching to La Pedrera.

Cabo Polonio
Despite being hard to reach, this paradise of sand dunes and white beaches is home to some excellent waves. The Southern Beach produces some great waves when the tide is south bound and the wind in the opposite direction. Here in Cabo Polonio, there are waves for everyone and for every style, taste and skill level. From the stream to the lighthouse all you have to do is pick a spot and enjoy. Throughout the year, including during the summer months, there are very few surfers and there’s a good chance that you’ll be surfing in solitude. La Calavera faces ENE, and is the only beach with this orientation on the whole of the coast. Here there are even fewer people and is it rare to find anyone surfing at all. Further towards Valizas you can also enjoy incredible beaches with long dunes and high quality waves.

Punta del Diablo
This is a small fishing town, home to the biannual national surfing champions. The Rivero beach, faces eastwards that gets swells from the east ranging up to 2-meter in height. Depending on the state of the sandbanks, the most favorable winds come from the S, SW, W, NW, and N. Punta del Diablo also gets swells from the S and SW, which come in after sweeping through the rocks, past the monument and come to an end at the beach, breaking both to left and right. With a strong SW wind, one can surf comfortably. This is an easy beach to surf on, perfect for all levels of surfing and with several points at which the waves start to break. The Viuda Beach faces S-SE and provides very strong waves with various beach breaks. These waves also tend to be bigger and take on more tube-like shapes due to the flatter sandbanks. The best winds here are E, NE, N, NW, and W.

Santa Teresa
During the low season, one can practically surf alone. This is a beach well-frequented by Brazilians, especially during carnival season. Great waves can be found by the Pesqueros de Playa Grande beach, El Barco, and La Moza beaches.

Fishing for the Iridescent Tararira
Found only in Uruguay, this species is a true phenomenon, to the point where catching a tararira is on many fishing enthusiasts to-do list, especially those from border countries like Brazil and Argentina. This intriguing fish lives in closed-off water environments, which are usually hard to navigate; it is incredibly sedentary and territorial, so it is necessary to throw caught specimens back into the water to protect the environment’s equilibrium. An adult tararira can spend more than 20 minutes out of the water and return to it without trouble, as long as it is not hurt neurologically.

 

Season and Places
The Iridescent tararira season goes from the end of August to March or April, depending on the fall rains.
At the beginning of the season (August, September, and October), they can be found in smaller, shallow channels of water where the average temperature can reach the 18 ºC that the species needs to stir from its winter lethargy.

In streams such as the Salsipuedes Chico, the Tres Árboles, or the many others that flow into the Río Negro, fishermen can wade for 12 or 14 kilometers, fishing tarariras and returning them to the water, drinking delicious crystalline water straight from the source.

 

Fishing and Equipment
In order to fish for the Iridescent Tararira, one must get in touch with specialist guides who hold permits given to them by the owners of different areas. The fishing method during the early seasons is exclusively spin fishing, which is practiced on the clear banks of different streams, where it is possible to escape the suffocating heat and potentially dangerous insects.

Once November starts, the temperature of deeper channels rises to adequate levels and the iridescent adventure can expand into trolling methods, a type of fishing technique that allows one to discover the most exquisite corners of nature in the country, reaching the most distant water arteries. To practice trolling, 3 or 4 meter boats are needed for these small channels, with motors from 2.5 to 10 hp. Light equipment that can be stowed when avoiding rock slides is also required.

The Tararira is caught by throwing lures or spinning spoons that work under the surface of the water. The fish catch the decoy quickly with a violent attack soon after the lure hits the water. After the fish takes the bait, it quickly tries to swim to the riverbed, and, while trying to free itself, jumps out of water, displaying its slender body over the tranquility of the water’s surface. This is an unforgettable spectacle for fishing and nature lovers.

In order to minimize risks, it is best to use a small net when landing the fish, especially when fishing from a boat. Good fisherman will then put the animal back into the water, being careful not to hurt its gills.

For spinning, surface and mid-water lures that descend as far as 3 or 4 meters are used, depending on the fisherman’s preference. Generally, lures that stay on the surface, such as sputters, plops, or jitters are used to wake and irritate the tararira, to later catch them with others that can descend into the water no less than 50 centimeters.

With the trolling method, lures that can descend up to 6 meters are used, as their main function is to work at river bed-level, where the largest tarariras dwell.

