The 'Guays: Uruguay, Paraguay, & Iguazu Falls
Discover the charm and diversity of South America on a captivating journey through Uruguay, Paraguay, and majestic Iguazu Falls.
Although Uruguay and Paraguay both have names rooted in the Guarani language, they offer distinctly different experiences: Uruguay has a European flair with a coastal appeal, whereas Paraguay has a lush, green tropical landscape and it’s indigenous heritage is woven deeply into everyday life, creating a vibrant cultural tapestry.
This curated adventure blends Uruguay’s coastal allure and sophistocation, Paraguay's rich history and charming traditions, and one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Expect to visit 'must-see' sites as well as unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences that you won’t find in any guidebook.
This itinerary is designed for curious travelers eager to dive into the heart and soul of these remarkable countries.
Join us for an experience full of unforgettable sights, tastes, and cultural encounters.
Tour Highlights
This immersive tour showcases the diverse landscapes, histories, and cultures of these South American countries.
- Begin your journey in the cosmopolitan and laid-back city of Montevideo.
- Stroll through the cobblestone streets Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where history comes alive.
- Indulge your taste buds with a wine-tasting experience at a local vineyard.
- Discover the famous beaches of Punta del Este and the allure of Casapueblo, an architectural masterpiece with breathtaking ocean views and a moving sunset ceremony.
- Explore Paraguay's rich history and culture through visiting heritage sites, homes of artisans, museums, and interacting with locals.
- See unique wildlife species and learn about conservation efforts and challenges.
- Tour a yerba mate plantation, tasting Paraguay’s iconic drink while learning about its cultural significance.
- End your journey at the stunning Iguazu Falls, with an optional boat ride to experience the raw power and beauty of this natural wonder.
map not to scale
Join Us
Escape the ordinary.
Experience the heart and soul of Uruguay and Paraguay.
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?
Dates & Prices
Apri 2 - 15, 2025
14 days/13 nights
from usd $5,900 per person (double occupancy; add $800 for single occupancy; excludes flights)
Reserve your spot with a $500 deposit.
Full payment due February 1
(60 days prior to the tour).
Inclusions
- English-speaking tour leader
- Local step-guides with specialized knowledge
- Land transportation in destination
- Accommodations (13 nights)
- Meals (breakfast x14, lunch x7, dinner x4) with one non-alcoholic beverage.
- Entrance to all included activities
- Expertly crafted itinerary by experienced travel designers, and support throughout your trip
Exclusions:
- Flight from Montevideo to Asuncion
- Flights before a
- Travel Insurance
- Optional activities
- Meals (except as noted) and alcoholic beverages.
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 (Tues, April 2) - Arrival to Montevideo
We will greet you at the airport and provide transportation to your hotel in Montevideo.
Join your fellow travelers for dinner - one of the best parts about traveling is the opportunity to make friends and taste local flavors!
Day 2 (Wed, April 3) - Montevideo
Montevideo is the capital city of Uruguay, located on the bank of the Rio de la Plata. Montevideo is the cultural and political center of the country and home to well over a million people. In fact, half of the population of Uruguay lives in the metro area—but the friendliness and helpfulness of the residents will make you think you're in a much smaller city.
our fabulous local tour guide will take you to the cities highlights, including the costenera, the Montevideo sign, Pocitos and Punta Carretas neighborhoods, the Old Town, Port Market, Constitution Square, and more.
Day 3 (Thurs, April 4) - Colonia del Sacramento
Today we head to 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.
Start with a guided city tour, then you will have time to explore the city for several hours on your own.
Day 4 (Fri, April 5) - Wine Tour & Tasting
Spend an unforgettable afternoon immersed in Uruguay’s celebrated wine culture with a tasting experience at one of the country’s renowned family-owned wineries. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by the scenic beauty of rolling vineyards and the rustic charm of the estate. A knowledgeable guide will lead you on a tour of the vineyard, sharing insights into the unique terroir and the process behind producing Uruguay's signature Tannat wines, along with other varietals that thrive in this region.
The highlight of the visit is, of course, the tasting itself. Enjoy a curated selection of wines, each paired thoughtfully with a gourmet lunch. This tasting experience not only introduces you to exceptional wines but also offers an intimate glimpse into Uruguay’s winemaking traditions and warm hospitality.
Recommendation for your free evening: attend a tango class and milonga or a dinner show with traditional Uruguayan music and dance.
Day 5 (Sat, April 6) - Punta del Este & Casapueblo
Punta del Este is a beach resort town in Uruguay complete with casinos, beaches, yachts and lots of tourists from all over the world. During your city tour you will see the exact point where the river becomes ocean, the most famous beaches of Punta del Este, the lighthouse, the unique Lionel Viera wavy bridge, and of course, the iconic fingers in the sand!
