Uruguay Road Trip Itinerary
The Uruguay Road Trip is an exciting and memorable journey through some of the country's most stunning and diverse locations. Starting in the vibrant city of Montevideo, the trip takes you along the coastline of Uruguay, ending at the same place. Along the way, you'll visit the vibrant beach town of Punta del Este, the picturesque fishing village of Punta del Diablo, the colonial town of Trinidad, the historic Colonia del Sacramento, and the beautiful Playa Fomento. The total distance of the trip is approximately 1237km and can be completed in around 7 days. The best time to drive the route is during the summer months, when you can enjoy the beautiful beaches along the way. The roads are generally in good condition and suitable for all drivers, and you can manage the trip on a fair budget. So, if you're looking for an adventure that will stay with you for a lifetime, the Uruguay Road Trip is the perfect choice.
7
number of days
1,242 km
route length
moderate
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Montevideo
Distance 1,242 km
Driving time 22.3 h
Pace: modest
323.0 kWh
Airports
MVD
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Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, is the perfect starting point for the "Uruguay Road Trip". Located along the banks of the Río de la Plata, the city is a vibrant and lively destination. It is home to a wide range of attractions, including the iconic Plaza Independencia, the old city center Ciudad Vieja, and the vibrant Rambla promenade. The city also boasts a range of museums, art galleries, theaters, and parks. The Museo del Gaucho y de la Moneda is a must-see, with its exhibits of artifacts related to the region's gaucho culture.
For international travelers, the closest airport is Carrasco International Airport (IATA code MVD). Car rentals are available from the airport and are a great option for those wanting to explore Montevideo and beyond. With a car, you can take advantage of the wide range of attractions that Uruguay has to offer, from the beautiful beaches of Punta del Este to the rolling hills of the countryside.
So start your "Uruguay Road Trip" in Montevideo, the vibrant and lively capital of Uruguay!
1
Montevideo
- Punta Del Este
Distance 121 km
Driving time 2.0 h
Pace: fast
36.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome road-trippers! We invite you to embark on an exciting journey from Montevideo to Punta del Este. This 118km drive, which should take you no more than two hours, will take you through some of Uruguay's most interesting sites.
Start your trip in Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, and visit the Old Town, the centre of the city. Take a stroll through the cobbled streets and admire the colonial architecture. Visit the Plaza Independencia, the main square of the city, and marvel at the beauty of its monuments.
As you make your way to Punta del Este, you will come across the small town of Atlantida. Here, you can visit the beautiful beach of La Mansa, one of the most popular beaches in Uruguay. Don't forget to take a walk along the beachfront promenade, lined with restaurants and shops.
Once you arrive in Punta del Este, you can explore the city's many attractions. Visit the La Mano de Punta del Este, a sculpture of a giant hand emerging from the sand. Admire the stunning views from the Punta del Este Lighthouse. And don't forget to take a stroll along Brava Beach, one of the city's most popular beaches.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. We hope you enjoy your journey!
Punta Del Este - Uruguay - South America - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Punta Del Este
- Oceanía del Polonio
Distance 148 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: modest
38.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready to explore the Uruguayan coast from Punta Del Este to Oceanía del Polonio? This stage of your road trip will take you through 149 km of stunning landscapes and unforgettable experiences. You will be able to drive it in less than 3 hours, so you can make the most of your time.
Your first stop should be at Isla de Lobos, where you can appreciate the sea lions and the birds in their natural habitat. Then, you can head to Punta Colorada and enjoy the beautiful beach and the cliffs. After that, you can take a walk through the sand dunes of La Coronilla and appreciate the beauty of the landscape.
In Oceanía del Polonio, you will be able to visit the Faro de Polonio, a lighthouse that is located in the middle of the sea. You can also take a boat ride to the Isla de los Pájaros, where you can observe the variety of bird species that inhabit the island.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Oceanía del Polonio - Uruguay - South America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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3
Oceanía del Polonio
- Cabo Polonio
- Punta del Diablo
Distance 65 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: fast
19.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Oceanía del Polonio, Uruguay to Punta del Diablo! This 65 km journey will take you less than an hour to complete, but you will be mesmerized by the picturesque landscapes you encounter along the way.
Your first stop should be Cabo Polonio, a small fishing village and beach resort that is home to a unique lighthouse. This is a great place to take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, and you can even go whale watching here.
The next stop is Punta del Diablo, a charming fishing village with some of the best beaches in Uruguay. Here you can relax on the beach, explore the old town, and try some of the local seafood.
