Things to Do in Uruguay: Activities, Tours & Experiences

Uruguay is small, safe (for South America), and easy to move around. So the real question is not “what can I do?” It is “what is actually worth my limited time?”

For most travelers, the best things to do in Uruguay are: a wine day in Canelones or near Montevideo (Tannat is our signature), a day trip to Colonia del Sacramento, a couple of beach days (choose your vibe), and at least one cultural night that is not staged - candombe drums in Barrio Sur is the one I’d bet on.

Honestly, Uruguay can feel “quiet” if you expect nonstop attractions like Mexico City or Buenos Aires. The reward here is different: long lunches, big skies, empty beaches in shoulder season, and experiences that feel local because they still are.

Below you’ll find the activities that deliver - plus the ones that disappoint if you come with the wrong expectations. I’ll give you practical logistics, realistic costs, and what can go wrong.

Things to do in Uruguay (TL;DR): what’s worth it and what to skip

If you only have 3-5 days, base yourself in Montevideo and do two day trips: Colonia del Sacramento and a winery day in Canelones. Add one strong cultural moment (candombe or fútbol).

If you have 7-10 days, add the coast: either Punta del Este (glossy, expensive) or Rocha (more raw, more nature). Cabo Polonio is the “I can’t believe this exists” day or overnight, but it is not comfortable.

If you have 10-14 days, you can add the interior: Lavalleja for hikes and sierras, or the northwest for thermal springs and river life. Northern Uruguay also has amethyst mines, which are surprisingly fun even if you’re not a geology person.

If you like...	Do this	Where	Time needed
Food and wine	Tannat winery lunch + tasting	Canelones / near Montevideo	Half or full day
History and photos	UNESCO Colonia old town walk	Colonia del Sacramento	Full day from Montevideo
Beach with services	Playa Brava/Mansa + sunset	Punta del Este	2-4 days
Nature and quieter coast	La Paloma + Cabo Polonio	Rocha	3-6 days
Culture that feels real	Candombe drums (Sunday)	Montevideo (Barrio Sur)	2-3 hours
Easy relaxation	Thermal pools + spa vibes	Salto / Paysandú	1-3 days

What are the best things to do in Uruguay from Montevideo?

Montevideo is not a “wow in 2 hours” city. It grows on you. The best plan is to use it as a base, enjoy its neighborhoods slowly, and then escape for day trips.

If you only do one “classic” activity from Montevideo, make it Colonia del Sacramento. It is the easiest UNESCO win in Uruguay and it photographs beautifully even on a cloudy day.

Day trip: Colonia del Sacramento (UNESCO)

Colonia is a cobblestone old town facing the Río de la Plata. It is quiet, romantic, and slightly surreal because it feels more Portuguese than Spanish. That contrast is the point.

Practical info: From Montevideo, buses are frequent and straightforward. Plan a full day so you can walk slowly, climb the lighthouse area, and still have time for a late lunch by the water. If you go as a rushed half-day, it feels like a postcard set.

What guides do not tell you: on weekends and holidays, the historic quarter fills with day-trippers. Go on a weekday if you can. The difference is huge.

Wine day: Tannat tastings near Montevideo

Wine tours are popular here for a reason. You do not need to be a wine nerd to enjoy a long winery lunch with a Tannat tasting. Uruguay’s wine culture is friendly and not pretentious.

Two famous options are Bodega Bouza and Juanicó (Familia Deicas). Bouza is polished and consistently good. Juanicó is more “big winery” and easier for groups. Both typically offer tastings with food pairings.

Local tip: If the top names are fully booked or too pricey, smaller bodegas in Canelones can be a better experience. Travelers mention places like Pizzorno and Stagnari for a more personal visit.

Football history: Estadio Centenario and the Football Museum

Even if you are not into football, Estadio Centenario matters. It hosted the first World Cup in 1930 and seats 60,000+ people. Uruguay’s football identity is not marketing. It is real pride.

Practical info: The stadium tour plus the Football Museum is an easy 60-90 minute activity. Put it on a cloudy morning, then do the Rambla later when the light is good.

Candombe in Barrio Sur (Sunday drums)

If you want something that feels deeply Montevideo, go to Barrio Sur on a Sunday and you’ll often hear candombe: groups of about 33 drums moving through the streets. It’s a tradition with roots in the 1700s and recognized by UNESCO.

The reality is: you are stepping into a living neighborhood, not a show. Be respectful with photos, don’t block the drummers, and don’t treat people like props.

One odd, fun stop: Castillo Pittamiglio

Pittamiglio Castle is one of those places that makes you say “why does this exist?” It is a quirky building in Montevideo with symbolic architecture and even a half-ship sticking out of the facade.