Considered the highest cultural and architectural reference in Uruguay, Casapueblo is the greatest architectural work of artist Carlos Páez Vilaró. At sunset, the "Ceremony of the sun” takes place. Join others on the terrace during the sun ceremony for about 10-15 minutes of reflection and gratitude. This experience has become a kind of ecumenical mass, not to be missed and quite emotional.
Day 6 (Sun, April 7) - Street Market & Free Day
Today is yours to explore the vibrant city of Montevideo at your own pace. There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this day, and your group leader will help with suggestions, group activities, and arrangements.
You might start your day by wandering through one of Montevideo's famous street markets. The Sunday Feria de Tristán Narvaja, for example, is a lively mix of antiques, crafts, local produce, and street food—a perfect place to soak up the local atmosphere and find unique souvenirs.
For a bit of relaxation, you could visit one of Montevideo’s large parks, like Parque Rodó, where you’ll find green spaces, lakes, and plenty of spots for a picnic or a peaceful stroll. Soccer enthusiasts might prefer a visit to the Museo del Fútbol at the iconic Estadio Centenario, the stadium that hosted the first World Cup in 1930.
Wine lovers can opt for an additional vineyard tour to sample more of Uruguay’s celebrated wines. Or, if you’d rather spend the day by the water, the city’s beach-lined Rambla invites you for a relaxing day of sunbathing, a walk along the beach and rambla, or even a seaside café stop.
Day 7 (Mon, April 8) - Flight to Asuncion & Cooking Class/Tasting Experience
As soon as you touch down in Asunción, you’ll notice a dramatic change in landscape and atmosphere. The city greets you with lush greenery, a stark contrast to Uruguay’s coastal scenery.
Asunción’s sub-tropical climate breathes life into the landscape, with towering palms, flowering trees, and dense foliage that seem to thrive in the humid air, the city feels vibrant and alive, wrapped in shades of green that line its boulevards and parks, creating an inviting and almost jungle-like ambiance.
Paraguay also offers an entirely new culinary experience. Enjoy an early evening cooking class where you will learn to make traditional Paraguayan dishes, such as hearty sopa paraguaya, a unique cornbread, and savory pastel mandi'o, empanadas with a mandioca/yucca flour crust. Discover the rich, comforting flavors that define Paraguayan cuisine while learning about the country’s indigenous Guarani influences and culinary traditions.
This cooking class (or tasting experience if you don't cook!) invites you to connect with Paraguay’s culture in the most delicious way possible, one flavorful bite at a time.
Day 8 (Tues, April 9) - Asuncion City Tour
This informative city tour will allow you to discover Asunción’s fascinating history. Called the "mother of cities", Asunción is one of the oldest cities in South America and the longest continually inhabited area in the Río de la Plata Basin. Visit key sites and see the Palacio de López (Presidential Palace), the Independence House Museum, the Pantheon of Heroes, Manzana la Rivera cultural center, and more. We will also walk through the bustling Mercado 4.
Day 9 (Wed, April 10) - Paraguayan Cultural Heritage
Today, journey east of Asunción into the countryside and the heart of Paraguay’s cultural heritage.
This immersive experience offers a rare opportunity to connect with locals and explore picturesque villages set against beautiful landscapes. Here, you’ll discover some of Paraguay’s rich cultural traditions and community life.
We will make exclusive visits to the home workshops of our artisan friends—places you won’t find in any guidebook. You’ll meet skilled master carvers, ceramic artisans, and ñandutí (spiderweb lace) weavers. In addition to learning about their crafts, you will also have the unique opportunity to witness everyday life in the homes and communities we visit.
Finally, end the day with a visit to the famous Lake Yapacarai.
This is a unique chance to experience authentic interactions and memories that will last long after your trip ends.
Day 10 (Thurs, April 11) - Franciscan and Jesuit Legacies
Begin the day with a visit to Yaguarón to see the stunning historic Franciscan church, recognized by UNESCO for its intricate woodcarvings and artistry.
We will then continue south to the Misiones region where we will visit San Igancio and Santa Maria, both towns founded as Jesuit reductions. We will have a guided tour of Jesuit museum housed in a casa de indios (indigenous houses) and see how the Guarani integrated their own culture into their art.
Spend the night in Santa Maria, a calm and charming town. With luck, we will have the opportunity to see and feed the howler monkeys that live in the plaza in front of our hotel! You will stay a cozy local inn, a project initiated to bring economic possibilities to this small town, and experience the tranquility of Paraguay’s countryside.
Day 11 (Fri, April 12) - Fauna and Constellations of the Southern Hemisphere
Today we will visit a wildlife refuge dedicated to rehabilitating native Paraguayan animals. You will see native animals, such as the giant anteater, peccary, monkeys, and wild cats, as well as learn about ongoing conservation efforts and challenges.
Later, travel to San Cosme y Damián. This mission site is unique because it was never abandoned - in fact, the church continues to be used to this day!
