Tips & Tricks
Isla Gorriti (Punta del Este) – this pine-covered island (which was once a prison), is located just 2 km. off the shores of Punta del Este. It is worth taking a picnic and settling in the peace and quiet at one of the tables dotted around. There’s also a beach on site.
Fiesta de la Patria Gaucha (Laguna de las Lavanderas, Tacuarembó) – for those interested in exploring Uruguay’s folk past and gaucho (cowboy) culture, it may be worth the 4-hour drive north from Montevideo to the provincial town of Tacuarembó. “Fiesta de la Patria Gaucha” (Gaucho Country Festival) is an event held annually (every March) there […]
Teatro Solis (Montevideo) — built in 1856, the ornate Teatro Solis is the city’s first premier performance space. The entire theatre has actually been entirely renovated in the last ten years, a project that began in 1998 and ended in 2004, ant the acoustics are truly astounding.
Uruguay Carnival (Montevideo) – in late January and February, the capital holds its annual celebration of carnival festivities (unlike other countries, this carnival last 40 days). Parades of women dressed in colorful costumes dance to the sound of pulsating drumbeats; while the Murgas (a street theater group) stage productions of political satire. During parades often […]
Tambo el Sosiego (Camino Lapataia, Punta Ballena, Punta del Este) — maker of the famous Lapataia-brand “dulce de leche” dessert, gives free tours that walk visitors through the process of making the region’s favorite dessert. The dairy farm and plant are 12 miles from central Punta del Este, easily accessible by car and open seven […]
Victoria Plaza Casino (Radisson Hotel, Plaza Independencia 759, Montevideo) – this is perhaps the best casino in Uruguay, which offers patrons baccarat, blackjack, bingo, roulette, and slot machines.