Fishing rods for both spinning and trolling are 7 feet, for 25-30 pounds.

For better handling while casting, ergonomic, centrifugal or magnetic reels with several breaks are recommended. Nylon 20 pound-lines should be used, or alternatively the new, lower-caliber but more resistant micro filament lines.

The tararira has a powerful bite, so the fisherman must have two pairs of pliers, a curved one for holding the fish by its mouth, and another with rounded ends that will help in removing the triple hooks of the lure without hurting the fish.

Sport Fishing
Whether you prefer saltwater fishing or fresh water fishing, Uruguay offers both in a diverse range of fantastic fishing spots for the recreational fisher. In contrast to other countries in the region, the best fresh water fishing areas are only a few kilometers away from the capital where you can find nice clear water creeks with local fish, weighing up to 5 or 6 kilos. Some of the best fishing in the Paraná basin can be found in the Uruguay River in the department of Salto where catches can weigh in at over 15 kilos. Diverse and pleasant fauna and flora surround our beautiful landscapes makes Uruguay perfect for outdoor activities. In addition, on the Brazil-Uruguay border, the eastern coastline provides great year-round fishing for migratory fish suitable for sport fishing. Black Corvina, Sargo, White Corvina, Burriquetas, Hake, small fish, Pejerrey and Anchovies are some of the most sought after fish our waters have to offer. Most of the aforementioned species can even be fished with just a rod and reel, from the shore. The larger black Corvinas and Sole fish often weigh as much as 10 kilos and have historically been one of the most treasured catches for Uruguayan fishers.

Surf
Surfing has enjoyed more and more popularity over the past few years in Uruguay. Many options are available for tourists to enjoy great waves, for all levels of surfing, in the departments of Canelones, Maldonado, and Rocha, and even, after a particularly strong storm, in Montevideo.

The Atlantic coast has the best spots to enjoy swells all year round. During the winter, swells come primarily from the South, while in the spring, summer, and autumn, they come from the East. During the summer months, water maintains a warm temperature which on rare occasions requires only a short suit. However, in the winter, temperatures can drop to 6 or 8 degrees Celsius, making a 4/3 mm suit a necessity, as well as boots and gloves.

Cruise tourism is one of the fastest growing tourism activities in the world. Uruguay is a clear example of this growth, boasting a number of cruise passengers disembarking that exceeds 400 thousand and averages 160 moorings.

There are several reasons why cruise passengers choose Uruguay as their destination. Security, the cordiality and friendliness of its citizens, the accessibility of currency exchange, multiple options when it comes to shopping and great gastronomy are just some of them.

Uruguay offers great opportunities for the development of water tourism activities. The country has 718 kilometers of coastline (240 km on the Atlantic Ocean) and a dense network of natural waterways, which provide an ideal setting for the enjoyment of water activities. This network is formed by four main basins: Río de la Plata, Río Uruguay, Río Negro and Laguna Merín.

The geographical characteristics of the country, which has 718 kilometers of coastline (240 km on the Atlantic Ocean) and a dense hydrographic network, provide an ideal setting for the enjoyment of nautical activities. This network is made up of four main basins: Río de la Plata, Río Uruguay, Río Negro and Laguna Merín, which are home to a significant set of navigable waterways.

Tourists can find a wide range of possibilities, whether it is sailing in privileged natural areas, taking boat trips, sport fishing or doing water sports such as surfing, windsurfing, kite surfing, and boating.
Weather conditions in Uruguay are one of the main comparative advantages for sailors. The average annual temperature is around 17.5°C, while the average wind speed ranges between 14 and 15 km/h.

Navigating the islands of the Uruguay River
Nuevo Berlín is one of the best access points to the Uruguay River’s exuberant nature. Various islands can be seen from its shore and are an ideal spot for spotting indigenous fauna and flora. It is possible to navigate the open-river in small boats and reach narrow creeks where the sights and sounds of nature envelop visitors.

Those who do not own a boat can rent them from fishermen who offer tours for groups of 2-6 people. These boats are a great option for people who love fishing, and the locals are a great source of advice for finding the best catch in the area. The tours usually visit several areas like Polaco, Redonda, Filomena, Chileno, Roman, Burro, Naranjo, and Santa Marta Chica islands, among others.