In addition, the Astrological Center offers a presentation about the night sky of the Southern hemisphere and insight into the different interpretations of the constellations by the Spanish and Guarani. One of the priests at the missions was an astronomer and San Cosme and Damian was an important astronomical observatory during the 1700s. You will learn about Father Suarez' famous book published in 1720 predicting the exact dates of the eclipses and moon phases for the next century with astonishing precision.
End the day with a contemplative night walk through the ruins of the Jesuit Mission at Trinidad - night illumination and music make this night visit magical.
Day 12 (Sat, April 13) - Yerba Mate, Jesuit Ruins, Indigenous Community
Begin your day with an interesting tour and tasting experience at a yerba mate plantation. Discover the secrets behind Paraguay’s traditional beverage, from cultivation to tasting, while learning about its social and cultural significance.
Then, journey to the UNESCO World Heritage Jesuit missions, where you’ll explore preserved structures and learn from a local guide about the lasting impact of the missions on Paraguayan language and culture.
Finally, we will visit an indigenous community. The Mby’a Guaraní community offers a tour that invites you to learn about they currently live, their ancestral culture, and tribal customs. The visit typically includes a hike up San Luis Hill where ceremonies are performed.
After a full day of sightseeing, in the afternoon we will continue to our hotel in Foz do Iguacu, Brazil.
Day 13 (Sun, April 14) - Iguazu Falls & Bird Park
End your tour with a full day at Iguazu Falls, one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders. Experience the sheer power and beauty of the falls, exploring walkways and viewpoints that offer stunning perspectives of the cascades. Take an optional boat ride to feel the spray up close, or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery surrounding this awe-inspiring site.
Celebrate the end of our journey with an unforgettable farewell dinner at Rafain Churrascaria Show, where you’ll enjoy a delicious Brazilian barbecue alongside an energetic live performance showcasing traditional music and dance from across South America. It’s a vibrant finale that brings together the flavors and cultures of the region for a truly memorable evening.
Day 14 (Mon, April 15) - Transfer to Airport
Transfer to a nearby international airport:
Foz do Iguaçu/Cataratas International Airport, Brasil (IGU) or
Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport, Argentina (IGR)
Essential Trip Information
Deposit & Payment
Reserve your spot with a $500 deposit.
The balance will be due Feburary 1 (60 days prior to the tour).
See our standard terms and conditions and refund policy
Group Size
This tour is designed for a maximum of 12 travelers, creating an intimate atmosphere that allows for personal attention and flexibility during the trip. 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
April is fall in South America, so expect a combination of warm and cool weather. Weather can vary greatly, so we recommend wearing layers.
Montevideo, Uruguay: Daily high temperatures are typically 19-23°C (67-73°F), rarely falling below 16°C (60°F) or exceeding 27°C (81°F).
Asuncion, Paraguay: Daily high temperatures are typically 21-30°C (70-86°F), rarely falling below 23°C (75°F) or exceeding 32 (90°F).
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, 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. While the weather in April tends to be cool, the water is actually at its warmest in April! You choose how you'd like to spend your free time!
Accommodations
All accommodations are well-located, and have proven to be favorites of our guests. This tour includes unique and boutique accommodations with exceptional hospitality that capture the essence 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.
Las Lomas Casa Boutique Hotel
Asuncion
Las Lomas is a large house, converted into a boutique hotel, which combines the essence of tradition with the comfort of modernity. It is located in one of the most attractive areas of Asunción: on a quiet street just two blocks from dining, nightlife, shopping centers and parks. Expect a warm welcome and superior hospitality.
Santa Maria Hotel
Santa Maria de Fe
Lovely small hotel is located in front of the pretty main plaza of the quiet town of Santa Maria. Rooms are simple and comfortable and there is a peaceful garden. Created as a social project to offer income opportunities to locals, this charming hotel is operated by a local family that offers inviting atmosphere and warm hospitality.
Hotel Papillon
Bella Vista
Hotel Papillon (4-star) is always a guest favorite, known for its exceptionally spacious rooms and welcoming, friendly staff. The hotel features a serene garden and a large pool, a workout room, and a life-size chess game. It's simple comfort offers a perfect place for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Sanma Hotel
Foz do Iguaçu
The Sanma Hotel (5-stars) is located just 400 metres from the entrance to Iguaçu National Park, close to Iguaçu Falls. The hotel features a large swimming pool surrounded by gardens and an ecological trail through the surrounding native forests.
Belmond das Cataratas Hotel
Foz do Iguaçu (upgrade option)
Belmond das Cataratas offers an unparalleled experience of Iguazu Falls. The only luxury hotel within Brazil’s Iguazu National Park, guests enjoy exclusive access to the falls at dawn and dusk—outside regular park hours—allowing for intimate, crowd-free encounters with this natural wonder. The colonial-style hotel features elegant rooms, lush gardens, and a stunning pool. Here you can fully immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Iguazu Falls the surrounding rainforest.
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.
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.)