Uruguay Highlights & Carnaval 2025
Picture yourself wandering through the cobblestone streets of a charming colonial town, sipping world-class wines surrounded by vineyards, and riding across the open plains with gauchos.
This isn’t just a vacation—it’s an opportunity to experience the heart and soul of Uruguay!
Tour Highlights
Join us for an immersive journey through Uruguay’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
- Begin your journey in the enchanting Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where history comes alive around every corner.
- Indulge your taste buds with a wine-tasting experience at a local vineyard, and spend the night amidst the picturesque countryside.
- Experience an authentic estancia, where horseback riding and home-cooked meals offer a true taste of authentic gaucho life.
- Whether it’s exploring a nature reserve, visiting iconic sites like the Hand in the Sand sculpture, or heading off-road to the secluded wilderness of Cabo Polonio, the coastal leg of the trip is nothing short of spectacular.
- Discover the famous Punta del Este and the allure of Casapueblo, an architectural masterpiece with breathtaking ocean views.
- Finally.... dive into the magic of Uruguay’s Carnaval! Feel the pulse of candombe drums, witness the excitement of the Las Llamadas parade, and soak up the energy and wit of murga performances.
map not to scale
Join Us
Escape the ordinary.
Uncover the secrets of Uruguay.
Contact us
if you have questions or would like to schedule a call.
Are you ready to register and take the first step toward an amazing journey?
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Dates & Prices
January 28 - Februay 9, 2025
13 days/12 nights
from $5,900 per person (usd)
Based on double occupancy, add $900 for single occupancy
Reserve your spot with a $500 deposit.
Full payment due November 29
(60 days prior to the tour).
Inclusions
- English-speaking tour leader
- Local step-guides with specialized knowledge
- Land transportation in destination
- Accommodations (12 nights)
- Meals (breakfast x12, lunch x2, dinner x4)
- Entrance to all included activities
- Expertly crafted itinerary by experienced travel designers, and support throughout your trip
Exclusions:
- Flights
- Travel Insurance
- Optional activities
- Meals (except as noted)
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 (Tues, January 28) - Arrival to Montevideo
For those arriving into Montevideo, we will greet you at the airport and provide transportation to your hotel in Montevideo.
Day 2 (Wed, January 29) - Colonia del Sacramento
For those arriving from Buenos Aires, we will greet you at the port at 9:30am.
City tour of Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO Heritage Site.
Discover the captivating blend of Portuguese and Spanish colonial architecture as you wander the cobbled streets of Colonia del Sacramento. Immerse yourself in its rich history and scenic beauty, from the iconic lighthouse to the charming riverside promenade.
You will have a guided city tour followed by plenty of time to explore on your own.
In the afternoon we will depart for the Carmelo wine region. Join your fellow travelers for dinner - one of the best parts about traveling is the opportunity to make friends and taste local flavors!
Day 3 (Thur, January 30) - Wine Tours & Tasting in Carmelos Wine Region
Visit two wineries in the Carmelo wine region. Winery visits in Carmelo are more like long social visits than the quick tastings of larger wineries around the world. Tastings are generally owner-led and include generous wine pours (usually full glasses) accompanied by a picada (charcuterie) snack plate.
Day 4 (Fri, January 31) - Authentic Traditional Ranch
A unique opportunity to step back in time and embrace the lifestyle of the legendary South American cowboys, known as gauchos.
At this authentic working ranch with over 500 head of cattle, visitors can partake in a variety of activities that capture the essence of the gaucho lifestyle. Try your hand at horseback riding, guided by skilled gauchos who can also provide training for beginner riders.
Day 5 (Sat, February 1) - Punta Ballena & Casapueblo
Considered the highest cultural and architectural reference in Uruguay, Casapueblo is the greatest architectural work of artist Carlos Páez Vilaró, who modeled it with his own hands for more than forty years. Its rooms exhibit paintings, ceramics and sculptures made in different stages of the artists development.
Every sunset, “The Ceremony in the sun” takes place. It is the finishing touch to the afternoon and consists of a recording with the artist's voice narrating a poem to his oldest friend, the sun. Join others on the terrace during the sun ceremony for about 10-15 minutes of silence, reflection and gratitude. This experience has become a kind of ecumenical mass, not to be missed and very emotional.
Day 6 (Sun, February 2) - Punta del Este & Punta Diablo
Punta del Este is a beach resort town in Uruguay complete with casinos, beaches, yachts and lots of tourists from all over the world. Our city tour of Punta del Este will take us to the exact pint where the river turns into ocean, the most famous beaches of Punta, the lighthouse, the unique Lionel Viera wavy bridge, and of course, the iconic fingers in the sand!