As you drive along the coast, keep an eye out for the beautiful lagoons and wildlife. You’ll also have the chance to take a break at one of the many roadside restaurants and cafes.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” section of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Punta del Diablo - Uruguay - South America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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4
Punta del Diablo
- Cerro Chato
Distance 292 km
Driving time 5.4 h
Pace: modest
75.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Punta del Diablo to Cerro Chato? This exciting journey will take you on a 292km drive, lasting fewer than 5 hours. Along the way, you will discover some of the most breathtaking places in Uruguay.
Start your trip in Punta del Diablo, a charming fishing village located on the Atlantic coast. Here you can explore the beautiful beaches, visit the local artisan market, or enjoy a seafood dinner in one of the many restaurants.
Once you are ready, set off towards Cerro Chato, a small town located in the hills of the Sierra de Minas. Make sure to take a break and visit the local attractions, such as the historic church of San Pedro and the nearby waterfalls.
As you reach your destination, take some time to explore the beautiful countryside. You can go for a hike in the nearby hills, visit the local farms, or simply relax in the tranquil atmosphere.
This is only one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your unforgettable road trip from Punta del Diablo to Cerro Chato!
Cerro Chato - Uruguay - South America - Road Trip - Wikipédia
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5
Cerro Chato
- Trinidad
Distance 198 km
Driving time 4.4 h
Pace: modest
51.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to Cerro Chato, Uruguay, the starting point of your road trip! This 198km journey will take you less than 5 hours to reach your destination, Trinidad. Along the way, you will be able to explore some of the most interesting places in this region.
In Cerro Chato, you can visit the local historical museum and the old train station. You can also take a relaxing walk along the river and admire the stunning views of the nearby hills.
Your next stop is Minas de Corrales, where you can explore the old gold mines and get a glimpse of the past. The town also offers a great selection of restaurants and shops.
Further down the road, you will find the charming city of Durazno. Here, you can visit the local market and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this city.
Finally, you will arrive in Trinidad, where you can explore the beautiful Plaza de Armas and the nearby churches. You can also take a stroll through the city streets and admire the colorful colonial-style buildings.
This is only one stage of a larger tour, but you can find more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Trinidad - Uruguay - South America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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6
Trinidad
- Colonia del Sacramento
Distance 198 km
Driving time 3.4 h
Pace: modest
51.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip through the beautiful Uruguayan countryside? This stage of your journey starts in Trinidad, Uruguay, and takes you all the way to Colonia del Sacramento, a distance of 185 km, which can be driven in less than 4 hours.
On your journey, make sure to stop at the historical sites of Trinidad, including the Church of Santo Domingo and the Basílica del Santísimo Sacramento. As you drive, you’ll be surrounded by the stunning rural landscape of Uruguay, with its rolling hills, lush vegetation, and small towns. Make sure to take some time to enjoy the peace and beauty of the countryside.
When you reach Colonia del Sacramento, you’ll be able to explore the city’s many attractions, including its UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Barrio Histórico. Here you can explore the city’s colonial architecture, as well as its many museums, galleries, and churches.
This is just one stage of your tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready to hit the road and explore the amazing Uruguayan countryside!
Colonia del Sacramento - Uruguay - South America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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7
Colonia del Sacramento
- Playa Fomento
Distance 68 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: fast
20.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome road-trippers! This stage of your journey starts in Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay and will take you to Playa Fomento, a distance of 68 km that can be covered in less than an hour of driving.
In Colonia del Sacramento, you can visit the Historic Quarter, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is a beautiful place full of colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. Don't miss the lighthouse and the old city walls.
On your way to Playa Fomento, you can stop at the Natural Reserve of the Río de la Plata for a hike and a picnic. It is a great place to observe the local wildlife, especially birds.
Once you arrive at Playa Fomento, you can enjoy the beach and the crystal clear waters of the Río de la Plata. This is the perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of the Uruguayan coast.
To get the most out of this stage, the "Itinerary" section of the tour provides more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.
We hope you enjoy this stage of your journey and have an unforgettable experience!