It is not a must-see if you have limited time. That said: if you like eccentric spaces, alchemy stories, and slightly mysterious tours, this is a good rainy-day pick.

What are the best beach and coastal activities in Uruguay?

Uruguay’s coast is the main event for many visitors. But you need to choose the right beach town for your travel style, and you need to understand the season.

Best time: December to February is beach season, with the most services and nightlife. September to November has fewer crowds. March to May is great if you want ocean walks and wine days more than swimming.

Honestly, some beach towns in winter feel like ghost towns. That can be beautiful or depressing depending on what you expected. If you want restaurants and buzz, don’t come off-season without a plan.

Punta del Este: beaches, people-watching, and high prices

Punta del Este is Uruguay’s famous resort town. In summer it is glossy, busy, and fun if you like beach clubs, nice dinners, and seeing what wealthy Argentinians do on vacation.

The reality is: it’s expensive. If your budget allows, you’ll have a great time. If you’re stretching every dollar, Punta del Este can feel like you’re paying a premium for basic things.

Practical info: The classic is Playa Mansa for calmer water and sunsets, and Playa Brava for the ocean side and the famous “La Mano” sculpture. Give yourself 2-4 days if you want it to feel like a break, not a checklist.

Isla de Lobos: sea lions near Punta del Este

Isla de Lobos is a standout boat trip because it’s genuinely wild: it holds the largest sea lion colony in the southern hemisphere. You’ll see and smell them before you fully arrive.

Practical info: Trips depend on sea conditions, so have a flexible day. Bring a wind layer even in summer. On the water, it can feel colder than you expect.

Rocha coast: La Paloma surfing and slower beach towns

If Punta del Este feels too polished, go east to Rocha. This is where Uruguay starts to feel more like dunes, pine forests, fishermen, and simple beach life.

Surfing in La Paloma is a real option. Spots like Los Botes and Anaconda can get waves up to around 6 feet. You’ll find surf schools in season, but outside summer you should not assume rentals and lessons are available every day.

What guides do not tell you: the wind is part of the experience on this coast. Great for kitesurf photos. Less great if you didn’t pack a light jacket and you planned a beach picnic.

Cabo Polonio: dunes, lighthouse, and no electricity

Cabo Polonio is the most unusual place many travelers visit in Uruguay. You access it by authorized trucks across the dunes, or by walking/horseback. There’s a lighthouse, an artisan market vibe, and a sea lion colony nearby.

Honestly, it is not comfortable. Cabo Polonio has limited infrastructure and many places have no standard electricity. That is the magic, and also the inconvenience.

Practical info: Bring cash, a headlamp, a power bank, and warm layers even in summer nights. If you hate sand in everything, do it as a day trip, not an overnight.

What cultural experiences in Uruguay feel authentic (not tourist traps)?

Uruguay’s culture is subtle. You don’t “consume” it in one show. You feel it in habits: late dinners, long conversations, mate everywhere, and a social life built around public spaces like the Rambla.

For most travelers, the most authentic experiences are the ones you join quietly: a candombe afternoon, a local football match, a neighborhood parrilla, a folk music night, or simply sharing mate with someone patient enough to teach you.

Mate culture (yes, it counts as an experience)

You will see mate cups and thermoses everywhere: beaches, offices, buses, parks. This is not a trend. It is daily life.

Practical info: Don’t grab someone’s mate or bombilla (metal straw). If you’re offered mate, you drink and give it back. You don’t say “thank you” until you want to stop, because “gracias” usually means “I’m done.” That confuses foreigners all the time.

Peñas folklóricas and live folk music nights

A peña folklórica is usually a casual night with live folk music, sometimes dancing, and simple food and drinks. It’s not glamorous. That’s why it can be great.

Local tip: Ask locals for “peñas” rather than “shows.” If you search only in English, you’ll end up in the most tourist-facing options, which can feel staged.

Gaucho and estancia experiences (worth it if you choose right)

A day at an estancia can be one of the best Uruguay memories: horses, asado, open land, and a rhythm that feels 100 years older than the city.

The reality is: some “gaucho shows” are basically a bus tour lunch with a performance. If that’s what you want, fine. If you want something more real, look for smaller groups, longer stays, and time on the property beyond the meal.

Practical info: If you ride horses, be honest about your level. Uruguayan hosts can be relaxed about safety in a way that surprises Americans and Europeans. Bring closed-toe shoes and long pants.

Semana Criolla (Tourism Week) in Montevideo

Semana Criolla at Rural del Prado is a big local event during Tourism Week, with jineteadas (rodeo-style riding), food, and folk music. If you happen to be here that week and you like festivals, it’s a strong cultural hit.