Day 7 (Mon, February 3) - Santa Teresa Fortress & National Park
Santa Teresa National Park covers an area of approximately 3,200 hectares and is home to species from all continents, around 2 millions of plants and trees, and large gardens perfectly delimited by boxwood and cypresses. It is one of the Parks created by humanity, which combines beauty and tranquillity. We will visit key points of interest in the park including the conservatory, the rose garden, a semi-natural pool that is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including native and exotic animals that wander freely.
Fortaleza de Santa Teresa is a military fortification built in 1762 by the Portuguese that lies within the Santa Teresa National Park. The walls of the fortress were built of a double stone wall of masonry and the space between was filled with soil and rubble to resist the vibrations of enemy artillery. Within this monument you can feel centuries of history.
Full day guided tour and delicious seafood lunch and a view of the ocean.
Day 8 (Tues, February 4) - Cabo Polonio
If you want to truly get off the grid, Cabo Polonio is perhaps the country’s most desirable spot. Without roads or electricity and only a few dozen year-round residents, Cabo Polonio is located within a nature reserve and the place to go for a real escape from civilization.
Cabo Polonio is home to the largest colony of sea lions in the world. While in Cabo Polonio, you are invited to deconnect, and to reconnect with yourself. Enjoy the beach and lunch or a refreshment at an open-air restaurant, appreciate the artistically painted houses, watch the large colony of sea lions resting on the rocks, or climb to the top of the 120-year-old lighthouse to witness the view of the sea and the surrounding dunes.
Day 9 (Wed, February 5) - Explore Jose Ignacio
Free day to explore Jose Ignacio.
A fishing village turned upscale resort, José Ignacio is less than a square mile and is one of the most cosmopolitan corners of Uruguay, drawing wealthy visitors and celebrities to its beaches.
Enjoy the beach, the lighthouse, boutique shops, and one of Uruguay's most famous restaurants, La Huella (advance reservations required!) or on of the other wonderful restaurants.
Day 10 (Thur, February 6) - Montevideo & Carnaval Murga
Montevideo is the capital city of Uruguay, located on the east bank of the Rio de la Plata. Montevideo is the cultural and political center of the country, home to well over a million people, more than ten times the size of the next largest Uruguayan city. The metro area has around two million—half of the population of Uruguay—but the friendliness and helpfulness of the residents will make you think you're in a much smaller city.
Guided tour will take you to the cities highlights, including the costenera, Montevideo sign, Pocitos and Punta Carretas neighborhoods, the Old Town, Port Market, Constitution Square, and more. Lunch at the Mercado del Puerto is recommended.
In the evening, experience the vibrant spirit of Montevideo's Carnaval by attending a murga - an absolute must for anyone seeking an authentic and exhilarating cultural immersion.
The murga, a traditional musical theater performance, takes center stage, captivating audiences with its blend of music, choreography, and satirical storytelling. With their lively costumes and rhythmic beats, the murga troupes effortlessly transport you into their world of social commentary, humor, and reflection on current events.
Day 11 (Fri, February 7) - Montevideo & Carnaval Parade
You will have a free day to explore Montevideo. We recommend spending time at the Andes 1972 Museum and taking a guided tour of the Teatro Solis. You might also enjoy touring the beautiful Legislative Palace and visiting the nearby Mercado Agricola.
In the evening, we will attend the Carnaval parade. Las Llamadas parade features "comparsas," which are groups of drummers, dancers, and singers.
Uruguayan Carnival has its roots in African traditions brought to Uruguay by slaves in the 19th century. Over time, it evolved into a major cultural celebration with a blend of African, Uruguayan, and other influences.
The Llamadas is not just a parade, but a lively street party. A family event, spectators of all ages join in the festivities, dancing alongside the comparsas, enjoying the music, and immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere. Carnival fosters a sense of unity and pride among the participants and the wider community. It is a moment for people of all backgrounds to come together, celebrate diversity, and appreciate the cultural richness of Uruguay.
Day 12 (Sat, February 8) - Free Day
You will have a free day.
Perhaps you would like to visit some of the neighborhood and recreational parks, as well as the soccer museum at the stadium that hosted the first World Cup in 1930 (yes - the inaugural World Cup was hosted in Uruguay and Uruguay was the first nation to win the World Cup!)
Or you could do a day trip to a winery for a tasting experience in the Canelones wine region.
We will let you know about different options and/or help you arrange tours if you would like a guided experience.
In the evening, you might choose to attend a tango class or a tango show, or go to the second night of Las Llamadas as an optional evening activity. We will go Las Llamadas as a group if the Friday evening Parade was suspended due to rain.
Day 13 (Sun, February 9) - Street Market & Departure
Street markets are a special events that occur on Sundays. We will take you to the two largest street markets in Montevideo.
Transfer to the airport.
Essential Trip Information
Deposit & Payment
Reserve your spot with a $500 deposit.
The balance will be due November 29 (60 days prior to the tour).