Playa Fomento - Uruguay - South America - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
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8
Playa Fomento
- Montevideo
Distance 153 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
45.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a road trip stage from Playa Fomento to Montevideo, Uruguay! This 162km journey will take you less than two hours, and you will be able to explore some of the most interesting places in the country. Start your adventure in Playa Fomento, a small beach town with a great view of the Atlantic Ocean. From there, you can make your way to the historic city of Montevideo. Along the way, you will find several interesting sites to explore, such as the Old Town of Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is full of colonial architecture and cobblestone streets, and it is a great place to take a break and explore the local culture. Once you arrive in Montevideo, you will be able to visit the many museums, galleries, and parks in the city. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to choose from. As you make your way through the city, be sure to take in the beautiful architecture, such as the Palacio Salvo and the Teatro Solis. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, you can take a day trip to the nearby beaches, such as Pocitos or Buceo. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for a memorable road trip from Playa Fomento to Montevideo!
Montevideo
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Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, is the perfect ending point for a Uruguay Road Trip. As the largest city in the country, Montevideo provides travelers with ample opportunities to explore its rich culture. The city is home to several important historical sites, such as the Legislative Palace and the Ciudadela. Additionally, visitors can explore the vibrant street art, visit the beautiful beaches, or take a stroll through the old town.
For those traveling by car, there are several options to reach Montevideo. From the north, travelers can take the scenic Route 5, which takes you through the rolling hills of the Uruguayan countryside. From the south, travelers can take the Ruta Interbalnearia, which connects the resort towns of Punta del Este and Piriapolis.
Once in Montevideo, visitors can explore the city's many attractions. The Rambla is a long promenade along the coastline that offers stunning views of the Rio de la Plata. Don't miss the Plaza de la Constitución, which is the city's main square where locals gather for festivals and events. Other must-see attractions include the Mercado de los Artesanos, the Palacio Salvo, and the Estadio Centenario.
For those traveling by air, Carrasco International Airport (IATA: MVD) is the closest international airport to Montevideo. From there, travelers can take a shuttle or taxi to the city center.
Montevideo is the perfect ending point for the Uruguay Road Trip. With its rich culture and stunning attractions, it's sure to provide travelers with an unforgettable experience.
Uruguay Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Montevideo
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End:
Montevideo
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Distance:
1,242 km
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Stay:
7 days
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Getting there:
Carrasco International /General C L Berisso Airport (MVD)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, April, October, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a captivating journey through Uruguay, a hidden gem of South America, with the Uruguay Road Trip. This Scenic Drive takes you from the vibrant streets of Montevideo to the pristine shores of the Atlantic coast, weaving through a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Extending over 1237km, the tour is ideally spread out over 7 days to fully immerse oneself in the country's allure.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Montevideo: Delve into the heart of Uruguayan life with its bustling markets, remarkable museums such as the Carnival Museum, and the picturesque Rambla boardwalk.
- Punta del Este: This upscale resort town dazzles with its luxurious yachts, the iconic Casapueblo art museum, and the sculpture of La Mano emerging from the sands.
- Punta del Diablo: Discover tranquility in this once-sleepy fishing village now beloved for its bohemian vibe and untouched beaches, a paradise for surfers and nature lovers.
- Trinidad: Step back in time in this colonial gem, where historical architecture meets local folklore.
- Colonia del Sacramento: Wander cobblestone streets lined with colonial buildings in a city that's a living museum, reflecting its Portuguese and Spanish roots.
- Playa Fomento: Surrender to the tranquility of this lesser-known beach, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the slower pace of Uruguayan life.
Best Time to Go:
To capture the essence of Uruguay's coastal charm, plan your Road Trip during the Southern Hemisphere's summer months (December to February), when the country's beaches and outdoor activities are at their peak.
Potential Risks:
While Uruguayan Roads are generally in good condition, caution should be exercised during peak holiday seasons when traffic increases. Additionally, keep an eye out for the variable weather, particularly in coastal areas where conditions can change rapidly.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Uruguay, a pioneer in renewable energy, generates approximately 98% of its electricity from wind, hydropower, and biomass.
- The longest carnival in the world takes place in Montevideo, lasting over 40 days.
- Uruguay was the first country in the world to legalize the production, sale, and consumption of marijuana.
- The country's progressive policies make it one of the most socially developed countries in Latin America, with a high quality of life.
A good choice for:
The Uruguay Road Trip is an enchanting adventure that offers an authentic slice of South American life. From savoring the famous `asado` barbecue to sipping on robust Tannat wines, Roadtrippers will be treated to a journey that tantalizes the senses and enriches the soul. Whether you're soaking up the culture in historic towns or lounging on sun-kissed beaches, Uruguay's diverse offerings make it an unforgettable destination.
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