A short guide about Expedition Cruises to Uruguay
Uruguay is a small, yet prosperous country sandwiched between Argentina and Brazil in the heart of South America. It is basically a European country with the official language being Spanish, since the majority of its citizens are descended from Spanish and Italian immigrants. Montevideo is the largest city, capital and chief port of Uruguay and seems safer than other South American capitals. It is more upscale with less poverty and strife than its neighbours, but be prepared to pay more than you would in Venezuela, Peru or Ecuador. Most South American countries have an extensive public transit system, but in Uruguay it is best to rent a car as the public transport is awful.
The white sandy beaches along the Atlantic coastline stretch to the Brazilian border with impressive seaside resorts. Colonia Del Sacramento is a coastal town west of Montevideo, and Colonia is a legacy of the Portuguese colony, with an amazing historical site from the 17th century. The old city, Ciudad Vieja, has many colonial buildings that are now museums, art galleries, antique shops and restaurants. Barrio Historico district is the perfect place for a scenic walking tour to see the colonial houses lining the area's cobblestone streets.
For nature lovers, the Eastern Wetlands contain swamps, lagoons, marshes, and streams with hundreds of bird species. UNESCO has declared the area a biosphere reserve. There are plenty of canoeing and fishing opportunities in both Uruguay and Negro River. Estancias, rural estates that are working ranches, are located throughout the country if you want a gaucho experience.
The most popular Uruguayan destination is Punta del este with the Atlantic on one side and the River Plate on the other. It is an expensive jet set centre for nightlife, casinos, and discos. Italian restaurants are everywhere, and beef lovers will delight in grilled Asado eaten in restaurants known as Parrilladas or Asados. Tourabout has many different holidays which tour Uruguay, welcoming visitors to their sunny shores from climates all over the world.