See our standard terms and conditions and refund policy
Group Size
Our tours are designed for a maximum of 12 travelers, creating an intimate atmosphere that allows for personal attention and flexibility during the trip. There is no minimum number of travelers - rest assured, we will operate the tour for anyone who registers. Read more about our approach to small group tours
Activity Level
This trip should be a good fit for most travelers. We recommend adequate physical fitness to climb three flights of stairs without stopping and the ability to walk for an hour at a gentle pace on cobblestone streets.
Cell Phone Coverage
Cell phone coverage may not be available during the entire trip, but will be available during some portion of each day of the trip.
Weather
January is summer is Uruguay, so expect warm weather. That said, weather can vary greatly, so we recommend wearing layers. Expect average temperatures of around 27°C (80°F) - however in February 2023 we experienced temps ranging from 16°C (60°F) - 36°C (96°F) during our two week Carnaval Tour.
Beach Time
While Uruguay is a favorite destination because of its beaches, we won’t have any dedicated beach-lounging time on this tour. We have found most travelers on our tours prefer exploring sites and being active. During your free time in Punta del Diablo, Cabo Polonio, Jose Ignacio and Montevideo, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful beaches at your own pace—whether you want to take a swim, stroll along the shore, or simply relax. You choose how you'd like to spend your free time!
Accommodations
All accommodations are well-located, and have clean room with comfortable beds, en suite bathrooms, and AC. This tour includes unique and boutique accommodations with exceptional hospitality that capture the eseence of the culture, as well as fine hotels (4/5 stars). In certain locations, it will be possible to upgrade to luxury accommodations upon inquiry.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required and should be purchased as soon as you book your tour or airfare. We do not endorse and specific company, but can provide you with a list of travel insurance options.
Children
This small group tour was designed for adult travelers. We love children and families and would be happy to plan a private tour that would be better suited for a family.
The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.
Alma Historica Boutique Hotel
Montevideo
Alma Histórica Boutique Hotel (5-star) in Montevideo’s Old Town offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern luxury, with each room themed after iconic Uruguayan figures. Its rooftop terrace provides stunning views of the harbor and historic district, making it the perfect base for exploring the city’s rich culture.
El Legado Wine Lodge
Carmelo
El Legado Wine Lodge in Carmelo is a serene retreat surrounded by vineyards, offering a perfect blend of rustic charm and refined elegance. Guests can enjoy personalized wine-tasting experiences and take in breathtaking views of the countryside, all while immersed in the warm hospitality and tranquility of this boutique lodge.
Arenas de Jose Ignacio
Jose Ignacio
Experience the perfect combination of warmth, design and harmony. Located 150 meters from almost virgin beaches, and near some of the best restaurants in the area. This charming, family-run lodge is owned and operated by a local family that offer inviting atmosphere, personalized service, and warm hospitality.
Guestroom at Authentic Ranch
Trinidad
Stay at an authentic working ranch in the pampas of Uruguay, surrounded by greenery and tranquility. The ranch is nestled between gentle slopes and offers views of the fields which are populated by cows, horses, lambs, wild animals, and the wind blowing through the leaves of the eucalyptus trees. Immersed in this endless space full of grass and woodlands, the birds song and the lowing of the herds become a new kind of music. Nature sets the rules of time and enjoying so much tranquillity makes your stay here unforgettable.
Bodegon Boutique Guesthouse
Punta del Diablo
This home-stay in Punta del Diablo offers a cozy atmosphere that reflects the charm of this picturesque fishing village. With a design inspired by local maritime culture, the guesthouse features colorful beach-inspired decor and comfortable spaces that make you feel right at home. The warmth and hospitality of the owners (and his incredible breakfasts!) create a friendly and inviting environment and captures the essence of this community.
Hotel Terrazas de la Viuda
Punta del Diablo (upgrade option)
Terrazas de la Viuda has a spectacular sea view from all its rooms, a large balcony terrace with lounge chairs to relax looking at the sea, as well as an outdoor climate-controled pool. The staff are friendly and "extras", such as breakfast in your room and room-service, are included for all guests.
Why travel with Trico Tours?
Authentic Cultural Experiences
We have a deep respect for local people, communities and cultures. In addition to must-see sites, we can also recommend unique and boutique sites that allow you to experience the true heart and soul of the culture.
Personal Attention
We treat all our guests like friends. We start with a conversation and create thoroughly-planned, custom itineraries tailored to your interests, pace, and travel styles.
Peace of Mind
Our travel specialists and guides are knowledgeable and highly engaged. We handle all the details and provide 24/7 support offer peace of mind that everything is taken care of and your trip runs smoothly.
We would love to hear from you.
Whether you are just exploring possibilities or are in the process of planning your travel, we are happy to have a conversation. (We are actually quite friendly.)