That said: Tourism Week is also when travel becomes harder and more expensive. If you’re coming specifically for beaches and road trips, it’s often the worst timing.

What are the best outdoor and adventure activities in Uruguay?

Uruguay is not Patagonia. We don’t have dramatic peaks. If you come expecting epic mountains, you’ll be disappointed.

But if you like approachable nature, hikes you can do without special gear, rivers you can paddle, and quiet landscapes with almost no crowds, Uruguay is excellent. The sierras in the southeast and the rivers in the northwest are where the magic hides.

Lavalleja and Sierra de Minas: hikes, rapelling, and waterfalls

Lavalleja is our serrano destination for ecotourism, adventure, and even spirituality. The Sierra de Minas area has a waterfall-threaded range where you can hike, camp, rock climb, and do rappelling with local operators.

Practical info: Weather changes fast in the sierras. Bring a light rain jacket and extra water. If you’re doing any rope activity, don’t improvise. Go with a proper guide and check what gear is included.

Kayaking and canoeing on Río Queguay (Paysandú)

Río Queguay is a 280 km river in Paysandú and a great place for paddling trips. This is the kind of Uruguay many visitors never see: slow water, birds, and long stretches with no one around.

Practical info: If you’re not experienced, go guided. River levels and currents vary, and phone signal can be unreliable. Bring sun protection - the sun here is stronger than many travelers expect.

Valle del Lunarejo: a true hidden gem (north)

Valle del Lunarejo (near Rivera) is one of the best “I can’t believe this is Uruguay” landscapes: green valleys, native forest, and trails that feel more like southern Brazil than the Río de la Plata.

Local tip: This area rewards travelers with a rental car. Public transport exists but is limiting. If you’re short on time, it’s a commitment to get up there.

Surf and water sports beyond La Paloma

Besides La Paloma, you’ll find surf pockets along the Rocha coast, and more sheltered water for beginner-friendly activities on the calmer side of Punta del Este (Mansa).

Practical info: Water temperatures are cooler than most people imagine. In shoulder season, a wetsuit makes the difference between “fun” and “why am I doing this?”

What are the best unique tours in Uruguay (thermal springs, mines, small towns)?

Once you go beyond Montevideo and the coast, Uruguay gets more interesting. Also more spread out. Distances look small on a map, but buses and roads make some routes slower than you expect.

If you want experiences you can’t replicate in nearby capitals, look at the northwest thermal circuit, northern amethyst mines, and small-town food trips like Pueblo Garzón and Pueblo Edén.

Thermal resorts in the northwest (Salto and Paysandú)

Uruguay has six thermal resort destinations in the northwest, using waters from the Guaraní Aquifer. Think outdoor pools, warm water even on cold days, and a relaxed local holiday vibe.

Practical info: This region makes the most sense if you have at least 2 nights. It’s far from Montevideo, and doing it as a quick hop is exhausting. Bring flip-flops and a towel even if you stay at a nice place. Don’t assume they’ll provide everything.

Amethyst mine tours (north)

Northern Uruguay is one of the world’s major amethyst exporting areas. Visiting an amethyst mine is surprisingly memorable because you see the crystals in their raw setting, not in a jewelry store.

Practical info: Mines are usually reached by road and work best with a car or a tour. Wear closed shoes you don’t mind getting dusty. If you’re traveling with kids or non-hikers, this can be an easy “adventure” without a long trek.

Pueblo Garzón, Pueblo Edén, and the joy of small-scale Uruguay

Some of the best moments in Uruguay happen in places you won’t recognize from Instagram. Pueblo Garzón and Pueblo Edén are small, slow, and food-focused. They work best if you have a car and you enjoy long lunches.

The reality is: if you hate quiet, you’ll call these towns “nothing.” If you like calm roads, local conversations, and a sense of space, they can be the highlight.

Practical info: how to plan activities and tours in Uruguay

Uruguay is easy, but it is not cheap. Budget expectations matter here more than in many Latin American countries. For most travelers, the stress comes from underestimating costs and overestimating how much you can fit into a day.

Practical info: Typical daily budgets (very roughly) are hostels USD 30-50 per night, mid-range hotels USD 70-150, and meals anywhere from USD 5 (simple snack) to USD 40 (proper restaurant). Punta del Este in peak summer can push higher.

Tours range wildly. You can find cheap tickets around USD 4 for simple entry-style activities, and multi-day private-style tours that run USD 1,275-2,700 per person. Most people don’t need the expensive end unless they want everything organized.

Season timing (don’t get this wrong)

Best time depends on your goal: December to February for beach life, March to May for hikes and vineyards, September to November for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.

Honestly: if you come in winter expecting lively coastal towns, you’ll be disappointed. If you come in January expecting quiet beaches and bargain prices, you’ll also be disappointed.

Getting around: what works in reality

Buses cover most routes and are comfortable, but schedules can limit day trips outside the obvious ones. For Rocha, Lavalleja, and the north, a rental car gives you freedom and often saves time.

In Montevideo, Uber exists and is usually affordable. That makes nights out easier because you don’t need to decode local taxis.

Small but trip-saving details

Dinner time is late. 9:30 pm is normal, 11 pm is not shocking. If you eat early, plan for merienda (late afternoon coffee and snack) so you don’t get hungry and grumpy.

Bring an electrical outlet converter. Travelers complain about this for a reason. Uruguay commonly uses plugs that don’t match US or many EU devices.

Learn a few Spanish phrases. Outside the most touristy pockets, English is limited. You don’t need fluency, just enough to be polite and clear.

FAQ: Things to do in Uruguay

What is Uruguay best known for tourists?

Uruguay is best known for relaxed beach towns, Colonia del Sacramento’s UNESCO old town, Tannat wine and winery lunches, and Montevideo culture like candombe and football history. It’s not a “big sights” country - it’s a place for good food, calm travel, and local traditions.

How many days do you need in Uruguay?

For a first trip, 7-10 days is the sweet spot: 2-3 days Montevideo, 1 day Colonia, and 3-5 days on the coast. With 3-5 days, stay based in Montevideo and do day trips. With 10-14 days, add sierras, thermal springs, or the north.

Is Uruguay expensive for tours and activities?

Yes, Uruguay is not cheap compared to much of Latin America. Expect hostels around USD 30-50 and mid-range hotels around USD 70-150. Tours can be as low as about USD 4 for basic tickets, but multi-day organized trips can reach USD 1,275-2,700 per person.

What is the best day trip from Montevideo?

Colonia del Sacramento is the best classic day trip from Montevideo because it’s easy, walkable, and consistently enjoyable. The UNESCO historic quarter gives you an instant sense of place. If you’ve already seen Colonia, the next best day trip is a winery day in Canelones for Tannat tastings and lunch.

Is Punta del Este worth visiting?

Punta del Este is worth it if you want a lively summer resort with beaches, restaurants, and people-watching. Honestly, it can feel overpriced if you’re on a tight budget or visiting off-season. For a quieter, more nature-driven coast, Rocha (La Paloma, Cabo Polonio) often feels more rewarding.

Can you visit Cabo Polonio as a day trip?

Yes, you can visit Cabo Polonio as a day trip, usually using the authorized trucks that cross the dunes. A day trip is better if you want comfort and reliable charging. Overnight is more atmospheric, but the reality is limited services and often no standard electricity - bring cash, headlamp, and a power bank.

What is the best time of year to visit Uruguay?

December to February is best for beaches and nightlife, but it’s crowded and pricier. March to May is excellent for vineyards, hikes, and calmer travel. September to November has pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Avoid Tourism Week if you want smooth logistics - many places book out and prices rise.

What cultural experience should I not miss in Montevideo?

Candombe in Barrio Sur is the cultural experience that feels most “alive,” not packaged for tourists. Sundays are a good bet for hearing drum groups in the streets. Be respectful: don’t block the drummers, ask before close-up photos, and treat it as a neighborhood tradition, not a performance for visitors.

Are Uruguay’s thermal springs worth it?

Yes, especially if you’re traveling outside summer. The northwest thermal resorts use Guaraní Aquifer waters and are ideal for slow, relaxing days. The catch is distance: it’s far from Montevideo, so it works best with at least 2 nights. Pack flip-flops and a towel and don’t assume full-service spa standards everywhere.

Do I need a car to do the best activities in Uruguay?

You don’t need a car for Montevideo, Colonia, or Punta del Este because buses are solid and Uber helps in the capital. For Cabo Polonio, Rocha beaches beyond the main towns, Lavalleja sierras, and northern areas like Valle del Lunarejo or amethyst mines, a rental car makes the trip easier and more flexible.

Conclusion: build your Uruguay trip around a few strong experiences

Uruguay is at its best when you stop hunting for constant attractions and start choosing a few experiences that fit the country’s rhythm: a long winery lunch, a slow old-town walk in Colonia, a beach day with wind in your face, and one cultural moment that happens because locals keep doing it.

If you tell me your dates, budget level, and whether you prefer beaches, wine, culture, or nature, I can suggest a realistic 3-, 7-, or 10-day plan that won’t waste time in transit or leave you stuck in a ghost-town week.